Christmas Gifts for your ATV Sweetheart

It’s that time of the year again, and while many have put away their machine for the winter it doesn’t make anyone any less of an enthusiast!  As the holidays approach, remember that there are several options for buying gifts for that special ATV’er in your life, at all sorts of price ranges.  Here today, I offer you a shopping guide for those who love Polaris ATVs as much as I do with several price ranges and ideas.  There are also gifts available for those who want just general ATV gift ideas! Don’t get your honey a gift card this season.  Instead, show them that you pay attention to their passions!

Gifts Under $30

• Polaris Ball Caps
• Polaris Collectible Figurines
• Cabela’s Radio Controlled Polaris ATV Set
• Rotopax Powersports First Aid Kit
• Fender Packs

 

Gifts Under $80

• Rotopax Gasoline Pack with Mounting Kit
• Polaris Goggles
• Polaris Hoodies
• Internal Seat Heater
• Polaris Front Rack Extender

 

 

The “High Class” Gifts

• Polaris Licensed Helmets
• Team Polaris Jacket
• ATV Audio System
• Polaris Riding Boots
• Plan an ATV getaway in a new place! There are hundreds of websites in various states that talk about places you can go, hotels, cabin rentals, restaurants, etc. that help you plan a vacation!

 

 

When it comes to ATV enthusiasts, anything within their brand tends to be pleasing, especially if it’s something that they can use on the trails.  All of the ATV companies carry their own line of equipment.  I of course focused on Polaris because it is my favorite, but there are plenty of places to look for other brands.  And, as shown above, there are a lot of “non-branded” objects that your ATV sweetheart may love as well!

Reliving How I Became an Enthusiast

It was the summer of 2009 that I had first ridden an ATV similar to the one that I now own, but I have been around ATVs since I was about 15 years old.  Some people have been involved with the sport for years, while others can join in at any time.  I recently met someone who was in her 60s and had never ridden an ATV in her life, but chose to purchase two as an experience for her and her recently retired husband.

As for my story, I grew up on a private road in Calumet County, Wisconsin right along the lake.  Being a private road, the kids (which included me) were allowed to drive their parents’ powersports up and down the road.  At about 15 years old, one of my neighbors purchased an ATV, and his son brought it over to my house.  I jumped on the back and we rode around for a while, and it was at that moment that I’d asked my parents for one.

The year that I fell in love with ATVs. 2010 Country USA.

They of course said no.

Fast forward a few years to 2009.  Now, I had been on an ATV in between this time period several times, but the desire for one had sort of dwindled, and I’d never been able to drive one above 25 miles per hour.  This is when I started working at Country USA.  I’ve worked there four years as parking authority and during the first year I watched everyone buzzing around on their ATVs thinking they looked so awesome.

The next year I finally got to drive one.  It was a simple gas run, and that was all it took.  I was asked to take an 850 Sportsman with power steering to go and get gasoline and it was a turning point in my life.  After driving it to the gas pump and back (and soaring around on it in the back parking lot for a little bit) I knew I would one day need to get one.

The next year I got to drive the same brand again, and this was the year that size ATV was legalized on Wisconsin trails.  Finally, this year, August 16, 2012, I made my purchase of the beauty I own now.  Magnetic Metallic, Polaris Sportsman 850XP EFI with EPS.  I may have bought one with excessive power and features, but I can never go back.  I went trail riding the same day I put it on my trailer to take it home and have been in love ever since!

Trailriding in Marinette County on my Polaris

Venturing into the woods, and the things that you should bring

STOP: are you all prepared to trail ride? Did you pack everything you need?

Any time that you go trail riding, you are taking risks as a rider.  Alone or in a group, it is important to always have some basic supplies with you when you ATV.  There is a reality that when ATVing, trails can take you up to hundreds of miles away from civilization, and while in Wisconsin the furthest away you can really get from at least a small town is about 50 miles, that is still a distance further than walking to have to go get help, so you should be self supporting when out in the woods.

A list of things you should bring every time you go out:

• Extra Gasoline – You may underestimate the distance to the next gas stop, or perhaps you know you will be travelling a long way and want to be safe.  Either way, bring at least an extra gallon or two.
• Snacks and Water – Even if you’re only planning on a half-day trip, things happen.  If your ATV breaks down and you have to wait several hours for assistance, you’re going to get hungry and thirsty.  Some protein bars and water bottles should be carried at all times, especially if there’s a chance you could be stuck in the woods for a long time if anything goes wrong.
• Basic Tool Kit – Don’t get stuck with something simple to fix! Most ATVs come with a small tool kit to keep in the glove compartment, but if yours didn’t or you’re missing tools, make sure you get an ATV tool kit to carry along.
• Extra Clothes – Throw an extra jacket or sweatshirt in your pack.  This is Wisconsin, and weather changes quickly
• Basic First Aid – Bring a small first aid kit with the basic supplies (bandages, alcohol swabs, tape, etc.) in case you get into a situation anywhere from a scrape from a branch to a sprained wrist from getting thrown.
• Cell Phone – It’s true.  Not everywhere in the woods will you get a cell phone signal, but in Wisconsin reception is pretty good out on the trails.  I know I personally have only run into a little bit of coverage issue in Marinette, and I was deep into the trails.  Even if you have to walk a little bit for a signal, it’s better than being stranded for a night.

