ATV or UTV Mudding: Tips to Follow During Your Ride
In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basic preparation tips for anyone about to embark on a "mudding" trip using their ATV or UTV. Mudding refers to any kind of vehicle trip that involves lots of mud, and also commonly settings like marshes or swamps -- it's highly enjoyable for many who participate, so long as the right preparations and precautions are taken.
At Louisiana Power Sports, we're happy to not only offer a wide selection of new and pre-owned ATVs, UTVs and Can-Ams, but also to provide simple expertise on their use and precautions to take in various settings. While part one of our series went over preparation tips for mudding trips, today's part two will look at some tips for during the ride itself.
Proper Protective Gear
Before any ride begins, it's always important to ensure that everyone involved is properly kitted out with the right gear. This includes not only a properly fitting helmet, but also eye protection, gloves and closed-toe shoes or boots.
For mudding rides in particular, it's also important to have clothing that can get wet and muddy without being ruined -- old clothes that you don't mind trashing are ideal. Many people also opt to wear knee and elbow pads for extra protection against scrapes in the event of a fall.
Pack Spare Clothes & Supplies
Even if you're wearing old clothes that you don't mind getting wet and muddy, it's always a good idea to pack some spare clothes and towels in case you do get wet. You should also pack any other supplies you might need, like food, water, maps and a first-aid kit.
In the event that your ATV or UTV gets stuck in the mud, it's also helpful to have some kind of tow strap or rope on hand so that you can be pulled out.
Survey Ride Area, Lines, Etc.
When you arrive at the mudding area, it's important to take a few minutes to survey the landscape and any possible riding lines. This will help you avoid any hidden obstacles or hazards, and also give you a better idea of where is safe to ride and where isn't.
Ride With Caution, Shift Your Weight
Once you've surveyed the area and are ready to start riding, it's important to do so with caution. When you're in the mud, it's easy to get going too fast and lose control -- which can be very dangerous.
Whenever possible, try to avoid big puddles or mud pits, and instead stick to areas where the ground is more solid. If you do need to go through a puddle or mud pit, go slowly and shift your weight as needed to maintain balance.
No Alcohol
Finally, it's important to remember that drinking alcohol before or during a mudding ride is a very bad idea. Not only will it impair your ability to ride safely, but it can also be extremely dangerous in the event that you do get stuck or have an accident.
Following these simple tips will help ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the trail, even with tons of mud involved. For more on this, or to learn about any of our ATV, UTV or Can-Am vehicles, speak to the team at Louisiana Power Sports today.