PARENTS, YOUNGSTERS & All-Terrain Vehicles

CMYK SM Foreword

It is important for parents to help their youngsters or other drugs. Never carry a passenger on a single- understand and follow the instructions and warnings rider vehicle. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age. in the All-Terrain Vehicle’s (ATV’s) owner’s manual Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys. i and on its labels. This booklet contains additional Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed. information and guidelines that can help make Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourse and the free ATV riding a safe and enjoyable family experience. online E-Course. Visit atvsafety.org or call toll-free

All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) handle differently from 800.887.2887.SM other vehicles such as motorcycles and cars. Proper The ATV Safety Institute (ASI) is a division of the instruction and practice are important. Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, a national ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety, not-for-profit association representing U.S. always wear a helmet and other protective gear. distributors of all-terrain vehicles. Supporting SM Never ride on public roads – another vehicle could members are: BRP, Honda, Kawasaki, KYMCO hit you. Never ride under the influence of alcohol USA, Polaris, Suzuki, Textron Off Road and Yamaha.

For more information contact: 2 Jenner, Suite 150 • Irvine, California 92618-3812 949.727.3727 • atvsafety.org To enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit atvsafety.org/reserve-your-seat or call 800.887.2887 U.S. Version • Revised 5/18 • First Printing 5/14• © 2009-2018 Specialty Vehicle Institute of America Parents, Youngsters and All-Terrain Vehicles Parents

We know that you, as a parent, will have your 800.887.2887. To enroll in the ATV RiderCourse youngster’s safety foremost in mind. ATVs nearest you, visit atvsafety.org/reserve-your-seat ii are not toys. Serious injury can result from or call 800.887.2887. Those not eligible for free improper use of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs). Your training may take the course for a reasonable youngster’s safety will depend on you taking a fee. We recommend that you take advantage of “safety-first” approach to ATV riding at all times. the training programs, and have your youngster The first step in this approach is to determine perform the exercises in this booklet. your youngster’s readiness to ride an ATV. Be sure the ATV is recommended for Parents, Youngsters and All-Terrain Vehicles can your youngster’s age group. assist you in making this important decision. In addition to the information provided in this Do not permit youngsters to ride an ATV that is booklet, it is important to carefully read and larger than recommended for their age group. follow the instructions and warnings in the ATV Remember that riders under 16 years of age owner’s manual and on labels. must be supervised by an adult. If you have a youngster who is about ready to ride an ATV, ATVs handle differently from other vehicles such there are special considerations that you should as motorcycles and cars. Proper instruction and keep in mind. practice are important. The ATV RiderCourseSM, a half-day hands-on training program, is available Although a child may be of the recommended nationwide. If you purchased a new ATV, you age to ride a particular size ATV, not all may be eligible for free training. Once training is youngsters have the strength, skills or judgment completed, you may also be eligible to receive an needed to operate an ATV. You should supervise incentive. To find out if you are eligible for free your youngster’s operation of the ATV at all training, contact the ATV Enrollment Express at times and should allow continued use only if

Parents... Be Cautious you determine that your youngster has the ability a responsible adult familiar with the operation and judgment to operate the ATV safely. of that vehicle, your youngster must be able iii Do not permit your youngster to operate a two- to reach the handholds and place feet on up vehicle. If you permit your youngster to be footrests from a seated position in the designated a passenger on a two-up vehicle, operated by passenger’s seat, and wear all protective gear. ALWAYS Follow the Manufacturer’s Minimum Age Recommendation Warning Label on the ATV.

WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING WARNING

UNDER UNDER UNDER UNDER UNDER 6 10 12 14 16

Operation of this ATV by children under the Operation of this ATV by children under the Operation of this ATV by children under the Operation of this ATV by children under the Operating this ATV if you are under the age of 6 increases the risk of severe injury age of 10 increases the risk of severe injury age of 12 increases the risk of severe injury age of 14 increases the risk of severe injury age of 16 increases your chance of severe or death. or death. or death. or death. injury or death. Adult supervision required for children under Adult supervision required for children under Adult supervision required for children under Adult supervision required for children under NEVER operate this ATV if you are under age 16. age 16. age 16. age 16. age 16.

NEVER permit children under age 6 to operate NEVER permit children under age 10 to NEVER permit children under age 12 to NEVER permit children under age 14 to this ATV. operate this ATV. operate this ATV. operate this ATV.

WARNING

Two-up ATVs will OPERATOR UNDER have this label 16

Operating this ATV if you are under the age of 16 increases the chances of severe injury or death to both operator and passenger.

