GETTING STARTED
ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED, ALONG WITH HELPFUL TIPS
FROM OUR PROS THAT EXPLAIN EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
BEFORE YOU GO!
EVERYTHING NEW OWNERS NEED TO KNOW.
RIDER SAFETY
MUST-READ CAN-AM OFF-ROAD SAFETY GUIDELINES
YOU’RE HERE, WE’RE HERE—LET’S DO THIS
Give us a few minutes of your attention and you’ll be rewarded with the best possible riding experience and more ways to keep you, your family, and your friends safe off-road.
If we have your attention, keep scrolling. If not, bookmark this page and return when you’re able to invest 15 minutes before your next ride. This really is that important.
NON-NEGOTIABLES
We live by these rules, forged from years of off-road experience—and challenge you to remember them by any means necessary. They’ve kept us safe for years—now we’re passing them on to you.
WEAR A HELMET
Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet. Wear a helmet. Got it? Good.
STAY SOBER
Don’t numb the off-road experience: no alcohol, no drugs. Stay hydrated & take breaks to reduce fatigue.
AGE MATTERS
Be at least 16 with a valid driver’s license for SSVs and ages 6-16 for ATVs, depending on vehicle and engine size — check safety labels to be sure.
SAFETY IN ACTION
WATCH OFF-ROAD EXPERTS AND CAN-AM AMBASSADORS DEMONSTRATE KEY SAFETY AND VEHICLE TIPS.
BEYOND BASICS
Everything we know about safety, in one place. Keep reading to see how focusing on safety always leads to the best possible ride. And please—don’t be shy about sharing this page.
WHAT TO WEAR
The foundation for every off-road ride.
Your shopping list (M / W): closed-toe shoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirt or jacket, gloves, eye protection, and weather-appropriate gear. Helmets should be approved by your local authority and be free from visible cracks, deep gashes, & signs of abuse.
As you progress, keep investing in yourself. Experienced riders often have gloves, waders, riding boots, and other riding gear chosen for a reason: if you know one, ask ‘em why.
Last point: extra layers, including rain gear, are compact and easy to bring along…staying warm and dry means no interruptions if the weather changes.
MUD IS OUR DRUG
Alcohol, drugs, and off-roading don’t mix.
In your backyard, spectating at Oldsmobile Hill or bogging deep at a mud park makes no difference to us: leave alcohol and drugs out of the experience. Please remember: being impaired is the fastest way to the scene of your crash.
If you’re not drinking, what then? You’ll experience an undiluted off-road ride, be truly ready for anything, keep loved ones safe, and you’ll stay legal.
FRIEND WISELY
Don’t overload your vehicle.
Your vehicle is designed to carry a certain number of people. Refer to the warning labels located on the vehicle—don’t carry more than it’s designed for. Cargo areas, tailgate, and vehicle racks are never suitable for passengers, ever.
Two-seat ATV passengers must be capable of sitting upright, while firmly placing their feet on the footboards, with their hands on the rear handholds. Passengers should also be dressed correctly, and wearing a helmet.
Side-by-Side vehicles have seat belts—don’t carry more passengers than there are seatbelts, or modify the vehicle to carry additional passengers. All riders should be capable of sitting upright against the backrest, with seatbelt fastened, feet firmly planted and holding the grab bars.
AGE MATTERS
Respect the rules for age.
Nobody—at any age—should use an off-road vehicle if they aren’t a responsible rider. ATV riders on machines with engines 250cc and above should be at least 16 years old. Side-by-Side operators should be 16 years or older, with a valid driver’s license.
LIVE FOR THE
ESCAPE
YOU’RE PART OF A GLOBAL COMMUNITY OF OFF-ROADERS,
WORKERS, AND RACERS WHO RIDE CAN-AM. IN OTHER WORDS:
YOU’RE FAMILY.
THANK YOU
From our family to yours, thank you for taking the time to read, digest, and act on safety. It’s our responsibility to keep off-road areas free from crashes, garbage, excessive speed or noise.
Respect yourself, your passengers, your vehicle—and the land. Pay attention & ride safely.
Can’t wait to see you out there.