Manufacturers of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) Key Terms

Understand more about All-Terrain Vehicles by learning the terms used by manufacturers of ATVs

By John Williams, Business Writing and Research

All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, have come a long way since the first off-road buggies with lawn tractor engines and no suspension. ATVs, sometimes dubbed “quads” to distinguish from their three-wheeled counterparts, all-terrain cycles, now have technological features rivaling cars. As you scan the sites of manufacturers of all-terrain vehicles, keep in mind the following terms to help you choose which ATV will fit your needs.

Sport ATV

Sport ATVs are used for recreation or competition and have high-powered engines mated to smaller, lighter chassis. Best suited to solo riding, sport ATV's are often built without lights or accessories to keep the weight as low as possible. Enthusiasts and cross-country racers gravitate toward these ATVs.
Try: Review ATV Sport magazine for a look at various sport ATVs. The site also hosts forums, news stories and an e-marketplace for these vehicles.

Utility ATV

The workhorse quads, utility ATVs look very similar to sport ATVs, but are usually larger. They include headlights and running gear, with larger engines geared for low-end grunt work like hauling or towing. Their larger size also provides a more stable platform for passengers. Hunters, campers, farmers and even construction tradesmen who need a highly maneuverable tow-horse gravitate to these ATVs.
Try: ATV Magazine provides an article excerpt comparing seven different utility ATVs.

Utility terrain vehicles (UTV)

Utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) can be thought of as a cross between an ATV and a golf cart. Their construction allows two people to ride side-by-side. They are also often equipped with a short bed in back like a miniature pick-up truck. As with ATVs, UTVs can be found in sport and utility mode.
Try: UTVGuide.net offers a comprehensive site for all topics related to UTVs.

Semi-auto

ATVs are typically constructed with manual transmissions, which are operated with a hand-clutch and foot shift pedal. Semi-auto ATVs have the foot pedal but no clutch, making them easier to operate. Other ATVs are built with fully automatic transmissions.
Try: WonderHowTo.com provides a video showing you how to operate a semi-auto ATV, including reverse gear.

Remote stop

Similar to the keyless entry and starters on new cars, ATVs are sometimes equipped with a remote start switch and a stop or kill switch that lets you shut off the engine without being near the ATV. This is a great safety feature, especially on smaller ATVs ridden by younger enthusiasts.
Try: The Cheap ATV Store features a mini ATV for smaller riders with a remote stop and automatic transmission.

EFI

Electronic fuel injection (EFI) gives ATVs higher performance, better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than ATVs with carburetors. In an EFI system, an on-board computer monitors engine function to more accurately control the air-fuel mix flowing into the combustion chamber.
Try: Travelizmo highlights an ATV model with an EFI system.