NEVER operate this vehicle if you are under age 16. Parents... Be Cautious Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION PART 3 iv Purpose of the Booklet...... 1 Operating Procedures and Practice Important Notes to Parents...... 1 Learning Area/Riding Area...... 16 Other Sources of Information...... 1 Getting Used to the Vehicle in Motion...... 18 PART 1 Let’s Start Riding...... 21 Determining Your Youngster’s Readiness PART 4 to Ride an ATV Readiness Checklist Readiness Guidelines...... 2 Visual Perception/Motor Development..... 24 Steps for Safe and Responsible ATV Riding...... 6 Physical Development...... 25 PART 2 Social/Emotional Development...... 26 Pre-Operating Procedures and Practice Reasoning and Decision-Making Ability.... 28 Protective Gear and Clothing...... 7 FINAL NOTE Mounting/Dismounting...... 8 To Parents...... 30 Mastering the Controls...... 10 Glossary...... 32 Learning Activities...... 12 Answers...... 35 Purpose of the Booklet

Parents, Youngsters and All-Terrain Vehicles is provided with the vehicle. Make sure that the intended to assist you in determining if your ATV to be ridden is one that is recommended for youngster is ready to ride all-terrain vehicles use by your youngster’s age group. Review all 1 (ATVs). It also provides important safety instructions, requirements and warnings with your information and tips on learning to ride. This youngster. Find out about state or local ATV laws booklet is divided into four parts: or regulations. You and your youngster can take the Part 1: Determining Your Youngster’s Readiness To ATV Safety Institute ATV RiderCourse in your area, Ride An ATV as well as a fun and informative E-Course (three Part 2: Pre-Operating Procedures age-specific versions available) to learn basic ATV Part 3: Operating Procedures safety principles. To enroll in the ATV RiderCourse Part 4: Readiness Checklist nearest you, visit atvsafety.org/reserve-your-seat or There is information about protective gear, control call 800.887.2887. operation and starting the engine. Operating Other Sources of Information procedures include starting out, shifting, stopping and turning. In addition to the information provided in Parents, Youngsters and All-Terrain Vehicles, there are Important Note to Parents other sources of safety information. The owner’s Once your youngster is ready to learn to ride, YOU manual provides specific maintenance and must be familiar with the ATV. You will be serving operating procedures for your ATV. It also includes as teacher, coach, and safety supervisor for your warnings, cautions, and operating tips. ATV dealers youngster. You must know the controls, handling have product literature and safety information. characteristics, maintenance requirements, and Another booklet, Tips and Practice Guide for the proper riding techniques. Read and understand All-Terrain Vehicle Rider, gives detailed riding the owner’s manual, the hang tags, and labels procedures for older riders. Introduction Readiness Guidelines

The first important decision you will need to position, check that there is at least three inches make concerning your youngster and ATVs of clearance between the ATV seat and the 2 is whether your youngster is ready to ride. youngster’s “seat of the pants.” A rider needs at ALWAYS follow the manufacturer’s Minimum least three inches of clearance so he/she can stand Age Recommendation Warning Label on the up for balance and comfort, and to shift his/her ATV. Physical size, strength, coordination, visual body forward, backward and from side to side. perception, emotional maturity, and the ability to reason and make good decisions are equally important considerations. There is no sure way to predict whether your child will be able to ride an ATV safely. However, the following guidelines can help you determine your youngster’s readiness to ride. Remember, only parents can decide if their youngster has the capabilities and qualities to safely operate an ATV. Physical Development Physical size and ability are important considerations. To help determine whether a youngster is big enough for a particular ATV, have him/her stand up on the footrests and grasp the handgrips. While the youngster holds this Also make sure your youngster can comfortably reach and work all the controls. For example, can he/she turn the handlebars all the way 3 to the right and left? Can he/she easily use their feet to work the brake pedal and gearshift lever? Can he/she operate the throttle and brake levers while they hold onto the handgrips? If not, the youngster may not be able to maintain balance and control and is not physically ready to ride this ATV. Athletic ability is another consideration for riding an ATV. Generally speaking, your youngster should be good at riding a bicycle before he/she gets on an ATV. Can your youngster judge speeds and distances while riding a bicycle and react with proper hand and foot actions? Anyone who does not have good coordination, balance and agility is not ready to ride an ATV.

Part 1 Readiness Guidelines (continued)

Social/Emotional Development Reasoning and Decision-Making Ability How a youngster behaves in a social setting can Youngsters should understand what can result 4 be a sign of social/emotional development. A from improper ATV operation. They must youngster needs to know about and understand understand that unsafe actions can result in rules. Certain rules are necessary for the safe injury. An example of this is knowing the need to operation of any vehicle. Youngsters must be look in both directions before crossing a street. willing to follow rules. A good example is a The ability to make good decisions relates to a youngster who obeys rules set by parents. A youngster’s ability to reason. When presented youngster who does not follow rules is not ready with a problem, the youngster should be able for an ATV. to come up with a sensible answer. Ask your One indicator that youngsters are ready to ride an youngster to tell you what causes accidents and ATV is when they demonstrate safety-conscious injuries. Your youngster needs to be able to tell attitudes and are aware of possible injury from what causes accidents and how to avoid them. reckless ATV operation. If the youngster has In general, a youngster should understand that a habit of recklessness or is often involved in he or she can get hurt as a result of making accidents while using bicycles or skateboards, the poor choices. Your youngster should understand youngster is not ready to ride an ATV. that it’s dangerous to mimic the extreme stunts professional riders exhibit on TV and in video games. Visual Perceptions and Being good at playing video games, or being Motor Development able to hit a baseball, for example, are good Visual perception and motor development is signs that a youngster’s eye and hand movements 5 how well a youngster sees and how vision is are fairly well coordinated. used with other physical movements. In other In summary, you must consider many things words, can a youngster see and react with the before you decide to put your youngster on an proper hand, foot, or body movement? ATV. There is no exact formula to use in making Several types of sight-ability characteristics are that decision. The Readiness Checklist, Part 4, important. The ability to see to the sides while can assist you with some points to evaluate. If looking straight ahead is called peripheral or you are not able to check most of the statements, side vision. You can determine a youngster’s your youngster is probably not ready to ride an side vision by having him or her look straight ATV. ahead while you move objects to the side. The youngster should be able to see objects 90 degrees to the side while looking straight ahead. Rider awareness and safety improves with good side vision. Being able to judge distance is another visual skill helpful when operating an ATV. Is your youngster able to tell how far one object is from another, or which of two objects is closer? ATV riding requires a person to judge distance and react properly. Part 1 Steps for Safe and Responsible ATV Riding

