Quad Biking FAQ's
- What is the difference between a quad bike and an ATV?
- Are Quads safe?
- Do I have to wear a helmet or special clothes?
- Should I let my children quad bike?
- How can I check if there is a venue near us?
- Do I need to book?
- How do I pay?
- Is there any discount on group bookings?
- If none of the above answers my question, what can I do?
What is the difference between a quad bike and an ATV?
ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) is the general term used to describe a vehicle designed for off-road use. This could include quad bikes, Landrovers, Argo-Cats etc.
Quad bikes are the sit-astride four-wheel bikes with handlebars. The farming community tends to call them ATVs, while the forestry calls them ATCs (All Terrain Cycles). Leisure users tend to use the term Quad Bike.
Are Quads safe?
Quads are high-speed off-road vehicles, designed to be used in the most difficult terrain and on steep slopes. There is inherent danger in any such activity. However, used properly and within the limits of both the rider and the machine, the ATV is as safe as any mode of transport. In order to improve the safety of ATVs, follow the following guidelines:
- Listen carefully to the pre-ride briefing
- Drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions
- Never carry a passenger (the long seat is for participants to shift their bodyweight forwards or backwards for different slope conditions)
- Avoid traversing steep side slopes
- Ensure steep slopes are within your capabilities. Don’t show off - the outcome could be a nasty accident or worse
Do I have to wear a helmet or special clothes?
Head protection is vital. Should you fall off your ATV, it is the only protection you will have. Motorcycle helmets to BS6658: 1985 are recommended, but other BSI approved helmets which give both top and side head protection can be used, providing it has a chin strap.
Other safety clothing is optional, depending on your activity. Strong boots are always a good idea, as well as gloves. Sports users in particular should wear goggles to protect their eyes from flying dirt, and long trousers are a requirement at most venues.
Should I let my children quad bike?
It is recommended by the ATV manufacturers that children under 16 years old should not ride adult ATV's. The reasons for this include physical size and strength required to operate an ATV safely, coordination, visual perception, emotional maturity and the ability to reason and make good decisions. On this basis, the following age guidelines have been recommended:
- ATVs under 70cc are suitable for 6 year olds and older
- 70cc to 90cc ATVs are suitable for 12 year olds and older
- ATVs over 90cc are suitable for 16 year olds and older.
However, the final decision and responsibility on the suitability of the child to ride a particular ATV rests with the parent or guardian. As a good rule of thumb, the child must be able to stand on the footrest and have a clearance of 3 inches between the seat and 'the seat of his pants'. He or she must be able to reach and work all the controls comfortably. Generally, they should be able to judge speeds and distances, be able to follow rules and instruction, understand the consequences of unsafe acts and have good hand and eye co-ordination. Always ensure they have suitable protective equipment and understand the parameters under which they are being allowed to ride (e.g. only under supervision from an adult, only in this field, never on the road, no faster than…. etc).
How can I check if there is a venue near us?
Put the town you are located or wish to race in the search box. You will then be offered various venues within travelling distance.
Do I need to book?
Definitely! Go Ballistic does not cater for participants turning up at the venue because staffing and bikes are allocated according to the number of participants booked in on any particular day.
How do I pay?
Some of our venues require full payment on booking whereas some will take a deposit call us on 0870 626 0798 to find out what is required at your preferred venue. Payment can be made with cheque or credit / debit card. When a deposit is required, it is £10 a head with the balance becoming due 31 days before the event date. This deposit is non-refundable. If your booking is made within the 31 days full payment is due. No refunds are applicable within 31 days of an event. See full terms and conditions on this site in this regard.
Is there any discount on group bookings?
Discount is usually available to groups of 30 or more.
If none of the above answers my question, what can I do?
Call us now – we are the experts 0870 626 0798
