ATV Buying Guide: How To Pick the Best ATV for Your Needs

Tired of being a passenger? Or maybe looking to make work life easier with a new ride? Buying an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) can be overwhelming, especially with so many available options. In this ATV buying guide, we’ll simplify the buying process and provide tips to help you choose the best ATV for your needs! By the end, you’ll be well on your way to riding the ATV you’ve always dreamt of.

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So, What is an ATV Really?

An ATV, aka All-Terrain Vehicle or 4-wheeler, isn’t just a vehicle to get you from point A to point B. These off-road vehicles are also functional tools. By this, I mean they can assist in pulling stuck objects/vehicles, hauling, plowing snow, carrying gear on hunting trips, etc.

These machines can power through snow, rivers, mud, fields, and even roads so icy that you can barely walk on them. I can go on and on about the functionality and benefits of owning an ATV bike, but that’s not what this post is about. Off-roading quads (ATVs) are perfect companions for all kinds of activities, from recreational mudding to practical farm work, to pretty much everything in between – within reason. 😉

Just to clarify, ATVs are also known as quads and four-wheelers. I know, confusing, right?!?

ATV Basics: How To Buy an ATV and What to Consider

So, what do you look for when buying an ATV? Well, how about answering these questions first? Your answers will help narrow down your four-wheeler choices.

• What is the riding purpose of the ATV? Do you plan on racing? Using it for work tasks, hitting off-road trails or a bit of everything?
• Do you plan on taking passengers? If so, you need to purchase a 2-up seat to be legal. Different types of quads may have different wheelbases, so this is something else to consider before making your ATV purchase.
• What engine size and power do you need? Options generally range from 500cc to 1000cc. My ATV is 500cc and has more than enough power for general riding, though a bit more would be nice for towing my boat. Side-by-sides are typically 850cc and can handle the increased weight.

Jumping into an engine size is not so simple. Double-check with your insurance company first, before deciding. Insurance premiums may be higher for anything over 500cc. Fuel-wise, larger engines aren’t an issue, as the cost of fuel for a 3-4 hour trip in the bush is about $8, a worthwhile entertainment expense.

ATV Buying: What Brands to Look For

OK, so what brand of ATV should I look for? Well, there are so many brands out there, but the best ATV brands that dominate the market are: Can-Am, Yamaha, Honda, Polaris, Arctic Cat, Kawasaki, and Suzuki. On the trails, the most popular models are from the first four.

If you have buddies who ride, ask for their ATV reviews and opinions. Personal experiences are the most valuable ATV comparisons you can get. Try to remember if your buds ever complained about any problems they had with their machine.

As for me, my quad bike is a Can-Am Outlander XT, and the side-by-side is a Yamaha Wolverine X4. Both have been dependable rides with no major problems.

Choosing between these popular brands will boil down to preference and local dealership availability. Before you settle on an ATV model, see if parts are readily available, and if there is a community of fellow ATV riders you can lean on for advice and support.

Different Types of Quads

There are three main types of ATVs – Sport, Utility, and Sport Utility. 

For younger riders, there are youth ATVs with speed limiters and reduced power, perfect for introducing them to off-road vehicles before graduating to more beastly and powerful adult ATVs.

What to Look for When Choosing an ATV Model

When selecting an ATV model, look for features that make your ride comfortable, versatile and packed with power. If you choose a sports ATV or sports quad, check its handling, suspension system, speed, acceleration, and stance. All-wheel drive ATVs are designed for serious trail performance, while rear-wheel models offer a more aggressive racing experience.

For utility ATVs or utility quads, focus on ground clearance, rear independent suspension for a smoother ride, integrated hitches for towing capacity, and racks for storage. Don’t forget to look at tire size and tread. Most models come with standard all-around performance tires – pick more specialized low-pressure tires for specific terrains. Tires need to be suited to your needs!

Remember: ATV tires come in various sizes, tread patterns, and depths for different conditions, such as all-terrain tires, sand, mud/water, rock crawling tires, snow/ice, hard packed, and soft trail tires.

A SxS Adventure

Essential ATV Accessories

Even without a dolled-up ATV, you can still have a blast on the trails. Speaking from experience, there are a few features that will make your ride more comfortable, safe and open for a longer season. Investing in the right accessories can mean the difference between loving and hating your brand-new ATV. Here is a list of ATV accessories to consider:

Cold Weather Features

Sometimes simple features can make or break an experience, like hand and thumb warmers on an ATV or flip-up windshields on a side-by-side. These cold-weather features will help you stay warm and extend your riding season. For those with used machines, don’t worry, you can always add these features later. Otherwise, a quick workaround is heated gloves.

