By now most of us have seen ATVs on the road or in a field but we may not have known what to call them. ATV stands for all-terrain vehicle. They are also simply referred to as “four wheeler” or “three wheeler” based on how many wheels a particular vehicle has. These motorized vehicles are generally not welcome on America’s roads. They are relegated to off road use only. You will find brand names by a number of well-known manufacturers.
All terrain vehicles are designed with three (or four) low-pressure tires. A rider straddles a center seat. The gas-powered vehicle is steered using handlebars in much the same way a bicycle or tricycle is steered.
These vehicles come in different sizes. They are marketed toward children who are as young as only eight years old. Other larger sizes of vehicles are marketed to entice teenagers and adults.
Single rider all terrain vehicles are not designed to carry a passenger. They are designed to carry one rider – the operator of the vehicle. Only a two seat (known as a two-up) all terrain vehicle should be used for more than one person.
All terrain vehicles came about in the 1960’s. They were offered Japanese companies such as Honda. Other manufactures in the United States began earnestly marketing their all terrain vehicles to compete.
The very first three wheeled all terrain vehicles were manufactured by Honda. These machines were made popular by being featured in the James Bond movie Diamonds are Forever. The movie was an overnight success. Suddenly, everyone wanted on of those new ATVs.
While diamonds may last forever all terrain vehicles do not. Citing safety issues the manufacture of three wheeled all terrain vehicles ceased in 1987. Tipping and flipping were the primary problems. Some three wheel ATVs are now relegated to being sought as collectibles. This especially holds true with machines manufactured by lesser well-known companies such a Cagiva, Franks and Tiger.
With the three wheeled all terrain vehicles on the way out the interest and demand for four wheel ATVs grew.
In 1982, Suzuki introduced its first four-wheel vehicle as a beginner all terrain vehicle. Then, in 1985 the company introduced its first high performance ATV.
Not to be outdone, Honda introduced their first high performance model in 1986. Yamaha quickly followed suit and offered their vehicle the next year. The demand for four wheel all terrain vehicles continued into the vehicles that are now available today.
Even now the vehicles are targeted and manufactured for different markets. All terrain vehicles are divided into the categories of either sport vehicles or rugged utility vehicles.
The sport vehicles are more lightweight than their utility counterparts. They are designed to go faster and to fit almost any sports need that you can imagine. These vehicles can go up to 90 mph and are highly maneuverable at higher speeds. Of course, this does not mean you should try special handling on your first day home.
The utility vehicles will not go as fast and are designed to be work vehicles. Their speeds max out at around 70 mph. The utility all terrain vehicles can carry loads or pull heavy trailers.
There can be no doubt about it. All terrain vehicles are here to stay.
