If you are used to riding a manual or automatic quad, you might be asking yourself: “How do you shift a semi automatic ATV?“. I’m here to tell you it’s not that difficult. With my complete guide to shifting gears on a Semi-Auto, you will be ready to hit the trails in no time!
Shifting gears on a Semi-Automatic ATV is similar to a manual gear system, except for operating the clutch. While on a manual quad you would use a clutch pedal on the left handlebar, with a Semi-Auto you only use the throttle and a foot pedal to shift gears. Start out by letting off the throttle with your right hand, then use your left foot to change gears. In order to shift up, put your toes under the foot pedal and lift up until it clicks. When downshifting, push your foot down on the pedal to change to a lower gear. As for putting the quad in reverse, a Semi-Automatic ATV will have either a button or a lever that needs to be activated at the same time as the foot pedal is pushed down.
If you are a first time ATV owner, this process might seem a bit confusing. Keep on reading for some beginner tips on how to achieve a smooth transition between gears on your Semi-Automatic, as well as a video guide to help you get the hang of it.
Table of Contents
How Do You Shift a Semi Automatic ATV?Semi-Automatic gear systems are not as popular with off-road riders as manual and automatic, but they have a lot of benefits for experienced racers and beginners alike. If this is your first time riding an ATV or you want to buy your young one their first quad, a Semi-Auto might be the perfect choice for you.
I like this gear system because it still offers you full control over the gear you’re riding with, while eliminating the difficult combination of clutch, throttle, and foot pedal system that you find on a manual. Once you get a grasp on how to swiftly switch gears without jerking your 4 wheeler, you will be able to conquer even the most difficult trails out there.
Whenever I ride a Semi-Automatic, also called a Non-Clutch ATV by some, I look for the user manual. Most Semi-Autos will ride the same, but it’s good to take a look at the gear chart and reverse system which can be different for your model. For instance, Honda has a unique Semi-Auto gear system that operates a bit differently than others.
For today, I’ll go over the most common type of gear shifting that I’ve seen on dozens of ATVs so that you can get to riding right away. The most common gear chart reads as follows: 1-N-2-3-4-5, where N stands for Neutral. Your quad might have 6 gears or have Neutral as the first gear, so make sure to check out your ATV’s manual beforehand.
Starting out in Neutral, I will let off the throttle and push down the pedal in front of my left foot peg for a half-click to reach first gear. On ATVs, the throttle is a lever located on your right handlebar that you operate with your thumb. It’s important to give it a constant push, so that you do not jerk your quad between gears.
Afterward, when I want to shift to a higher gear, I let off the throttle for about half or 3 quarters of the way and push up the foot pedal from underneath, with my toes. Not letting off the thorttle completely will help make the transition between gears smooth and you will have enough acceleration to get to a higher gear faster. If Neutral is located between your first and second gear, make sure to push up enough to get to second gear.
In order to downshift, I will let the ATV slow down or activate the brake, let off throttle, and push down on the foot pedal. If you are going slow enough, you will be able to go from second gear straight to Neutral, but this will take a bit of practice.
Below is a short YouTube video I found that explains how to shift gears on a Semi-Automatic Yamaha Bear Tracker 250. This will hopefully help you visualize the process better and show you how to get into reverse when you have a lever.
How Do You Know When to Shift Gear on a ATV?Much like on a shift stick car, the engine on your ATV will let you know when to shift gears.
You need to listen to the RPM (revolutions per minute) of your quad, which essentially means paying attention to how riled up your engine gets.
If your engine roars with power, then it means you need to give it more gas with the throttle and shift to a higher gear. On the opposite spectrum, if your quad seems like it’s bogging down, then you need to downshift to a lower gear.
Until you get used to listening to your engine, you can learn the speeds of each gear on your ATV and read the speedometer to change gears. To shift up, make sure you reach the maximum speed of the gear you are currently in. To downshift, you need to arrive below the max speed of the gear you’re trying to reach and then push down on the pedal.
Are you looking to buy a new ATV? You might want to check out the article I wrote about the top 5 fastest ASTVs in 2021 where I highlight the best models from each 5-star brand.
Is It Bad to Shift at High RPM?There are very low risks associated with shifting at high RPM, such as slightly shortening your engine life.
Shifting at high RPM is a practice that most experienced ATV riders will do because it gives you smoother transitions between gears and more power. All-Terrain Vehicles are made to withstand difficult conditions, so high RPM shifting will not be an issue for your quad’s engine. Low RPM shifting, on the other hand, can put a lot of stress on your engine and destroy your pistons so it’s best to avoid it.
