Are ATVs and UTVs the same as quad bikes and side by sides?
If you’re like most people navigating the world of off-road vehicles, it’s hard not to get lost in the dust cloud of terminology and acronyms, but help is at hand. Today, we’re going to simplify ATVs and UTVs for you, and hopefully help settle the ATV vs UTV debate once and for all.
What is an ATV?
ATV stands for all-terrain vehicle. They’re often also called quad bikes and, less frequently, four-wheelers.
What are ATVs used for?
Although many people consider ATVs more of a fun recreational off-roader used on designated trails and sand dunes, they also are considered a vital workhorse for farmers and agricultural sites and a variety of other commercial, industrial and government uses.
What are the main features of an ATV?
- Predominantly designed for one person to ride
- Seating is straddle style (like a motorbike)
- They’re steered with handlebars
- CPD device such as Quadbar®
- ATVs are typically smaller than UTVs
- You are usually required to wear safety equipment (e.g. helmet, etc). Check requirements for your State.
- They don’t have a roof, however in NSW, for instance, all quad bikes now need to be fitted with an Operator Protective Device (OPD), which is a type of roll bar-like protective device, and be labelled and tagged with safety information (in particular, with relation to tilt angle). More on the Service NSW site.
What are the advantages of an ATV?
The great thing about an ATV is its nimbleness over rough terrain and its ability to make tight turns when compared to a UTV, especially when looking at something like the Crossfire X600 which is a seriously powerful machine.
Transport is generally simpler with an ATV, with some smaller and lighter models even able to fit into the back of a ute. This nimble nature is the reason many mustering cattle will prefer ATVs .
ATVs also come in a variety of sizes, including those designed for smaller/younger riders such as the Crossfire Trex 110 suited to many riders 10 years and up (depending on size and skill level). So, although you may not be able to carry any passengers, as a family you can take to the trails and have fun riding together.
What is a UTV?
UTV stands for utility task vehicle, but you’ll also see them called side-by-side vehicles (SSV or SxS). The UTVs are better designed to take passengers, with most either 2 or 4 seat models, and usually come with space or a tray to carry equipment.
What are UTVs used for?
When it comes to tough jobs in tough environments, UTVs are what you see out in field in a wide range of industries and applications, including agricultural use. However with new whisper quiet electric models that can shift between hotel lobbies and gentle lawns, yet still have the power to burn through paddocks and rocky fields, the possibilities are endless.
But don’t be fooled. They are also good fun so fantastic for a fun day or adventure with family and friends.
The features of a UTV
- Seat 2 or 4+ people
- Generally a more comfortable ride compared to an ATV
- Steering wheel
- Overhead protection bars, many with roof and windscreen options
- Many will allow you to carry cargo, such the Crossfire 800GTS with an impressive carrying capacity and fold down flaps for easy loading, making them the ideal vehicle in many situations
- More features and creature comforts
- Travel at higher speeds
- Lower Centre of Gravity improves lateral stability
- Fitted with seatbelts (safety equipment also needs to be used, such as helmets), check local regulations.
- Transporting your UTV is a consideration
Is a UTV better than an ATV?
When it comes to off-road vehicles, it’s not a case of which is better, it’s which one is the better match for your needs, and the one that is going to deliver you the performance, reliability and value you deserve. That’s why so many Aussies and Aussie businesses insist on a Crossfire.
