Renting a powersports vehicle through ThrottleShare is straightforward, but if it's your first time, a few things are worth knowing in advance. This guide walks through everything from finding the right listing to returning the machine — so your day on the trails or water starts smoothly.
How ThrottleShare works
ThrottleShare is a peer-to-peer marketplace — you're renting directly from the person who owns the vehicle, not from a rental shop. This means lower prices, more variety, and access to vehicles in locations that traditional shops don't cover. The owner handles pickup and return. You pay through the platform (secure), communicate through the platform's messaging system, and the platform holds your deposit until the rental is complete without incident.
Choosing the right listing for your experience level
Be honest about your experience. If you've never ridden an ATV, don't book a 700cc performance machine — book a 250–400cc beginner-friendly option and say so in your message to the owner. Owners appreciate honesty and will match you with what's appropriate. If you've never been on a jet ski, a standard 3-seat recreational PWC at moderate speed is very manageable. If you've never paddled a kayak, a wide, stable sit-on-top recreational kayak is far easier than a touring model.
- Complete beginner: 250–400cc ATV, wide recreational kayak, golf cart, basic pontoon with experienced adult driver
- Some experience: 500–700cc ATV, standard jet ski, 2-seat UTV
- Experienced: Full range — 4-seat UTV, performance jet ski, lifted Jeep, dirt bike
What to check before booking
- Read the listing description fully — what experience level does the owner recommend?
- Check the owner's reviews — what do previous renters say about machine condition and pickup experience?
- Confirm what's included — helmet, PFD, paddles, fuel, trailer access?
- Verify the pickup location and logistics — is it at their home? A trailhead? A dock?
- Understand the cancellation policy before you confirm
What you need to bring
- Valid driver's license or state ID
- A payment method (your card is held for the security deposit)
- Closed-toe shoes — required for ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes (flip-flops are a liability)
- Appropriate clothing — long pants for ATVs/UTVs, swimwear or quick-dry for watercraft
- Sunscreen, water, snacks for full-day rentals
- Any personal protective gear specified in the listing (some owners require your own helmet)
At pickup — what to expect
Expect a brief walkthrough from the owner. They'll show you how to operate the machine, point out anything worth knowing (known trail conditions, machine quirks, fuel level), and walk you through the condition of the vehicle. This is normal and protects both of you — pay attention. If anything seems off about the machine's condition, note it and confirm with the owner before you leave. Don't skip this step and try to return later claiming pre-existing damage.
If something goes wrong
Contact the owner immediately through the platform messaging. If the machine breaks down in a remote area, call the owner and stay with the vehicle unless safety requires otherwise. Don't attempt mechanical repairs you're not qualified to make — this can be considered misuse. ThrottleShare's support team is available if you and the owner can't resolve an issue directly.