ATV buyer’s guide: Choosing the right ATV

Choosing the right ATV can be an overwhelming task, especially for beginner riders. With so many options available in the market, it’s important to know what to look for when selecting an ATV. Here are some key factors to consider when searching for your perfect ride.

Purpose of use

The first thing to consider is the purpose for your ATV. Are you planning to ride for leisure, such as trail riding or exploring the great outdoors? Or will you be using your ATV for work-related duties, like transporting goods or navigating uneven ground on a building site? It will be easier for you to narrow down the option and select the best one once you determine what you want to use it for.

Engine size and power

Take into account the size and power of the engine of your ATV based on your riding style and degree of experience. ATV engines range from 50cc to 1000cc, and the size you pick will depend on how you plan to use it. If the ATV is intended for work purposes – carrying heavy loads and navigating through rough terrain – a larger engine size is the most suitable. If you plan to use the ATV for leisure purposes like trail riding or racing, choose a smaller engine size.

Using Engine Size As A Guide:

• 50cc: Built for children under 12 years old
• 70cc – 125cc: For young riders between 12 and 16 years old
• 200cc – 400cc: For young riders over 16 with some riding experience
• 450cc – 1000cc: Only for adults, experience allows for riding larger models

Size and comfort

Make sure the ATV you pick is the right size for you and feels comfy to ride. Think about things like how high the seat is and where the handlebars are. Trying out different ATVs will help you figure out which one feels best for you.

Type of terrain

When choosing an ATV, it’s important to think about the type of terrain you’ll be driving on. Some ATVs work better on certain types of ground than others. Below are several typical terrain types along with the most suitable types of ATVs for each:

Technology and accessories

Nowadays ATVs offer the latest technologies so you need to evaluate the features offered by different models to determine which one suits your needs. For example, Can-Am offers Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) for easy, direct speed-sensitive steering assistance with more power at lower speeds to reduce steering effort and less at higher speeds for maximum feel for the rider. The Can-Am Renegade, equipped with its Rotax engine, incorporates Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) to deliver optimal comfort and control. With Standard, ECO, and Sport modes, iTC throttle-by-wire helps smooth power delivery off-road.

Budget

Figure out how much money you can spend on buying an ATV. Make sure to think about how much money you can spend not just on the ATV itself, but also on things like maintenance, insurance, gas, and any extra accessories for it. It can be tempting to get the fanciest ATV out there, but it’s better to focus on getting one that fits you well and is within your budget. Some dealers offer flexible financing options, allowing weekly or monthly payments at affordable rates.

Research and Comparison

Conduct extensive research and comparison shopping across various ATV brands, models, and configurations. Visit a local ATV dealership to ask questions about specifications and financing options. There are plenty of videos online, and user reviews that could help you gather insights to make a decision. Ask around – recommendations from friends and fellow riders are always helpful.

What are the different types of ATVs?

Before buying an ATV, it’s important to note that there are many different models to choose from. Most ATVs can be divided into a few key categories:

• Utility ATV – the most common ATV type. Mostly used for work or hunting as it has a large engine, short travel suspensions and additional attachments. Examples include Polaris Sportsman 570, Yamaha Grizzly, and Can-Am Outlander.
• Sport ATV – Lightweight and agile, suitable for trail riding. and climbing up and down mountainsides. They offer powerful engines and strong suspension. Some examples include Yamaha Raptor 700, Suzuki Z400, Honda TRX450R, and Polaris Scrambler XP 1000.
• Youth ATV – smaller in size, designed for introducing younger riders to ATV riding. They typically require little to no fuel, have a weight limit of 100 to 150 lbs, and either have an automatic drive or no gears at all. Examples: Power Wheels Dune Racer and Razor Dirt Quad 24V
• Side-by-Side ATV – all-terrain-vehicles, they have two front seats, and sometimes two back seats for transporting passengers and freight. These ATVs are perfect for outdoor exploration with a companion. Examples include Honda Pioneer 1000, Kawasaki Mule Pro, and Polaris RZR XP

How much is an ATV?

If you’re planning to buy a used ATV, keep in mind that the price should directly reflect the following:

• ATV condition
• Model year and mileage
• Features and Accessories

New four-wheelers cost, on average, between $5,000 and $16,000, but it depends on the model you want to purchase. Buying a pricier ATV can allow you to own a model offering more performance for outdoor adventures. Sport and Utility ATV are built with engines ranging from 350cc to 1000cc. If you’re a beginner rider, it’s better to start with a lower model with basic features.

Protecting your 4-wheeler

The moment you decide to purchase an ATV, you should start planning how to protect it from theft and damage. The best way to protect your ATV at home is to store it in a garage or shed, and use a cover to shield it from dust, rain, and moisture. You can enhance security with CCTV cameras and motion sensor lights to deter intruders at night.

Locks are one of the most popular ways to secure your vehicle, and there are plenty to choose from. Make sure to invest in a durable, high-quality wheel lock or steering wheel lock, and always lock your ATV when it’s not in use.

Anti-theft alarm systems like the Monimoto GPS tracker are one of the most effective ways to track down your ATV in case of theft. Monimoto monitors your vehicle 24/7 and will send you a phone call alert if it detects suspicious activity. You can then track your ATV via the Monimoto app and see it’s real-time location. Due to its small size and wireless design, Monimoto allows for various mounting options and can be easily transported from one vehicle to another.

Again, when traveling, don’t forget to take wheel locks with you, or, even better, a lockable trailer where you can safely store your ATV. When parking during stops, choose monitored, well-lit parking spaces. Lastly, keep all the necessary insurance documents with you and take photos of your ATV before traveling for insurance purposes.

Conclusion

As ATV is a significant investment, you should choose wisely to make sure it meets your needs. Start by thinking about the purpose of your ATV, consider the terrain and the features you’d like to have. Choose the vehicle that fits your budget and offers the best value without compromising quality. Once you’ve selected your ATV, don’t forget the importance of protecting your investment! Using a combination of security options such as locks and anti-theft GPS trackers, and storing your ATV in a garage will provide added peace of mind.