Back

UTV Beginner Riding Tips

Oct. 8 2021 How To By Tatum Motor Company

Share

Yay, you got yourself a new UTV and you are stoked to get out there and ride. But… How do you ride a side-by-side, anyway? It’s just like getting to Carnegie Hall: Practice, practice, practice. 

Here are some tips on mastering the art of riding a SxS, from the team at Tatum Motor Company. If you have any questions, reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable team at our two stores in Anderson, Missouri, or Tontitown, Arkansas.

Always Ride Alert and Sober 

This should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: never drive a side-by-side or any vehicle if you are impaired by anything, including alcohol, recreational drugs, prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, illness or fatigue. Stay hydrated and fed so you are functioning at your best. 

Wear Your Safety Gear

Safety gear is crucial when you’re riding any off-road vehicle like a side-by-side. Wear a well-fitting helmet that’s made for extreme sports riding like a motorcycle or motocross helmet. If your helmet is open, wear goggles to protect your eyes from dust, flying debris, and wayward branches. Wear sturdy long sleeves and pants and solid boots with good tread. 

Riding gloves will protect your hands from sun, cold, and debris, and they’ll give you a better grip on the wheel. Tie long hair out of the way and make sure your clothes have no dangling parts that could get caught on something. 

Practice, With Friends if You Can

Find a big empty field to practice in, and keep riding until you have a good feel for turning, accelerating, braking, and reversing with your new rig. Go riding with experienced friends, and let them know you want to learn how to be the best, safest rider you can be. 

Follow All Rules, Posted and Otherwise

Know your local rules and regulations, and obey them. Respect all off-limits areas, follow speed limits, and stay off public roads. Stay on the trails and be nice to wildlife. Be courteous: give other riders plenty of space if are stopped. If you can help them with a flat tire or other issue, do so! 

Bring Gear for Comfort and Emergencies

UTVs have some cargo space -- put it to good use and bring along supplies for safety and comfort, such as:

  • Repair kit.
  • Tire patch kit or spare tire with air compressor to address a flat.
  • First-aid kit.
  • Food and water.
  • Rain gear like a poncho or waterproof jacket.
  • Cell phone with charger. 
  • Emergency radio to signal for help.

Don’t Be a Dummy

Keep your arms and legs inside, don’t do donuts, don’t show off, don’t speed! 

You can have a ton of fun on a side-by-side, and still stay safe and look cool. We promise! If you have any questions or need parts or service, come and see us at Tatum Motor Company in Anderson, Missouri, and Tontitown, Arkansas.