GMC 2007 Canyon - Manual (Page 259)

Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful
off-road driving. One of the best ways to control
your vehicle is to control your speed. Here are
some things to keep in mind. At higher speeds:
• You approach things faster and you have less
time to scan the terrain for obstacles.
• You have less time to react.
• You have more vehicle bounce when you drive
over obstacles.
• You will need more distance for braking,
especially since you are on an unpaved
surface.
{ CAUTION:
When you are driving off-road, bouncing
and quick changes in direction can easily
throw you out of position. This could
cause you to lose control and crash.
So, whether you are driving on or off the
road, you and your passengers should
wear safety belts.
Scanning the Terrain
Off-road driving can take you over many different
kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with
the terrain and its many different features.
Here are some things to consider.
Surface Conditions: Off-roading can take you
over hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass,
sand, mud, snow, or ice. Each of these surfaces
affects the steering, acceleration, and braking
of your vehicle in different ways. Depending
upon the kind of surface you are on, you may
experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning,
delayed acceleration, poor traction, and longer
braking distances.
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