Utah and ATV Safety
General ATV Safety
Please download and read the following pamphlet entitled ATV Riding Tips produced by ATV Safety Institute.
Slickrock
Riding on the hard rock around Moab is somewhat different than the usual "dirt through forest paths" that most riders are accustomed to. Slickrock is a smooth, super-gripping sureface that enables ATVs to climb and descend at very steep angles. The term "slickrock" is misleading. It is a carryover from back in the day when wooden wagon wheels clattered and slid across the hard rock. Todays rubber wheels provide super traction.
Typically, when climbing a dirt hill, tires spin, which requires additional throttle and sometimes you slide sideways in which you compenstate by turning back and forth. Some ATVs have limited slip front ends which sense rear-wheel spin before the four-wheel drive kicks in. This concept works pretty good on loose surfaces, but not as well on slickrock. When you start up a slickrock surface, the tires grip immeadiately. If you apply too much throttle, your ATV may lurch forward too quickly or could even flip over backwards. Going downhill on slickrock is also different. You need to be extra careful not to apply too much front brake, which could cause a tail-over-nose flip. Riding on slickrock requires practice.
Simple Trail Tips
1 - STAY ON THE TRAIL means following the beaten path (turning around or passing only on slickrock or wash bottoms).
2 - RESPECT OTHER USERS means slowing down and minimizing dust (also lowering the RPMs if you're motorized).
3 - PLAY IT SAFE means bringing plenty of water (daytime is hot) and knowing your intended route (nighttime is cold).