7 ATV Riding Tips for Beginners: How To Get Started

Minnesota’s Iron Range is calling, and it’s time to answer with the roar of your ATV! With over 3,000 miles of trails carving through this historic mining region, the Iron Range is an off-road paradise waiting to be explored. 

But before you hit the throttle and kick up some dust, it’s important to arm yourself with the right knowledge and techniques for a safe and fun ride.

Whether you’re a new rider eager to feel the rush of off-road adventure or someone looking to dust off their skills, we’ve got you covered. Safety should always be your top priority when conquering the trails, and that’s exactly what we’re focusing on today.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 7 essential ATV riding tips for beginners. So, gear up and get ready to discover the secrets to safe and thrilling ATV riding in the breathtaking Iron Range!

Know Your ATV Inside and Out

Before you hit the trails, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your ATV’s controls. The more you know about your machine, the better equipped you’ll be to handle various riding situations and maintain your ATV for long-term use.

Key things you’ll want to do to get familiar:

• Read the owner’s manual thoroughly.
• Locate and understand all controls, including the throttle, brake lever, and clutch.
• Practice in a wide-open space before tackling more challenging terrain. This is a great way to build up confidence.

Master the Art of Throttle Control

The throttle on your ATV is a thumb throttle that you press. Throttle control is about more than just speed. It’s about maintaining consistent power delivery to your wheels, which is crucial for navigating different terrains. On uphill climbs, you’ll need to apply more throttle to maintain momentum. When descending, you’ll want to ease off the throttle and rely more on your brakes. In muddy or loose conditions, too much throttle can cause your wheels to spin, potentially leading to loss of control. Practice modulating in different conditions to develop a feel for how your ATV responds.

Tips for mastery:

• Start slow and gradually increase speed.
• Practice smooth acceleration and deceleration.
• Be cautious of accidentally twisting your wrist, which can cause sudden acceleration.

Gear Up for Safety

When riding an ATV, dressing for success means prioritizing safety. Each piece of safety gear serves a specific purpose. A DOT-approved helmet protects your head from impact and should fit snugly without obstructing your vision. Protective jackets and pants, often made from abrasion-resistant materials, shield your skin from scratches, cuts, and road rash. Over-the-ankle boots provide ankle support and protect your feet from impacts and burns from the engine or exhaust. Gloves improve your grip on the handlebars and protect your hands from blisters and impacts. Eye protection is crucial for shielding your eyes from dust, debris, and insects, ensuring clear vision at all times.

Essential gear includes:

• DOT-approved helmet
• Protective jacket and pants
• Over-the-ankle boots
• Gloves
• Eye protection (goggles or face shield)

Perfect Your Posture

Proper riding posture is like the foundation of a house – get it right, and everything else falls into place. Keep your feet planted on the foot pegs, knees bent, and elbows slightly bent. This position allows you to absorb shocks and maintain control. It also helps you react quickly to changes in terrain.

Posture pointers:

• Stand up slightly (hover) when riding over rough terrain.
• Lean into turns, shifting your weight to the inside of the turn. In other words, if you’re turning right, turn right. 
• Keep your eyes focused ahead, not directly in front of the ATV.

Learn the Art of Shifting

If your ATV has a manual transmission, mastering the clutch and shifting gears is key. Smooth-shifting makes for better control and a more enjoyable riding experience. Generally, you’ll want to shift up when the engine sound increases in pitch, indicating higher RPMs. Downshift when you need more power, such as when climbing hills or accelerating quickly. When shifting, release the throttle slightly as you pull in the clutch lever, then use your left foot to change gears. Release the clutch smoothly while gently applying the throttle. With practice, this motion will become fluid and natural.

Shifting tips:

• Practice in a flat, open area.
• Coordinate your left foot (for the shift lever) and left hand (for the clutch).
• Listen to the engine to know when to shift.

Embrace the Power of Nerf Bars and Heel Guards

Nerf bars and heel guards are like training wheels for your feet. These accessories will give you extra stability and prevent your feet from slipping off the footpegs. They’re especially helpful for beginners still developing their riding technique.

Benefits of nerf bars and heel guards:

• Increased foot stability
• Better control in rough terrain
• Reduced risk of foot injuries

Final Tip: Practice Makes Perfect

Like any skill, becoming proficient at ATV riding takes time and practice. The more varied your practice, the better prepared you’ll be for real trail riding. And remember, even experienced riders continue to practice and refine their skills, so don’t be discouraged if mastery takes time.

Practice tips:

• Start with easy trails and gradually progress to more challenging ones.
• Ride with experienced friends who can offer guidance.
• Take an ATV safety course to learn from professionals.

Ready to Ride Your ATV in the Iron Range?

Now that you’re armed with these essential ATV riding tips for beginners, you’re well on your way to experiencing the thrill of the Iron Range’s magnificent trails safely and confidently. As you prepare for your adventure, be sure to check out our resources available for ATV enthusiasts in the region.

Check out our Iron Range ATV Guide which you can download for free or read about the best ATV and OHV trails in the region. 

Additionally, consider reaching out to local ATV clubs or contact us for up-to-date trail conditions and event information.

Happy trails, and ride safe!