Quad Biking

Quad biking means riding a quad bike, a small four-wheeled motor vehicle built for off-road tracks, fields and woodland trails. You sit astride it like a motorbike and steer with handlebars. Quads are also called ATVs, short for all-terrain vehicles, because their chunky tyres grip on mud, grass, gravel and sand.

Farmers and land workers use them to get around big sites. For everyone else, they're a brilliant way to explore the outdoors.

Utility quads are the workhorses. They're sturdy, often have racks for carrying loads and are used on farms and estates.

Sport quads are lighter and more nimble, built for racing and riding fast on tracks.

Youth quads, sometimes called mini quads, are smaller bikes with smaller engines and lower top speeds, designed so younger riders can drive their own.

Many beginner quads are automatic, so there are no gears to worry about. You press a throttle lever with your thumb to go and squeeze the brake levers to slow down.

Everyone starts by getting kitted out with a helmet and listening to a safety briefing. Your Activity Leader explains the controls and the rules of the track, then there's time to practise starting, stopping and steering in a safe, open space. Once everyone feels confident, you head out in a line, following the leader and keeping a safe gap from the bike in front. Riders learn to use the throttle gently, brake before bends and lean their body into corners. Expect bumps, puddles and plenty of mud.

Yes, on the right bike. Youth quads are made for younger riders, and on a guided session each child drives their own quad rather than riding as a passenger. Quads are built for one rider, so children cannot ride on the back of a grown-up's bike. Your child will need to steer with both hands and follow instructions on the move. Being in control of an engine is a real confidence boost, and it makes a great story to tell afterwards.

Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting muddy. Long trousers or leggings protect legs best, though shorts are fine, and sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots are a must. A helmet is always worn. Leave loose scarves behind and tuck in anything that could flap about.

You might also like Dune Buggies, Mountainboarding and Zipwire.

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