ATV Buying Guide
If you’ve had your eye on ATVs then you might be looking for some help in choosing the right one. In one sense, there is no “right” or “best” ATVs. The right or best one for you is the model that does what you want it to do. If you’re a rancher, the right ATVs for you won’t be of interest to the guy who plans to race ATVs, and vice versa. In this ATV buying guide, we’ll walk you through the types available so you can choose the right ATV for you.
Types of ATVs
Sport ATVs: These are designed to be fast, agile and as light as possible. Engine capacities range from about 250cc to nearly 750cc, with very responsive engines and gearing designed for acceleration and speed. They are built light, yet these all terrain vehicles have very heavy suspensions. Why? Those who ride them often take them over jumps, whether on a race course, on the trail or off the beaten path. The enhanced suspension also helps in cornering at speed. Sport ATVs are sometimes called Performance ATVs for obvious reasons.
Sport ATVs get modified quite a bit with more than 1000 accessories currently available. Mud tires, sand tires, all-purpose tires are just a few examples of how you can customize a Sport ATV for your use. Sanctioned races are available for serious riders of Sport ATVs.
Utility ATVs: These are the most popular models on the market because they are more versatile than Sport models. Utility all terrain vehicles are designed for ranchers, farmers, foresters, and others who use them in their work. But like SUVs, ATVs have become very popular with all types of consumers. Utility models are the top choice with hunters, campers, and those who enjoy using them for work and play around their own property.
Utility ATVs feature cargo racks, powerful motors, short-travel suspensions, and other features suited to their use. Automatic transmissions and 4-wheel drive are very popular options. While Sport ATVs are mostly one-person rides, Utility models often have a 2-up seat for driver and passenger.
Side by Side ATVs: Also known by the symbol SxS or called Rhinos, these models resemble golf carts with side by side seating, but the engines and suspensions on them are ATV-grade all the way. They’re great for tooling around the campground, and golf or retirement community. In many states, they can be registered for use on surface streets. Side by Side ATVs are also found on construction sites, farms, ranches, on the floors of large factories, and in other work settings.
Youth ATVs: Just like it says, these models feature smaller frames and appropriately-sized engines as low small as 50cc, with 100cc and 125cc models also popular. Some Youth ATVs also stipulate a weight limit between 100 and 150lbs.
Summary
Which ATV type sounds right for you? Take some time to explore online the different options. Do some comparison shopping and you’ll soon figure out which type makes the most sense for the way you plan to use it. Once you make your purchase, get your ATV properly registered, purchase protective gear for whoever will be riding, find designated trails on government land near you, and let the fun begin!