“What is the best road quad for beginners?” A very important question, if one is considering picking up the habit. In many cases, selecting the wrong quad can cost you a lot of money and pain in the long run.
Purchasing a 50cc quad bike up to a 100 cc quad, can easily be outgrown. However, buying a larger quad can mean potential accidents if you are just starting out. One of the keys is finding the right balance with a view on the long term.
Listed below are some considerations for beginners when selecting a road legal quad:
Engine Displacement
As previously, discussed, selecting the right bike based on engine displacement is crucial. It is important to define your long term purpose for buying a road legal quad. Some recommend starting out with a quad with mid-sized engines. This gives you the flexibility of enjoying the quad as a beginner without sacrificing too much power. You can make adjustments or add accessories later on when you need the added juice. Upgrading to a faster bike should also be less abrupt, if you do decide to go up to the 400 to 500 cc levels as opposed to making that jump from a mini quad with 100 cc and below.
Transmission
Road Quads come in three types of transmission: Manual, Automatic, and Semi automatic. Similar to cars, the manual bike will require the use of a clutch and could mean changing gears quite often. The automatic and semi automatic do not require as much human intervention. If you have never experienced using manual transmission, it is recommended that, unless you undergo training, select an automatic or semi-automatic ATV.
Regulations for Road Legal Quads
It is important that you make the distinction between Road and Off-Road Quads when making a purchase. Ensure that you check that all road vehicle restrictions for the use of road legal quads in your country of use are met when shopping for the right bike. Typically these would include road legal tires, lights, signals, horns, license plates, weight restrictions and other various requirements. In most countries, you will need to have the vehicle registered; insured and the driver must be of legal age and carry a driver’s license.
In determining the bike that you will purchase, keep your safety at the forefront of your criteria. Likewise maintain a long term view of your purchase to maximize and sustain your interest in your bike and choose between the type of transmission that best suits your style. Lastly, enjoy your new bike.
