Should You Choose an ATV or a UTV?
Sometimes, getting away from paved roads is exactly what you need to find the thrill of a lifetime and unwind after a long week. On the flip side, you might have some work that your road vehicles can’t help you with. In these instances and so many more, you might want to turn to an ATV or a UTV. But which one should you turn to? That’s what S&N MotorSports is going to help you figure out.
We’ve provided some of the top reasons to choose a quad or a side-by-side so you can start narrowing down your search for the perfect off-road vehicle. Then, check out what we have available here at our location in Charlotte Port, Florida, serving Fort Myers, to find the perfect make and model for you.
What is an ATV?
First, let’s make sure you know what you’re looking for.
All terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are off-road vehicles that usually come with four wheels and can accommodate one rider, sometimes two in certain models. To operate an ATV, also known as quads and four-wheelers, you’ll straddle the seat much like you would a motorcycle, and operate most of the machine using levers and buttons on the handlebars.
Recreational Thrill
One of the biggest reasons off-road enthusiasts choose ATVs is because they’re an excellent choice for recreational trail riding. They’re often more agile and lighter weight, making it easier to tackle even some of the toughest trails.
Kick your ATV’s performance into high gear with superior suspension systems, better handling, and improved braking power. You can even find models with more engine power to hit top speeds.
Affordability
If we’re comparing ATVs and UTVs, there is a financial advantage to choosing an ATV. Depending on the models you’re comparing, you’ll probably find the ATV is significantly less expensive, even to the tune of several thousand dollars.
This isn’t because they’re lower quality. They’re simply smaller and are generally only built for one or two people. Less materials used in making the machine means a lower price tag. If you just want the kind of thrills you won’t find anywhere else for a price that can’t be beat, then the quad is probably calling your name right about now.
What is a UTV?
Utility terrain vehicles, or UTVs, are off-road vehicles that usually come with four wheels and can accommodate two to six riders, depending on the model. They’re closer in design to your car or truck in that you’ll sit in bench-style seating, sometimes accompanied by a seat belt, that allows you to sit next to the other riders. This is where they get the name side-by-sides. You operate the machine using a steering wheel and foot pedals, and some models even come with some sort of roll cage you can throw a cover on.
The Perfect Workhorse
Ask any UTV owner why they chose a side-by-side and they’ll probably tell you it was to help get work done around their business or private property. UTVs are famous for their hauling and towing power, which can come in handy if your work requires a little elbow grease.
Plus, they can go places that might be too difficult for some of your bigger vehicles to access. And if you get a model with multiple seats, you can bring the whole crew with you.
Safety
Side-by-sides also have a reputation of being safer. The combination of the seat belts and roll cages alone can minimize risk of injury. They’re also generally more balanced, which makes them harder to tip. As fun and useful as powersports vehicles are, it’s important to remember they can be dangerous when not handled properly and every little safety feature counts.
Just remember that all the safety features in the world don’t substitute the importance of a helmet and proper riding gear. It also doesn’t exempt you from proper handling behind the wheel, so stay focused and alert.
Seeing something you like? Whether you choose an ATV or a UTV, you’ll want to contact S&N MotorSports about some of the top models available right now. We can also help you narrow down your options and find the right choice for your needs, so contact us today about taking the next step toward your off-road adventure. We welcome all those from Port Charlotte and Fort Myers, Florida.