Turning - Suzuki LT-Z400 Owner's Manual

TURNING

WARNING
Turning the ATV improperly can be
hazardous.
If you turn the ATV improperly, it
may cause a collision or overturn.
Always follow proper procedures
for turning as described in this
section. Practice turning at low
speeds before attempting to turn
at faster speeds. Never turn at
excessive speeds.
To turn the ATV, the rider must use
the proper technique. Because this
vehicle has a solid rear axle, both rear
wheels always turn at the same
speed. This means that if the rear
wheels are getting equal traction, the
vehicle will tend to move straight
ahead. This is because the rear
wheels will travel the same distance.
For the vehicle to turn, the outside
rear wheel must travel a greater dis-
tance than the inside rear wheel. To
make this happen, the rider must cre-
ate less traction for the inside wheel,
allowing it to slip somewhat. This
allows it to travel a shorter distance
than the outside wheel. This happens
even though both wheels are still
turning at the same speed.
To turn the ATV, use the following
technique:
• Turn the handlebars in the direc-
tion of the turn.
• Shift body weight slightly forward
and support your weight on the
outer footrest. This will reduce the
load on the inside rear wheel,
reducing its traction.
• Lean upper body into the turn.
At HIGHER SPEEDS:
Use the same technique that you use
for turning at low speeds, but lean far-
ther into the turn. Natural turning
forces (which can push the vehicle to
the outside of the turn) increase as
speed increases. This means you
must lean your upper body farther into
the turn as you go faster. This pre-
vents the vehicle from tipping over to
the outside of the turn. Remember,
though, to keep your weight sup-
ported on the outer footrest.
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