New ATV Rider - Maybe?

[arkyatv]

Ok, I'm 34 living in an "outdoorsy" part of the nation. My wife had an atv when she was young and I had a 50cc dirtbike when I was young. We need an activity that we can do together. She suggested ATVing. Sounds cool to me. So, in 2009, I decided to set a couple of goals. Goal 1 is to lose weight and get in shape. Goal 2 is to save up enough money to buy his/her atvs. However, I have a few questions and maybe someone could help me.

Question 1

What are some good entry level atvs for two people that have limited experience? I was thinking 250cc, but I'm 190lbs and that might be too big. Also, the Mrs. is a big lady and 250 might not be powerful enough. I'm leaning toward a sport atv. Wife would rather have a utility.

Question 2 -

Should I even try? Reading the stories of the hurt riders on this site discourages me some.

Question 3 -

I've been researching hare scrambles. Should I even think about it until I get a couple of years under my belt? They sound awesome to me and there are some held close to where I live.

Any help would be appreciated.

[randal106]

First off, Welcome to RiderDown!!!

Question 1-

I would suggest finding someone that you know that would let both of you tag along next time they go out (maybe just in their backyard). This way you both can have some seat time on an ATV and see if its something you both really want to pursue. All the major manufacturers make great ATV's (Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM for sport ATV's) I had a Honda 400ex for a while that i would race motocross and a few harescrambles with, Very solid machine. i also have a 1996 Kawasaki Bayou 220 Ive had since new, and its never let me down (a little small, but great to put-put around the pits, and explore the trails with every now and then). Just try some out, and make an educated purchase.

Question 2-

Dont let the stories here discourage you from riding, get the proper protection gear for the type of riding you will be doing. It is a dangerous hobby, but no more dangerous than walmart on black Friday:yikes.

Question 3-

Definitely don't go out and try a harescramble for your first couple of months on the ATV. You have to make sure you know exactly how that machine will react under all conditions. look on youtube and find some videos of a GNCC ATV Race, those guy's are pretty quick, then put yourself in there way on your ATV. LOL.

Hope that answers some of your questions.

Heres a pic of me on the Honda 400ex back in the day lol

[arkyatv]

Thanks Randall.

So far as racing goes, I figure I'm a long way away. But, I'm a goal setter. I need a goal to work toward.

This is primarily something for my wife to do together.

[oldquadridr]

being on an ATV is a great thing...

I would agree with randal...find someone you can tag along with, if youdont know anyone hit up the local dealer, they can help you find a club..


The 400ex is a great machine..I rode that myself for about a year before i changed and started racing hare scrambles and XC...it is a great time but i reccomend serious seat time before trying to race

and no more dangerous than driving to work everyday..like everything else..stay withing your limits and have fun..

quads are a great family event..

[shawnhdz]

400 ex or a utility quad,if you want to spend time crusing with your other half.They even make 2 seat utility quads.I have raced quads for a long time.Just like everything else they will only do what you let them do ,keep your head straight and everything will be fine.