Once you determine that ATV use is proper for Step 2: Teach Your Youngster Safe and your youngster, it is time to prepare yourself to Proper Riding Techniques 6 be a good ATV teacher and supervisor. Teaching your youngster ATV safety is a step- Step 1: Educate Yourself About ATV by-step process. It begins with safety rules Safety and Proper Riding Techniques and moves to actual riding procedures. Since youngsters learn at different rates, it will be up to You must learn as much as possible about ATVs you to set the pace of your youngster’s progress. in general and especially your youngster’s ATV. At some point you may decide that he or she is You must be qualified to instruct and supervise not ready to ride an ATV. your youngster. This means that you will need to understand the features of the ATV and the Step 3: Avoid Unsafe Situations Through proper riding techniques. The best source of Close Supervision reference is the owner’s manual supplied with ALWAYS closely supervise your youngster’s the ATV. Read the owner’s manual before you riding. This is needed even if your youngster begin to instruct your youngster about ATV has learned and mastered the rules and skills safety. Pay particular attention to the warning of safe ATV riding. Youngsters can get tired labels on the ATV. For a “hands-on” learning easily and become careless. They do not always experience consider taking the ATV RiderCourse. see everything that is important around them. Your close supervision and good judgment are important.

Part 1 Protective Gear and Clothing

ATV riding demands that your youngster wear proper protective gear. ATV riders should ALWAYS wear a helmet, eye protection, gloves, 7 long pants, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, and over-the-ankle boots. Anything less is not adequate protection. NEVER let anyone ride an ATV without a Department of Transportation (DOT) compliant motorcycle helmet. Be sure it fits correctly. It should be snug but not tight. It must be properly fastened. Protective gear is necessary in any weather, even when the temperature is warm. In cold weather you should dress your youngster with additional layers of clothing. Some riders wear a kidney belt and chest or back protector for additional protection. Adjacent is a drawing of well-equipped riders. Show this drawing to your youngster and point out what is important.

Pre-Operating Procedures and Practice Part 2 Mounting/Dismounting

Have your youngster wear safety gear whenever Correct riding posture helps your youngster getting on an ATV. This action will stress the operate the controls. Proper straight-line riding 8 importance of safety gear and help to develop posture includes: safe riding habits. • Head and eyes up, looking well ahead. To properly mount the ATV, first check that the • Shoulders relaxed, back straight. parking brake is set. Mounting is from the side, putting the left foot on the footrest (if mounting • Elbows bent, slightly out and away from from the left). Be careful not to step on the shift the body. lever (if the vehicle is equipped with one). The • Hands on the handlebars. other leg is swung over the seat and placed on the other footrest. Care should be taken to rest • Knees in. the feet in the middle of the footrests. This allows • Feet on the footrests, toes pointing correct use of the shift lever and the rear brake. straight ahead. Once mounted, the youngster should assume the correct riding posture. Dismounting reverses the mounting procedure. With the parking brake set, the leg is swung over the seat onto the ground. The other foot is then removed from the footrest. The hand and foot controls are important to riding safely. Both hands should be kept on the handlebars and both feet on the footrests. 9 Removing a hand or foot can reduce the rider’s ability to control the ATV. Removing a foot from a footrest can result in a foot or leg coming in contact with a rear wheel. ATVs are rider-active; to enhance the performance capabilities of the ATV, a rider must shift body weight. This is especially true in maneuvers such as turning, negotiating hills, and riding on bumpy terrain. Your youngster should be able to operate the controls during these maneuvers. Now is a good time to make sure your youngster can reach the controls from different body positions. Have the youngster remount and turn the handlebars all the way to the left and right. See that this can be done easily. Next, have the youngster slide up and back on the seat. Mention that body movement is important. Body movement and shifting weight help to control the ATV, which is why passengers should never be allowed on a single-rider ATV.

