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Review by
Richard Sumrall In recent years, all-terrain
vehicles, known as ATVs, have become increasingly popular with outdoor
enthusiasts and workers at any job site. ATVs are versatile, durable and
have the ability to deliver riders and cargo to almost any location. In the
book "ATV Projects" the editors of the magazines ATV Magazine and ATV Sport
have selected 25 different projects that enable users to maximize their
enjoyment and experiences with these machines. The book is divided into
three sections -- "On the Job," "On the Trail" and "On the Hunt."
"On the Job"
ATVs are indispensable machines for construction jobs, landscaping and
other work sites. Their ability to pull or haul heavy loads combined with
their ruggedness in the outdoor elements make them the perfect accessory for
any task at hand. In this section the editors explain how to establish a
functioning workshop to properly maintain the ATV. Other projects in this
section include using the ATV as a mower or a plow -- for snow or soil.
Since ATVs are generally not suitable for travel on busy streets and
highways, it is important that the riders exercise proper loading and
transportation techniques. In addition to this, the editors discuss the
selection of the best transport trailers, how to purchase a trailer or rack
box, and the methods for safely towing ATVs.
"On the Trail"
Workers on the job are not the only ones who have discovered the
advantages of ATVs. Those who love the outdoors have discovered the
excitement of using ATVs for off-road trail riding. The editors begin with a
reminder of the safety procedures riders should follow when using ATVs on
the trail. Since on-trail riders can face rough, uneven terrain, it's
important that they are prepared for mechanical emergencies. The editors
offer tips for adding and using a winch as well as making performance
modifications and repairs in the clutch, springs, suspension, brakes, tires
and cruise control. One interesting project, entitled "Quieting a Big Bore
Beast," explains how riders can reduce the noise emitted from the exhaust
system.
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"On the Hunt"
One of the most popular specialized uses of ATVs is for hunting.
Hunters have found that ATVs solve the problem of carrying their
gear and provide reliable transportation to remote locations. There
are other ATV uses for hunting that are both practical and
ingenious. According to the editors ATVs can be used for hauling
deer and other large game from the kill site, planting a food plot
to attract more harvestable game, and for ice fishing. One
particularly creative use is to convert the ATV into a portable
hunting blind. Not only can hunters better conceal themselves and
remain warm, they don't have to concern themselves with the nagging
issue of hiding their ATV before hiking to their favorite hunting
spot. Sadly, the editors remind us that, because of the increased
value of the newer ATV models, security from theft is a genuine
concern. They demonstrate the different kinds of security measures
and apparatus hunters should consider in the field and at home.
"ATV Projects" is an indispensable guide for anyone owning or
considering purchasing an all-terrain vehicle. The color
photographic illustrations are crisp and help illuminate the
explanations given for the different projects. Each project begins
with a handy table that indicates that project's time, tools, talent
or skill level, parts, and benefits. No-nonsense writing combined
with an ATV resources directory make this book a recommended
addition for any ATV owner.
[Richard Sumrall,
Lincoln Public
Library District]
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