Whether you’re exploring an offroading trail or making your own, an ATV is the perfect tool to do it. But if your ATV is a standard one-seated and you want to safely bring a friend or family member on your adventure, you’re going to need to buy a rear seat. We here at East Bay Motorsports want to help you get to exploring sooner rather than later, so we’ve put together a brief buying guide to help you buy a rear seat for your ATV. To learn more, or to see the ATVs and ATV accessories we have for sale, contact our store in Hayward, California, today!

Why Do I Need One?

There are a number of reasons why you might want a rear seat for your ATV. First and most importantly, if you want to bring along a partner, it simply isn’t safe without a real seat. There are many trails and parks that won’t allow multiple people to ride an ATV with only one seat.

Second, many rear seats come with built-in storage compartments for securely carrying supplies and gear, often arranged as the back and arm rests of the seat itself. ATVs are fun, but they lack in the storage department. Buying a rear seat can be your way of killing two birds with one purchase! 

But Really: Storage

It’s worth emphasizing how useful some storage compartments can be on an ATV. Whether you’re riding out to your favorite fishing spot, taking your ATV on a hunting trip, or just cruising around off-road, there are always supplies you need. First aid kits, hunting or fishing gear, snacks, water, and valuables are just a few items that will benefit from secure storage. 

How Much Seat Do I Need?

Remember that an ATV tends to be a bumpy ride. You’ll want to make sure any passenger you bring along will have adequate room and padding to ensure they don’t get bruised by every pebble you ride over. Keep your intended passenger’s frame and size in mind when looking at potential seats. We also recommend at least 2” of closed-cell foam to ensure they stay as comfortable as possible.

What Material Should It Be?

Next, consider what material you want the seat to be made from. Always, always aim for a waterproof material when it’s an option—after all, you don’t take your ATV off-roading to stay dry and bored. Polyester is a good starting point, but leather and artificial leather are also common. Keep in mind how waterproof the material is, whether it offers extra padding, and what kind of upkeep it requires to remain intact.

We hope this guide helps you find the perfect ATV rear seat! For more information, or to see the ATVs and ATV parts we have available, contact us at East Bay Motorsports. We proudly serve the people of the Bay Area in California—let us serve you today!