Part 2 Mastering the Controls

Go through these exercises with the looking down. Smooth operation should be ATV’s engine OFF. encouraged. 10 Show your youngster how to use each control The parking brake has several uses. It should be as you describe its action. Refer to the owner’s set before starting the ATV engine. It should be manual to learn control location and function set while transporting the ATV and when parking before instructing your youngster. Test yourself the ATV. The drawing on page 13 shows one type by operating the controls. Have your youngster of parking brake. Your ATV parking brake may be dress in the proper protective gear and sit on different; you should look in the owner’s manual the machine as you point out each control. It is to find out how to use it. important to have your youngster wear all the protective gear whenever sitting on an ATV. Throttle Control Lever Brakes Explain to your youngster that pushing the throttle control lever will make the ATV go faster. Easing Many small ATVs have a hand lever on the back on the lever will cause the ATV to slow. left handlebar which operates the rear brake. Releasing the throttle control lever slows the ATV Additionally, some have a foot pedal on the right quickly, especially when the brakes are used. side to operate the rear brake. Most ATVs have Youngsters need practice using the throttle a front brake lever on the right handlebar. Refer smoothly. They tend to use it like an on/off to the owner’s manual for correct brake location switch. With the engine off, have your youngster and operation. move the throttle lever to various positions. Explain and demonstrate proper braking Practice turning the handlebars and using the procedure. Be sure your youngster can apply throttle at the same time. the brake(s) properly while seated and without Engine Stop Switch Supervisor Control Features Explain to your youngster how to use the engine Remote Engine Stop Switch 11 stop switch to turn off the engine. With the Some small ATVs come equipped with a remote engine off, show how the stop switch works. It engine stop switch, such as a tethered cord, that is used to stop the engine quickly. Later, your is controlled by a supervisor. This feature is used youngster can practice using the stop switch to stop the ATV engine by the supervisor should when the engine is actually running. an unsafe situation develop. Check your owner’s Shift Lever manual or ask your dealer if your youngster’s ATV has this feature. Many small ATVs do not have a shift lever. This section applies only to ATVs with a shift Speed Limiters lever. Those that do have a shift lever may have On some ATVs, the maximum speed can be different shift patterns. Refer to your owner’s controlled by adjusting a throttle limiter to manual for proper shifting instructions. It is restrict the movement of the throttle control important to learn how the shift lever works. lever. Other models may use other methods, Explain that it is possible to change gears with such as an intake or exhaust restrictor, or the shift lever in order to ride at different speeds. a combination of technologies to limit the Have your youngster practice shifting with the maximum speed. Refer to your owner’s manual engine off. Make sure he or she releases the and talk to your dealer about this. throttle control lever before moving the shift lever, and releases the shift lever before pressing on the throttle. With the engine off, have your youngster practice upshifts, downshifts, and locating neutral. Part 2 Learning Activities

Here are some activities that your youngster can use to help learn about ATV parts and controls. 12 ATV Crossword Puzzle Here is a crossword puzzle for your youngster to complete. (The Answer Guide is on page 35.)

Across 1. What this booklet is all about. 2. A piece of safety equipment for the head that is always worn when riding. 3. Protective gear for your hands. 4. Where you should always ride your ATV. 5. Initials for an All-Terrain Vehicle. Down 6. The place where you All the words needed are listed below: always keep your feet when riding an ATV. ATV OFF-ROAD SAFETY 7. Protective gear for your feet GLOVES FOOTRESTS HELMET and ankles. BOOTS Name The ATV Parts 13 Have your youngster write the number of the ATV part or control on the correct line for the diagrams shown. (The Answer Guide is on page 36.)

1. Parking Brake 4. Throttle 7. Engine Stop Switch 2. Hand Brake Lever(s) 5. Ignition Switch 8. Gas Cap/Tank Vent 3. Foot Brake Pedal 6. Choke (primer) 9. Starter (pull, kick, electric)

Part 2 Locating the Controls Game

Now that you have shown your youngster the controls, it is your youngster’s turn to show you. The engine remains OFF for this exercise and your youngster will be on the machine. The youngster 14 should be wearing the proper protective gear to help develop this safety habit.

1. Have your youngster show you the the rider will have to watch ahead while location of the following: operating the controls. Your youngster should • Parking Brake be able to find the controls quickly without looking for them. • Brake (lever(s) and pedal) 3. With your youngster looking ahead (pick out • Throttle Control Lever a point to look at), have him or her operate • Engine Stop Switch the controls. Repeat often while changing the order. • Shift Lever (if equipped) 4. Ask your youngster to operate the controls as 2. Have your youngster show you how the if actually riding. Look for smooth and precise controls work. Be sure he or she understands operation. the proper operation of each control. Skilled use of these controls should develop with practice. Under actual riding conditions, Pre-Ride Check

Before you continue: 1. Have you determined your youngster’s 6. Has your youngster learned to locate the ATV 15 readiness to ride an ATV? Do not let your controls without looking at them? Does he or youngster ride if you have any doubt. (Refer she know how to operate them smoothly? to the Readiness Checklist, Part 4.) 7. Does your youngster understand he or she 2. Have you read the owner’s manual and must always ride off-road and without any reviewed it with your youngster? passengers? 3. Have you confirmed that the ATV to be 8. Have you stressed to your youngster the ridden is one that is recommended for use by importance of keeping his or her feet on the your youngster’s age group? (See page iii.) footrests? 4. Have you inspected the vehicle and If you have completely covered all these areas, maintained it according to the owner’s you are ready to go on to Part 3. manual? 5. Is your youngster wearing the proper protective gear? Is his or her mounting procedure correct?

