Are you excited about your first off-road driving experience? Do you know how to ensure your safety? What are some important things that you have to prepare and remember?
Do your research on the route in advance.
One of the best things about off-roading is the excitement and thrill of not knowing what to expect. However, getting an idea of what the terrain is like and other conditions is essential to have a plan in case of an emergency and to avoid accidents. While you are on your Off Road Go Kart or Icebear scooter, you would not want to find out that there is a steep incline or deep rut only when you plummet down or fall into it, would you? For your safety, study a map of the route/area and research the experiences of other off-roaders who have taken the route before.
Stay on the trail.
Even though off-road driving does not really have official rules and regulations, there are certain practices that you have to observe for a safe and fun experience. When off-roading, staying on marked trails cannot be emphasized enough. You should always follow the signs to keep your environmental impact to a minimum and not disrupt and destroy preserved areas of the wilderness.
Do not speed.
Driving on uneven and unfamiliar terrain is different from driving on regular roads. You cannot go as fast as you would like to because it would work your off-roading vehicle quite hard and raise the risk of incurring damage. Thus, if you are on your off-road go-kart or Icebear Scooter, for example, learn to slow down to better manage your speed and momentum. Going too fast down an incline may result in your vehicle flying out of control.
Do not pack too much.
The more stuff you take with you on your off-roading adventure, the harder it is on your off-road vehicle. Overloading puts excess stress on the suspension, wheel bearings, chassis, and other components, negatively affecting your vehicle’s performance. It can cause you to slide backward as you try to drive up a steep hill or attempt to climb out of a deep trench.
Have an emergency kit ready.
Experienced off-roaders can tell you that unexpected situations happen at any time, so being prepared is crucial. Before leaving, you should pack a small emergency kit that contains some essentials, such as a first-aid kit, a flashlight, extra food and water, warm clothes, long-range walkie-talkies, maps, and a tow chain. Having these items in case of an injury, vehicle breakdown, accident, or other unfortunate circumstances can get you the help that you need as quickly as possible.
Go with someone.
Just like there are some people who enjoy traveling the world solo, there are also people who like to off-road on their own. However, because off-roading comes with a good amount of risk, you should do it with at least one other person. Imagine how difficult and scary it would be to be all alone with your off-roading vehicle stuck in the middle of nowhere. If you have an off-roading companion, the chances of getting help and going home safe and sound are increased.
