Are you looking for a new four-wheeler–but feel overwhelmed by all the different types of ATVs on the market? With so many brands pumping out sport, utility, and crossover models each year, it can be a challenge to whittle down your options.
In this article, we’ll give you a brief overview of each type of ATV and list some top-rated models and brands in each vertical. Plus, we’ll provide some tips for choosing the right all-terrain vehicle for you (including tips for storing your new quad properly)!
All Types of ATVs: Sport to Utility and Beyond
With their powerful engines and rugged designs, ATVs are known for delivering thrilling experiences across diverse terrains. Sport models have stronger suspensions and higher-quality disk brakes for quick handling, while utility models are designed for towing, plowing, or working in challenging conditions.
Let’s take a look at the primary types of ATVs and their purposes:
Sport ATVs
Sport ATVs are the epitome of agility and speed, designed to easily navigate uneven and rugged terrain. The engines in sport ATVs range from 150 to 850cc, contributing to their agility, especially in racing scenarios.
The Yamaha YFZ450R is one of many notable sport quads. It boasts a 449cc fuel-injected engine, a custom aluminum and steel frame for better center-of-mass, and A-arm suspension that can keep up with aggressive trail riding. The mid-range engine is capable of speeds up to 55 MPH, which is more than enough for beginners, and even enough to keep intermediate riders entertained.
Yamaha YFZ450R, Image Courtesy of pop.yamahamotorsports.com
Utility ATVs
Utility ATVs, often referred to as the workhorses of the all-terrain vehicles world, are designed for practical applications. Equipped with features like short travel suspension and robust motors, these utility models are powerful and agile, perfect for heavy-duty work such as plowing snow, hauling small trailers, or herding cattle.
The Kawasaki Brute Force is one of the most reliable utility ATVs on the market and is available in both 300cc and 750cc models. One of the key features of the Brute Force-and utility ATVs in general–is the variable two-wheel/four-wheel drive. Switching to a low, 4WD gear is ideal for navigating through mud, snow, or other tough terrain, while the standard 2WD is great for zipping across fields or on dirt roads.
Kawasaki Brute Force 750, Image Courtesy of kawasaki.com
Youth ATVs
Youth ATVs offer a safe and exciting introduction to the world of ATVs for young riders. These vehicles are smaller, lighter, and ideal for recreational trail riding with the family.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission established engine sizes for youth ATVs, suggesting under 70cc for ages 6-11, 70-90cc for ages 12-15, and over 90cc for ages 16 and older, to ensure riders’ safety. (For more information on the recommended ATV size by age, check out this guide).
Youth ATVs commonly have the following features:
- Single-speed, automatic transmissions to help control power and reduce the risk of accidents
- Adult supervisory controls such as throttle limiters and remote shut-off switches
- Weight limits typically around 100 to 150 lbs, matching the lighter design of these vehicles
The Honda TRX90X is one of the best all-terrain vehicles for young riders. It has a no-clutch transmission, an 86cc engine, and a parental throttle limiter.
Honda TRX90X, Image Courtesy of powersports.honda.com
High-Performance Quads
If you’re an advanced rider looking for only the highest-performing ATVs on the market, you should keep a few in mind.
Popular models like Can-Am Outlander XT-P 1000 and Polaris Scrambler XP 1000 S are examples of leading high-performance quads in the market that deliver 91 and 89 horsepower, respectively. As high-performance quads, they’re ideal for experienced riders requiring high performance.
High-performance quads have top-of-the-line parts, making them desirable among ATV enthusiasts. For instance, the Can-Am Outlander uses Fox 1.5 podium QS3 shocks, providing 11-inch clearance, while the Scrambler boasts an impressive 14.5 inches of ground clearance thanks to Walker Evans three-way adjustable shocks.
Can-Am Outlander, Image Courtesy of can-am.brp.com
Multi-Purpose Four Wheelers
Multi-purpose four-wheelers are the perfect blend of sport and utility ATVs. These four-wheelers offer flexibility, whether you need them for work or play–making them an ideal choice for hunters, occasional thrill-seekers, and homesteaders.
Yamaha’s Grizzly 700, for example, is equipped with robust Ultramatic transmission, a potent 686cc engine, and nitrogen-preloaded KYB shock absorbers for comfort and visibility.
On the other hand, the Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon is known for its unique DCT automatic transmission, suitable for both work and leisure.
Yamaha Grizzly, Image Courtesy of yamahamotorsports.com
Making the Right Choice: Which ATV Suits You?
Before buying an ATV, identify the types of ATVs that would suit your skills as a rider, and the applications you need them for..
For example, beginners should prioritize ATVs that have automatic transmissions, power steering, and low centers of gravity. Smaller displacement ATVs like the Polaris Sportsman 570 are great for new riders.
For seasoned riders, larger engine sizes, such as 1000cc, offer better power and endurance on challenging tracks and off-road conditions.
A follow-up consideration should always be the type of drive mechanism the ATV uses. Chain drives allow for easy gear ratio changes, aiding in optimized ATV performance on various terrains. However, they come with the trade-off of increased maintenance. On the other hand, shaft drives offer less maintenance but limited gear customization.
Keep Your ATV Safe for Years to Come
Whether you decide on a sport model for intensive trail riding, or a utility ATV for work on the farm, keeping them well-maintained and safe is key for their longevity.
UV rays, rain, snow, and dust can damage your ATV if exposed for long periods of time, so part of your purchase process should be finding a place to store your new ATV.
Most types of ATVs are around 7 feet long, and between 3-4 feet wide, so they easily fit in garages or climate-controlled sheds and barns.
However, if you just don’t have the space to spare, you should consider a storage unit. There are many local storage solutions that will keep your ATV safe and out of the elements. Neighbor.com is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, with local hosts offering up safe and vetted space for an affordable price. Check out all the storage options in your town to find the right fit for your ATV storage needs.