Mirrors

Mirrors allow you to check on the rest of your group and make sure everyone is safe. Or reverse without putting yourself in a scary situation. Plus, if you notice a faster-moving group behind you, you can quickly signal them to pass or adjust your route to keep the ride enjoyable for everyone.

Both of my machines come equipped with mirrors. When choosing ATV mirrors, avoid those with too much protrusion, as they can get easily damaged in brushy areas.

Ours on the quad bike, for example, has a pole with a small adjustable circular mirror on the left handle. On the SxS, we mounted a centre rearview mirror.

Winch Kits

A winch is a must! Every serious ATV rider has one for tackling the toughest trails and unexpected obstacles, such as deep water or overgrown trails. When buying a winch, opt for a synthetic line — it’s a much easier fix in the field and no harder to use than a basic knot. 

I’ve experienced winching in the craziest places, such as going uphill with half the machine off the ground. And I even learned to winch backwards! You can even winch when there is nothing around to attach to, which is where a grappling hook comes in handy. Trust me, a winch will make all the difference when out ATVing.

Get a Hitch

If you plan on transporting or moving anything by ATV, you guessed it – get a hitch! A hitch is a phenomenal anchor point for rescue situations. The 3-in-1 hitch can also tow regular and riding lawnmower trailers, and it’s perfect for heavier items such as tractor carts. Not to mention, the 3-in-1 hitch is multi-use, giving you the most bang for your buck!

Depending on your needs and budget, other ATV accessories worth buying are racks, extenders, storage, bumpers and brush guards, plows, lighting, audio and speakers, track kits and hunting accessories.

Tips for After the Purchase

Before you go off driving your brand-new ATV into the sunset, there are some legal requirements you need to know about.

1. You must have an ATV helmet. I love the ZOX Journey helmet! It has a flip-up visor and mouthpiece. Makes drinking coffee or water easier. If you’re new to ATV riding, consider investing in some protective gear. A chest guard is wise to have in the event of a rollover.
2. Insurance is mandatory when you leave your property. 
3. Don’t forget about ATV trail passes, which are necessary for many trails. Be sure to check the pass requirements before you ride, and never trespass on private property without the landowner’s permission. Trespassing and insurance violations can get you into serious trouble.
4. Never venture into the woods or trail system without the ATV gear essentials: a grappling hook, tree savers, plenty of rope, and a saw. These few key items will help get you out of most situations.

Buy Smart! Best ATVs Buying Tips

Once you get on an ATV, you won’t come off! A quad bike is so versatile and opens you up to new adventures and endless possibilities. From using your ATV for hunting or ice fishing, to towing, ploughing, to even roughing it on the trails. Your ATV becomes your go-to all season long. Let’s recap a few ATV buying tips to help you buy smart and find the perfect ATV for your needs without blowing your budget:

1. As an ATV buyer, make sure you know how you plan on using the quad and the terrain you’ll be operating on. Certain models are built for specific activities and conditions which require a specific machine size and engine. Look at factors like four-wheel drive or all-terrain capability, towing capacity, and ground clearance.
2. Research the type of ATV you are considering, its benefits and features, and the manufacturers that produce them. Check for warranty coverage, and don’t forget to review the safety features. Look into the suspension system, independent suspension, and electronic power steering options. Check out customer reviews from third-party sources and ratings to understand which models consistently deliver a quality ride and trail performance.
3. Compare prices online, then shop around for the best prices and finance options.
4. Remember to test the ATV before buying, which is the best part of shopping 😉 A test drive will give you a sense of riding stability, ease of control, seat comfort, and body positioning. It also gives you a chance to feel out the ATV’s acceleration, handling, and mud performance (if there is any).

Concluding Buying an ATV

Walking into an ATV dealership is no longer overwhelming, especially now that you know what to look for. Take your time looking and dodge the salesperson until you are ready to choose the right ATV for you! 🙂 Know that whether you’reracing sport quads, using utility ATVs for work tasks, trail riding, hunting trips, family fun, or a bit of everything, there’s a perfect machine out there for you!

If you go with a used ATV, we offer some great maintenance tips for putting the machine into service.

👉 What’s the first thing you look for when buying an ATV?

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