Part 2 Learning Area/Riding Area

Carefully observe your youngster’s first use of the basic riding skills, direct supervision by an ATV. Observe his or her readiness to ride. Only experienced adult is necessary AT ALL TIMES. 16 permit your youngster to continue riding if he or Make sure that all ATV users under your she has the size, strength, and attitude needed to supervision get proper riding instructions. ride safely. Stress that an ATV is not a toy. Follow safety Your youngster’s feet must stay on the footrests at precautions strictly to provide a “safety-first” all times. Be sure to stress this important rule. If a approach to ATV riding. Teaching your youngster foot comes in contact with the ground, it may be how to ride an ATV safely will increase the run over by the rear tire. enjoyment of ATV riding. Show your youngster the engine, exhaust pipe, The best place for learning is a level area 100’ and muffler. Tell him or her not to touch these x 200’ (30m x 60m) that is free from obstacles parts because they are hot while the engine is such as rocks, stumps, or holes. The learning running. Explain that they will remain hot for area may have a loose or hard dirt surface. some time after the engine is stopped. Also A grassy surface is also acceptable. It should explain that hands and feet must be kept away not have two different surfaces. Under no from moving parts of the ATV. circumstances should the surface be concrete or asphalt. ATVs are not designed to be used on Your youngster’s safety depends in part on the paved surfaces because pavement may seriously condition of the ATV. Be sure to inspect it before affect handling and control. each use. Starting and refueling of the vehicle should be done by responsible adults only. Be sure there is room enough to maneuver, and Follow a regular maintenance program. See the that no other riders are close by. And remember, owner’s manual for inspection details. ATVs are not designed for use on public roads and other motorists may not see you. Even after young riders have learned the 17

Operating Procedures and Practice Part 3 Getting Used to the Vehicle in Motion

Getting the Feel of the Brakes speed. Releasing the throttle and applying the Be sure your youngster is wearing all of the brakes will slow the ATV. Ask your youngster to 18 proper protective gear. With the engine OFF, tell you how throttle control and braking affect have your youngster set the parking brake and the ATV’s speed. mount the ATV from the side. Then have your Getting the Feel of Turning youngster release the parking brake, and if you physically can, push the ATV slowly. Have your Have your youngster practice the following youngster brake to feel how much pressure is turning technique, first with the ATV stopped and needed for a smooth stop. If your youngster’s the engine OFF: ATV has more than one brake control, both 1. Look in the direction of the turn. should be applied with even pressure. Practice this several times until you are sure this skill is 2. Turn the handlebars in the direction of the developed. Remind your youngster to keep his turn. or her head up, look forward; and keep both feet 3. Move your body weight forward and to the on the footrests. inside of the turn. Getting the Feel of the Throttle and Repeat this exercise while you are slowly Brake Controls pushing your youngster on the ATV. Make sure he or she can turn the vehicle in both directions With the engine OFF, have your youngster using this technique. practice smoothly moving the throttle control lever. Your youngster will learn how much throttle it takes to start moving in a later exercise. Explain that pushing the throttle will increase Being Prepared for Riding Practice have equipped their youth ATVs with a remote Be sure you observe all the safety precautions engine stop switch. This allows the supervisor covered in the Introduction and Parts 1 and to follow close behind and stop the engine by 19 2. Double-check that the riding area is free of pulling a tethered cord. If the ATV is equipped hazards. Your youngster should wear all the with a tether, practice using it when your proper protective gear, and the speed limiter youngster first starts riding. Pull the tether after (if equipped) should be installed and working the ATV is moving. The ATV may continue to roll correctly. Make certain the parking brake is for some distance. Watch the distance until the set before your youngster mounts the ATV. This ATV stops. Be aware that this distance must be will help prevent the ATV from moving until included in the stopping space of the ATV and everything is ready. Some ATV manufacturers that this distance will increase with speed.

Part 3 Getting Used to the Vehicle in Motion (continued)

Starting the ATV operate the engine stop switch to shut off the Always start the ATV for your youngster. To engine. Re-start the ATV and repeat shutting 20 remember the proper starting technique, use the off the engine. Re-start the engine. Allow the following: “BONE-C.” engine to warm up until it runs smoothly with the choke off. Double-check that the parking brake is set. Start the engine. Have your youngster carefully mount Walk next to the ATV when your youngster first from the side of the ATV. Let your youngster starts riding. You can also let the beginner ride back and forth between you and another adult. If your youngster’s ATV is equipped with a tether B BRAKE Set the parking brake. stop switch, you should hold it firmly in your hand before the youngster starts. Help your O ON Ignition and fuel on. youngster with the turns as he or she practices throttle control and braking. To turn the ATV N NEUTRAL ATV in neutral (if equipped) around for your youngster, have him or her Stop switch in run/on start set the parking brake and dismount from the E ENGINE position. Check your owner’s vehicle. You can then drag the back end of the manual for your model ATV. ATV into position.

