How to Get Started in Offroading
Are you tired of being indoors and socially isolating? You aren’t alone. Everyone is getting the itch to return to their everyday lives and leisure activities as soon and as much as possible.
There are so many great outdoor activities that are perfect options for maintaining your social distance while still having fun. Offroading is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with some friends, and forget about work.
Don’t know how to begin? Don’t worry, and we can help. But, first, let’s discuss how to get started in offroading.
How To Get Started In Offroading
Outdoor activities are freeing. When you want to get away from it all, the great outdoors is the way to go. Imagine life with an RV, traveling from location to location, and offroading along the way.
There is a certain sense of freedom when you drive off roads, over rocks and streams, and through areas that most people don’t dare to go. However, to be this adventurous, you need to take safety precautions and understand your needs.
Your Offroad Vehicle
There are many different vehicles you can use for offroading, but you can’t use just any vehicle for offroading. Your vehicle needs to have certain features for safety and can be equipped with others to enhance your fun and trail rating.
Four-wheel drive is essential for offroading. If you don’t have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you can get stuck rather quickly. Also, you don’t want your first adventure to include an expensive tow. The fun of offroading comes from your vehicle’s ability to traverse over all kinds of terrain and remain sure-footed.
Your vehicle also needs a locking differential where the wheels all move at the same speed. If they move at different rates, the vehicle can slip while offroading, and will lose traction. Also, without a locking differential, slippery rocks can be a hazard. If your vehicle doesn’t have this feature, it is possible to upgrade.
Learning how your vehicle handles angles will take time. For example, in the game of pool, it is essential to understand how hitting the white ball at certain angles impacts your goal. This study of angles is no different from offroading, although the application is. Different vehicle models can handle certain angles, speeds, and approaches to obstacles based on their length, height, suspension, weight distribution, wheelbase, wheels and tires, and more.
What is your vehicle capable of with traction control? So much of the fun from offroading involves your vehicle’s ability to navigate hills while maintaining traction. Brakes and the four-wheel-drive system determine the traction control, limiting wheel slippage.
Off-Road Vehicle Preparations
Invest in tires that are designed specifically for off-roading. The last thing you want is to be in the middle of nowhere and blow a tire. Depending upon where you break down, it can be very costly to get your vehicle out. Sure, you could change the tire, but will you be in a safe place to change the tire at the time? It is always better to prepare before, rather than be caught off guard in the moment.
Research off-road vehicle tire options. The optimal tires should travel through mud, and should feature stronger sidewalls, better tread, and broader diameter. The goal is a tire for optimal off-road performance while also properly fitting your vehicle’s wheelbase and other dimensions.
Equip the vehicle with a heavy-duty off-road suspension that is suited specifically for this type of terrain. As you add features to your vehicle, the suspension may need upgrading to handle it, so plan ahead with your off-road goals in mind.
You will find that aftermarket features may become your best friend. For example, replace bumpers with custom aftermarket bull bars to protect the front of your vehicle from damage. In addition, a winch and heavy-duty tow straps may come in very handy as an aftermarket add-on. Finally, if you or your friends get stuck, the winch and tow straps will be your savior when you’re out in the middle of the desert or in a rocky canyon.
Supplies To Keep On Hand
Now your vehicle is all set, and you are ready to go, right? Well, maybe not. There are certain supplies you should consider bringing with you to make your excursion as enjoyable as possible. These supplies include:
- A full gas tank – So you don’t need to stop or get stuck without.
- Everything you need to change a tire, including an appropriate spare tire.
- Tire gauge and portable air compressor – for the perfect tire pressure.
- GPS – So you can chart your route and never get lost.
- First aid kit – in the event someone needs care.
- Cell phones and a mobile battery pack capable of recharging several devices.
- Two-way radios – So you can be in constant communication with your group.
- Fire extinguishers – For a worst-case scenario event.
Tips To Keep In Mind
When off-roading, you need to consider safety at all times. Do not go out alone and if for some reason you do, always make sure people know where you are going and for how long.
There is acceptable trail etiquette, sort of like the hand gestures when riding a bike. Learn what they are, so not only is your group safe on the trail, but so are the other groups you encounter.
Stay on designated paths, and be sure you are aware of protected natural habitats. There will be areas where off-roading is not legally permissible. Determine if the trail is public or private and research if off-roading in that area is allowed.
Are You Ready To Get Started?
Whether you’re new to off-roading or an experienced mudder, Mach1 Motorsports has the knowledge to supply you with aftermarket parts and the latest diagnostics equipment. We are focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction, meeting and exceeding your expectations.
Customer service is job number one for us. We promise to be honest and not push you to purchase something you don’t need. We want you to tell your friends about us and come back whenever you need parts, service, or diagnostics.
We will keep your off-road vehicle running like new and ensure that it is repaired correctly so you never get stuck out on the trail. Contact us today to learn what we can do to help you get out on the trails, enjoying the fresh air and challenge of mudding, climbing, or just taking a trail ride.