If you use my guide on shifting gears on a Semi-Automatic ATV, you will not have to worry about long-term damage to your engine. I recommend you take a look at your quad’s manual as well, so you get accustomed to your model’s quirks and needs.
In case you are stressed about your first time riding a quad, you can start practicing in an isolated place. I promise you that you will get the hang of it in no time, especially since a Semi-Auto is easier to use than a manual gear system. Now go out there and shift gears like a true pro!
In 1970, Honda came up with a brochure titled “What Is It?” launching their revolutionary off-road vehicle.
It wasn’t until 1980 that Honda introduced the ATC185. It was equipped with a five-speed semi automatic transmission with an ultra-low first gear. Semi automatic ATVs have improved since then. You have different models to choose from and you can find the best semi automatic ATV that’s right for you. You still need to know more about the difference between manual transmission ATV, semi automatic ATV, and fully automatic ATVs.
How do know which transmission is right for you? It all depends on your style of riding and what you use the ATVs for. You should do your research before picking your next ATV ride.
Semi-automatic ATVs are dependable, tough, and great for any activity that requires slow consistent speed. This can include pulling loads or heavy chores like using your ATV for plowing snow. Keep on reading for everything you need to know about semi automatic ATVs.
Table of Contents
What Is a Semi Automatic ATV?A transmission supplies controlled power from the engine to the wheels.
Transmissions allow for faster acceleration from a stop. They also prevent engine damage and overheating by making sure that the engine runs more slowly while driving at consistent speeds.
When looking at ATVs, you need to know that there can be 3 types of transmissions:
For a manual ATV, you need to let off the throttle, pull the manual clutch, and shift through the gears using the foot shifter. On the other hand, you can shift gears automatically with a fully automatic ATV. A semi-automatic combines the best of both manual and fully automatic ATVs.
With a semi-automatic transmission, there is no clutch control. You can change gears by pushing a button. You can hold the gear without the hassle of operating a clutch lever.
A semi-automatic ATV is great when you need to hold a consistent speed, which means they are great for towing and hauling. So, if you’re thinking of using your ATV for recreational and utility purposes, then a semi-automatic ATV may be the right option for you.
This is especially true if you have some experience with ATVs, but you’re not comfortable with the manual transmission.
The fact that both are automatic may lead to some confusion, so let’s dive a little deeper to understand the difference between semi automatic and fully automatic ATVs.
You can shift gears on a semi-automatic ATV with your left foot. You have five forward gears and one reverse gear. Semi-automatic ATVs have been around for a while, so you know they’re reliable. They’re great for both recreational purposes and work where you need a slow constant speed.
With a fully automatic ATV, you just need to place it in gear and move. You don’t need to worry about shifting gears or clutches. Automatic transmissions were first used in snowmobiles and migrated to ATVs. A fully automatic ATV is pretty popular because of its ease and convenience, especially for beginners. They’re much better for long rides where you don’t want to spend all that time shifting gears.
If you’re wondering about fuel economy for those short or long drives, then check out this blog post for more information.
How Does a Semi-Automatic ATV Work?A semi-automatic ATV works by sending electric signals to a different part of the ATV. So, you don’t need to worry about foot pedals. You have a switch and a hydraulic motor.
The gear doesn’t shift automatically. After the gears get a signal from the engine, it’ll engage. If the gear can rotate without the engine, then it’ll automatically disengage.
Do Semi-Automatic ATVs Have Clutches?Yes, semi-automatic ATVs have clutches. They work the same as semi-automatic transmissions. You don’t have to worry about pedals and cables.
You can shift gears by simply pushing a button on the handle of your ATV when you want to change gears. Everything else will be done automatically.
This means that a semi-automatic clutch gets rid of all the complexity and hassle of a clutch.
You can focus on the drive and terrain around you rather than worry about a clutch.
Also, remember a semi-automatic clutch helps your engine’s life by reducing wear and tear. They also help prevent your ATV engine from overheating.
How to Drive a Semi-Automatic ATV and How to Shift Gears?Unlike a fully automatic ATV, you need to know how to shift gears in a semi-automatic ATV. You don’t need a clutch to shift gears, but you do need to know when to press the button to shift gears.
Remember to close the throttle while shifting to prevent the front wheels from lifting. Most importantly, listen to your engine. The more practice you have, the easier it’ll be to shift gears. Over time, you can tell when to shift gears or adjust the throttle by the sound of the engine.
