As snowfall thickens, it’s expected that the hunt for the best ATV for snow plowing will begin. With a focus on utility and endurance, our guide reveals industry-leading ATVs, all tailored for high-performance snow removal.
But what distinguishes an ATV built for plowing mounds of snow from an ATV built for recreational trail riding? For starters, the weight. The heavier the ATV, the more snow-plowing-friendly it is–simply because more weight equals more power.
You should also look for an ATV with power steering. With the weight of a heavy pile of snow loaded onto the front of your vehicle, your ATV will be more difficult to steer.
Transmission type, tire tread, and blade size are three other factors to consider.
Now, it’s time to bundle up and start shopping for your winter-storm-ready ATV. .
Key Takeaway
- Key features that enhance an ATV’s snow-plowing capabilities include; a powerful engine, electric power steering, 4WD systems, and adaptive tires.
The Best ATVs for Plowing Snow: Our Top-Rated Picks
All-terrain vehicles, popularly known as ATVs, are known for their superior performance and durability, making them ideal for snowy/icy conditions. With many new ATV models in the market (and plenty more to be released), there’s no shortage of snow-plowing-friendly ATVs on the market.
#5: Polaris Sportsman 850
- Average Price: $5,710 – $10,699
- Notable Features:
- Feature steel reinforced racks
- Industry-leading 360 lb capacity
- 575 lb of payload capability.
- Polaris HD Winch with synthetic rope to haul heavy loads
The Polaris Sportsman 850 is a powerhouse in the snow. This brand of ATV for snow removal is equipped with a powerful engine and an electric power steering system to effectively remove snow. With this beast, plowing through snow becomes less of a chore and more of an adventure.
#4: Can-Am Outlander Series
- Average Price: $6,699 – $10,849
- Notable Features:
- Boasts iTC throttle-by-wire that helps in smooth power delivery off-road
- 1,650-lb towing capacity that makes snow hauling easy
Next on our list is the Can-Am Outlander series, considered by many to be the best ATV for snow removal. These ATVs are known for their versatility and robustness. With a plow mount and electric start, the Can-Am Outlander is ready to take on the worst winter storms.
#3: Yamaha Grizzly EPS
- Average Price: $7,865 – $11,399
- Notable Features:
- Boasts 26-inch high traction for easy plowing on a snowy surface
- Potent 686cc engine that keeps the ATV fired up while plowing
The Yamaha Grizzly EPS is not just a trail-riding pro but also a snow-plowing champion. This ATV has a powerful engine and a fuel injection system, which ensure consistent performance–even in the coldest of temperatures.
#2: Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4 ES EPS: Built for the Cold
- Average Price: $8,899 – $10,599
- Notable features:
- Easy-to-operate one-lever reverse gear that is ideal for snow plowing.
- A 518 cc engine that delivers the quick acceleration needed for hauling and towing.
Built for the cold, the Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4 ES EPS is another top choice for snow plowing. This ATV features an electric shift program that allows for smooth gear transitions. This feature is helpful when plowing snow, as constant shifting between forward and reverse is required.
The FourTrax Foreman is also equipped with snow tires that provide excellent traction. Additionally, this model ATV comes with an easy-to-install plow attachment for those planning on using the FourTrax Foreman for snow-plowing.
#1: Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS
- Average Price: $8,499 – $10,999
- Notable Features:
- Heavy-duty plow blade and a rubber plow flap that prevents snow from blowing into your face.
- A 54-inch plow system
The Yamaha Kodiak 700 EPS is the ATV you’ll want to purchase if you’re seeking a combination of pure strength and efficiency. Its adjustable plow height feature grants the operator control over the plowing experience, allowing them to customize according to the different heights of snowfalls. This rare feature, in addition to the ATV’s large cargo area, makes it the ideal choice for snow-plowing tasks.
