Code of Conduct
As TAAT Users, we have a responsibility to ensure that access to Australia’s open spaces is maintained and respected by ourselves and future riders.
| Our goal is to be ambassadors for Adventure Riding, promoting respectful and sensitive trail use. To achieve this goal, TAAT subscribes to the following Code of Conduct: |
- Use only vehicular rights of way and respect all signs.
- Ensure that motorcycles and riders are road-legal, licensed, and insured in accordance with state or territory law.
- Stay on the defined trail across farmland or traditional land and obtain all necessary permits. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that wheels do not damage crops, grass, or animals, as these are someone’s livelihood. If you come across injured wildlife, contact the relevant authorities in the area.
- Give way to walkers, horses, and cyclists by stopping and switching off engines as necessary on narrow trails. Slow down, give a wide berth, and avoid sending gravel and dust flying on wider trails.
- Leave gates as you found them to safeguard stock.
- Travel at a safe speed, taking regard for conditions and visibility. Remember, the TAAT is not a racetrack.
- Ride quietly and use the throttle with discretion to avoid offending others with noise.
- Avoid travelling in large groups. Six or less is the ideal group size.
- Respect the countryside and those who live, work, and play in it.
- Remember that trails can be fragile and susceptible to erosion, especially when wet. Consider taking a detour.
- Acknowledge the presence of other trail users with a friendly wave and smile.
- If you witness dangerous or irresponsible behaviour on the TAAT and it is safe to do so, have the moral courage to address the situation.
- Ride within your and your bike’s capabilities.
- Contribute to the viability of local communities by supporting local businesses.
We believe that by adhering to these guidelines and measuring our actions and use of the TAAT against the following four criteria, we can change people’s perceptions of Adventure riders for the better:
- Safety: prioritise the safety of yourself, other riders, and other trail users.
- Respect: show respect for the environment, wildlife, and other users of the trail.
- Responsibility: take responsibility for your actions and the impact they have on the trail and surrounding areas.
- Community: contribute to the local communities by supporting local businesses and being a positive representative of the Adventure Riding community.
| Respect for the Trails and Tracks. Respect for the communities we travel through. Respect for the environment. Respect for the indigenous culture. |
Preserving the Trails and the Experience
Off-road trail riding is exhilarating and adventurous, defined by the thrill of navigating challenging terrain. However, it’s essential for riders to practise responsible trail riding so as to uphold the integrity of our trails and ensure a positive experience for everyone involved. Allowing your dirt bike adventures to leave a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the broader off-roading community.
Most importantly it’s crucial to stay on designated trails. Venturing off established routes can result in environmental damage, disrupt the habitats of local wildlife and in the worst cases, lead to trail closures. Always adhere to marked trails and show respect for any signs or barriers indicating restricted areas, otherwise you might contribute to that trail being closed for you and everyone else.
The “Tread Lightly” principle advocates for minimising your environmental impact. This means taking care not to damage vegetation, disturb wildlife, or leave any litter behind. In essence, ride in a manner that leaves no visible trace of your presence.
When encountering other riders or trail users, it’s paramount to yield the right of way. Uphill riders typically have the right of way, but it’s courteous and safe to slow down and allow others to pass safely. Extend this courtesy to hikers, bikers, and equestrians by reducing your speed and giving them ample space.
Keep noise levels in check by installing quieter exhaust systems and adhering to local noise regulations. Loud exhausts can disrupt wildlife, irritate fellow riders, and, in some regions, lead to trail closures. Remember, a quieter bike doesn’t equate to a less thrilling experience.
Leaving no trace also extends to packing it in and packing it out. Always ensure that you carry out any rubbish or debris from the trails. Make it a personal mission to leave the trail cleaner than you found it.
Respect private property by seeking permission before riding on privately-owned land. Trespassing will tarnish the reputation of the off-roading community.
Obey local regulations, such as speed limits, trail-specific rules, and designated seasonal riding tracks. Failure to do so can result in fines and may adversely affect the overall reputation of the off-roading community.
Riding in groups can enhance safety and enjoyment. However, it’s best to keep group sizes manageable and avoid overcrowding trails, which can cause damage and inconvenience to others.
Clear and effective communication with fellow riders is vital. Utilise hand signals, communication devices, or pre-arranged signals to maintain safety and organisation within the group.
Lastly, always be prepared. Carry essential safety equipment and tools to handle common on-trail issues, such as flat tyres or minor mechanical problems. It’s also useful when you come across another rider who wasn’t as well prepared.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your dirt biking adventures while actively contributing to the trails, the people who share them with us and ensuring that future generations can enjoy this remarkable sport.