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Buying The Correct All Terrain Vehicle For Your Particular Needs
A lot of people will tell you that all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), often known as quad bikes or quads, are designed and constructed to be workhorses for jobs on farms and building sites. However, in reality they are used as much as recreational and sports vehicles as they are for more serious matters.
To put it simply an ATV resembles a motorcycle with four large wheels. The rider straddles the ATV and steers it with handlebars. The big, wide wheels and strong engines, generally around 500cc make them suitable for driving on all kinds of terrain. However, ATVs can vary anywhere in engine size from 50cc to 1,000cc.
Quad bikes are manufactured by many of the big motorcycle manufacturers, such as Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. There are two major varieties of quad bikes - utility and sport. Utility quad bikes are meant for practical use like on the farm, while sport quads are designed for leisure pursuits.
There are a few fundamental differences between the 2. Sports quad bikes are lighter and quicker and are meant for jumps and stunts.
Utility quad bikes are slower and heavier, and are generally designed for traversing tougher terrain and for dragging heavy objects.
Other common types of quads are youth quads, for kids and teenagers, and side-by-sides, which have 2 seats and generally have roll bars, so are like buggies.
There is a large range of accessories on sale for ATVs and quad bike enthusiasts. These include safety equipment such as helmets, eye wear, chest protectors and protective boots, as well as jackets, shorts and jerseys.
In spite of the wide availability of safety gear, ATVs are thought by many to be dangerous. There have been some casualties and injuries associated with quad bikes, but sometimes because of improper use.
However, because they can reach high speeds on rugged terrain, safety should always be a concern. Here are some tips on how to stay safe on an ATV:
* Take it slow, especially when you are starting out. ATVs do not behave like cars or motorbikes, and have a tendency to drift at high speeds. Learn how to handle the all-terrain vehicle before increasing your speed.
* Always wear a helmet and chest protector.
* If you use your quad for fun, start off on easy ground. Find some beginners' tracks with no very steep slopes or rugged surfaces until you develop your ATV skills.
* Keep your quad in good condition. As with any vehicle they require frequent servicing. Always check brakes and tires before you take your all-terrain vehicle out, and frequently check cables, oil, coolant, chain and filters.
Quads usually cost in the region of five thousand dollars to $10,000 and there is a thriving demand for second hand vehicles. So, whether you require a workhorse or a sports quad bike, you should be able to locate the best ATV for you.
About the Author Jim Samposzi is a technical writer with more than 20 years editorial experience. Jim is presently engaged as a gazetteer for many well-known b2b portals and has become the company specialist on recreational vehicles. Be sure to visit our web portal for additional information on Atv and All Terrain Vehicle.
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