With practice, you’ll also be able to tell where the engagement point is. This will ensure you have a smooth shift without stalling. Some Honda models have a “SportClutch” that can help you prevent stalling.
There are still several old semi-automatic ATVs. But, if you’re looking for a new ATV, your decision is easier because Honda is the only company with semi-automatic ATVs. That doesn’t mean your choices are limited because you have several Honda models to choose from.
Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4×4 EPSA Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4 EPS is comfortable and tough. It’s one of the top machines riders look for when they want to get big jobs done and have fun adventures.
It has a 5-speed semi-automatic transmission. You also get an Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) for a smooth ride. You have a single-cylinder 518cc engine that means great performance and better hill-climbing. It’s a great choice for work and play.
The electric reverse is convenient and easy to use. You can shift from forward to reverse repeatedly. It’s a great ATV for plowing snow.
Every Foreman also uses a swingarm rear suspension that’s perfect for hard work or towing.
If you want another option, you can also check out the Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4×4 EPS. Check out the other features of the Rubicon here.
Honda FourTrax Rancher 4X4 ESThe Rancher has a bunch of different options for you to choose from. Every model has front and rear racks, a spacious front utility compartment, and an easy-to-use reverse system. The Rancher has a 420cc liquid-cooled engine, which is light and nimble going up to a top speed of 51 mph.
You can choose between 2WD to 4WD so you have the choice between lighter steering and maximizing traction. Check out more features for your Rancher semi-automatic ATV.
You can even choose the FourTrax Rancher ES, which is the cheaper model.
Honda TRX250XA Hondo TRX250X is meant for teenagers and adults. It has a 229cc engine with a five-speed manual transmission. It has a “SportClutch” which is basically a semi-automatic clutch. You get to combine manual transmission with stall prevention getting the best of both worlds.
You’ll love the light handling, wide powerband, and long suspension travel. Check out its other features here.
You can also check out the Honda TRX90X for kids, which has an 86cc four-stroke engine. It has a keyed ignition allowing parents to control who goes riding and when. You also have an adjustable throttle limit that lets you control the top speed and power of your kid’s ATV.
There aren’t many semi-automatic models for your consideration because more people lean towards automatic. If you want a mix of work and play, then you need to consider your semi-automatic ATV options. You can look at older model ATVs to find the right fit.
The pricing of the newer models depends on the trim and features you want. For example, a 2022 Fourtrax Foreman 4×4 has a base price of $7,499, whereas the base price of a 2022 Fourtrax Rancher is $5,599. If you’re wondering about how much ATVs cost, check out this blog post.
Check Out More Tips and Tricks on ATV RidingNow you know everything there is to know about semi automatic ATVs.
You know the difference between a manual and a semi-automatic ATV. You even know what the best semi-automatic ATV models are, so you can start your ATV adventure.
You probably have more questions that you need to get answered before you go buy your next ATV. You may be interested in learning about why ATVs are not street legal, how to jack up an ATV, or the ATV helmet rules. Maybe you want to know about ATV sizes by age.
Check out our blog for more articles to answer all your questions about semi-automatic ATVs and ATV riding, including whether ATV tracks improve performance.
ATV riding techniques could be the subject of a full book. In the same article, we want to reveal to you the basics of safe riding. At first glance, there is nothing complicated in driving ATVs - you just need to steer and enjoy riding.
When driving over bumps, for example, those of the "wave" type, the driver must change his position all the time.
So, when approaching an obstacle, you must shift your body back, otherwise you can hit the obstacle with your wheels. When driving over a bump, you need to move the body back forward, thus preventing excessive separation of the front wheels, i.e. rearing up the ATV. Then, when the rear wheels come off the ground, you need to move back again, otherwise you can fall out of the saddle, hitting your knees on the steering wheel. nine0003
With such a stance, you will receive strong shock loads on the body, and when moving over obstacles, you can even fall out. nine0016 Moving in a straight line at low speeds (up to 40 km/h), you can afford to relax. But at higher speeds or when passing sharp turns and slopes, the driver must move very actively. Indeed, due to the high center of gravity, short wheelbase and small width, ATVs are very prone to rollovers. In addition, if the motorcycle flies separately from the motorcyclist during falls, then the ATV most often covers the driver. Therefore, in order for ATV riding not to end with serious injuries, it is necessary to study the driving rules and strictly follow them. nine0003
ATV rider's weight is an important factor that affects machine handling. By shifting their weight, the driver can unload or load the front or rear of the ATV, thus compensating for centrifugal forces.
The first rule you need to learn is that when riding an ATV, you need to relax your arms.
