A trailbike's ability to accelerate and maneuver quickly can be exhilarating, but can also pose problems on trails shared with hikers, horseback riders, or other trailbike riders. Every dirtbike rider must be an ambassador for the sport at all times. Here are a few tips to keep you (and others) smiling on the trail:

• Ride only on designated roads and trails or other areas marked "open" for use. Respecting closed areas and private property is good public relations. Don't cut switchbacks or take shortcuts, and remember, areas signed as "Wilderness" are closed to all mechanized vehicles.
  
   
• Try to stay in the middle of the trail to avoid widening it. Trail "widening" is ugly and expensive to repair.
  
   
• Leave gates as you found them (open or closed) unless posted otherwise.
  
   
• Be courteous when passing hikers or other vehicles - one little blip of the throttle can leave a shower of gravel or a cloud of dust - and an enemy - behind you.
  
   
• Even a quiet bike can sound noisy to other trail users - it depends on how it's ridden. Keep your speed and engine rpm low and steady when near houses and campgrounds, or anytime you're around non-riders. Remember, less sound will provide more ground to ride.
  
   
• When you meet horses or pack animals, look and listen for any special instructions from the handler. Not all horses and pack animals react the same way around strangers, so it's always a good idea to slow down and stop on the outside edge of the trail with your engine off. It helps to remove your helmet and speak in a low, calm voice so the animals know it's just a person under all that riding gear. Sudden movements, such as raising your hand when saying hello can startle them, so be careful. Never stop in a position which puts you above a horse or pack animal; it can make them feel vulnerable.
  
   
• When encountering others on the trail, yield to the passing group or those traveling uphill.
  
   
• When you see reparable trail damage, stop and take a few moments to fix it. It just might help to ensure that the trail will be open next time you visit.
  
   
• Consider carrying a compact cable saw for clearing deadfall as you encounter it. It's basically the chain from a chainsaw with teeth facing in both directions. With a person on each end pulling back and forth, you might be surprised how quickly you can cut through a good-sized log!

Be as considerate to others as you would want them to be to you. Riding "sharefully" and a friendly "Hi!" goes a long way to building a positive image!