Tips for ATV Sand Riding

A standard ATV is built to handle different types of terrain so you can take it to most places your commuter vehicle can’t go. One type of terrain you might dream of conquering on your ATV is sand. Whether on the beach or the desert, sand is unlike other terrain and can provide many thrills for adventure seekers. However, its different nature also requires you to be prepared for some differences. To help you get started, we've created this guide to riding your quad on the sand.

Equip Your Quad

Though four-wheelers are capable vehicles, sand is unique and requires you to prep your ATV before you ride. Begin with your tires. Paddle tires provide optimal traction and keep you from getting stuck. They will offer many features making them ideal for soft, sandy ground. For example, the wide paddle ridges will move large amounts of sand so you’ll get solid momentum.

Your ATV should be equipped with steel sprockets, rather than aluminium ones, because steel handles the abrasive nature of sand better. You’ll want to opt for lightweight, low-viscosity chain lube. That way, you won’t need to deal with your chain jamming up when you hit the sand.

Your quad’s air filter should be protected with a pre-filter and air box cover. This prevents choking your engine with a mass of sand. Finally, most dune areas require riders to use an orange safety flag. This makes you more visible to other riders when you’re on the far side of a dune, which helps prevent collisions.

Carry Supplies

Cruising around the sandy dunes can make your four-wheeler heat up faster. Ride that way for too long and it can overheat. You’ll want to pack coolant and fuel. They’ll come in handy when you’ve been riding for a while and the engine gets hot while the fuel tank runs dry.

Your ATV isn’t the only thing that will get hot. You’re bound to get hot as well, which means you’re going to sweat. You’ll need to replace the lost liquids as well as the lost electrolytes. Bring along plenty of water (a hands-free hydration pack makes it easy) to stay hydrated. Pack a sports drink or salty snack to replace the electrolytes.

Riding Tips

The first thing you have to do when you hit the dunes is take a good look at your surroundings and establish a riding area for yourself. Stick within the designated area and you won’t need to worry about getting lost when the sun starts setting.

If you can convince someone to come with you, it never hurts to drop a spotter on the top of a dune that you’ll be riding over. They can signal you if there’s traffic coming in the other direction and help you avoid a nasty collision.

We hope this information comes in handy when you hit the dunes! To learn more or to browse some ATVs for sale in Corpus Christi, TX, get in touch with the sales staff here at our dealership today! Corpus Christi Cycle Plaza proudly serves all those in Victoria and Kingsville.