ATV Vs. UTV: A Powersports Vehicle Comparison

When it comes to the four-wheeled category of powersports vehicles, you have two options: ATVs and UTVs. If you’re wondering which type to get, you probably want to understand each one a little bit better first. Here’s a quick comparison between ATVs and UTVs to help you make your choice.

ATV Features & Benefits

An all-terrain vehicle, usually called an ATV, a four-wheeler, or a quad, is, as its name suggests, a four-wheeled powersports vehicle that is open to the air. Ridden like a motorcycle, an ATV has handlebars for steering with a throttle and brake. There is no seatbelt or enclosure on an ATV, which is why wearing a helmet is tantamount to your safety. Also, most models can only handle one rider at a time, with a few select models having space for a second rider behind the operator.

ATVs are most often ridden for recreational off-roading purposes on a trail or in a mudding area. Some people use them as transport to their hunting blinds; others put them to work on a farm or ranch. Sportier models will be faster and more agile, while utilitarian models will be heavier and slower.

UTV Features & Benefits

A utility terrain vehicle, typically called a UTV or a side-by-side, is a little more like a car, in that it usually has some form of enclosure and it has seatbelts for safety. Operated with gas and brake pedals and a steering wheel, a UTV can feel more stable to ride. UTVs have seating space for two to six passengers at a time, in rows of two bench-style or bucket-style seats. There is also cargo space between the seats and at the rear of a UTV.

UTVs are often used more for work purposes, so you’ll see them on construction sites, in forestry or mining, and on farms and ranches. However, many people also use UTVs for recreational riding, too.

Which Should I Choose?

If you want a more exciting and faster experience, and you don’t intend to have any passengers, an ATV is probably what you want. However, if you’re going to need to haul cargo or multiple people, a UTV is the best bet. Either way, you’ll want to think about how you intend to use the powersports vehicle so you can choose a sportier or a more utility-focused model as needed.

When you’ve decided which powersports vehicle you’d like to buy, visit our dealership in Timmins, ON, to see what we have in stock. J&B Cycle & Marine is proud to serve our customers throughout the province of Ontario.