Choosing The Proper ATV For Your Particular Needs

Many people insist that all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), sometimes known as quad bikes or quads, are designed and built to be workhorses for jobs on farms and building sites. But in reality they are used as much as fun and sports vehicles as they are for hard graft.

To put it simply an all-terrain vehicle resembles a motorbike with 4 large wheels. The driver straddles the ATV and steers it with handlebars. The large, thick wheels and powerful engines, generally around five hundred cc make them suitable for traveling on any kind of terrain. However, all-terrain vehicles can range anywhere in engine size from fifty cc to 1,000cc.

Quad bikes are produced by many of the big motorbike manufacturers, such as Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. There are 2 chief varieties of quad bikes – utility and sport. Utility ATVs are meant for practical use like on the farm, while sport quads are designed for leisure activities.

There are a few big differences between the two. Sports quads are lighter and quicker and are meant for jumps and stunts.

Utility quad bikes are slower and heavier, and are generally meant for dealing with tougher ground and for dragging heavy objects.

Other popular varieties of all-terrain vehicles are youth quads, for children and teenagers, and side-by-sides, which have two seats and often have roll bars, so are more akin to buggies.

There is a large range of accessories on sale for all-terrain vehicles and quad bike owners. These include safety gear like helmets, eye wear, chest protectors and protective gloves, in addition to shirts, shorts and jerseys.

Despite the wide availability of protective gear, ATVs have developed a reputation for being hazardous. There have been a number of fatalities and injuries associated with quad bikes, though sometimes due to improper use.

However, because they can reach high speeds on rough terrain, safety should always be a concern. Here are some hints on the best way to stay safe on an all-terrain vehicle:

* Drive slowly, especially when you are starting out. ATVs do not handle like other vehicles, and tend to drift at high speeds. Familiarize yourself with how to handle the quad before increasing your speed.

* It is important to wear a helmet and chest protector.

* If you use your quad for fun, start off on easy ground. Find some beginners' tracks with no very steep slopes or rough surfaces until your skills develop.

* Make sure your all-terrain vehicle in top condition. Like any vehicle they need regular maintenance. Always check brakes and tires when you take your quad bike out, and regularly check cables, oil, coolant, chain and filters.

Quad bikes usually cost about $5,000 to $10,000 and there is a big demand for second hand vehicles. So, whether you require a workhorse or a sports all-terrain vehicle, you should be able to locate the best ATV for you.

Jim is an independent writer with over twenty five years of editorial experience. Jim is currently employed as a publicist with our b2b site and is considered the resident specialist on recreational vehicles. Visit our great web portal for additional information on 250cc Atv and 50cc Atv.