Can-Am DS250 Operator's Manual - Off-Road Operation
RIDING THE VEHICLE
The addition of weight to any part of the vehicle changes its gravitational stability
and modifies its performance.
Off-Road Operation
The very nature of off-road operation is dangerous. Any terrain, which has not
been specially prepared to carry vehicles, presents an inherent danger where
angularity, terrain substance and exact steepness are unpredictable. The terrain
itself presents a continual element of danger, which must be knowingly accepted
by anyone venturing over it.
An operator who takes a vehicle off-road should always exercise the utmost care in
selecting the safest path and keeping close watch on the terrain ahead of him. On
no account should the vehicle be operated by anyone who is not completely famil-
iar with the driving instructions applicable to the vehicle, nor should it be operated
on steep or treacherous terrain.
General Operating and Safety Precautions
Care, caution, experience and driving skill are the best precautions against the haz-
ards of vehicle operation.
Whenever there is the slightest doubt that the vehicle can safely negotiate an ob-
stacle or a particular piece of terrain, always choose an alternate route.
In off-road operation, power and traction, not speed, are important. Never drive
faster than visibility and your own ability to select a safe route permit.
Constantly watch the terrain ahead for sudden changes in slopes or obstacles,
such as rocks or stumps, that may cause loss of stability, resulting in tip-over or
rollover.
Never operate the vehicle if the controls do not function normally.
When operating in reverse, check that the path behind the vehicle is free of people
or obstacles. Proceed slowly and avoid sharp turns.
BRP recommends that you remain seated on your ATV when operating in reverse.
Avoid standing up. Your weight could shift forward against the throttle lever caus-
ing an unexpected acceleration and loss of control.
When stopped or parked, always apply the parking brake. This is especially
important when parking on a slope. On very steep inclines or if the vehicle is
carrying cargo, the wheels should be blocked using rocks or bricks. Remember to
set transmission lever to the FORWARD position and to turn the fuel valve to the
closed position when vehicle is not being operated for a prolonged period of time
or when transported.
Uphill Driving
Due to configuration, this vehicle has excellent climbing ability, so much so that
it is possible to tip over before traction is lost. For example, its common to en-
counter terrain situations where the top of the hill has eroded to a point that the
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SAFETY INFORMATION
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