Beginner's guide to choosing the right ATV

What is an ATV?

An ATV, short for all-terrain vehicle, is a four-wheeled vehicle designed for off-road use. It typically has low-pressure tires, a straddle seat, and handlebars for steering control. Honda ATVs come in various engine sizes and are known for their versatility and durability, making them perfect for recreational activities like trail riding, hunting, and exploring, as well as for work-related tasks such as farming and construction.

ATV vs. Quad vs. 4-Wheeler vs. SxS 

If you're new to the world of off-roading, you may be wondering about the different terms used to describe four-wheeled vehicles. Let's clear up some confusion by looking at the most used terms and their meanings:

• ATV: Short for all-terrain vehicle, this term can be used to describe any four-wheeled vehicle designed for off-road use. ATVs, however, are typically smaller, lighter, and more maneuverable than other off-road vehicles.
• Quad: This term is often used interchangeably with ATV and refers to a four-wheeled vehicle designed for off-road use.
• 4-Wheeler: Another term used to describe an ATV or quad, though this typically designates a machine featuring four-wheel or all-wheel drive.
• SxS: Short for side-by-side, this term refers to a four-wheeled vehicle that is wider and heavier than an ATV. SxS vehicles typically have a roll cage, two seats side by side, and a steering wheel.

While the terms ATV, quad, and 4-wheeler are often used interchangeably, SxS vehicles are a different type of off-road vehicle altogether. When choosing between an ATV and a SxS, consider your intended use and the terrain you'll be driving on. ATVs are more maneuverable and better suited for tighter trails, while SxS vehicles offer more room and are better for open terrain and hauling heavier loads.

Typical ATV uses

Honda ATVs are versatile vehicles that can be used for a variety of activities. Here are some of the most common uses for ATVs:

• Recreation: Many people enjoy riding ATVs for fun and adventure. ATV trails are available in parks and designated areas across the country, and riders can explore scenic areas, forests, and mountains.
• Hunting: ATVs are a popular mode of transportation for hunters. They can help hunters navigate rough terrain and transport hunting gear, game, and supplies.
• Livestock: Farmers and ranchers use ATVs for various tasks, such as herding cattle, checking fences, and transporting supplies. ATVs are also useful for spraying crops, mowing fields, and harvesting.
• Construction: ATVs are commonly used in construction and mining industries to transport materials and tools to remote job sites.
• Search and rescue: ATVs are used by search and rescue teams to access remote areas quickly and transport equipment and supplies.
• Military and law enforcement: ATVs are used by military and law enforcement agencies for patrolling, surveillance, and transportation in rough terrain.

What Honda ATV is right for me?

So, you've decided to take the plunge and buy a new Honda ATV. Congratulations! But with so many diverse types of ATVs on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Do you need a sport ATV for family fun, a utility ATV for work-related tasks, or a recreational ATV for weekend adventures? Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we will walk you through the assorted sizes and distinct types of ATVs, to help you determine which Honda is right for you.

What size ATV should I buy?

Choosing the right size Honda ATV is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. The size of the ATV you should get depends on several factors, including your age, riding experience, intended use, and body size. Let us explore the different ATV sizes and their corresponding considerations.

Youth ATVs:

• Youth ATVs are designed for younger riders, typically aged 10 to 16..
• These ATVs have lower engine capacities and smaller frames, making them easier to handle for younger riders.
• Safety features such as speed limiters and remote engine shut-off switches are often included to provide parental control and enhance rider safety.
• For families considering a youth ATV, dealers must follow specific federal requirements to ensure safety and compliance. Learn more ATV Safety.

For this size, we suggest the Honda TRX90X.

Mid-Size ATVs:

• Mid-size ATVs are versatile machines that are designed for a wide range of riders aged 16 and older.
• They offer a good balance of power, maneuverability, and comfort.
• Mid-size ATVs typically have engine capacities ranging from 250cc to 500cc.

For this size, we suggest the Honda FourTrax Rancher.

Full-Size ATVs:

• Full-size ATVs are designed for adult riders and offer greater power and performance.
• They are suitable for more demanding tasks, such as heavy-duty work or aggressive trail riding.
• Full-size ATVs often have engine capacities of 500cc or higher, providing ample power for various terrains and applications.

For this size, we suggest the Honda Foreman Rubicon.

Additional considerations

It is essential to find the right balance between an ATV's power, your skill level, and following the appropriate age-to-engine-size requirements. If you are a beginner, starting with a smaller ATV and gradually progressing to a larger size as your skills improve is a wise approach.

