Sound Judgment; Environment - Arctic Cat XC 450 Operator's Manual

Sound Judgment

Overview
You are not invincible. Knowing that the first "S" in "P.A.S.S." stands
for "Sound Judgment" means you need to use yours.

Environment

The environment you operate an ATV in is often harsh and sometimes
dangerous if you don't take proper precautions.
Weather
You need to consider the weather. It is dangerous to ride your ATV
when the weather is bad or potentially bad. Keep abreast with weather
forecasts.
Terrain
Always pay close attention to the terrain you're on, even if it is famil-
iar to you. You can't assume that the landscape you're used to doesn't
change. Changes to landscape can happen at nearly any time. Fences
can be constructed and excavations dug in a short period of time.
Weather, climate, and development take their toll.
The thing about terrain is that sometimes you don't know it's changed
until you get there. Whether it's familiar or not, check out your sur-
roundings before and during your ride.
Night Riding
Riding at night can be very hazardous. Obstacles and other hazards
(that are easily identified during daytime) are much more difficult to
see and avoid. When night riding, make sure the lights are properly
adjusted and in good working order. Reduce speed; do not over-drive
the headlights. Never travel in an unfamiliar area or blaze a new trail
at night. Always carry a flashlight or flare for signaling an emergency.
20
! WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Paved Surfaces
Avoid whenever possible. The ATV isn't designed for pavement. Its
handling becomes more difficult on paved surfaces. If operating on
paved surfaces is unavoidable, travel slowly (less than 10 MPH) and
avoid sudden turns and stops.
Trail Riding
Use sound judgment when trail riding; that means riding on a trail that
fits your ability level. If the trail is pretty rugged, standing up on your
footrests will make it easier for you to endure the rough terrain.
Make yourself visible by using headlights and taillights, and pull com-
pletely off the trail if you need to stop.
Outsloped trails (trails that slant to allow rain to run off) make trail rid-
ing a bit more challenging. Keep your weight shifted into the slope.
It also helps to know which trails you can legally ride and who else
might be on those same trails. These are signs currently used in some
areas to designate trail types and restrictions.
Trail Signs
ATV-0068