C CHOKE On (for cold engine only) Let’s Start Riding

1. Squeeze the brake lever and apply the foot brake (if equipped). NOTE: Tell your youngster that he or she now controls the 21 brakes. 2. While continuing to hold the brakes, shift into first gear (if equipped with a shift lever). NOTE: If the ATV has a shift lever, be sure your youngster releases the throttle control lever, moves the shift lever into first gear, and then removes pressure from the shift lever. 3. Slowly release the brakes, and then push the throttle control lever until the ATV starts moving. 4. Move forward slowly as you supervise closely. Stay in first gear. Release the throttle and apply the brakes, make a smooth stop. Starting Out and Stopping 5. Repeat several times. Be sure your youngster develops smooth use Be sure the parking brake is still set. If the ATV of the throttle control. Speed can be increased comes equipped with a tether stop switch, once your youngster has mastered starting and be sure you connect it. Have your youngster stopping at slow speeds. perform the following:

Part 3 Let’s Start Riding (continued)

Turning Keep Speed Slow 22 Remind your youngster of the turning sequence: Your youngster should master these skills at low 1. Look in the direction of the turn. speeds before going faster. Consider using a figure-eight path. This will help your youngster 2. Turn the handlebars in the direction of the make left and right turns one after another. turn. Make sure your youngster keeps both feet on the 3. Move your body weight forward and to the footrests and looks ahead in the direction of the inside of the turn. turn. Check for proper weight shift in the turns. As skill develops and practice continues, be sure Have your youngster practice turning in both to closely supervise all riding. directions at slow speeds. Allow enough room to make a wide turn. After your youngster has Once these skills are mastered, refer to the Tips mastered making wide turns, have him or her and Practice Guide for the All-Terrain Vehicle practice tighter turns. Rider for additional skills used in ATV riding. Readiness Checklist

This Readiness Checklist is provided to help you The best way to utilize the Readiness Checklist determine your youngster’s readiness to learn is to read the particular ability, consider the to safely operate and control an ATV. There is answers to the questions for that ability, and 23 a significant amount of judgment needed in check those abilities that you determine your determining a youngster’s readiness to ride an youngster possesses. There are no suggestions ATV. The ultimate decision is the responsibility as to how many abilities or the degree of of the parent, guardian, or supervising adult. It is ability that your youngster should have. This important that parents make informed decisions Readiness Checklist may help you consider about whether or not their youngster becomes the appropriateness of ATV operation for your involved in ATV activity. child. The ultimate decision for your youngster’s There are four developmental areas involvement with ATVs belongs to you, the considered in the Readiness Checklist. parent. These include: visual perception/motor development; physical development; social/ emotional development; and reasoning and decision-making ability. Several questions are listed to help you determine if your youngster possesses the skills and capabilities to safely learn to operate an ATV.

Part 4 Readiness Checklist (continued)

Visual Perception/Motor 4. Youngster can judge the speed of objects. Development Ability 24 ❑ Does the youngster judge the speed of Points to Evaluate objects (fast, medium, slow) that agree with your judgments? (For example, a 1. Youngster can see with sufficient clarity. car on the highway, a train moving past a ❑ Can youngster see letters and numbers at crossing, a dog running, people walking.) least as well as you? 5. Youngster can state the distances of objects ❑ Can youngster distinguish colors? in terms of feet, yards, miles. ❑ Has youngster demonstrated adequate ❑ Can youngster tell how many feet or yards vision in other activities (riding bicycles, it is from the house to the road? running, team sports, or other recreational ❑ Can youngster tell how wide a hallway is, activities)? or the width of a room? 2. Youngster possesses ability to perceive depth 6. Youngster can follow movement of objects. or distance. ❑ Can youngster follow the path of such ❑ When looking at two objects in the things as: a hit or thrown baseball, a distance, can youngster tell which is moving car, objects in a video game? farther away and which is closer? 3. Youngster has adequate side vision/ peripheral vision. ❑ Can youngster see objects 90 degrees to each side while looking straight ahead? 7. Youngster can visualize distances as Physical Development displayed by a picture or photograph. Points to Evaluate 25 ❑ Can youngster estimate distance between objects in a photograph? 1. Youngster can sit comfortably on the ATV and reach the controls easily. ❑ Can youngster estimate distance between ❑ objects when looking at a landscape Can youngster place his or her feet firmly picture? the footrests? ❑ 8. Youngster can follow a moving object while Do the youngster’s fingers reach accomplishing hand manipulation. comfortably around the handlebars and brake lever(s)? How about with the ❑ Can youngster dribble a basketball handlebars turned? How about in different without looking at it? seating positions? ❑ Can youngster manipulate video game ❑ Can youngster stand (with knees slightly controls while following objects on a bent) and have at least three inches of screen? space above the seat? 9. Youngster can maintain relative spans of ❑ Can youngster easily reach the foot attention when given a variety of stimuli. controls? ❑ Can youngster complete school homework ❑ Can youngster dress with proper protective assignments without being easily distracted? gear including putting on helmet and ❑ Can youngster assemble more difficult fastening the chin strap? puzzles; for example, a nature scene or picture? Part 4 Readiness Checklist (continued)

