ATV whips aren’t cool unless they’re safe. Safety should always be the first concern when you want to think about putting a whip on your quad, for visibility if you are stalled or hurt and need to be found. While they are typically only required to be on your ATV when you’re on public property – especially on the dunes of California, Utah, Oregon or Washington – it’s not a bad idea to always have them on your own bike and encourage others around you to use them too.

Observing the Rules

When you hear in advance that an ATV whip and flag is required at a location where you want to ride, you’ll need to get the specifics. Is there a rule on the height of the whip? What about the flag – can it be your own personalized favorite or does it need to the safety orange flag? You don’t want to be caught unaware without the right size or type, so do your research. If you like to travel to different sites often and don’t to have to look it up each time, make sure you keep a few options (whip lengths and flags) in your truck or car or even your quad trailer. The dunes and open spaces are where ATV whips are most frequently required, but not as often on trails.

ATV Safety Watchdog Organizations

A couple of national organizations that support safe ATV use have appeared in the last 25 years to ensure maximum safety for users of ATVs. One is the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) and another is Tread Lightly, based in Utah. ASI’s primary goal is to promote the safe and responsible use of ATVs, thereby reducing accidents and injuries that may result from improper ATV operation by the rider. Their golden rules are basic, including use of a helmet and outer wear, staying on designated trails yet off of paved roads except when crossing, not carrying a passenger on a one-rider ATV, riding the correct ATV for your size and age and not indulging in drugs or alcohol when riding. Read the rest of this entry »