When driving, the driver can always let go of his hands, because his legs are holding him in the saddle. As the speed increases, the load on the legs also increases. nine0003
Conventionally, three racks are distinguished. The middle stance is used when driving in a straight line without turning. When opening the gas, the body must be moved forward to unload the hands. Thus, the front strut is obtained. When braking and closing the gas, the body, on the contrary, must be moved back, i.e. take a back seat. By the way, the word "stand" comes from the word "stand", and this name is not accidental. When actively riding an ATV, you do not have to sit. Standing on an ATV lowers your center of gravity. After all, there is a huge difference between the weight on a high saddle and the weight on the footrests. And the effect of moving the body in a standing position is much greater than from fidgeting back and forth on the saddle. nine0003
When going through a turn on a motorcycle, it is tilted inward, thus struggling with centrifugal force.
But you can't do that with a quad bike. Therefore, it is necessary to use the weight of the driver. The main rule here is to always transfer the weight inside the turn. Moreover, it is necessary not only to tilt your shoulders. It is necessary to hang the entire body, including the fifth point. Only the shin and knee hold on to the saddle. Of course, if you turn at minimum speed, then you can limit yourself to turning the steering wheel. nine0003
The correct stance is characterized by slightly bent knees, elbows set apart, and a slightly arched and relaxed back. Why not stand on straight legs or keep your back straight and tense? Because bent knees allow you to absorb shock coming from uneven terrain. By the way, the force of these blows is sometimes quite enough to knock the driver out of the saddle. A straight tense back under such conditions can lead to injury to the intervertebral discs and even a compression fracture of the spine. Yes, and the internal organs with the wrong fit will have a hard time.
nine0003
Active ATV riding requires good physical shape. So, in quad schools, the duration of the lesson does not exceed an hour, and at the end of the lesson, students can literally be squeezed out. And riding an ATV off-road is also an activity worthy of training in the gym.
When riding non-sport ATVs, it is best to avoid jumping. Firstly, this way you can break the ATV. Secondly, in order to safely perform such tricks, the ATV motor must have high-torque and fast response to the throttle. If, nevertheless, the jump could not be avoided, then it is necessary to land in the middle stance, but be ready to move to the back. When the wheels touch the ground, you need to slightly open the gas. It is better not to use four-wheel drive when jumping. nine0003
Every time you ride an ATV, you need to practice looking into the distance. This is necessary to develop the habit of evaluating the trajectory of movement in advance. Beginners often do not have time to track the road, and at some point they are not ready to perform adequate actions.
And another, very predictable obstacle, can become a problem for them.
| When moving along a slope, it is necessary to move the body in the direction opposite to the slope. On the steepest sections, full overhang should be used, such as when cornering at speed. nine0003
|
Before you start climbing, you need to pick up speed. Then the resulting inertia will allow you to smoothly drive into the steepness. If you suddenly open the gas directly on the rise, the ATV may tip over.
Climbing should be in the most forward stance and on medium gas. If the incline is too steep, the ATV may roll backward when the throttle is released. In this case, you should not brake with the front axle, not the rear. If the ATV starts to roll over, you can try to jump to the side, but this acrobatic stunt is unlikely to be successful. nine0003
If the driver moves his torso out of the turn, then his centrifugal forces will pull him to the outer radius, and in order to stay in the saddle, he will need to firmly grip the steering wheel. At the same time, the ATV will definitely try to roll over. To avoid such an unpleasant situation, it is always necessary to remember a simple rule - to shift the body only in the direction of rotation. Those. if we turn to the left, then we shift the body to the left side, and vice versa. nine0003
Descents must be made in the C-pillar. In this case, the arms must be extended and slightly bent at the elbows.
There is no emphasis on the hands, you can even let them go, holding on with your feet. The steeper the descent, the more the driver must move the body back. The lower photos show the consequences of a descent in an incorrect landing. The main mistakes - the driver shifted the weight forward and pressed his hands to the body.
ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) are compact and versatile vehicles. They are used for extreme recreation and sports competitions. They can effortlessly ride off-road and rough terrain.
Wide wheels and a powerful engine make it easy to overcome dirt roads, potholes, ravines and slopes. Many summer residents, hunters and fishermen prefer to travel on ATVs. They can carry goods. In winter, they replace snowmobiles. A trip on such motor vehicles brings a lot of pleasant emotions. However, quad biking is an extreme form of transportation. And it is better to do it with professional instructors of the QuadRider club. Unlike motorcycles and other vehicles, they have a short wheelbase, narrow width and high center of gravity. Improper driving often leads to rollovers. Important to know how to drive an ATV correctly to avoid dangerous accidents. Appropriate training and compliance with driving rules is a guarantee of safety not only for drivers, but also for pedestrians.
