Quad Biking

A line of riders in helmets on quad bikes along a sunny woodland track at Camp Wildfire, the front rider flashing a peace sign

QUAD BIKING

Thumb on the throttle, mud on your face and a grin you can't shift. Quad biking is the fastest way to get gloriously filthy in a forest.

What is quad biking?

Quad biking is riding a quad bike, a four-wheeled motor vehicle you sit astride like a motorbike and steer with handlebars. Also known as ATVs, or all-terrain vehicles, quads are built to handle mud, grass, gravel, sand and rutted woodland tracks. They're a working tool on farms and estates, and a brilliant excuse for grown adults to go off-road and get muddy.

What are the different types of quad bike?

Utility quads are the big, sturdy ones, often with racks front and back. Think farms, estates and hauling hay bales.

Sport quads are lighter, quicker and more agile, made for racing and fast track riding.

Youth or mini quads are the scaled-down versions, with smaller engines for younger riders. Sadly, you've outgrown them.

Engine size is measured in cc, and bigger usually means more power. Many trail and leisure quads are fully automatic, so there's no clutch and no gears. Just a thumb throttle to go and brake levers to stop.

What happens on a beginner quad biking session?

First, the kit: a helmet and a safety briefing. Your Activity Leader walks you through the controls, then you warm up in a practice area, getting a feel for steering, throttle control and braking. Once you've got the hang of it, you head out on a follow-the-leader trail ride, keeping a safe gap from the bike ahead. You'll learn to lean into corners, rise slightly off the seat over bumps and brake before bends, not in them. The terrain changes, the speed changes and the mud stays exactly the same.

Never driven a quad?

No problem. Automatic quads are simple to get to grips with: press to go, squeeze to stop and look where you want to steer. Confidence builds quickly once you trust the tyres to grip, and by the end you'll be itching for one more lap. It's a proper adrenaline hit without needing any skills beforehand, and the post-ride mud selfie is practically compulsory.

What should I wear for quad biking?

Clothes you don't mind trashing. Long trousers or leggings are best, though shorts are fine, with sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. You'll be wearing a helmet, so maybe skip the elaborate festival hair. Scarves and anything loose should stay behind.

FAQ

IS QUAD BIKING SAFE?

Quad biking is a high-risk activity. Quads can collide, overturn or throw riders off, and hot engine parts can cause burns. Riders always wear a helmet, get a full safety briefing and follow the Activity Leader at a steady pace. Do not carry passengers, do not overtake unless told to and do not touch the engine or exhaust.