With summer and National OHV Safety Week approaching, Can-Am, an iconic brand of BRP Inc., is calling on all off-road enthusiasts to prioritize safety on the trails throughout the season. Safe riding is a fundamental part of the Can-Am experience, and through BRP’s Responsible Rider Program, the company aims to empower riders to ride responsibly, whether on the trail, working the land, on dunes, or around a track.
Responsible Riding Matters
Responsible riding goes beyond simply following rules. It helps protect access to trails and riding areas, reduces conflicts with other outdoor enthusiasts, minimizes environmental impacts, and preserves the freedom to enjoy the outdoors for future generations.
Free Educational Courses
To promote this initiative, Can-Am and BRP have partnered with Tread Lightly! to create the Responsible Rider Masterclass 101 series. This collection of free educational courses is designed to help individuals enjoy a powersports lifestyle in a safer and more responsible manner.
“As a leader in the off-road powersports industry, we have a responsibility to encourage our passionate community to ride responsibly. That way, riders can go off-roading with their families and friends for generations to come,” said Jérémi Doyon-Roch, Global Marketing Director of Can-Am Off-Road at BRP. “We believe so strongly in this program that, for the next 2,000 Responsible Rider Masterclass courses completed, we will donate $35 per course to Tread Lightly! to support on-the-ground stewardship projects across North America, as part of the organization’s Drive 35 initiative. As the summer begins, we’d like to encourage riders of all brands to take the Responsible Rider Masterclass and have a great season enjoying the outdoors.”
Course Details
BRP and Tread Lightly! launched the Responsible Rider Masterclass in February 2025 with its first course, Snow 101. Subsequent courses include Water 101 and Off-Road 101. The Off-Road 101 course focuses on three core attributes: Safety, Rider Behavior, and Environmental Stewardship. It aims to equip off-roaders of all levels with the knowledge needed to ride responsibly and lead by example. The short, free online training features Tread Lightly! staff and Can-Am ambassadors Terry Madden and Kira Block delivering information in a fun and easy-to-understand manner.
Tips for Responsible Riding
While SSVs, UTVs, and ATVs are sound and reliable machines, following safety practices reduces the likelihood of preventable incidents. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- Gear Up – Wear your helmet, gloves, eye protection, and any other required safety gear. Once in the vehicle, buckle your seat belt first.
- Stay on the Trail – Stick to designated trails to avoid sensitive habitats. Drive over small obstacles, not around them, to prevent widening the trail.
- Be Respectful – Keep your distance, yield for smaller, slower, or uphill riders, cut dust, and watch out for noise near residential areas.
- Ride Smart – Know your machine, understand the terrain, and ride within your skill level.
- Ride Alert and Sober – Alcohol or drugs and trail driving do not mix.
- Pack Out What You Pack In – Carry a trash bag and leave every trailhead cleaner than you found it.
