ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) are small, strong, and tough machines that can tackle a wide range of tasks. They can be found working hard on a farm or ranch, having fun trail riding, or even tearing up motocross tracks in professional racing series.
They range in size and power, from little ATVs for younger riders to powerful ATVs with engine displacements of 800 or more cubic centimeters. Almost all ATVs are designed for off-road use, such as dirt trails, snowy and gravelly roads, open fields, or muddy routes, and not for paved roads.
What is an ATV?
An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is a motorized off-road vehicle with a seat designed to be straddled by the operator that possesses handlebars for steering control, and it travels on four low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires.
ATVs are separated into two types based on the manufacturer's designation. Type I ATVs are designed to be operated by a single person with no passengers while type II ATVs are designed to be used by an operator and a passenger. They have a dedicated seating place behind the operator.
What's the difference between an ATV and a 4 wheeler?
You’ve probably heard these terms thrown about and used interchangeably. But what exactly is the distinction between a four-wheeler, a quad, and an ATV? Well, all 4 wheelers are quads, and all quads are ATVs but not all ATVs are quads, and not all quads are 4 wheelers.
ATVs, which include four-wheelers and quads, are all-terrain vehicles with three or more wheels. A quad is a four-wheeled ATV that can be a two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. A quad with 4 wheel drive or full-wheel drive is known as a 4 wheeler.
- ATV: An all-terrain vehicle is a small open motor vehicle with one or two seats and three or more wheels fitted with large tires, designed for use on rough ground.
- Quad: A quad is an ATV with four wheels. Quads are mostly referred to as the fun recreational ATVs. These are great for trail riding and you may have even seen motocross races featuring various types of quads.
- 4 wheeler: The definition of a 4 wheeler is a vehicle with four wheels. Most of the time people will only refer to an ATV as a 4 wheeler if it has 4 wheel drive, otherwise, they would call it a quad.
What are ATVs used for?
ATVs are used for a lot more than just trail riding and the occasional load hauling. Below are some ideas on how you can get the most out of your machine:
- Sport and racing
- Camping
- Recreational riding
- Hunting
- Logging and collecting firewood
- Farming
- Landscaping
- Firefighting
- Search-and-rescue
- Law-enforcement and security
- Army
- Entrepreneurs (power companies, railroad companies, gas and oil companies, etc.)
ATV safety tips
Here are some fundamental ATV safety tips:
- Always use protective gear: a helmet, goggles, and gloves, as well as sturdy ankle-protecting boots, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants. Read your owner's manual and become familiar with all of the warning labels on your ATV.
- Carry a survival kit, first-aid kit, and cell phone. Have a riding strategy in place and never ride routes that are beyond your capabilities. Be ready to adapt to various terrain types. Always keep your head up, your back straight, and both feet on the footrests when riding an ATV.
- Be aware of risks: always be vigilant of potential dangers and concealed obstructions, and never ride beyond your visibility limit. In all instances, use the appropriate speed. Apply both brakes evenly and keep your feet on the footrests if you need to stop quickly.
- Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Never transport a passenger unless your vehicle is expressly developed and built for the purpose. Riding an ATV that is appropriate for your age and experience is recommended, as is supervising ATV riders under the age of 16. Remember, ATVs are not toys. Always maintain a safe speed while riding.
Pre-ride ATV safety tips
Every time you ride your ATV conduct the following pre-ride checks:
- Check the condition of all four tires and make sure they're properly inflated.
- Check brake fluid levels and brake lever tension. The front brake lever should have no more than 25-30 mm free play and the rear brake lever should have no more than 15-20 mm. If you're unsure, look up model-specific tolerances in your owner's manual.
- Check that the steering wheel moves freely from lock to lock and that all exposed parts are free of dirt and debris.
- Ensure that the wheel axle nuts are securely fastened.
- Check that the emergency stop switch and all lights are operational.
H2: Do you need a license for an ATV in Canada?
You might believe that because an ATV isn't a car, it doesn't require particular permits or licenses. That isn't the case at all. In Canada, ATV drivers are subject to unique rules. The driver of an ATV, like those who drive cars, is liable for their passengers, and they will be cited for any violations.
A valid driver's license is required to operate an ATV. To operate an off-road vehicle, you must have either a G2 or M2 license. To drive, the driver must be at least 16 years old. While driving, a motorist must also wear the appropriate safety equipment at all times. A motorbike helmet is included in this.The motorist must follow the road rules, which can be found in the Smart Ride, Safe Ride Handbook.
On an ATV, no child under the age of eight is permitted to ride as a passenger. The driver must never have more passengers than accessible seating. It is extremely dangerous and unlawful to drive with buddies sitting on each other's laps.
How do I register my quad?
The Off-Road Vehicles Act requires that an ATV to be registered and plated by the Ministry of Transportation. You must have evidence of liability insurance in order to register. Anyone over the age of 16 can register an ATV. Go to your local driver and vehicle license issuing office to pay a one-time cost.
Ministry of Transportation's rules and regulations
Taking care of your ATV
Taking care of your ATV always feels like a big job, but really you’re mostly looking at a bunch of little things, none of which take too long, and all of them are worth it. Perfex Industries is a Canadian ATV specialist supplying ATV and SXS parts so that you can maintain your ATV to a high standard.
All of our customers receive sound knowledge and guidance regarding their purchases from our enthusiastic and experienced team, with the most cost-effective options always being presented first.
