Quad bike riding will only be enjoyed if safety is guaranteed. Therefore, it is crucial that one understands the difference between off road quads and road legal quads. Here are some facts and information to help you identify the use and purpose of each quad bike.

Off Road Quads

Generally, quad bikes are meant for off-road use. They were first utilized as farm utility vehicles for agriculture and are also used in transporting goods. These were designed specifically for traversing rough terrains. These ATV quads are also ideal for fun weekend adventures like camping. Countryside trips will be more enjoyable with a quad bike as this vehicle can go to areas where conventional vehicles cannot go. Those living in remote settings can greatly benefit from owning an off road quad bike.

Off road quads are now also being used for recreation as there are venues that offer off-road quad bike activities. But owning a road legal quad bike gives double benefits as you can use it for off-road purposes as well as public highway driving. You can now ride to a trail, compete for a race, drive to work, and even go shopping using just one vehicle type.

The Road Legal Quad Bike

On-road or road legal quad bikes are registered quads that are properly homologated for public road use. In UK, a road legal quad must be constructed in compliance with the country’s Road Traffic Act of 1988. It must be built according to the standards required by law before it can be legally driven on public highways. It should have a valid certificate, insurance, and tax documentation and must also have a registered number plate.

A road legal quad bike must have lights, indicators, mirrors, warning horn, speedometer, and road legal tires. Other specifications may be required depending on the state or country’s road management rules. On-road quads are to be driven by riders 17 years old and above with full driving license.

Then again, be aware that road legal tires usually do not provide enough traction necessary for true off-road driving. You may want to change tires when using your road legal quad bike for off-road activities. Moreover, do not forget that proper caution is required for quad driving. While special or formal training is not required, some training may be helpful so you can fully experience the best out of your vehicle.

And whether you go for on-road or off-road quad biking, ensure that you have the necessary gear. A helmet is essential while boots, gloves, and goggles are optional safety gear.

You may have noticed how quad bikes are getting more popular these days. You might be thinking of getting a road legal quad bike for yourself, too. But before you make that purchase, there are several things that you need to know. Here is a comprehensive guide to help find a road legal quad bike for sale.

Make sure that quad bike’s construction comply with your country’s motor vehicle requirements.

Buy a quad bike that is properly modified or altered and exactly meets the conditions set by your country’s road vehicle regulation. It should have the proper lighting system, road legal tires, indicators, warning horn, mirrors, speedometer, and other features necessary for road legal vehicle approval.

Registration certificates, road tax, and insurance papers should also be prepared. Although there are quad bikes particularly manufactured for public highway riding, it is still best that your road quad has the necessary documentations required for any other road vehicle.

Compare models and look at several sources.

You can check online and offline catalogs, periodicals and classified ads as well as trading magazines. Attending motor shows is highly recommended as you can personally set your eyes on the vehicle and get a feel of what it is like owning and driving it. If possible, ask and go for a test drive. You also have the option to do online shopping and just decide based on the heaps of information available on the Internet.

Buy from a credible dealer.

Importing a road legal quad from Asia seems to be a reasonable step as their quads are less expensive. However, it is imperative that you find a credible and reputable dealer. Notice how the dealer demonstrates knowledge of the quad bike and see if they operate professionally. Also, check the store’s shipping and returns policies as well as money-back guarantees especially if you are buying online; this ensures you that you can return the quad bike in case you are not satisfied with it.

If you are seriously considering buying a road legal quad, identify first where you intend to use the bike. If your road legal quad bike will also be used for recreation purposes and sports, buy something that is suitable for that type of usage. Look for off road quads that are also street legal.

Get an automatic one if you’re uncomfortable in changing gears repeatedly. And while you want to get something that fits your budget, think about the bike as an investment as well and ensure that you get a quality quad from a reputable manufacturer.

Ready to go buy your first road legal quad bike? Forget the leaking roof and the swimming pool liner that needs replaced, go out and buy a street legal quad and have a little fun for once in your life.