BRP Can-am MAVERICK Trail T Series Operator's Manual page 39

The depth of the snow cover may hide
rocks, tree stumps or other objects and
if it is wet may totally impede the driv-
ability as the vehicle becomes bogged
down or completely looses traction in
slushy snow. Look far ahead and al-
ways be watchful of any visible clues
that might indicate the presence of
such obstacles. In doubt steer clear.
Avoid driving on any frozen waterways
before checking that the ice will safely
support the vehicle, its riders and its
load of cargo.
At the end of each ride it is a good prac-
tice to clean the vehicle and all moving
components (brakes, steering com-
ponents, drivelines, controls, radiator
fan etc.) from any snow or ice accu-
mulations. Wet snow will turn to ice
during the shut down period and be-
come more difficult to remove at the
next pre-ride inspection.
Riding on Sand
Sand and riding on sand dunes is an-
other unique experience but there are
some basic precautions that should
be observed. Wet, deep or fine sand
may create a loss of traction and cause
the vehicle to slide, drop off or become
"bogged" down. If this occurs look for
a firmer base. Again, the best advice
is to slow down and be watchful of the
conditions.
When riding in sand dunes it is advis-
able to equip the vehicle with an an-
tenna type safety flag. This will help
make your location more visible to oth-
ers over the next sand dune. Proceed
carefully should you see another safety
flag ahead.
Riding on Gravel, Loose Stones or
Other Slippery Surfaces
Riding on loose stones or gravel is very
similar to riding on ice. They will affect
the steering of vehicle, possibly caus-
ing it to slide and tip over especially at
high speeds. In addition, braking dis-
tance may be affected. Remember
that "gunning" the throttle or sliding
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SAFETY INFORMATION
may cause loose stones to be ejected
rearwards into the path of another
rider's way. Never do it deliberately.
If you do get into a slide or skid, it may
help to turn the steering wheel into the
direction of the skid until you regain
control. Never jam the brakes and lock
the wheels.
Crossing Obstacles
Use the low range (L) for crossing ob-
stacles.
Obstacles on the "trail" should be tra-
versed with caution. This includes
rocks, fallen trees, and depressions.
You should avoid them whenever pos-
sible. Remember that some obstacles
are too large or dangerous to cross
and should be avoided. As a guideline,
never attempt to cross an obstacle
higher than the ground clearance of
the vehicle. Small rocks or small fallen
trees may be safely crossed - approach
obstacle at low speed and as much as
possible at a right angle. Adjust speed
without losing momentum and do not
accelerate abruptly. Passengers must
grasp handhold firmly and brace feet
on the floor. Hold steering firmly with-
out closing your fists around it and pro-
ceed. Be aware that the obstacle may
be slippery or may move while cross-
ing.
Hill Driving Conditions
When driving on hills or slopes, two
things are highly important: be pre-
pared for slippery surfaces or terrain
variations and obstacles and brace
yourself properly inside vehicle. If you
climb or descend a hill that is too slip-
pery or has too loose a surface, you
can lose control. If you go over the
top of a hill at high speed, you may not
have time to prepare for the terrain
on the other side. Avoid parking on
a slope. Always put the shift lever in
PARK when stopped or parked, espe-
cially on an incline, to avoid rolling. If
you must park on a steep incline, block
the wheels using rocks or bricks.
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RIDING YOUR VEHICLE
37