Top Ten Rules of Off-roading

 

Off-roading is a term for driving a vehicle on un-surfaced roads or tracks, made of materials such as sand and gravel, riverbeds, mud, snow, rocks, and other natural terrain.

In most cases off-road terrains can only be traveled by vehicles designed specifically for off-road driving such as ATVs, heavy-duty pickup trucks, trucks and equipment, SUVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles or mountain bicycles.

Off-roading is a territory which packs a lot of fun. But there are some simple rules you should follow so that you have a time which is safe as well as adventurous.

1. Make sure your SUV is in tip-top condition before heading out for the journey. A service before heading out is strongly recommended.

2. If a stretch looks tough, make sure you get into 4WD low range before you attempt that stretch.

3. Try keeping your momentum as far as possible especially when going through soft surfaces like sand and slush.

4. Before going in for hardcore terrains make sure you test your as well your vehicle's capabilities by attempting easy off-road trails.

5. When attacking hill slopes, try driving straight up or down while avoiding driving across a hillside. Your chances of rolling over are quite high if you are driving across a hill.

6. Always hold the steering wheel by its rim and not by its spokes as the steering might kick back and the spokes could break your fingers. Also, holding a steering by its rim gives you better control over the vehicle.

7. In order to cross a stream/pond successfully make sure you step out and gauge the depth of the stream/pond with a stick. This would prevent the engine from flooding incase the stream is too deep.

8. Your car might get stuck while off-roading. Make sure that you carry shovels and a few wooden boards in case your tyres need additional traction.

9. A basic medical kit is necessary in case you get hurt when trying to free your vehicle when it's stuck.

10. Prevent any kind of wheelspin as it may lead to you getting stuck. Wheelspin would lead to digging of pits where the tyre is rotating.

And lastly, always use your common sense. If you think you can't get through, then leave it.