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If you are a nature-lover and keen on the thrilling world of motor vehicles, don't pass up the chance to go quad riding. A powerful motorized three-wheel vehicle, the quad is known for a remarkable stability on rugged terrains that makes it almost impossible to tip over. This means that it is the ideal vehicle for crossing mountains and exploring tough, out-of-the-way roads, letting the driver discover all the plant and animal life and fantastic scenery that nature has to offer.

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Easy to drive
In the mechanics department, quads are similar to motorcycles, although the rear wheel is set on a rigid axle, making the quad an all-terrain vehicle that is a cross between a car and a motorcycle. Since it has three support bases, it is very stable, so that you don't have to use either foot when you stop. And as the rear of the vehicle is wider for a quad than for a motorcycle, falls are few and far between.

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Driving one of these amazing machines is a thrilling experience and learning to use one is relatively easy, compared to the time spent learning to drive a motorcycle or car. Motor enthusiasts of all ages will surely enjoy a spin on this most intrepid all-terrain vehicle, which nothing -not hills, mud, water, or a lack of roads- can stop.

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The right posture for driving a quad is similar to that used for a motorcycle: the body has to bend with the curves, and the driver shifts his weight to the side he turns towards.

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General Information
You don't have to be an experienced driver to drive a quad, although you should at least have driven a motorcycle or have some basic knowledge of them. Quads are powerful machines, and do require some skill and training to operate. One example of their relative easiness to drive is that they usually have automatic transmission, which means that they can be hand-accelerated. All potential quad drivers need a B1 licence. One or two can ride a quad.

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Before setting out for more challenging terrain, the driver will need to get used to handling the quad during a training period on a flat, trouble-free course. The instructor at your quad course will provide information and advice on the vehicle's operation and safety. Following this advice is crucial, as it can often mean the difference between having an accident and riding safely. One of the most important tips to keep in mind is that you should never let your feet fall below the footrest or you risk having the rear wheel run over your leg. This is advice that should be heeded without fail, especially if you've ever driven a motorcyle, since motorcyclists tend to stick their foot out on curves.

Of course, helmet-wearing is a must, for both driver and passenger, as is accident insurance and, at times, special glasses and waterproof wear for crossing rivers and pools. It is also recommended that quad riders wear sporting clothes and shoes.

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Quad Riding: where to go
Quads can be driven on even the most rugged wooded tracks, as well as in areas where tracks are very basic or inexistent. In Spain there are many suitable spots for quad riding, such as the Valle de Ar�s (Cantabria), Sanxenxo (Pontevedra), Sierra Nevada (Granada), and Sierra de Cazorla (Ja�n). In each of these areas there are local adventure sports companies that rent out quads and organize guided excursions. Prices range considerably, from 9 euros for a half-hour to 100 for a full-day trip including lunch.

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