Don’t get caught in a situation like this – be prepared! (source: country94news.blogspot.com)

This list is, of course, not all inclusive and depending on where you are going ATVing and for how long, you may need to bring more items and perhaps just more of everything listed as well.  But it’s good to always have enough supplies to be prepared for anything to happen, because out in the woods you never know.  A deer could run in front of your ATV, a part could break, you could hit a downed tree in the trail.  Regardless what happens in the woods, you will be okay if you come prepared, let people know where you are going even if you’re going in a group, and always check in with those people periodically while you are out so they know where you are at in case they have to come looking.  Doing this and being prepared will make every ride that much more enjoyable because you won’t have to worry if something does come up.

Also make sure to always do a pre-ride inspection of your ATV prior to going out on the trails! See the video for some tips from the ATV Safety Institute:

 

Finding a Riding Partner – Kettle Moraine ATV Association

Today I attended my ATV Rider’s Safety Course that is offered for free by Polaris for buying a new ATV.  On a later date, I will discuss more about this course, but for now I would like to talk about the ATV club that I got in contact with because of the course, and how neat this club is.  They are one of the most active that I have heard of within a 2 hour radius from where I live, and I plan to be joining up with them soon.

Kettle Moraine ATV Association

Kettle Moraine ATV Association was formed in 2006, and is based out of West Bend, Wisconsin.  One of the reasons that I want to join this ATV club (and will be doing so, probably within the next month!) is how active the club is, both for ATV riding in the state of Wisconsin and for the purpose of having people to ride with.

Chix 4 A Cause 2012 Poster

KMATVA is responsible for the reopening of the Eisenbahn State Trail for ATVing in the winter, which runs from the north side of West Bend to the Fond du Lac County line.  They work toward educating riders on safety and provide club personnel for the Trail Patrol Ambassador program.

The club goes on 1-2 rides per month, which gives enthusiasts a fantastic group to ride with. Talking to Chris

from the club, the age range of the club is from 7 to 77, making it a fun experience for all ages and skill levels when they go riding.  They also do many events including parades and charity events, such as Chix 4 a Cause, their annual cancer ride.

Eisenbahn State Trail (source: bridgehunter.com)

Some of their rides are one day rides, others involve extended weekends, making it possible to have all sorts of experiences.  They also have several FM radios for helmets so that riders can communicate, and sometimes group individuals according to skill/interest/etc. to allow everyone to have the best riding experience possible.

Remember the Regulations – DNR Rules to ATVing in Wisconsin

ATVs on Cattail State Trail (source: amerywisconsin.org)

ATVing is a fun sport for everyone, but the reality is that enthusiasts cannot simply hit the trails.  The Wisconsin DNR has set forth many regulations and laws that must be followed when riding and it is important to follow all of them.  Why?  The regulations are set forth for rider safety and protecting the land and trails, but if that isn’t enough to convince you follow the laws, then perhaps the $150+ fines that are encountered for breaking DNR rules might be some better encouragement.

Safety Education Course

The DNR has several different safety courses for power sports and outdoor activities, and ATVing is no exception.  It’s a surprise to some, but the requirements for having to take this course are not simply “21 and under.”  ATV Safety Course Certification is required for all individuals born on or after January 1, 1988. The safety course can be taken online or in a classroom, and upon successful completion riders are awarded a license stating they completed the course.  You also have to be at least 12 years old to complete this course.

Registering an ATV

Remember to register your ATV before hitting the trails – there are several forms of registration, but make sure that your ATV is registered in a way that is okay for trail use.  This means if your ATV is farm registered, you need to register it for public use, but if it has recreational registration you can hit the trails.  Out of state ATVs can also purchase a trail pass to use the Wisconsin systems.

License Plate Requirements

ATV License Plate (source: wiatvplates.com)

New as of July 1 this year, ATVs are required to display a license plateof their registration number off the back of the ATV.  Rules from

the DNR about the specs of the plate: must be a minimum of 4 inches in height and 7 1/2 inches wide; must be white; black lettering a minimum of 1 1/2 inches high with a minimum 3/16 inch stroke; needs only the 4 registration numbers and two letters that follow same as on the registration decal; owner shall maintain the plate so it is in legible condition; and the plate shall be attached to the rear of the vehicle.

Most ATV dealers sell “do it yourself” kits to make getting these plates set up easier.

