ATV News And Events - First Gear

Pumped Up
Keep the notorious effects of arm-pump from cutting short your day of riding. In each issue of ATV Rider magazine, we'll reveal one fact or old wives' tale that's a common remedy throughout the ATV community for keeping arm-pump away.

Remedy 1: Caffeine is a huge no-no before a long day of riding or just before a race. Be sure to replace your caffeine habits with plenty of water.

Eli's Rant
I've never had to do so much air travel in my life before I took the job at ATVR. Now don't get me wrong and think that I don't somewhat enjoy it-I've had the opportunity to see places and events I never would have before. Even with how awesome as everything can be, it does eventually take its toll on you.

This time of the year can really put the body to the test. Many manufacturers are releasing new products and want us to test them, and we want to test them so we can let you know about the latest and greatest these companies have to offer. This means dealing with crowded airports, flying across the country and waking up at 3 A.M. after getting only a few hours of sleep. We rise to eat a quick breakfast before being herded onto a bus like cattle and then are carted off to the ride destination. Many times, it's to ride a new model that has only "new and updated graphics" or practically no changes at all.

My most recent trips will bring brand-new machines to grace the pages of this magazine for you to enjoy. New sport, utility and side-by-side machines are coming out of the woodwork and will leave you with a watering mouth once you read about them.

Until then, give me some of your pity because I'm tired. I never thought this dream job could be so tough and stressful at times.

Send Us Your Ride
Yes guys, we've heard you loud and clear! It seems that our readers are extremely interested in what other readers ride. As this is your magazine and we want to bring you quality content that keeps you reading, we've decided to add a new section called ATVR Reader's Ride. For this issue, we're just giving you a taste of things to come. If you want your pride and joy to run on our pages as well as be displayed in front of thousands of other ATV enthusiasts, please send the following information and photos to atvrider@sourceinterlink.com. Who knows? You might even win a little ATV swag if your ride is chosen as the winner.

Here's what we need from you:
* Several high-quality photos of your ATV (if you send action shots, please wear a helmet)
* Make and model of your machine
* All mods made to your machine
* A small paragraph on how it performs* Would you recommend this machine to others and why?
* Your name, e-mail address and
shipping address (don't worry, we'll keep your personal info under wraps)

ATVR Reader's Ride
Mod list:
Elka race series shocks
Suspension rebuild by GT
Thunder for CC Racing
Douglas beadlock wheels
Maxxis Razr 2 tires
ProTaper bar
Steering stem
AC pro pegs
AC heel guards
AC front bumper
Dura Blue axle
FMF PowerBomb header
Yoshimura slip-on pipe

Performance:
I got this Suzuki as a present on my 15th birthday, and it has helped me kick off my racing career with my team, FF&J Racing. I race in the Florida Trail Riders Hare Scrambles Series. I'd highly recommend this race machine to any fairly experienced rider who'd like to start racing. It has great power, and even though it has very minor mods, it keeps up with most of the 450s. I like how it seems to do much better in the tight woods with its narrow stance; perfect for anyone wanting to race cross-country.