2. Youngster has sufficient strength and ❑ Can youngster catch a ball with hands familiarity to operate the controls with ease. rather than with arms? 26 While sitting on the vehicle, can youngster: 4. Youngster has sufficient endurance to maintain strength over a period of time. ❑ Squeeze hand controls? ❑ ❑ Can youngster play outdoor games Operate the shift lever (if equipped)? without fatigue? ❑ Operate the parking brake? ❑ Can youngster participate in indoor games ❑ Operate the choke and fuel valve with and sports without tiring before other ease? youngsters? ❑ Press the brake lever with sufficient Social/Emotional Development pressure? Points to Evaluate ❑ Operate the controls without looking at 1. Youngster can understand and follow rules. them? ❑ Does youngster follow rules established at 3. Youngster is sufficiently coordinated. home? ❑ Can youngster walk a “balance beam” (2 ❑ Do teachers say that the youngster follows in. x 4 in. x 8 ft.) flat on floor? rules? ❑ Can youngster ride a bicycle, roller skate ❑ Does youngster listen and respond to adult or skateboard safely? supervision? ❑ Can youngster walk on tiptoes for 10 feet? ❑ Does youngster comprehend the ❑ Can youngster jump rope? importance and seriousness of having rules and regulations? 2. Youngster generally will obey parents and ❑ Does youngster appreciate being safer supervisors. than others? ❑ Does youngster avoid challenging ❑ Does youngster accept rules that are more 27 authority or rebelling when rules are stringent than what other youngsters have imposed? to follow? 3. Youngster controls behavior according to 5. Youngster can give reasons and/or solutions expectations. to problems seen in the environment. ❑ Does youngster show evidence of self- ❑ Can youngster explain how land (or grass) control; doesn’t get easily frustrated or gets damaged? upset? ❑ Can youngster explain how even a small ❑ Does youngster understand consequences amount of damage to land can take years associated with certain actions (like not to recover? wearing a safety belt in the car)? ❑ Can youngster distinguish between ❑ Does youngster think about results of an untouched land and used land? action before performing it (like crossing 6. Youngster can make decisions based on the street; hitting or throwing a ball)? reality and not fantasy. 4. Youngster understands other youngsters may ❑ Can youngster complete a task in a be permitted to do what he/she may not be step-by-step fashion (assemble a toy, clean allowed to. a room)? ❑ Does youngster recognize unsafe actions of other youngsters?

Part 4 Readiness Checklist (continued)

❑ Does youngster comprehend real injury as 2. Youngster has a basic understanding of what 28 opposed to “cartoon” injury? being careful means. ❑ Does youngster respond with logical ❑ Does youngster know why rules are solutions when asked to solve a problem? established? ❑ Does youngster notice or recognize Reasoning and Decision-Making Ability others being careful in action-oriented Points to Evaluate activities? 1. Youngster comprehends that interaction with ❑ Does youngster notice professional others and things can result in injury. athletes use protective gear as part of their sport? ❑ Can youngster describe how and why a person received physical injury or pain? 3. Youngster understands that rules are made to reduce injury and provide long-term ❑ Does youngster notice impending enjoyment. accidents or potential injury-producing events, such as in sports activities or ❑ Can youngster explain the reason for rules bicycle riding? at home or school? ❑ Can youngster explain why it takes ❑ Does youngster understand the value of distance to stop? prevention? Of wearing protective gear? ❑ Can youngster explain how moving at ❑ Can youngster recognize that not even low speed can result in injury if following rules can eliminate future fun stopped suddenly or by hitting something? and enjoyment? 4. Youngster has basic understanding of the 6. Youngster can concentrate on more than physical limitations of stopping and turning. one element at a time in solving a puzzle or 29 ❑ Can youngster explain what may happen problem. if moving too fast while going around a ❑ Can youngster pick out or describe curve on a bicycle? On a skateboard? On several items within a picture? an ATV? ❑ Can youngster assemble a puzzle 5. Youngster can describe cause-and-effect without unusual problems or delays? experiences. ❑ Can youngster describe what to do if a ❑ Can youngster describe a minor injury he house fire should occur? or she received and correctly describe the causes? ❑ Can youngster describe settings or situations that can produce injury if precautions are not taken? ❑ Can youngster describe what may cause injury when doing such things as running, swimming, bicycling, riding in a car?

Part 4 Final Note to Parents

We hope this booklet has helped you and your It is also recommended that you and your youngster take a “safety-first” approach to ATV youngster read the information in the owner’s 30 riding. All ATV riders must use good judgment manual. and be responsible. It is up to YOU to set a good The ASI also has the “Ride Safe, Ride Smart” example for ATV safety. You must help your DVD. This nine-minute DVD is a rider-friendly youngster to ride sensibly and safely at all times. look at how to get a proper start in ATV riding. After your youngster has mastered the riding skills It profiles two families: one who rides for in this booklet and has matured to a higher level recreation only, the other who uses their ATVs of skills, he or she may be ready to practice more first for working the farm, then as camping and advanced riding. The ASI’s Tips and Practice Guide trail riding machines. Both sets of parents lead for the All-Terrain Vehicle Rider booklet provides by example, emphasizing riding an ATV that information about riding on hills, riding across is right for your age, wearing proper protective slopes and other more advanced skills. Youngsters gear and respecting the environment. They also should have a good understanding of riding skills recommend taking an ATV RiderCourse to get before riding in unfamiliar areas. They should ride the most from your ATV, enjoy the opportunity on flat areas, gentle hills and gradual slopes. to meet other enthusiasts, and find out about the Be sure that your youngster rides slowly over best places to ride. unfamiliar terrain to locate and avoid bumps, View and download Tips and Practice Guide for holes and other possible obstacles. You should the All-Terrain Vehicle Rider and “Ride Safe, Ride check the area first. Smart” online at atvsafety.org. Single copies of Tips and Practice Guide for the • Respect the rights of others including private All-Terrain Vehicle Rider and “Ride Safe, Ride property owners and all recreational trail Smart” are also available free by contacting: users, campers and others to allow them to 31 ATV Safety Institute enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed. 2 Jenner, Suite 150 • Educate yourself prior to your trip by Irvine, CA 92618-3812 obtaining travel maps and regulations from 949.727.3727 public agencies, planning for your trip, taking To purchase large quantities of the DVD or recreation skills classes, and knowing how to booklet, contact ASI for prices. use and operate your equipment safely. To enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, • Avoid sensitive areas such as meadows, visit atvsafety.org/reserve-your-seat or call lakeshores, wetlands and streams, unless 800.887.2887. on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitat and sensitive soils from damage. TREAD Lightly! • Do your part by leaving the area better Riding behavior that harms the land is self- than you found it, properly disposing of defeating and irresponsible. Learn to protect waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding and preserve your riding areas. In other words, the spread of invasive species, restoring TREAD Lightly! degraded areas, and joining a local enthusiast organization. • Travel responsibly on designated roads and trails or in permitted areas.

