How Do I Choose an ATV or UTV?
We want to help you pick the right All-terrain Vehicle (ATV) or Utility-terrain Vehicle (UTV).
ATVs and UTVs are extremely useful tools. They have many uses for landowners, farmers, and even for those who just want to have a lot of fun.
There are quite a few considerations you need to think through before buying a four-wheeler.
Here they are one-by-one.
Weight
The first thing we need to consider is weight.
For sport machines, you want the highest horsepower to weight ratio.
If it is being used as a work vehicle for cargo and towing, light weight is not helpful. Heavier weight is your friend.
ATVs have the best horsepower to weight ratios where you can see 750cc or larger engines powering machines with less than 700-pound curb weights.
UTVs can have similar sized powerplants, but curb weights will generally range from 1,000 to nearly 1,800 lbs.
Size influences many things. Things such as tight maneuverability and how it fits on a trailer. Trailers are limited to 120” in width. If a machine exceeds 120”, it will not fit sideways on a trailer. ATVs will have smaller footprints than UTVs, so if size is a top requirement, an ATV may be your best choice.
Also, depending on the conditions that you plan to use the ATV or UTV under, ground clearance may be another issue.
If you only need to transport yourself and a chainsaw or weedwhacker, most ATVs will be fine if they have rack capacities around 100 lbs in the front and 200 lbs in the rear.
UTVs can carry much more, as they have bed capacities ranging from 200 lbs to over 1000 lbs. Some can be equipped with an electro-hydraulic dump.
Towing
Towing capacity is close on ATVs and UTVs.
What is the receiver size? Is it 1 ¼” or 2” and does that make a difference to you? If you want to share hitches, it may.
Do you want a front and rear hitch? A rear hitch is universal. Front hitches are great for placing a trailer in the right spot. All you do is drive straight into the desired spot – no backing the opposite direction of the trailer. No need to figure if the tow vehicle will clear obstructions.
Operator Space
ATVs have the most operator space. If you need to get on and off frequently, swinging a leg over the seat and frame can get tiresome.
UTVs do not have this to deal with. Just keep in mind that leg room may be tight.
Ergonomics
While test driving, pay close attention to ergonomics.
Some ATV and UTV models are better designed than others.
You will need to consider things like the location of the transmission controls, steering wheel / handlebar positioning, and 2WD/4WD actuation.
The main thing is the vehicle should be comfortable.
Electronics / Amenities
Is digital instrumentation important to you?
Today you can get instruments (standard or optional) including engine RPM, operator ground speed, coolant temperature, fuel level, maintenance indicators, and more.
For UTVs, you can get beds with removable tailgates and sides, giving you the flexibility of switching between bed and flatbed configurations.
Some models also have 12V outlets for your iPhone or other mobile devices. Many also have gloveboxes, or other spaces to store gear.
Safety
If you are getting an ATV, we highly recommend a helmet.
For those of you considering a UTV, make sure the occupant protection system (OPS) or safety cage is ANSI, SAE, and OSHA certified. It should also have side doors, screens, seatbelts, and if used for snow plowing, a full cab enclosure.
Decision
Your decision requires many considerations.
It may come down to budget, storage, towing / cargo capacity, passenger space, tasks it is used for, or what implements you will be using.
You may even want it just for fun. There is nothing like having fun riding the trails, off-roading, camping, or for anything else you enjoy.
No matter what, we hope you find the perfect machine!
If you need any further help, or have any questions about ATVs, UTVs, tractors, or anything else, please contact your dealer, local mechanic, or call us at 602-734-9944. Please ask about our current new and used tractor supply.
Team Tractor and Equipment - #1 Tractor Dealer in Arizona. We sell and service most major brands of tractors including Yanmar, Kubota, John Deere, TYM, Mahindra, Kioti, Case, New Holland, Massey Ferguson, Ford, Deutz, Case IH, Farmall, International Harvester, Branson Tractors, LS, Shibura, Claas Tractor, McCormick Tractors, Valtra, Solis, YTO, Montana, and Nortrac.