Buying the Right ATV
Whether you’re looking for a compact workhorse or a powerful and thrilling way to explore nature, chances are you need an ATV! But these machines come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and specialties, so getting the right one for the job can be tricky.
We here at East Bay Motorsports want to help you find the perfect ride, so we’ve put together some tips for buying the perfect ATV, below. To learn more, or to see the ATVs we have for sale, contact our store in Hayward, California, today!
Purpose
ATVs generally come in two categories. Utility ATVs, not to be confused with utility terrain vehicles, are the most common type. These are boxy, bulky, and powerful and tend to include features like cargo racks and two-up seating (meaning there’s seating for two people). They’re most often used for work projects, but the durable build also makes them good for long hours of trail riding.
Sport ATVs, to contrast, are much sleeker machines. They have better suspension systems to handle bumps at high speeds better and are built and used for one purpose: thrill. If you’re looking for a perfect adrenaline-rush of a machine, you want a sport ATV.
Terrain Type
As the name suggests, an all-terrain vehicle can handle just about anything nature can throw at it. That said, most ATVs are built as jacks-of-all-trades, meaning that any specialized riding may require a more specialized model. If you want an ATV that’s better at tackling looser terrains like sand or mud, for instance, you’ll need to find models with more insulated exhaust systems, mud tires, and more. You can buy aftermarket upgrades if you’re heart is set on a more generalized model, but that’s extra money.
Size
There are plenty of different sizes out there, and both compact and larger options have their advantages. Smaller models will be better at navigating tight trails and ones with width-restrictions, and they also tend to mean a lighter vehicle, which boosts agility and fuel economy. They’re also better for shorter-than-average riders who might struggle to reach the controls otherwise.
Larger ATVs, meanwhile, tend to pack more power, storage space, and potentially seating. They’ll also fit taller-than-average riders who would be cramped on a smaller vehicle.
Riding Level
The size will also impact how easy the machine is to ride. Bigger means more engine power, which means a more difficult learning curve for anyone just starting out.
Ready to see what the right ATV can do for you? If you have any questions, or you’re just ready to browse through the ATVs we have in stock, contact us at East Bay Motorsports. We proudly serve the people of the Bay Area in California—let us serve you today!