subject: Road legal quads: all you need to know [print this page] Road legal quads: all you need to know Road legal quads: all you need to know
It is quite possible that you know what a quad bike is, but didn't realise that there was such a thing as a road legal quad. Just in case you are unaware of what a quad bike is, let us explain this first. A quad bike or ATV is basically a motorbike with four wheels. It sits slightly lower than a bike so is perhaps harder to see into the distance on, but it has the advantage of four wheels, which provide extra stability.
They began in popularity in the 1970's and have become progressively popular since. Traditionally, quad biking takes place off road, on mud tracks and courses designed for dirt bikes. This provides many people with a fun alternative to dirt bike racing or general off road activities.
However, there has recently arrived a new alternative to the traditional quad bike, the Road Legal Quad. These road legal vehicles are similar to traditional quad bikes, except they can be used on the public roads, fully legally.
The road legal quad is a wonderful concept, as it is fun and simple to learn for people of all ages. They are incredibly cheap to run, with an average price of around 12 to fill the tank with unleaded fuel, which will keep you going for miles. Top speeds can in some cases be similar to motorbikes, with 250cc and 300cc models reaching around 65mph before performance upgrades. Other benefits include fast acceleration, high manoeuvrability, meaning that it can traverse busy city roads with ease, and cheap insurance depending on your age and driving history. Additionally, many bikes can accommodate an additional passenger, though this should be checked in advance with the manufacturer.
In order for a Quad Bike to qualify as road legal, it must be registered with the DVLA. Additionally, it must be taxed and insured, along with an MOT, all much the same as with a road legal car. Physically speaking, a road legal quad must have correct lighting systems, as per the regulation, mirrors, and registration plates on the front and back of the bike. Additionally, the driver must be over the age of seventeen to use the road legal quad on public roads.
You must also require a full UK driving licence, or a motorbike licence issued before 2001, in order to drive a road legal quad on the roads. While this is all technically enough to legally drive on the roads, it is advised that you practice off road first, to get used to the general concept of quad biking.
