What To Know About An ATV Winch

You've got the ATV, the trailer and the accessories, but you forgot all about an ATV winch. Why do you want to put a winch on your quad? Consider this. ATVing can be loads of fun, especially if you are fortunate enough to find lots of mud or loose sand to play in. But what do you do if you or someone gets stuck? How are you going to get out when pushing, pulling and cursing at your ATV doesn't do the trick?

That's where an ATV winch comes in handy and is an accessory that you won't want to do without. Having an ATV winch attached to the rear end of your machine will come in handy some day, you can guarantee it. Can a winch pull you out of a quagmire? You bet! A winch can pull up to three thousand pounds, which is more than you can say for two or three guys huffing and puffing knee deep in mud trying to do the same thing.

How does an ATV winch work? It pulls power off your quad battery, which provides electricity to turn the drum your cable is wrapped around. Pretty simple, really, but a powerful tool when it comes to insuring safety and loads of fun on your ATVing excursions.

Keep in mind that you don't have to attach an ATV winch to the back of your machine, but can carry it in a compartment on your quad for easy storage, Just remember that if you get stuck, you will have to anchor your winch to an object sturdy enough to resist the pull while trying to extricate another quad out of the mud, sand or water you find yourself stuck in. If your anchor doesn't hold, you won't be going anywhere.

Once you have your ATV winch attached to something solid, disengage the clutch and begin pulling your cable from the drum. This is also called spooling, and is much like pulling fishing wire out of the reel on your favorite fishing rod.

Never wrap your winch cable around something and then attach the cable hook to that because the cable may be damaged. Once you've attached the hook to the stuck quad, engage the clutch on the winch and then stand back, as a snapped cable can cause severe injuries.

Restart the ATV, make sure your brakes are locked, wheels are blocked and then slowly allow the cable to pull out the stranded machine. Keep your engine revved at about medium speed, as using an ATV winch pulls a lot of juice from the battery and you don't want to stall. A way to avoid this danger is to install a more powerful battery than comes from the manufacturer.

An ATV winch is a powerful and necessary accessory to your ATVing equipment, but many people don't bother with purchasing one, which makes for many ruined trips, especially in wintertime. Do yourself, and your friends, a favor and make sure that a winch is on the top of necessary items to carry on or in your quad.

Did You Consider These Things When Buying A Kids' ATV?

Adults aren't the only ones who love to get outside and play on their ATVs, kids do too. When thinking about purchasing kids ATVs, keep several things in mind before you fork over the dough.

First off, think safety first, then size, age and experience. Kids can ride ATVs and have a lot of fun doing it, but protecting them from harm should be a key factor for all parents. Make sure that children and teens wear helmets, protective eyewear, gloves and thick shoes. Boots are best, but sturdy shoes that will provide ankle support and protect the entire foot are best. Feet often take the brunt of thrown sand, dirt and stones, so make sure they are well protected.

Kids ATVs come in all kinds of models and sizes, but the key for shopping for a kid is to find the right machine for age and size. ATVing can provide fun, action, adventure and lots of laughs, but make sure your child or teen knows safe operating procedures.

One of the most popular brands of kids ATVs is the E-ton 4-stroke model such as the Viper 70 or the Vector 250. Other brands such as the Alta Mach-1 and the Kymco Mxer 150 are also options for a range of sizes and ages.

Newer models like the E-ton Rover 90 Utility Cart are making waves in the youth ATVing world and provide a roll bar and netted protection for youngsters. The 70cc E-ton Viper 70 is the perfect size for kids weighing in at less than 130 pounds and are not more than five feet tall, as well as the 250 cc 4-stroke E-ton Vector 250.

No matter which model you decide to purchase for your youngster, make sure that they are able to reach and operate all necessary functions that will ensure safety and loads of fun. Teach children and teens proper etiquette when it comes to riding and racing kids ATVs and make sure that they are supervised.

Most ATV enthusiasts prefer the 4-stroke models for kids ATVs, as it allows for greater control and operating ease. Smaller sized ATVs in 40cc to 90cc sizes are all electric start and are equipped with automatic transmission, making them super easy for youngsters to handle. Most ATVs come with an automatic shutoff for extra safe riding and offer other safety features as well.

When shopping for kids ATVs, make sure that cheap doesn't mean dangerous. Always make sure that the machine you choose for your child or teen is equipped with safety features, is in good working condition and that your child will feel comfortable in the drivers seat.

Teaching operating safety and manners are the key to an enjoyable experience, and don't forget to teach children how to handle unexpected surprises as well. Never assume that your child will automatically react in the appropriate manner in any given situation, and make sure that you are around to teach, protect and have loads of fun with the kids ATVs.