Published: May 04, 2008 09:57 pm         

Four-wheeler-handling not at all like ‘pony ride,’ dealer says

With an estimated half million four-wheelers already in use in West Virginia and another 16,000 purchased yearly, hundreds of riders will be saddling up on all-terrain vehicles for the first time in 2008.

But the skill and expertise it takes to handle some models, which weigh up to 1,000 pounds and can travel at speeds in excess of 75 mph, should never be likened to a pony ride, says Paige Ward, the owner of Beckley’s United Cycle.

“First and foremost, it’s important to match the rider’s abilities to the ATV they are considering purchasing,” Ward said. “And you must also take in consideration whether you need a sport or utility ATV.”

Thousands of hunters use sport ATVs for recreational use, but farmers who haul hay and other materials see utility ATVs as essential work vehicles, Ward said.

When purchasing and riding an ATV for the first time, being “all thumbs” around handlebars can be a scary, if not deadly, proposition, according to Ward.

“I would recommend starting an adult out with a 400 cc engine in a four-wheel-drive that has an automatic transmission,” Ward said. “With an economy model, you can expect to pay about $4,000 for one. They are lightweight and easy to load and maneuver in the woods. They are our most popular size for mid-range ATVs.”

Before taking off into the woods, Ward suggests all riders take a safety training course. State laws require all riders under the age of 18 to complete safety courses.

“The neat thing about it is with the newer models we sell there is an ATV rider training course that comes with it free from the Safety Vehicle Institute of America,” he said.

For younger riders, matching the correct engine size in relation to body size is the main safety factor.

“I recommend a 50 cc engine for those 6 to 12 and 80 to 90 cc engine for ages 12 to 16,” Ward said. “There’s no law against selling larger ATVs to younger kids, but just about every dealer agrees not to do it.”

After plenty of training and donning protective gear from head to toe, you should be able to master the basics of ATV riding and might want to consider heading to Raleigh County’s new Burning Rock ATV trail, scheduled to open in July, he said.

“That will be a good place for people to go with their families to ride in a controlled environment,” Ward said.

— E-mail:

cgiggenbach@register-herald.com