Riding Techniques - Can-Am DS 250 Operator's Manual

RIDING THE VEHICLE
As you drive your ATV over a loose snow covered surface, snow dust will be
picked up in the wake turbulence of the moving vehicle and transported to contact
and accumulate or melt on some exposed components including rotating parts
like brake discs. Water, snow or ice may affect the response time of the brake
system of your ATV. Even when not required to reduce vehicle speed apply brakes
frequently to prevent ice or snow accumulation and to dry brake pads and discs.
While doing so in low risk driving situations you will test for grip level and keep
yourself alerted to how the vehicle reacts to your control inputs. Always keep the
brake pedal, footrests, brake and throttle levers free of snow and ice. Frequently
wipe snow off seat, handgrips, headlights and taillight.
The depth of the snow cover may hide rocks, tree stumps or other objects and if it
is wet may totally impede the drivability as the vehicle becomes bogged down or
completely looses traction in slushy snow. Look far ahead and always be watchful
of any visible clues that might indicate the presence of such obstacles. In doubt
steer clear. Avoid driving on any frozen body of water before checking that the
ice will safely support the ATV, its riders and its load of cargo. Remember that a
given thickness of ice may be sufficient to support a snowmobile but not an ATV
of an identical weight because of the smaller load bearing surface of the four tire
contact patches as compared to that of a snowmobile track and skis.
Always remember that the vehicle handling and stability is affected when riding
with a passenger. Never attempt maneuvers with a passenger that may cause
the vehicle to enter into a slide that if halted abruptly will result in the ejection of
the passenger and/or a vehicle roll or tip-over.
To maximize comfort and avoid frostbite, always wear clothing and ATV protective
equipment appropriate for the weather conditions you will be exposed to during
your ride.
At the end of each ride it is a good practice to clean the vehicle body and all moving
components (brakes, steering components, drivelines, controls, radiator fan etc.)
from any snow or ice accumulations. Wet snow will turn to ice during the shut
down period and become more difficult to remove at the next pre-ride inspection.

Riding Techniques

Riding your vehicle too fast for the conditions may result in injury. Apply only
enough throttle to proceed safely. Statistics show that high speed turns usually
result in mishaps and injury. Always remember that this vehicle is heavy! Its pure
weight alone may entrap you should it fall and pin you down.
This vehicle is not designed for jumping nor can it fully absorb the high impact
energy generated during manoeuvres such as jumping which, can be passed on to
you, the operator. Performing "wheelies" can cause the vehicle to flip over onto
you. Both practices have a high risk for you and should be avoided at all times.
To maintain proper control it is strongly advised that you keep your hands on the
handlebar and within easy reach of all controls. The same holds true for your feet.
To minimize the possibility of a leg or foot injury, keep your feet on the footrests
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SAFETY INFORMATION 47