In addition to overall vehicle size, other factors to consider when choosing a Honda ATV include engine displacement (cc), suspension type, transmission (automatic or manual), and features such as 4-wheel drive or electronic power steering. Taking these factors into account will help you select a Honda that matches your specific needs and preferences.

Proper gear and education

No matter which ATV best suits your needs, two essentials should never be overlooked: proper riding gear and a certified ATV rider course. Quality gear like a DOT-approved helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, and long sleeves offers critical protection against the unpredictable variables of off-road terrain. Meanwhile, an approved rider course provides foundational skills: throttle control, braking, body positioning, and terrain awareness—delivered by qualified instructors. So before you hit the trail, be sure to gear up and get trained.

Which engine is right for me?

Determining the appropriate engine size, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), is an important aspect of choosing any all-terrain vehicle that suits your needs and riding style. The engine size directly affects the ATV's power, performance, and suitability for diverse types of riding. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on the ideal cc for your Honda ATV.

Entry-Level ATVs (Under 250cc):

• Entry-level ATVs typically have engine sizes under 250cc and are perfect for beginners or riders who prioritize ease of handling and safety.
• These ATVs are excellent for light recreational riding, such as cruising trails, exploring scenic areas, or casual off-road adventures.
• They offer sufficient power for basic tasks but may have limitations when it comes to tackling more demanding terrains or hauling heavy loads.
• The Honda TRX90X (86cc) is a great option for young riders, while the Honda FourTrax Recon (229cc) is an ideal starting point for most adults.
• It’s important to note that for machines with 249cc and under, the minimum age is 10 years old, and for 250cc machines, the minimum age is 16 years old.

Mid-Size ATVs (250cc to 500cc):

• Mid-size ATVs with engine sizes ranging from 250cc to 500cc strike a balance between power and maneuverability, making them versatile options for a wide range of riders.
• These ATVs provide ample power for various terrains and recreational activities, such as trail riding, hunting, or light utility work.
• If this is you, the ever popular and versatile Honda FourTrax Rancher (420cc) might be your perfect ATV.

Full-Size ATVs (Over 500cc):

• Full-size ATVs with engine sizes of 500cc and above are designed for experienced riders who require more power, performance, and versatility.
• With their larger engines, they offer impressive acceleration, superior climbing ability, and the capacity to handle demanding conditions and pulling large loads.
• Check out the 675cc Honda FourTrax Rincon, or the 518cc Honda FourTrax Rubicon and Honda FourTrax Foreman if this is the class for you.

Always remember

It is essential to match the ATV's engine size to your age, riding goals, experience level, and intended use. Consider factors such as the type of terrain you will encounter, the weight you will be carrying, and the level of performance you desire.

Keep in mind that engine size alone does not determine an ATV's capabilities. Other factors, such as suspension, tires, and drivetrain, also contribute to overall performance. Therefore, it is crucial to research and visit your local Honda dealership to get a comprehensive understanding of how various features and specifications affect the ATV's performance.

Different types of ATVs

Honda is renowned for its diverse lineup of high-quality all-terrain vehicles that cater to various riding preferences and purposes. Whether you are a recreational rider seeking thrilling adventures, an outdoor enthusiast needing a utility vehicle for work tasks, or a young rider just starting your off-road journey, we offer a wide range of ATVs to meet your needs.

Sport ATVs:

• Honda's sport ATVs are designed for adrenaline-pumping off-road fun.
• These nimble machines feature sport-tuned suspensions and lightweight designs to deliver exciting performance.

Utility ATVs:

• Honda's utility ATVs are built to tackle the toughest tasks, making them ideal for work and utility applications.
• These rugged machines boast robust engines, strong towing capacities, and durable designs that withstand demanding work environments.
• With their exceptional hauling capabilities and versatile features like front and rear racks, utility ATVs excel in jobs such as farming, ranching, land management, and more.

Youth ATVs:

• Honda offers a range of youth ATVs designed specifically for riders aged 10 and older, prioritizing safety, ease of use, and appropriate power levels.
• These ATVs feature reduced engine sizes, speed limiters, and other safety enhancements to ensure a controlled and enjoyable riding experience for young enthusiasts.

The Honda difference

No matter the type of ATV you choose, Honda ensures that each model is built with the highest standards of quality, reliability, and innovation. Moreover, our commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in our ATV line-up: All models feature fuel-efficient engines and come equipped with the latest emission control systems, ensuring a responsible approach to off-road adventures.

Rec/Utility ATVs: best of both worlds

The Honda line of recreational/utility ATVs combines the best of both worlds, offering versatile machines that excel in a wide variety of adventures and tasks. We design these ATVs to meet the needs of riders who seek a balance between thrilling off-road experiences and practical work capabilities. Let’s check out the key features and benefits of each of our utility ATVs.

