Lesson 6 - Backing, Turning, and Traversing Obstacles

Purpose

• The purpose of this lesson is to teach the proper procedure for driving over obstacles on the trail, using simultaneous control of the accelerator/throttle and brake pedals. Enhance backing and turning skills

Objectives

• The participant will understand the need for smooth and precise use of the accelerator/throttle and brake to control movement. Also, when to use 4-wheel drive in order to traverse obstacles
• The participant will learn to avoid obstacles that are highly visible and in blind spots while turning and backing

Instructor Activities:

• ✅ Explain range setup
  • Participants begin by crossing the obstacle in 4-wheel drive low range
• ✅ Provide Instructions
  • One at a time, drive to the start point (obstacle) in 4-wheel drive (low-range)
  • Set a steady RPM level and maintain it throughout the exercise
  • From the start point use left foot to apply the brake and the right foot on the accelerator {two-foot throttle and brake control) to cross the obstacle. Approach straight onto the obstacle. Once wheels are in contact with the obstacle apply gradual pressure on the accelerator/throttle to make the wheels climb up onto the obstacle, stopping momentarily with the front wheels, then back wheels on top of the obstacle. Coming to a complete stop at the top of the obstacle is important to reinforce the precise control of the machine, which is necessary when dropping off a large obstacle
  • Do not use too much accelerator/throttle as this can dislodge the obstacle
  • Once clear of the obstacle, drive to the target cone directly to the front and touch it with the front of the SxS
  • Back up to the right around guide cones and climb up onto the obstacle using the driver-side rear tire, stopping when on top. Then continue until the driver's front time is on top of obstacle.
  • Drive straight forward and climb up onto the next obstacle with the passenger-side front tire, stopping when on top. Then continue until the passenger rear tire is on top of the obstacle
  • Back up around the guide cones to the left and put both tires on the starting obstacle. Climb up onto the obstacle with both rear tires and front tires, stopping on top
  • Turn your head, look over the shoulder and use the SxS mirrors as needed to see the obstacle but keep your head inside the ROPS
  • Return to parking (staging) area
• ✅Provide demonstration
• ✅ Provide Evaluations
  • Maintain smooth and precise control
  • Modulate throttle and brake to control movement
  • Do not touch guide cones
  • Touch target cone gently
  • Keep body parts inside ROPS
• ✅ Conduct Lesson
• ✅ Have participants stay inside SxS until all drivers have parked (staged)

Assessment:

• 👆 At what angle do you cross a log or obstacle?
• 👆 Why is throttle and braking essential while crawling over objects?

Range Diagram