| If you're a first-time purchaser, you may be | | | | the manufacturer with regard to weight restrictions |
| wondering what kind of All Terrain Vehicle to choose. | | | | and distribution. |
| These recreational vehicles, which are also often | | | | * Consider how you plan to use your vehicle. There |
| referred to as 'quads' or '4 wheelers,' are immensely | | | | are two types of quads. Sports models are |
| popular. In fact, there are hundreds of groups in | | | | manufactured with the racer and hobbyist in mind. |
| North America alone dedicated to the ATV hobbyist. | | | | They are built with lighter-weight components and |
| Owners love them because they're fast, and they | | | | good suspension, since they tend to be ridden heavily |
| provide a sense of freedom, convenience, and also | | | | and fast. Utility models are bigger, heavier, and don't |
| closeness to nature. | | | | have the same capacity for speed as sport models. |
| If you've ever purchased a car (new or used) then | | | | Utility models are designed for carrying small loads |
| you should apply the same types of rules to buying a | | | | and even towing trailers. They are popular with |
| 4-wheeler as you would to purchasing a car. Some | | | | farmers and industrial workers. |
| tips when looking for the right one: | | | | * Price doesn't necessarily reflect quality. Like regular |
| * Look for safe handling. 4-wheelers are safer than | | | | vehicles, quads vary in price by brand and model. High |
| their 3-wheeled predecessors, which became | | | | price doesn't necessarily mean better quality. A low |
| obsolete in the 80's due to their high rate of rollovers. | | | | price doesn't necessarily mean poorer quality. Instead, |
| However, ATV's are still prone to tipping over. Look | | | | evaluate a brand or model based on the qualities |
| for a vehicle which has its weight evenly distributed, | | | | already listed. If a model seems to be pricier than |
| as well as a good center of gravity, which will | | | | other, similar models, don't be afraid to ask why. If |
| minimize this risk. | | | | the salesman seems to be blowing smoke rather |
| * Good tires are important. ATV riding is all about | | | | than offering substantial facts, this should be a red |
| high speed and fast cornering. Therefore, quality tires | | | | flag. |
| with deep treads are crucial, both to safety and to | | | | * Examine the warranty. Make sure you know what |
| performance. If you are sold on a particular brand, | | | | type of warranty comes with your potential |
| but not impressed with the tires, consider custom | | | | purchase. Many companies offer very similar |
| ordering better tires. | | | | warranties, but the subtle differences could end up |
| * Don't overlook performance. Like cars, 4-wheelers | | | | being the deciding factor in your final choice. |
| perform differently from model to model. Consider | | | | One of the best ways to decide on a particular brand |
| qualities like fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance, and | | | | or model is to read a consumer report, if one is |
| how a specific model will handle under the conditions | | | | available. These can provide you valuable information |
| that you plan to drive it in. If you're concerned about | | | | based on tests that have been conducted in a |
| your 'carbon footprint,' look for an all-terrain-vehicle | | | | controlled environment. Consumer reports rate |
| with low emissions and other 'green' features. | | | | products on several different points, including safety, |
| * Size matters. It can be dangerous when someone | | | | performance, and efficiency. They are fairly |
| operates a vehicle that is too big or small for them. | | | | non-partisan and can usually be relied upon to provide |
| Buy yours according to the size of the principle driver. | | | | truthful and fairly comprehensive information on an |
| Quads are made in various sizes for riders from child | | | | ATV you might be interested in. |
| to adult. Make sure you always heed the advice of | | | | |