Off-Roading Tips, Tricks, And Techniques You Need To Learn
It can take years to master driving a rough terrain, but every master started as an amateur. Learn off-road driving tips, tricks, and basic techniques to explore the most amazing places.
Know Your Car And Your Limit
The Off-Roader
Don't go for overly rugged terrains if you're not yet skilled or if you’re a first time off-roader. Know and stay within your limit.
Never go unprepared. Check out off-road driving trails near you.
It's best to gather information about the tracks and routes where you're going to understand their condition better.
What's the level of difficulty of the terrain? What can you expect? How long will the drive be?
The Off-Roading Vehicle
Check your car's maximum wading depth. This knowledge is vital if your route involves wading through deep waters.
Know how a car's traction works and how to control it.
Consider the cargo you're bringing and distribute the weight of the load evenly. Remember that the gear you carry will impact the performance of your car.
A roof rack will help you load your things properly and tightly. This is critical so you don't only worry about losing your things while driving through rocky or slippery roads. You also don't lose balance and control.
Off-road driving entails overcoming enormous obstacles and paths with low traction. Therefore, having the proper tire is crucial, and ensuring that your car is in its prime condition is essential.
Experts recommend reducing the air pressure in your tires. Higher pressure can make the tire bounce, which isn't helpful when going through rough, bumpy trails.
How to do an off-road drive?
Techniques When Driving Through Slippery Tracks
Before driving over the hills, ensure it is safe (through research).
Uphill
If you start to slide down in climbing uphill, press the brake and clutch simultaneously. Then reverse. Let your vehicle get to the bottom of the hill and try again. Drive straight.
Downhill
You would assume that driving downhill is easier because gravity helps, but it could also be daunting. Remember not to hit the brakes on a slippery descent on an off roading drive.
If there is enough room, try to have your right foot on the throttle and then use your left foot to press the brake a little. This could aid the steering and allow the vehicle to regain traction.
Avoid driving over the obstacles whenever possible and pause once in a while.
Slide Slopes
Slide slopes are trickier. Drive as slowly as possible, so you don't lose balance and control. Carefully steer down the hill and don't press the clutch nor hit the brakes.
Point down the front of the car down the slope with your feet off the brakes and gas. Dab a little on the throttle if needed.
Techniques When Crossing A River
Driving through the water is exhilarating. But assess first the depth of the river before going. You don't want to be stuck in the deep water. Go slow and steady. You should ease up on the accelerator once you reach the other side.
Drive straight on steep lands and logs but through ditches or logs at an angle. Logs can get to the undercarriage and cause damage so go slow. It's best to do it one wheel at a time.
Quick Off-Roading Tips And Tricks:
- How fast can you drive off-road? Drive as low as possible and as fast as necessary.
- Don't place your thumbs on the inside of the steering wheel. The wheel could turn, especially with potholes, and you may dislocate your thumb. 3. Stick to the trail.
- Don't panic. It will only make things worse. Instead, keep calm so you can think clearly and follow your instinct.
- Bring car emergency kits. Have at least basic knowledge to fix your car. 6. Don’t go alone, especially in unfamiliar terrains.
- Off-roading means going through varied road conditions. Sometimes you'll encounter wet slippery angles uphill, downhill, or on side slopes. The best thing to do in these situations is to change to a low gear range.
Final Words
Be patient in learning the tips, tricks, and off-road driving techniques. Once you've mastered off-roading, you'll find that it’s a rewarding activity. You'll keep coming back for more because the experience is worth the effort.
