Suzuki LT-Z400 Owner's Manual page 50

After the engine has warmed up,
check the brakes. Do this inspection
on level ground and do not exceed
walking speed. Be sure to check the
operation of both front and rear
brakes. If the brakes do not work ade-
quately, stop riding the ATV. Bring the
ATV to a warmer area to allow the
brakes to thaw out. After the brakes
thaw, dry them by applying them sev-
eral times while riding slowly. If the
brakes do not regain full stopping
power, have your local Suzuki dealer
check them before you continue riding
your ATV.
WARNING
Operating the ATV without a prop-
erly functioning brake system can
be hazardous.
Wet or frozen brakes will increase
stopping distance.
increase your chance of having an
accident.
Be sure to inspect the brakes
before each use of the vehicle in
cold weather as described above.
Any water that enters the brakes
while you ride may freeze after you
park your ATV. The frozen water can
prevent the wheels from turning or the
brakes from working. After riding
through water, mud, snow, or slush it
is important to dry the brakes before
parking the ATV. To dry the brakes,
apply them several times while riding
slowly. Before your next ride, be sure
to do a Pre-ride inspection as
described earlier in this section.
Dressing for Cold Weather Riding
Operating your ATV in cold
weather without proper clothing
can be hazardous.
Continued exposure to cold tem-
peratures can lead to hypother-
mia. Hypothermia is a condition
where your body's inner tempera-
ture drops low enough to cause
injury or death.
Always dress for the worst
weather conditions you might
encounter. Be prepared for bad
weather and ATV breakdowns.
Riding in cold weather can be hazard-
ous. At a temperature of –12°C
(10°F), the wind chill created by going
just 15 km/h (9 mph) makes you as
This will
cold as if you were standing still at a
temperature of –23°C (–9°F). At this
temperature, exposed flesh will freeze
in just a few minutes.
Continued exposure to cold tempera-
tures can also lead to hypothermia.
Hypothermia
body's
Symptoms include numbness in the
extremities (hands, feet, arms, and
legs), and shivering. Damp clothing
contributes to hypothermia because
cold water on your skin will drain heat
from your body's core.
We strongly recommend that if you do
any cold-weather riding, you familiar-
ize yourself with the symptoms, treat-
ment, and prevention of hypothermia.
Information is available at libraries
and through government agencies.
3-21
WARNING
occurs
inner temperature
when your
drops.