My '01 Artic Cat is the worst ATV I've ever ridden for finding ruts and jerking the handlebar out of my hands. Especially going slowly down a hill and using the brakes. I actually rolled it this weekend!
Most other bikes I've ridden have seperate rear brakes and i'll use them around downhill ruts. Any advice?

 

You may want to mess with your suspension. Read the post 'How to make the AC handle better" there could be some stuff in there that would help.

 

dont they have rear brakes like the foot lever on the right?

 

Mine doesn't have a foot brake at all.

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: Junkman673

Mine doesn't have a foot brake at all.</end quote></div>

What AC do you have? also it should have a foot brake on the right.....did you buy it used?

 

i've got a 2001 AC 500 manual. Yes, I bought it used.

 

First off, check out your A-arms and suspension...
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml02/02510.html


The '01 500's had a linked braking system, but usually these systems have a foot lever that will control the rear brake only. Since you bought yours used, is it possible that it was removed/broken off at some point? If they didn't come with a foot control you're S.O.L.
Since your unit is a manual, are you going downhill in a low gear? The engine braking should keep you a a controllable speed.

 

stay out of the ruts ,sorry couldn't resist

 

Both my machines did similar things with the stock tires. After replacing the stock tires and changing to a set of Highlifter HD springs set tot he highest setting I rarely have this happen anymore.

So I would say to adjust or tune your suspension to your "main" style of riding. Also check your shocks/springs out real good as the weight of these machines causes the shocks/springs to become weak. Weak shocks and springs allows the steering to roll under easier.

While you are at it check your wheel alignment. I believe its 1/8 inch toe in.

SJ