Essential Features for an Optimal Snow-Plowing ATV
Before selecting an ATV, there are several features you must look out for to ensure you get the best ATV that suits your needs. To select the most ideal ATV for optimal performance, you must check out the following features:
Tires for Superior Grip
During snowy conditions, surfaces are expected to get slippery. Fortunately, navigating snowy terrains can be seamless with the right tire tread.
Below are some key features to search for in winter tires:
- Lug patterns that are wide-angled to help you get a good grip in the wet snow.
- Grooves that are deeply angled for good traction on compacted snow.
- Strong sidewalls for stability during plowing and for enhanced handling.
Engine Size Matters: Finding the Right Power
When it comes to snow-plowing efficiency, the engine size plays a massive role.
Bigger ATVs with engines ranging from 400cc to 800cc are perfect for plowing through snow easily and for managing weighty snow plow attachments. Overall, a larger, heavier ATV is a must in areas affected by severe winter storms (places where snowfall can exceed 2 feet).
The Right Transmission Type for Smooth Operation
The type of transmission can affect the ATV’s ability to plow through the snow. Certain types of transmissions allow for smoother plowing operations.
Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) are highly recommended for snow-plowing because they can handle very heavy loads. After being properly warmed up, they perform exceptionally well during colder conditions.
A good example is the Honda FourTrax Foreman equipped with Electric Shift (ES), which provides an easy-to-use method of shifting gears using buttons, significantly improving the snow plowing experience.
The Role of Electric Power Steering in Winter Conditions
Some ATVs, like the Yamaha Grizzly 450 and the Yamaha Grizzly 700, have Electric Power Steering (EPS), and their audience loves them. EPS offers the following benefits:
- It reduces the physical stress of steering, especially for disabled users.
- It helps make frequent direction changes
- EPS helps to regulate your speed by adjusting itself to suit your speed level, making it easier to control.
Importance of 4WD Systems for Uncompromised Traction
ATVs like the Polaris Sportsman XP 1000, Can-Am Outlander XT, Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4×4, Yamaha Grizzly EPS, and Kawasaki Brute Force 750 4x4i are equipped with 4×4 systems that significantly enhance traction and control. But how? For starters, their 4WD systems improve an ATV’s hauling capacity. An ATV’s hauling capacity, which refers to its ability to pull or carry heavy loads, is closely linked to the level of control a rider has, especially when maneuvering in challenging conditions like snow. With the flexibility to switch between 2WD and 4WD, riders can adjust to varying snow conditions for optimal traction.
Fuel Injection: A Cold Weather Ally
Electronic fuel injection systems (EFI) in ATVs play a vital role in boosting the vehicle’s performance during the winter season. The EFI ensures that the ATV maintains constant operation and delivers reliable power regardless of harsh weather conditions. This is possible because the EFI system can automatically adjust the fuel-air mixture, optimizing combustion at different temperatures.
When an ATV, like The Yamaha Grizzly EPS, has an EFI combined with special tires made for grip on icy terrains, it’s destined for success in snowy conditions.
Storing Your ATV After Snow Plowing
Congratulations, you are the new owner of an ATV! But after clearing up your driveways and sidewalks, where do you store your vehicle?
Picking the right storage location is crucial–not only to protect your ATV from the elements but also to keep it in optimal condition for the next winter. When storing your vehicle, you must ensure that it is shielded from snow, ice, and moisture. To do so, you could store it in the garage, a shed, or even under a customized ATV cover.
Don’t have room for your ATV on your property? Neighbor is your surest bet if your garage is cluttered and you need a safe, secure, and well-maintained space to store your vehicle. They are also affordable and have great customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ATV Size Is Best for Snow Plowing?
The most ideal ATV size for plowing ranges from 500cc to 700cc.
Who Makes the Best ATV for Snow Plowing?
Honda makes exceptional ATVs, and their best model is the Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon.
Can a 2-Wheel Drive ATV Plow Snow?
Yes, a 2-wheel drive ATV can plow snow, but not as good as a 4-wheeler.
