The 2019 Winom-Frazier riding season may look very WHITE right now, but does give us an opportunity to reminded of Trail Etiquette on our two way and multi-use trails. Trail Etiquette has multiple facets which we will cover three here.
- Overtaking: This goes both ways, if you are fast or if you are slow. Slower riders, ATV’s, and <50” SxS must be aware that they are not the only one on the trail. Fast riders are getting enjoyment out of the trails by the challenge of hustling as much as slower riders are by watching the world go by. As a slower rider, keep aware of what is going on behind you and pull off when it is safe. Faster riders need to be patient and pass in a safe area. No one wants to be the cause of an accident.
- Riding Fast: Challenging your boundaries is one of the main enjoyments of OHV riding. The problem with riding fast is not just the risk for yourself but of someone else coming in the opposite direction. NWTRA trail maintenance guidelines have promoted clearing out sightlines. BUT “things” continue to grow and there are a lot of blind areas on the trails. That challenging speed may need to be dialed back to prevent a head on with a 7 year old on a 50cc bike. That kind of accident is no good for anyone or the system.
- Hand Signals: When you see this topic, a vision of expressing your frustration of others with no trail etiquette comes to mind. What is really being discussed is utilizing the hand/number method to indicate the number of riders coming. The lead rider needs to know how many are with his/her group. When it is over 6 (themselves and 5 others) this hand up method to indicate how many behind becomes tough. Those following need to hold a thumbs up pointing to the area behind them (eliminates confusion for them) and the drag holds up a fist to indicate “No More”. There are other methods, but the goal is to let opposite passing groups know what is coming up the trail toward them. Check out this video for a great example Bike Bandit: Trail Etiquette
As per-always be especially careful around hikers and horses, try to shutdown early, and in some cases pull off your helmet to prevent “spooking” the horse. This also gives an opportunity to communicate with our non-motorized users
Check out these videos for more info:
Forest Service: Trail Etiquette 1
Forest Service: Trail Etiquette 2