Taking up Quad Biking???

Before you run off and buy a Quad Bike and start Quad Biking there is several questions that you need to ask yourself!! What type of Quad Bike do I want, what licence do I need, do I need training etc. etc. – we have complied at a comprehensive list of FAQ’s which we hope will help you with your decision!

Quad Biking is an exciting adventure sport that has been rapidly gaining popularity in the UK and Northern Ireland. Originally designed for use by farmers, shepherds, and estate owners etc. quad biking is now enjoyed by many people as a sport or leisure activity or an alternative to either Motorcycling or driving! Many Young Riders are turning to Quad Bikes due to the cost of insuring a private car!

Q:           What is a Quad (Quadricycle)?

A:            Under EEC Directive 92/61/EC (superseded to 2002/24/EC) a new vehicle category was created. Quadricycles are defined as having a maximum unladed mass of 400 Kg and with a maximum power of 15KW.

Q:           What licence do I need to use a road legal quad bike or buggy in the UK?

A:            All you will need is full car licence or a full bike licence held before 1991. Category B1 must show on your licence. Click here to visit direct.gov for more information. http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/DriverLicensing/WhatCanYouDriveAndYourObligations/DG_4022547

Q:           Can I ride a 50cc Quad as a moped?

A:            Unfortunately not – unlike the rest of Europe, the UK does not recognise a Quad as a four wheeled moped.

Q:           Is Quad Biking really for me?

A:            Before you run off and buy any old quad may be you should try a Quad Bike adventure day or weekend to really find out if you really do want become a Quad Biker.

Q:           Are Quad Bikes fast?

A:            Yes! The 250cc plus models can do up to 60mph. It is possible to make them faster with performance upgrades.

Q:           Do I need to wear any safety equipment like a Helmet?

A:            Quads are classed as PLG (Private light goods) there is no legal requirement to wear a helmet, but you are strongly recommended to wear one.  Both driver and passenger should always wear a suitable approved head and eye protection. It’s critical your helmet fits you (this may seem obvious but you will be surprised). In a crash your helmet could well be a lifesaver, so you should spend time sizing it up. Make sure that when the strap is done up, the helmet cannot move in any direction but it isn’t so tight that you lose all the feelings in your ears. Make sure the lid is approved to United Nations Standard ECE 22.05, Never buy a second hand helmet, as you never know its history. In addition to head and eye protection you are strongly recommended to wear suitable boots, clothing and gloves similar to those used by a motorcyclist. They can greatly reduce the risk of serious injury..!!!

Q:           Got my Quad/ATV/Quadricycle, all the gear, anything else?

A:            Security – Buy at least an approved (Thatcham or Sold Secure) disk lock and chain and always lock your Quad to something secure – visit Lynx Security on www.lynxsecurityonline.co.uk where you’ll be able to pick up insurance approved security at great prices and get a discount of your quad insurance.

Q:           Are Quads safe for on road use?

A:            No not really! Most quad bikes do meet the Department Of Transport’s safety requirements and are fully legal for on road use but many are not. Quads were originally designed for off road use and don’t take to tarmac well. We do advise extreme caution particularly in the early stages of Quad Biking to learn how to handle your Quad Bike properly because before you know it they can flip over!!

Q:           Are Quads economical to run?

A:            Yes generally you can fill the tank for around £12 and depending on the cost of your quad insurance they can be up to 70% cheaper to run than your car!

Q:           Can I take passengers on a Quad Bike?

A:            Some quads are designed to take passengers. However you are not recommended to carry a passenger – even though some quads appear to be able to carry a passenger they are designed for a single individual only and carrying a passenger will make the machine very unstable and more difficult to handle!

Q:           What fuel do Quad Bikes take?

A:            90% of quad bikes take normal unleaded petrol. The agricultural specific quads will take standard diesel.

Q:           Can I convert my off road ATV for the road?

A:            In Brief no, to adhere to the European Whole Vehicle Legislation the vehicle must be homologated at manufacturer or importer level. Other registrations routes are possible such as “Light Agricultural Vehicle” or “Limited use” but these methods have restrictions and are intended for legitimate use in Agricultural, Horticultural or Forestry applications.

Q:           Is a Quad Bike exempt from congestion charges?

A:            No Quad Bike is exempt from congestion charges.

Q:           What training is required for on road use of a Quad Bike?

A:            There is no mandatory training to ride a Quad Bike, but as with all motorised vehicles you are strongly recommended to fully read the owner’s manual, familiarise yourself with of all warning labels displayed on your ATV. Take proper notice of the machines controls especially during a dealer handover. Try and undertake a training course on Quad handling and operation course. Contact The European ATV Safety Institute on 01903 816286, www.quadsafety.org or email: andy@quadsafety.org and/or LANTRA on 024 7641 9701, www.lantra.co.uk  email: claire.smith@lantra.co.uk

Q:           How should I choose a Quad Bike?

A:            Quads come in all shapes, size and power. It is important to choose a Quad/ATV that’s right for your age and experience. We strongly recommend that you visit your local approved Quad Bike dealer for advice and review a full range of machines. No one under the age of 16 should operate a Quad or ATV capable of exceeding 30mph without adult supervision. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

Q:           Where can I find an insurer that will cover my quad bike for road use and theft cover?

A:            Falcon Bikes are the UKs leading Quad Bike Insurance and ATV Insurance provider you can contact them on 0800 221 8272 or visit  www.falcon-bikes.co.uk/quad-bike-insurance

We hope this has helped you with your decision making if you are still unsure and have any more questions visit Quads UK – www.quadsuk.net the largest online Quad Biking community – there are thousands of Quad Bikers only too happy to help!!!

Happy Quad Biking!!!!