Tips for Riding in the Winter

Layer Up

First of all, you need to dress appropriately when you plan to hit the trails on your ATV or UTV during the winter months. The key here is to wear the right amount of layers to ensure you’ll remain warm for the ride. Your underlayer should be lightweight but still offer adequate protection, topped with a middle layer that's slightly warmer. Round it all out with a riding jacket and you should feel perfectly insulated. An extra layer in extreme temperatures is also helpful.

Don’t forget about waterproof riding boots and pants. You’ll want an anti-fogging full face helmet, especially if you’re traveling at high speeds. Neck warmers are essential when traveling at fast speeds. Your hands need to be warm and ready to manipulate the controls, so remember to get a pair of waterproof riding gloves.

Outfit Your ATV/UTV

There are a few things you can do to make sure your ATV or UTV is properly outfitted for the cold. First, a detachable windscreen is ideal for blocking windchill. You can add wind guards to keep your legs extra comfortable as you ride. As for your hands, you might want to invest in a seat of heated hand grips to avoid frozen fingers. Keep in mind that if you’ve got a water-cooled engine, you’ll need to add antifreeze and mix it correctly with the water. Another good idea is adding new footpegs for improved grip.

Safety First

You should always have safety in mind when you ride your ATV or UTV, but especially when you’re braving the cold. Check the road conditions in the area you plan to ride before you head out. As long as the conditions are safe, you should be able to accelerate and decelerate to build up enough heat in your tires that’ll improve your grip. Road conditions might be deemed safe, but that doesn’t mean other hazards won’t come up as you ride. Make sure you’re on high alert and keep your eyes open for salt, gravel, or black ice that can lead to unwanted slippage. As with any type of riding, use your best judgment.

For more winter riding tips, stop by Olson Power Equipment in North Branch, Minnesota today! Our staff would be happy to answer any of your questions or help you find the right ATV or UTV for your riding lifestyle.