Off-roading Checklist & Essentials: UTV &ATVs
Whether you are riding for a day or a week, a well-stocked kit of off-roading essentials will ensure you are prepared for any circumstance. At Riva Motorsports, we not only take pride in selling the most formidable Off-roading vehicles but also get great satisfaction from giving you everything you need to have the safest, most entertaining, and thrilling off-roading experience possible.
From basic trailside repairs to emergency kits and survival packs, these off-road riding tips will be helpful for ATV and UTV riders of all skill levels. Some of the most essential items you should have include:
Battery Jump-Starter
Even though you may put a lot of effort and time into maintaining your ATV, you might occasionally have a dead battery. Even the most careful of us occasionally experience this. If anything that requires the electrical system is left on while the motor is not operating, an ATV or UTV battery will most likely die. Worry not; even if your battery is dead, you aren't necessarily stuck with it.
An effective battery jump-starter can easily get your dead battery fired up. Most modern battery jump-starters come with spark-proof connections and reverse-polarity protection, making them safe and easy to use. They can also double as portable chargers for your smartphones, tablets, and more.
Lighting
It's easy to get carried away on a long off-roading trip and end up stuck in the dark on the way back to camp or the trailhead. Good lighting is inexpensive insurance against injury, unexpected overnight stays, expensive auto repair costs, and other unforeseen expenses.
Whether you opt for pods, light bars, or a combination, you must consider which areas around the vehicle need to be illuminated. Other important circumstances to consider are how much power consumption your electrical system can handle, the type of lighting element to fit your demands, and the desired light hue.
Maps and Other Navigation Equipment
ATV and UTV trips require plenty of planning, including mapping your trail. Ensure you have a map with your route marked. You can obtain a map from the Forest Service for free or at a cost, but your safety is worth it regardless of the price.
A map is extremely useful, but it doesn't hurt to embrace modern technologies. Get a GPS, which is surely more multifunctional than a map. A GPS can pinpoint your coordinates and direct you to safety. You can also mark where you parked your ATV or UTV.
Tool Set
A UTV toolset goes a long way in ensuring a smooth off-roading experience. Any important toolset starts with wrenches and screwdrivers. Having the right wrench and screwdriver is essential for repairing minor problems on your journey, whether you need to change a spark plug or a tire. In a pinch, duct tape works well to fix broken plastic or other minor problems. Granted, this isn't a long-term fix, but duct tape can help hold the damage to your UTV momentarily until you reach your destination. Also, many UTVs and ATVs come with compatible toolsets.
Recovery Strap or Rope
A recovery strap or rope will come in handy as they can be used to haul you when your off-roader breaks down or gets stuck during a trip. Having one, or even a couple, is even more practical when traveling as a team.
Winch and Recovery Shackles
Your ATV or someone else's in the group will inevitably get stuck at some point if you ride out frequently. A recovery shackle and tow strap in your ATV equipment will come in handy here.
Additionally, you can use them for other purposes. If you want to get creative, you can use them to drag a deer, move a fallen tree, clear a trail of obstructions, and much more. A winch also comes in handy when you need to get pulled out of the snow or mud or load your UTV/ATV onto your truck.
Spare Tire and Tire Repair Supplies
At some point, you will run into a flat tire or other tire problems. Having a spare tire and a stock of tire repair supplies will save you from all the hassle.
Air Compressor and Tire Deflators
Off-roading means you will be running into a variety of terrains that demand varying tire pressure settings. Sand driving, for instance, is relatively easier with tires that are deflated as low as five or six PSI. Some terrains will require more tire pressure. An air compressor and tire deflator will help you reliably set the right tire pressure.
Traction Boards and Mats
Off-road traction boards and mats can help you navigate slippery terrain conditions such as snow or mud. These items are placed in the immediate path of one or more stuck wheels to get them unstuck.
Work Gloves
High-quality work gloves will protect your hands against flying debris, pebbles, and branches that you may run into on the trail. Additionally, they absorb most of the vibration, ensuring a more comfortable ride.
Find the Best Off-roading Gear and Accessories in Miami
Riva Motorsports Miami is your ultimate authorized off-road vehicle dealer throughout Miami, Florida. We also provide top-of-the-range off-road accessories to streamline your ATV and UTV trip experience. Visit our showroom or contact us today to kick off an exciting outdoor experience.