Final Note Glossary of ATV Terms

ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE (ATV) - Any motorized CABLES - Heavy insulated wires. There are off-highway vehicle designed to travel on four two kinds: mechanical and electrical. Brake 32 low-pressure tires, having a seat designed to cables are mechanical. The headlamp cable is be straddled by the operator and handlebars electrical. for steering control. CARBURETOR - Device that provides the proper AXLE - The shaft on which the rear wheels are mixture of fuel and air to the engine. mounted. CHOKE - A device that enriches the mixture of BONE-C - A pre-start routine. A way to gasoline and air supplied to the engine for remember the pre-start routine: cold-engine starting. B - Brake (set parking brake) DRIVE CHAIN - The chain that connects the O - On (fuel and ignition on) engine to the rear axle to give an ATV motion. N - Neutral E - Engine Stop Switch DRIVE SHAFT - A shaft device used to transmit C - Choke power to the rear axle to give an ATV motion. BRAKES - The parts of an ATV that allow the ENGINE STOP SWITCH - Switch used to stop operator to slow down or stop the machine. the engine without removing the hands from the handlebars. BRAKE LEVER - The hand brake located on the handlebar. EXHAUST - Leftover gases from the combustion process that come out of the tailpipe when BRAKE PEDAL - The foot brake that is operated the ATV engine is running. Exhaust contains by the right foot. deadly carbon monoxide gas. Glossary of ATV Terms

EYE PROTECTION - Goggles or a shatter- HELMET - The most important item of resistant shield worn over the eyes while riding protective clothing to be worn when to protect against dust, flying insects, or other operating an ATV. It covers the head and helps 33 debris. Such eye protection, when tinted, may protect against skull fracture or brain injury in be effective against bright sun or snow-glare an accident. conditions. OFF-HIGHWAY or OFF-ROAD VEHICLE - Any FLOODING - A condition that occurs because vehicle, including off-highway motorcycles of improper fuel and air mixture, resulting in and ATVs, that is restricted by law from the engine not starting. operating on public roads. FOOTREST - Horizontal bar or platform on PARKING BRAKE - A mechanism that holds the which ATV operators should keep their feet brake in the on position. while riding. PSI - Refers to air pressure in the tires and stands FUEL VALVE - A valve, usually hand operated, for “Pounds per Square Inch.” with an on, off and “reserve” position. RECOIL STARTER - The pull-cord mechanism Controls gasoline flow to the carburetor. used to start some ATV engines. HANDLEBAR - The metal bar attached to the READING THE TERRAIN - Looking well ahead front end of the ATV that turns the front wheels while riding; anticipating hazards. for steering. Many of the controls for the ATV are located on the handlebar. RPM - “Revolutions per minute”; used to describe the engine speed.

Glossary Glossary of ATV Terms (continued)

SHIFT - On those ATVs equipped with a shift TRANSMISSION - The series of gears, shafts, lever, it allows the operator to change gears. belts, chains and sprockets used to transmit 34 The shift lever is operated by the left foot. power from the engine to the wheels. SHOWOFF - A careless, thoughtless rider WEIGHT TRANSFER - Change in rider who operates an ATV without regard for the weight distribution to control an ATV while personal safety or private property of others, maneuvering. usually for the purpose of getting attention. SPARK PLUG - A user-serviceable part within the engine that provides the spark for ignition. SWITCHBACK - A sharp curve on a trail. Used to change direction, usually on steep hillsides. TAILPIPE - That part of the exhaust system that expels waste gases. THROTTLE - The control operated by the right hand or thumb that controls the engine speed. TRACTION - Tread friction between the ground and the tires. Crossword Puzzle Answers

Answers “Name the ATV Parts” Answers

36 1. Parking Brake 4. Throttle 7. Engine Stop Switch 2. Hand Brake Lever(s) 5. Ignition Switch 8. Gas Cap/Tank Vent 3. Foot Brake Pedal 6. Choke (primer) 9. Starter (pull, kick, electric) For more information contact:

2 Jenner, Suite 150 • Irvine, CA 92618-3812 • 949.727.3727 • atvsafety.org To enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit atvsafety.org/reserve-your-seat or call 800.887.2887

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