Sand dunes in the US offer some incredible and unique off-roading adventures. MAD-RAMPS Pivoting Ramp System makes getting to even the most remote destinations much easier! Here are our tips to make the most of your next sand dune riding trip.
Have the Right Equipment
Other than using MAD-RAMPS to load and unload your ATV or UTV, you will need to bring a few key pieces of gear for sand dune riding with you.
- Helmet: Not only will wearing a helmet keep you safe, but in some places, it is required by law. You don’t want to be turned away for simply not having a helmet.
- Proper Tires: Old tires or ones that aren’t beefy enough might not fare well in the sand. Be ready with a set that has good tread.
- Safety Flag: Vehicles driven in the sand need to be equipped with a safety flag or whip so others can see you coming when there is sand flying everywhere.
- Safety Belts: UTV riders will be safest with a four or five-point safety harness. Make sure all riders are strapped in before taking off.
- Other Items: Its also not a bad idea to have additional items with you, like tow straps, a folding shovel, tool kit, tire repair kit, first aid kit, and plenty of extra water so you’re prepared for anything.
Know the Rules and Regulations
Depending on where you go riding, there may be certain rules you need to be ready to follow. You may need to be a certain age or have an ATV Safety Certificate. There may also be rules about double riding, safety harnesses, vehicle registration, personal safety equipment, off-limit areas, or speed limits. Be sure to do some research ahead of time and read all posted signs once you’re there.
Use the Right Speed
Accelerating too fast when sand dune riding can cause you to dig a hole in the sand with your wheels, and braking too hard can create a mound of sand in front of you that you’ll then have to drive over. Once you’re going, especially uphill, maintain a good momentum so you can reach the top.
Avoid Going Straight Up a Dune
Anyone riding sand dunes should understand proper driving techniques, including the rule that you should never drive straight up a dune. The reason for this is that you never know when someone else could be coming up the other side or if there is a drop-off ahead. By going up across the dune at an angle, you will have better visibility and balance, as well as an easier exit if you need to change course.
Use the Buddy System
Sand dune riding alone is not recommended. Plus, riding with a friend is always more fun! If something were to happen when you were riding solo, it could be a long time before you see another rider. Running out of gas, getting stuck, or becoming injured all become worse situations if you don’t have a buddy to help.
Know How To Get Unstuck
For inexperienced sand dune riders, getting stuck can make you feel panicked. It might be tempting to floor it, but that will only dig you deeper. Instead, slowly ease yourself into reverse and drive back over the compacted tracks behind you. If that doesn’t work, get a fellow rider to help push you out or use tow straps or a winch.
MAD-RAMPS Makes It Easier
Avoid Parking Issues
MAD-RAMPS allows you to quickly and safely load and unload your ATV or UTV into the bed of your truck. That means you don’t have to worry about hauling a large trailer with you when you are headed to the dunes. In some of the more popular riding spots, parking can be at a premium, and finding a place to park your truck and trailer with enough room to unload can be tricky. With MAD-RAMPS you can conveniently park in any standard parking space and simply back your ATV or UTV out onto the ground.
No Limits
If you are headed to sand dunes off the beaten path, getting there with a trailer could be challenging. You may need to drive down narrow roads that are bumpy or sandy, which could be impossible with a trailer attached. With MAD-RAMPS you can haul your machine right in the bed of your truck, so you will only be limited by the capabilities of your truck.
Go Sand Dune Riding with MAD-RAMPS Today
Engineered for strength and durability, the MAD-RAMPS Pivoting Ramp System is made in the USA and completely maintenance-free. Our patent-pending design seamlessly connects to your truck’s receiver hitch in seconds, so you can load your machine and hit the road quickly. MAD-RAMPS is DOT approved in all 50 states so you can easily get to sand dunes across the US.