Before driving an ATV, you must do the following:
Accessories should be practical and comfortable. You can buy them in specialized stores. Wearing protective gear greatly reduces the chance of injury. nine0016 Operating a vehicle without a license and skills is fraught with serious injuries and large fines.
Strictly prohibited:
The rider's weight has a big impact on the handling of the ATV. Centrifugal forces are compensated by transferring body weight to the rear or front of the vehicle. Quads are a powerful technique, prone to tipping over and slipping. Wrong driving can cost lives. In this regard, it is necessary not only to know0126 how to ride a quad bike , but also to learn the basic rack.
When riding an ATV standing up, it is easier to avoid tipping over. There are 3 main stances common among ATVs. Each of them is used in certain situations.
The arms are slightly bent and turned outward. nine0016 A dangerous stance option is a tense back and straight legs. In this position, the body cannot absorb shocks and shocks. The spine and joints are subjected to enormous loads. In this situation, control over transport worsens.
The main ATV controls are located on the steering wheel. On the right handle are: throttle trigger, differential lock switch (2WD / 4WD / LOCK) and fuse. On all-wheel drive, cargo transportation, off-road driving and slippery roads are usually carried out. The differential lock ensures the synchronous rotation of the wheels. On the left side of the steering wheel is the ignition switch, engine start button, headlight switch and horn button.
Sit in a correct and comfortable position on the ATV. Place your feet on the footrests and place your hands on the handlebars. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to the "ON" mark. Then depress the brake pedal and the electric starter button. Hold the starter button for 5 seconds until the engine starts.
When the motor starts, let it run for 1 minute. In the cold season, warm it up for about 5 minutes. Before you start driving, make sure that there are no obstacles in the way (other vehicles and pedestrians). To move off, shift the gearbox to overdrive H. Release the brake pedal and gently press the gas trigger with your right thumb until you reach the desired speed. nine0126
Slow down on curves and turns. Turn as far as possible. Entering the turn, lean your whole body and lower body into the turn.
If you turn right, shift your body weight to the right. If you turn left, lean your whole body to the left side. In this way, you will avoid falling and overturning the ATV.
Correct gear shifting and ATV should be carried out after it has come to a complete stop. Release the throttle lever and press the brake pedal. Move the gearshift lever to the desired position. The selected gear indicator should light up on the instrument panel. The gear lever must be in the "H" (normal high gear) or "L" (extreme low gear) position. The "R" mode is used for reverse.
Pick up speed before entering the hillock. Drive only in a straight line. Move your body forward. Maintain a smooth speed after opening the throttle. Don't lose your vigilance. Try not to drive on hills, the angle of which exceeds 25 °. Climbing a hillock or a steep slope, do not step on the gas abruptly.
Drive at medium engine speeds. If the ATV begins to roll backwards while climbing a hill, get up and apply the front brake. In this case, it is not necessary to use the engine power and the rear brake. If the quad has stopped, apply the rear brake and move the gear lever to park. Put the handcuff on the transport, turn around manually and try to repeat the ascent to the hillock again. To descend, take a back stance and bend your elbows slightly. Shift into low gear. To avoid tipping over, apply both front and rear brakes at the same time. Do it smoothly. Do not press the gas trigger when descending. Do not change the set trajectory of movement. nine0003
You need to drive down the slope in low gear, moving the body towards the top of the hill. Hang your body completely on the steepest slopes. On the slopes, you can not brake sharply and pick up speed sharply. If the slope is slippery and steep, try to take a different path.
Start braking well in advance before coming to a complete stop. To slow down, release the throttle. ATVs stop quickly. But in an emergency, press the foot pedal or brake lever. Stop on a level, level surface. After stopping, shift into neutral. This will help to avoid unforeseen situations when disembarking from the vehicle. nine0003
After learning how to ride the ATV, learn how to drive on flat terrain without obstacles and other moving vehicles. Make sure the brakes are working at low speed when starting, turning and stopping. At first, try to avoid jumps and high speeds. Also, avoid jumping when riding a sports ATV. With a sufficiently high power, quadrics cannot accelerate much. But, if you press the throttle trigger hard and sharply, the torque is quickly transferred to the wheels, and the ATV can jerk forward sharply. Try to avoid dangerous obstacles.
