If you are a parent or grandparent making a first-time ATV or GoKart purchase for your young rider, there is no question that safety is a top priority.
Let’s start by congratulating you on the decision to make that purchase yourself and then personally MONITOR your young rider as he or she starts to enjoy to fun and excitement of outdoor recreation. For, to be honest, it is so much better to have control over the procedures and environment – as opposed to wondering and worrying whether proper safety steps are being taken when riding without responsible adult supervision.
Also, while there sometimes may be bargains achieved through buying a used powersports vehicle, there is great peace of mind in purchasing new. You know that the vehicle hasn’t been wrecked or abused and you also have an important warranty.
Here are some important safety tips relating to the purchase of your ATV or GoKart:
* Make sure you purchase the correct size vehicle for your young rider. You should NEVER allow a youngster to ride a vehicle that is too large for him or her to properly operate.
*Become familiar with all your specific state and local laws and regulations concerning the operation of powersports vehicles, especially as they relate to young riders.
*Be sure to read the manual and instruction sheet thoroughly and become familiar with all relevant safety suggestions.
*Make sure your young rider fully understands the operation of the vehicle. Quiz him or her extensively on acceleration, braking, turning and other basic functions.
*Be sure to provide all the appropriate safety gear including an approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, long pants, long-sleeved shirt and over-the-ankle boots. Never allow the rider to wear loose clothing.
*Choose a safe location that has lots of room with no obstructions for the first drive.
*Go through a complete safety check to make sure your youngster understands the operation of the vehicle on this initial riding situation.
*Adjust the speed limiter to a level that is appropriate and as slow as needed for safety.
*Have the young rider drive forward and brake while you are walking beside him or her. It might be a good idea the first time to actually push the vehicle as the youngster becomes accustomed to its feel and operation.
*Work on turning and help the rider learn to lean in the direction of the turn to aid stability.
Then have the rider perform different maneuvers with the vehicle under your supervision. Provide different commands and repeat until the adult and the youngster are both comfortable that the learning process is succeeding.
*Finding an approved safety course for the young rider also is a good idea and many may be found online.
*Adjust the speed limiter upward as the youngster gains in confidence and ability.
Many ATVs and GoKarts come with additional safety devices such as remote on-off switches (that can be operated from a distance of a football field) and wrist tethers (that will shut down the vehicle in the event of falling off or tipping over).
At www.familygokarts.com safety has always been a top priority and our knowledgeable technicians will be happy to help you make the right purchase for your youngster and also discuss with you any issues relating to its safe operation. We have been delivering family fun since 1990 and are committed to serving you professionally both before and after the sale – as we have done for thousands of satisfied customers over the years.
You can find a complete line of AFFORDABLE ATVs and GoKarts on our website, www.familygokarts.com, or give us a call at 800-250-5502 or 320-695-2899. We promise that you always will be connected with a Live Person during regular business hours.
We also have a complete inventory of parts, provide free shipping and convenient financing is available. We have a 5 Star Customer Service rating and take pride in following the great Midwestern tradition of friendly and honest service.