Mandatory Safety

The only trail safety equipment that is considered mandatory is the use of eye protection, such as goggles, but the DNR highly recommends the use of a DOT approved helmet, as well as proper clothing.  I agree with the recommendations on top of the mandatory goggles, but if you’re going to go out remember – the DNR is not afraid to fine you if you’re not wearing eye protection.

Other Regulations

The DNR has put forth an “instruction manual” of sorts filled with all the regulations regarding trail use for ATVs.  It is important to follow these rules, because these are where a lot of the major fines come in.  I recommend that you read over this manual, as well as talk to a local club about tips for safe trail riding, because the brochure is not all encompassing of the rules.

Also, remember, do not ride on roads unless they are marked as an ATV route!  This is dangerous as well as highly illegal and you WILL get fined.

Ashwaubenon ATV Patrol (source: ashpublicsafety.com)

Now, I like many others who ATV complain about all of these regulations and policies, because it can get very overwhelming to have to worry about all of these topics every time I go out.    However, these are in place for a reason and it is to keep the trails in existence.  Many rules, such as going only 10mph past a residential location, are so that people who are not enthusiasts don’t get angry at the sport and so that one person doesn’t ruin it for everyone.  Many trails in Wisconsin have been shut down in the past because of people who got sick of disrespectful riders.  It is important to remember that you and your ATV are not the only things on the planet.  Respect others around you riding on the trails, people who are not participating in the activity, and the land itself.  Stay on the trails at all times, pick up litter, and make a good example for other riders.

Know Where to Ride, Wherever you Are

Many times, the most difficult thing about going ATVing is finding a location to go for a ride.  ATV trails can seem like they are few and far between if you are unfamiliar with the way trails work in Wisconsin, and resources are sparse.  Just last weekend I went ATVing in Marinette County and there was not a map in sight.  But the reality of the sport is that it takes the enthusiasts to fund and maintain the trails and these maps that I have just referred to.

The WATVA Logo (credit: watva.org)

That’s where WATVA comes in.  WATVA is the Wisconsin ATV Association, and these are the individuals who help run and maintain trails and clubs in the state.  ATV clubs are the reason that trails exist in Wisconsin, as well as all the resources about the sport that you can find like maps, closing information, and safety pamphlets.  WATVA’s website has databases of where to ride, a directory of members, and upcoming events, as well as discussion forums to connect with enthusiasts across the state as well as the country.

One of the best features of the WATVA website is the list of trails by county.  This list is quite descriptive and the quality of the trails are also described in many of the information sections.  Maps can also be found here, although some of them are of poor quality.

If you are looking for a place to ride or people to ride with, it is quite likely that there is a local club near you, even if there aren’t any trails.  I’m looking into clubs right now for myself, and the one I will be joining is the Fox Valley ATV Association.  They are located centrally for where I live, even though the closest trails (minus the Farm Country ATV Park in Brillion, and the Fond du Lac OHV Park) are almost two hours away.

Remember, joining a club also funds the trail maintenance and keeps the sport alive in the state.  Membership fees tend to be extremely affordable.  Are you a member of any clubs?

WATVA also has a YouTube account with lots of near videos that show what they are all about.  Here is a playlist of some of their videos. They also have awards ceremonies, trail information, and even information about Wisconsin Laws.

The ATV Enthusiast

My Polaris ATV

Welcome to all!  This is the newest and only blog solely about ATV riding in the state of Wisconsin.  I am Natalie, an ATV enthusiast who has a passion for all things Wisconsin.

To start out this blog, a little about myself and my history in the sport.  I’ve been driving ATV’s for several years now, but I only purchased my first one just this August.  It took a lot of saving up money, but I finally have it!  I am the proud owner of a 2012 850 Polaris Sportsman XP EFI with Electronic Power Steering.  I’m working on going to several trails across the state (although many are closing next weekend) and I’m also speaking with several ATV clubs across the state to see what they have to offer.

So far, my biggest trip was through Forest County and Oconto County on the Nicolet State Trail.

The Nicolet State Trail is a beautiful path with lots of bridges and fully “paved” with gravel along the route.  The scenery varies throughout the ride, and the trail goes through multiple cities including Laona and Wabeno.  Dense forests line much of the path, but the winding rivers and open marshes also bring variety and beauty to the trip.  Remember to be cautious, however, because the State Trail is an all-purpose trail, meaning bicyclists, pedestrians, and horseback riders may be present, and there are several laws to be heeded about speed and distance when passing by any other traffic on a mixed trail.  For more information, check out the DNR’s information on ATV laws in Wisconsin.

This coming Saturday I will be going up to Crivitz to go ATVing, and I will be reporting back with my findings and a review of the trail.  Is there anywhere you’ve been in Wisconsin that you enjoy?

Here are some images from my trip on the Nicolet State Trail:

One of the beautiful sights on the Nicolet State Trail

Traveling through the woods in Forest County

One of the many bridges on the Nicolet State Trail