Ready to RideON: Building Safer Riders Before They Hit the Trail
Ready to RideON is helping build safer, more confident ATV and side-by-side riders by giving youth and new riders the knowledge they need before they hit the trail. Every experienced rider remembers their first time behind the handlebars of an ATV or side-by-side (SxS). It is an exciting moment, but it is also the point where safe habits begin.
At the Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs, we believe that rider education is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of our sport. That belief led to the creation of Ready to RideON, an online safety course designed to introduce youth and new riders to the fundamentals of responsible off-road riding.
Whether you are a parent looking to prepare your child for their first ride or an adult who is new to ATVing, Ready to RideON provides a strong foundation in the skills and knowledge every rider should understand before starting the engine.
Why Training Matters
ATVs and side-by-sides are powerful machines that require proper training and respect.
Learning to ride safely helps reduce the risk of injury, protects access to trails, and teaches riders how to share the trail responsibly with others. It also helps build confidence so that new riders understand not only how to operate their machine, but also how to make good decisions while riding.
Training covers more than just steering and braking. Riders need to understand:
- Proper protective gear
- Pre-ride inspections
- Trail signs and etiquette
- Safe speeds and riding techniques
- Environmental stewardship
- How to respond to unexpected situations
The earlier these concepts are introduced, the more likely they become lifelong habits.
What is Ready to RideON?
Ready to RideON is an online learning program developed by OFATV through the Ontario Quad Safety Council, the federation’s charitable arm.
The course is specifically designed for:
- Youth riders
- New ATV and SxS owners
- Parents who want to introduce their children to safe riding
- Anyone looking to refresh their knowledge of off-road safety
Participants work through engaging modules that explain core safety principles in a clear and easy-to-understand format.
Topics include:
- Rider responsibilities
- Understanding trail etiquette
- Sharing trails with other users
- Basic machine awareness
- Environmental respect
- Safe riding practices
Online Learning is the Starting Point
Ready to RideON is an excellent first step, but it is not intended to replace hands-on instruction.
There is no substitute for practical experience under the guidance of a qualified instructor. Learning how to control a machine, navigate terrain, and respond to real-world riding conditions is best done in person.
That is why OFATV strongly recommends that all new riders complement the Ready to RideON course with professional, hands-on training through Smart Adventures.
Smart Adventures offers practical rider training that helps students apply what they have learned online in a controlled environment with certified instructors.
The Best Approach: Online + Hands-On Training
When online education is combined with in-person instruction, riders gain the best of both worlds.
Ready to RideON teaches the “why” behind safe riding.
Hands-on instruction teaches the “how.”
Together, these training tools help riders:
- Build confidence
- Develop proper techniques
- Understand safe decision-making
- Reduce risk
- Become responsible ambassadors for the sport
Supporting Parents and Families
The course helps families start important conversations about ATV safety and sets clear expectations before a child ever gets on a machine. It reinforces the importance of adult supervision, choosing an age-appropriate ATV or side-by-side, and always wearing approved protective gear.
With six easy-to-follow modules, families can turn the course into a shared learning experience. Set aside just 30 minutes one evening each week to complete a module together. In only six weeks, parents and youth can build a strong foundation of knowledge and confidence before heading out on the trail.
By taking the course as a family, parents and children can learn side by side, ask questions, and develop safe riding habits together from the very beginning.
Investing in the Future of Off-Road Riding
Safe riders are responsible riders.
When riders understand trail etiquette, respect the environment, and ride within their abilities, they help protect Ontario’s trail systems and strengthen relationships with landowners, municipalities, and local communities.
Education is essential to ensuring the long-term future of ATVing in Ontario.
Start Your Safety Journey Today
If you or someone in your family is new to ATV or SxS riding, make training your first step.
Begin with the Ready to RideON online course and then take your learning to the next level with professional hands-on instruction through Smart Adventures.
Together, we can build safer riders and a stronger off-road community.
Learn more about OFATV and Ready to RideON at OFATV.org/Ready-to-Ride