FourTrax Rubicon 700 Automatic: When you have to have it all 

When it comes to finding an ATV that truly has it all—power, performance, versatility, and comfort—the Honda FourTrax Rubicon 700 stands out as the ultimate choice. With the largest engine in the entire ATV range – a 675cc single with ESP (Electric Shift Program) that has fully automatic capabilities, as well as long-travel suspension and our state-of-the-art front locking differential, the Rubicon 700 is designed to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning riders. Let the big Rubicon’s durable, rugged build and power do the challenging work, while you enjoy the ride. 

FourTrax Foreman 4x4: putting the 't' in towing

Setting the standard for performance in its class, the Honda FourTrax Foreman 4x4 is an icon among Utility ATVs. With direct front and rear driveshafts plus a 518cc longitudinally mounted liquid-cooled engine, this workhorse is great for towing.  Available trim options can add electric power steering and ESP (Electric Shift Program), which make tackling rough terrain, long hours, and big loads no problem for the Foreman 4x4.

FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4: customizable versatility

When it comes to combining versatility and reliability with unique customization options, the Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 stands out as one of the best ATV choices. Thanks to our 518cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, Independent Rear Suspension (IRS), and trademark durability and quality, this rugged and capable machine is specifically designed to handle varied work conditions and terrain with ease. Customized trims give you the ability to make your Rubicon 4x4 as unique as you are – whatever the task, whatever the terrain. Features include Electric Power Steering (EPS) and automatic Dual-Clutch Transmission, as well as aluminum wheels, color-matched suspension, and painted bodywork on the Automatic DCT EPS Deluxe model.

FourTrax Rancher: features x features

Built on the strong core of a longitudinally mounted 420cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, the extremely adaptable Honda FourTrax Rancher is available in eight (yes, eight!) different feature combinations. And this Honda ATV’s adaptability is about more than just off-roading or towing power, it is about usefulness, flexibility, and delivering what is needed for your specific uses. Options like swingarm or independent rear suspension, as well as 2WD or 4WD are available with the Rancher. Chances are there’s a FourTrax Rancher to suit your needs.

FourTrax Recon: best of beginners

Performance is not just about power. Getting the best performance from any ATV is about fitting it to your needs and skill-level. As the most affordable utility ATV in our lineup, the Honda FourTrax Recon balances solid performance, driven by its 250-class engine, and a lightweight design that offers more maneuverability than many larger utility ATVs. Beginners will enjoy the easy-to-use power of the Recon’s 229cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, while benefiting from the balance of its slimmer dimensions. Choose between the standard foot-shift manual transmission on the base model or our ESP (Electric Shift Program) on the ES model.

Sport ATVs: unleash your inner thrill seeker

For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping off-road experience, the Honda line of Sport ATVs is sure to deliver. Designed with performance and agility in mind, these machines are built to conquer the toughest trails and provide an exhilarating ride. Let’s explore what sets our Sport ATVs apart and why they are the perfect choice for enthusiasts looking to push their limits.

TRX250X: fun x 4

If you are looking for an ATV for the thrill of the ride, the Honda TRX250X is just what you need. Great handling and a wide powerband make its performance accessible for riders of all abilities. User-friendly? Yes. Comfortable? Yes. Easy to handle? Yes. But the reason the TRX250X is so popular is more than the sum of its parts – it provides the perfect transition from youth to adult, or from beginner to experienced, while always putting fun first. One of the ways it does this is with our patented SportClutch™, which allows for the best of both worlds – manual transmission control without having to think about stalling – so your focus always remains on enjoying the ride.

TRX90X: passing on passion

Are you a parent intent on raising your child to love the great outdoors from the saddle of an ATV? We thought so. And we know how important it is for kids to start out with the best platform for them to learn and grow. This is why we designed the Honda TRX90X to be an easy-to-use ATV loaded with safety features, that is still tons of fun, for riders aged 10 and older. The compact size and ultra-smooth power delivery of the 86cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine in our TRX90X brings the fun of sport ATV riding to the next generation, while its adjustable throttle limiter and semi-automatic transmission promote safe learning.

The Honda family

Welcome to the Honda ATV Family: You have become part of a global community driven by a shared passion for riding. Connect with fellow enthusiasts, exchange stories, and tap into a wealth of knowledge and experiences. From local riding clubs to online forums, the Honda ATV community is a thriving network that embraces riders from all walks of life.

So, let the engines roar, the trails beckon, and the adventures unfold. Embrace the thrill of exploration, the joy of shared experiences, and the satisfaction of conquering new challenges. The world is your playground, and your Honda ATV is the key to unlocking endless possibilities.