10 ATV and quad driving tips for first-time riders in Rhodes

A quad is easy to ride and enormous fun, but it is not a motorbike and it is not a car. Most small incidents we see come from treating it like one of the two. Ten minutes with this list will make your first day on the ODESS 650cc ATV smoother and safer.

1. Get the briefing, then ride slowly for the first kilometre

We show you the controls at pickup. Use the first quiet stretch to feel the throttle and brakes before you join traffic.

2. Steer with your body, not just the bars

Quads do not lean like a motorbike. In a bend, shift your weight to the inside of the turn and keep your feet firmly on the footboards. Slow down before the corner, not in it.

3. Brake early and smoothly

Use both brakes together and let the engine help you on descents. The road down into Lindos or up to the Tsambika monastery is where this matters.

4. Gravel and sand

Many beach tracks are unpaved. Reduce speed, keep the wheels straight, avoid sudden throttle changes and do not ride on the beach itself. Stay on existing tracks; off-road riding is not allowed and damages the landscape.

5. Helmets, always

Rider and passenger, every ride, even to the bakery. Helmets are included with every rental and mandatory by law in Greece. Closed shoes are strongly recommended.

6. Heat and sun

You are exposed for hours. Sunscreen, a light long-sleeved shirt, water in the storage box, and a break in the shade every hour. Avoid the midday sun in July and August by riding early and late.

7. Wind on the west coast

The west side of Rhodes is famous for its afternoon wind. A quad is stable, but gusts can push you. Slow down, keep both hands on the bars and be careful when overtaking or being overtaken.

8. Sharing the road

Buses and delivery vans are wide; pull to the right and let them pass. Watch for goats near mountain villages and for tourists opening car doors in Lindos and Faliraki. Never ride two abreast.

9. Fuel and range

Fuel stations are frequent on the east coast and rare inland and in the deep south. Fill up before Lindos if you are continuing to Pefkos and Gennadi or Prasonisi. Vehicles are handed over with fuel and returned with a similar level; see the FAQ.

10. Parking

Park where you would park a motorbike, never blocking a pavement or a shop entrance. Take the key and your helmet, lock the storage box, and leave nothing visible.

Check our rental guide for licence and age requirements, then choose from our ATVs and scooters and book online. Our east-coast route is the perfect first day.