Preparing for your first adventure on a side by side? You came to the right place! Before you can start conquering off-road trails, you need to master the basics. UTVs are hefty and powerful machines, and they can be dangerous in the hands of an irresponsible rider. This guide from Lintlaw Service can help you get acquainted with safe riding practices.

If you’re looking to get your hands on a side by side, come shop our selection at Lintlaw Service. You can choose from a wide variety of makes and models at our dealership in Lintlaw, SK. We welcome our neighbors from Yorkton and Saskatoon, SK.

Take advantage of the ample storage space in your side by side by packing a well-stocked safety kit. Make sure to include first-aid essentials, like bandages and antiseptic wipes, so you can easily deal with any cuts and scrapes that evade your defenses. You should also carry a flashlight, a set of wrenches and screwdrivers, and an air compressor. These tools can help you make small repairs on the fly, and save you from getting stranded miles away from the trailhead.

No matter how much you may be tempted to steer off the beaten path and explore the backcountry, you should stay on the trail. The untamed wilderness is not safe riding environment, and besides that, your UTV can damage the ecosystem.

To the inexperienced rider, this may seem like a disappointment, but we promise you are going to have a lot more fun riding your side by side on established off-road trails. After all, these trails are designed so that you can ride safely at top speeds without having to navigate around obstacles. Tearing through the underbrush is not as enjoyable as it may sound, and there is nothing fun about landing your vehicle in a ditch!

Maintenance should not be overlooked as a safety concern. Taking proper care of your UTV is an important responsibility, and your vehicle should be thoroughly inspected before each ride to rule out any maintenance issues that might impede safety. Make sure the tires are properly inflated, and inspect them for damage. Remove any debris that has become lodged in the engine bay, check for signs of leakage, and test the braking system. If your side by side has a windshield, keep it clean so you can see clearly.

You should never operate a UTV that needs repair. If your vehicle is not performing as it should, head to your local service center and have it looked at by a professional. If you are in the Saskatoon area, you can rely on the expert mechanics at Lintlaw Service to get your side by side back in good working order. We’re located in Lintlaw, SK.