Which gear should you shift into when coming to a stop on an ATV?

Shifting into first gear when coming to a stop on an ATV is a safety practice designed to maintain control. When the vehicle is in first gear, it remains engaged, which helps prevent it from rolling unexpectedly. If you stop and leave the ATV in first gear, you can quickly accelerate again if needed, such as if you need to navigate around an obstacle or if the ATV starts to tilt or slide. This is particularly important in off-road conditions where terrain may be uneven.

Additionally, while neutral and park gears may seem like logical choices, they do not provide the same level of control or readiness as first gear. Neutral does not engage the drivetrain, meaning the vehicle could easily roll downhill or away from where you intend to stop, while park is often a gear used in more controlled environments. Hence, using first gear as a default when stopping is practiced to enhance safety and maintain control of the ATV.