ATV stand for all-terrain vehicles, and these are vehicles that you can use on different types of terrains, as the name suggests. They are most common in rural areas since they make driving through difficult terrains effortless.
You can also use them in urban areas for all kinds of purposes. But there’s more to ATV than just being a vehicle for different types of surfaces, and this article will take you through the key things you should know about ATV.
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What Does ATVs Stand For?
ATVs stand for all-terrain vehicles. These vehicles are specifically designed for use on different type of surfaces. The type of surfaces that you can use ATVs on are pavement, snow, sand, dirt, and muddy surfaces. ATVs are very popular due to their all-round versatility and flexibility through different terrains.
They are also called quads or four-wheelers, and in most cases, they are ridden straddle-style like motorcycles. Another similarity they share with motorcycles is that they have handlebars which aids steering. Unlike motorcycles that have two wheels ATVs have four wheels that have deep ridged and wide tires.
The meaning of ATV can vary depending on the industry where it is used. As a medical term, ATV means Automatic Transport Ventilator, which is a battery-powered or gas-powered ventilator that is used in migrating patient through different locations. The meaning is different in the automotive industry, and it generally describes vehicles with huge low-pressure, non-pneumatic tires with handlebars.
ATVs have a unique design that enhances off-road use more than pave roads or highway use. They have multiple features that enhances their rigidity in the areas where they are used. There are currently two categories of ATVs which are the type I and type II categories.
- Type I ATVs can only accommodate the rider.
- Type II ATVs have roof for a passenger in addition to the rider.
Getting Familiar with ATVs
ATVs are designed with four huge tires which enhances their traction and allows the vehicle to move with ease over difficult terrain. They are also designed with seats, and depending on the type you have, the ATV can have two seats, or only one seat for the rider alone.
There are also ATV models that feature an area especially for storage purposes. Sometimes, the storage space may be in front of the vehicle, and in other cases, it may be at the back of the vehicle. With this space, you can easily store different items, including special gear.
Regardless of the ATV model that you get, what you should understand is that they are mostly powered by gasoline engines. Another thing that you should note is that they also come either as four-wheel drive or two-wheel drive vehicles.
With the two-wheel drive options, you are a bit limited because they are only perfect for flat terrain. That’s not the case with the four-wheel drive options, as they can handle a wider range of terrains.
What Are the Features That Make a Good ATV?
The features that make good ATVs depend on the driving conditions they are designed for. If you want to drive ATV or use it for hunting or farming, the features that you will get will be completely different from what you will get if you plan to use your ATV for off-road racing, and other similar driving conditions.
Basically, you need to consider what you intend to use the ATV for when buying. The terrain is the main factor that will determine whether the ATV is good or not. For instance, if you live in an area with much sand and mud, you won’t need an ATV that’s designed for use in environments with ice and snow.
In addition, you also need to consider the size of the ATV. As mentioned earlier there are ATVs that have two seats and can accommodate two people and there are also alternatives with only one seat. With that said, you need to ensure that you only choose one that suits you best.
How Fast Can an ATV Go?
The make and model of the ATV are the main factors that determine how fast the ATV can go. There are some ATVs that are designed to reach up to 60 miles per hour while others are only designed to reach 25 miles per hour.
Ultimately, the purpose the ATV is designed for is the main influencing factor of its speed.
What Are the Types of ATVs?
The types of ATVs depend on different factors which include the design of the ATV, and the purpose it is used for. Basically, ATV is a term that can be used for different types of vehicles which is why it comes in different styles.
Depending on the type of ATV you get, you can use them for recreational purposes, military applications, racing, and even for search-and-rescue applications. ATVs also come in different sizes and designs, which include 50cc youth models, and large utility models, like those that are more than 1,000cc motors.
The amenities and cargo capacities of these ATVs also varies, and this includes the many other features it comes with.
Sports ATVs are one of the most common types of ATVs available, and they come with either light or medium weight machines. They are mostly designed for recreation, because they have suspension travel and other features suitable for taking sharp turns, and racing over bumps.
Even though there are a few variations between the sports ATVs, it’s worth noting that they all have a limited towing and cargo capacity. The emphasis on these types of ATVs is mostly on maneuverability and speed.
