We all have experienced washboard conditions on a trail, right? I know personally I hate them! What causes the trails to get that way anyway? It may not be what you think. For years I just assumed it was caused by weather. Winds, water, erosion, that sort of stuff. That is not it at all. Washboard conditions on a trail are actually caused by vehicles. The repeated drive over loose surfaces along with small bumps cause your OHV’s tires to to both stack material up in front of the tire and dig material out behind the tire. That’s it, that’s what causes that ever so unpleasant washboard condition that we all hate so much.

Washboards are not just annoying however. They can actually get so bad they actually rattle bolts loose, or damage tires, and suspension even. Washboard trails can also send vibrations so bad throughout your OHV that it looses traction and makes things difficult to control.

Here are a few tips to safely driving on a washboard trial.

1. SLOW DOWN. I have been on a washboard trail that was so bad for so long that it made me just want to pick up my speeds just to get through it as fast as possible. Definitely not the way to go here though. Slowing down will give you much more control and minimize potential damage to your OHV.
2. USE 4WD. When the 4×4 feature is engaged you have way more traction on the trail and have better control of the vehicle. This is most seen when on a steep incline or decline.
3. MAINTAIN A STEADY SPEED. This one is simple, just slow down, find a speed that fits the conditions and stick to it.
4. AIR DOWN YOUR TIRES. Airing down your tires simply means to let some of the air pressure out of the tires equally. Ever wonder why people air down their tires on a trail? Traction, and a smoother ride will both happen with less air pressure in your tires, So to increase your ride and traction, air down. If you don’t have experience in airing down stick to the 22-25 pounds of pressure per tire rule. its safe and it will allow you the opportunity to get comfortable driving like that.

Washboard conditions are horrible, yes! (have you noticed that I do not like them) With a few tips and a little patience you can tackle those washboards with out fear. Remember, it is always the driver’s responsibility first to know what they are doing out there.