All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are, as the name implies, designed to handle all terrains. ATVs are generally made for one person, though two seat ATVs may be on the way from some manufacturers. An ATV is a vehicle that rides on low-pressure tires, where the driver straddles the seat (motorcycle-style), using handlebars for steering. ATVs have more wheels than a motorcycle. The extra wheels of the ATV make it more stable at low speed. ATVs usually have 3 or 4 wheels but some have as many as 6.
Many prominent motorcycle manufacturers, including Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki, manufacture engine sizes typically range from 49 cc to 1000 cc. ATVs. Companies that specialize in snowmobiles and ATVs are also prominent in the world of manufacturing ATVs. These include Arctic Cat, Bombardier, and Polaris. ATVs are great fun if you enjoy riding off road. Bear in mind that they are not street-legal in most of the US, Canada and Australia.
Off road riding isn’t too dangerous on an ATV, especially considering that they don’t move all that fast. However, you will want to make sure you wear adequate protective clothing. Generally, it’s a good idea to wear padded clothing designed for the purpose, although it isn’t strictly necessary. You should also wear sturdy work boots to avoid the risk of injuries great and small to your feet.
Far and away, the most important component of ATV riding gear is the helmet. You should always wear a helmet. Don’t risk your safety just to look cool when no one’s really watching anyway. The risks of putting yourself in a coma or getting permanent brain damage just aren’t worth it. Helmets are by far the most effective way to prevent head injuries that could leave you disabled permanently or even dead. It may be the only thing left to save you if your judgment, skill and luck haven’t come through for you. Thus, choosing the right helmet is important.
If possible, you should choose an off road or motocross helmet rather than a standard motorcycle helmet. Motorcycle helmets will protect you effectively, but motocross and off road helmets have some special features that are ideally suited to your task at hand.
You will be faced with several choices when deciding upon the type of helmet you will use. First, you must choose between a full-face helmet and an open face helmet. Full-face helmets provide excellent protection and have a molding that extends over your chin and mouth, which could save you from lost teeth or a broken jaw. Open face does not protect your mouth and jaw, but may be more comfortable and will at least protect the most vital areas of your skull.
The recommended helmet type for ATV enthusiasts, though, is the off road or motocross helmet. It covers most of your face and protects your chin and jaw. They are different from typical full-face helmets in that they provide good ventilation and a flip up visor/face shield.
One last thing: make sure the helmet you choose is DOT/Snell certified. The whole point is safety, so you want to make sure your helmet meets safety standards.
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