Recreational Riding; Environment - Can-Am ds 450 series Operator's Manual

RIDING THE VEHICLE

Recreational Riding

Respect the rights and limitations of others. Stay away from areas designated
for other types of off road use. This includes snowmobile trails, equestrian trails,
cross country ski trails, mountain bike trails etc. Never assume there are no other
users on the trail. Always stay to the complete right of the trail and do not zig zag
to one side of the trail then the other. Be prepared to stop or pull off to the side if
another trail user appears in front of you.
Join a local ATV club. It will provide you with a map and advice or inform you where
you can ride. If a club does not exist in your area, help to start one. Group riding and
club activities provide a pleasurable, social experience.
Always keep a safe distance from other riders. Your judgment of speed, ter-
rain conditions, weather, mechanical condition of your vehicle and the "trust in
judgment" you have in others around you will help you make a better choice of
appropriate safe distance. This vehicle, like any other motorized vehicle, cannot
stop "on a dime".
Before you ride, tell someone where you are planning to travel and your expected
time of return. Never consume alcohol or drugs before or while riding!
Depending on the length of your ride, carry additional tools or emergency equip-
ment. Find out where you can get additional gasoline and oil. Be prepared for the
possible conditions you may encounter. An emergency first aid kit should always
be a consideration.

Environment

One of the benefits of this vehicle is that it can take you off the beaten path away
from most communities. However, you should always respect nature and the
rights of others to enjoy it. Do not ride in environmentally sensitive areas. Do not
drive over forest crops or shrubs... nor cut down trees or take down fencing... nor
spin your wheels and destroy the terrain. "Tread Lightly".
This vehicle can cause OHV wildfires if debris builds up near the exhaust or other
engine hot spots and ignites then falls off into dry grass. Avoid riding in wet areas,
through muskeg or tall grass, where debris can build up. Should you ride in those
areas, inspect and remove all debris from your engine and hot spots.
Chasing wildlife is in many areas illegal. Wildlife can die of exhaustion after being
chased by a motorized vehicle. If you encounter animals on the trail, stop and ob-
serve quietly and with caution. It will be one of the better memories of your life.
Observe the rule... "what you take in, carry out". Do not litter. Do not start camp-
fires unless you have permission to do so... and then only... away from dry areas.
The hazards you may create on the trail may cause injury to others or yourself, even
at a later date.
Respect farm lands. Always obtain the permission of the landowner before riding
on private land. Respect crops, farm animals and property lines. If you come to a
closed a gate, close it again behind you.
Finally, do not pollute streams, lakes or rivers and do not modify the engine or muf-
fling system, or remove any of its components.
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SAFETY INFORMATION 39