Another common type of ATVs are the utility ATVs and they are designed for towing and hauling applications. These ATVs come with larger engines, which gives them the ability to perform towing and hauling tasks.
Utility ATVs come with 700cc engines capable of delivering enough torque. Another unique thing about utility ATVs is that they usually come with a cargo rack, which makes them perfect for hostile terrain.
The last type of ATVs to note is the Youth ATVs, and these are small models for kids. They mostly come without a transmission, and in cases where a transmission is present, it’s mostly an automatic transmission.
This is to make them easy to ride, which is a key feature for kids. One of the features peculiar to the Youth ATVs is the speed limiters, which increases safety and facilitates learning for kids.
What Are the Common ATV Models Available?
The common ATV models available include Suzuki King Quad, Kawasaki Brute Force, Yamaha Grizzlym and Honda FourTrax. There are many other models available on the market today, and they are all designed with distinctive features for individual variability, and difference in preference for ATVs.
One thing about each ATV model is that they have their unique strength and weaknesses. Before you buy an ATV, always ensure to understand these strengths and weaknesses and align them with your preference.
Apart from the models above, there are now revolutionary options on the market and examples include the Argo ATV and Sherp ATV. These options are growing in popularity by the day due to their uniqueness and flexibility in the features they provide.
With the Argo ATV, you get a six-wheeled vehicle with an impressive ability to ride through difficult terrain, while providing impressive maneuverability. All of these are in addition to the amphibious capabilities of the vehicle.
On the other hand, the Sherp ATV is suitable for every type of terrain. This includes sand, water, and snow terrains. It’s also why they are called tracked vehicles.
What Are the Important ATV Gears?
The important ATV gears include a range of aftermarket modifications and cargo accessories. However, if you want to be more specific, protective clothing, helmets, winchs, and first-aid are some of the notable ATV gears. Other than this, the toolkit is also something that must be kept in mind.
Here’s an overview of some of the important ATV gear you’ll need:
Protective Clothing
This includes jeans, long sleeves, and heavy boots. It’s important that you wear them when riding to offer you maximum protection and enhance safety. Also, with ATV gloves, your knuckles will be protected from thrown stones.
Another vital piece you need to wear is goggles, which provide safety for the eyes.
Helmets
Like riding a motorcycle or bicycle, you need a helmet when riding an ATV. This is to protect your head in the event of an accident or a crash. Crashes are usually unavoidable, especially for someone who mostly rides in a woody environment.
Therefore, the need to stay adequately protected cannot be overemphasized. Remember that a broken leg or arm will heal, but that’s the case with your head, as this can cause irreversible brain damage.
Winch
Even though they are designed for all-terrain riding, there are situations that can cause an ATV to get stuck. In such a situation, you may need assistance from a third party to help you tow out your ATV. With a winch, you can easily tie the cable around a pole or tree and pull it out yourself.
First-Aid Kit
Apart from having protective and safety features you also need to have a first air kit with you so you can easily attend to minor injuries like bruises and scrapes. Some of the items to include in the first aid kit include gauze, band-aid strips, analgesic and antibiotic ointments.
You also need an ace bandage for sprains and basically, every other vital item to include in a first-aid kit.
Toolkit
This last important ATV gear on our list is the toolkit, and you’ll need this so that you can easily perform minor repairs. The items to include in the toolkit are a Swiss army knife, tire gauge, duct tape, and adjustable wrenches. With these items, you can easily navigate every mishap you encounter.
Conclusion
Whether it’s a Sports ATV, Utility ATV, or a Youth ATV, it’s important to know everything about ATVs beginning, with what it stands for. We have highlighted the key things you should know in this article, which includes the following:
- ATVs stands for all-terrain vehicle and they are manufactured for off-road applications.
- Always learn the basics of an ATV after you buy one, and the things to learn include riding posture, turning, acceleration, braking, and navigation inclines.
- The important ATV gear you need includes helmets, protective clothing, a toolkit, a winch, and a first aid kit.
Buying an ATV is a worthy investment, and it’s very helpful both in enjoying free time and at work. There are also other benefits that come with riding an ATV which includes stress relief, endorphin release, exercise, and more.
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