How To Select The Right ATV

If you’re looking to get yourself an ATV, there are plenty of models for you to choose from. Each different style is designed to offer a different riding experience and has the necessary specs to add to that. To narrow down your options, you should have a basic idea of what you want to accomplish with your quad.

At America’s Motor Sports Nashville, we want to help you find the best model for you. As the first step, we’ve created this guide about choosing four-wheelers. When you want to check out ATVs for sale, get in touch with us to see some of the most reliable models available. If you’re looking for quads for sale near Brentwood or Franklin, TN, contact our sales department for assistance. 

The Purpose

The most common models are utility ATVs. They look more boxy and bulky because they offer helpful features like cargo racks and two-up seats. Generally, they are used for work projects but their solid construction sets them up well for hours of trail riding.

If you prefer a sleeker model, look into sport ATVs. They also boast a better suspension system to satiate thrill seekers. These are used for entertainment, not work. If you’re looking for a powersports vehicle to supply some adrenaline, look no further. 

The Size

You’ll find that quads come in a number of sizes. If you want to navigate tight trails and cover paths that are width-restricted, there are plenty of compact models. Smaller models are also more lightweight, which makes them more agile as well. Larger options can often offer more power, storage space and even room for another passenger.

While you do have to make sure the ATV size meets your trail riding lifestyle, you also want to make sure that it’s right for your ergonomic needs. If it’s too big or too small for your height, you’ll end up having a less comfortable ride and a harder time controlling the vehicle. You’ll probably want to test out a few different sizes to figure out which one is right for you. 

The Riding Level

Another important factor to consider is your riding level. A new rider will have different needs than a veteran rider. The more experienced you are, the more options you have before you. If you’re a novice, your options will be more limited. New riders should stick to less powerful engines (generally in the 250 to 300 ccs range).

If you get a quad that has more engine power than you can handle, it can lead to loss of control while riding. Since you’ll be off-roading, help may not be easily available on hand. New riders can benefit from features like automatic CVT transmissions, throttle limiters and keyed ignitions.

The Terrain

Your four-wheeler is designed to handle a variety of terrain types. It’s in the name, after all—all-terrain vehicle. However, most standard models can better tackle more compact dirt kinds of terrain. If you want to be more efficient on looser terrain, like sand or mud, then you might want to look at more specialized models that’ll keep you from getting bogged down.

The Transmission

As with cars, quads come with manual and automatic transmission options. If you prefer a gentler riding experience, you’ll like automatic transmission. Driving up hills is easier with an automatic transmission since you won’t waste time trying to downshift. However, automatic transmission ATVs don’t have the engine compression needed to go down steep hills. If you’re getting a utility ATV, you’ll want a manual transmission because it’ll lower the wear and tear your quad parts experience. 

The Features

While some riders are content with a basic model, others want an ATV with all the bells and whistles. You’ll find plenty of options with great features and amenities on the market. If you prefer to take a buddy along for the ride, you can look at models with larger seats and better suspension that can handle the additional weight without lowering performance. If you want a more comfortable ride, look for fenders to keep mud and water off of you and your clothes. This is just a glimpse at the many upgrades available.

The Budget

It’s always a good idea to have a budget in mind before you go shopping. This way you can avoid wasting time checking out models you can’t afford, and get a more thorough look at the models available to you. It also helps you know whether you can afford a used ATV that might need minor repairs (and how much you can invest to get those repairs done). Remember to include in your budget the cost of any gear you need (such as a helmet or a tire pressure gauge).

We hope you’ll find this information helpful when you have to select a four-wheeler! If you want to check out ATVs for sale, contact America’s Motor Sports Nashville and have a chat with our helpful staff. We’re also the preferred ATV dealer for our friends in Brentwood and Franklin, TN.