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Training & Safety
 

Proper training and preparation can help you have a fun and safe ride. Before you go make sure you are well prepared with the proper equipment. To make sure you are well prepared, take a training course to get you up to speed or refresh your memory. The following are just a few of the training courses available.

The ATV RiderCourse
Developed by the ATV Safety Institute, the ATV RiderCourse provides hands-on training in the basic techniques for riding an all-terrain vehicle. The course also covers protective gear, local laws, finding places to ride, and environmental concerns. If you bought your ATV after December 30,1986, you may be eligible for free training. Those not eligible for the free training may take the course for a small fee. The ATV RiderCourse is available nationwide. To sign up call: 1-800-887-2887

Off-Highway Motorcycle Training
T.E.A.M. Arizona (480) 998-9888
T.E.A.M. Arizona conducts basic rider training for dirt bikes.

Four-Wheel Drive
Arizona State Association of Four-Wheel Drive Clubs (602)-258-4BY4

The ASA4WDC sponsors safety clinics that teach the basics of 4WD.

 
Pre-Trip inspections
Check your OHV before each trip. Good preventative maintenance means less chance of breaking down in the backcountry.

Ride with a club
The obvious advantage is having a friend to tow you out of a tough spot. You can also learn from trail veterans. Another thing to consider is that, in many cases, clubs have established trails and a good relationship with land owners/managers.

Safety Equipment
If you ride a motorcycle or ATV always wear a helmet, eye protection, and gloves. Long sleeve shirt, long pants and boots protect you from branches and thorns along the trail.

Proper Size ATV
ATV Size and Minimum Ages recommended by the ATV Safety Institute and ATV manufacturers:

ATV Size Recommended Minimum Age
Under 70cc 6 years and older
70 - 90cc 12 years and older
Over 90cc 16 years and older

Emergencies
Always let a responsible person know where you are going and when you will return. Take a first aid kit and a survival kit with you and know how to use them.
 
When riding off road, there is always a good chance of getting stuck or stranded. Below are lists of items that can help.

Basic Survival Items: Food, Water, Water Purifier, Compass, Space Blankets, Whistle, Knife, Matches, Sunscreen, Toilet Paper

Vehicle Equipment - General: Maps, First Aid Kit, CB Radio, Tools, Fire Extinguisher, Spare Vehicle Key, Flares, Duct Tape, Gloves, Warm Clothing, Flashlight/Batteries/Bulb, Tarp, Tent, Sleeping Bags, Towels

Vehicle Equipment - Mechanical: Radiator Stop Leak, Extra Fan Belts, Radiator Hoses, Electrical Wire, Jumper Cables, Baling Wire, Oil, Gas, Assortment of Bolts, Nuts and Washers, Siphon Hose, Fuses, Tires, Full Size Spare Tire, Tire Pressure Gauge, Air Pump, Tire Repair Kit, Tire Chains

Vehicle Equipment - Extrication: Shovel, Axe/Saw, Jack, Star Lug Wrench, Hydraulic Jack, Hi-Lift Jack, Tow Strap, Hand Winch
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Downloads [More]
- Arizona Off-Highway Vehicle Laws, Rules and Regulations [PDF, 348kb]
NOTE: The above files are PDF's and require the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.For text-only, use Adobe Access.
 
External Resources [More]
- Arizona State Parks OHV Program
- Arizona State Land Department Recreational Use Permit Information
- Arizona State Association of Four-Wheel Drive Clubs
NOTE: External sites will open in a new browser window.
 
 

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