ATV vs. UTV: What’s the Difference?
In recent years, Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) have surpassed All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) in overall sales. To learn why people might prefer UTVs over ATVs, you need to understand the differences between them. That can help you make an informed buying decision if you want to buy either of these vehicles for a utility or recreational purposes. You can also pick the right ATV or UTV tool kit.
What are ATVs and UTVs?
ATVs and UTVs are small-sized vehicles that you can drive across different types of terrain and use for multiple purposes. ATVs are mainly for racing at high speeds and riding on dunes, trails, and rocky areas. UTVs are also excellent for racing and rough riding, and, additionally, you can use them for towing, hauling, pulling, pushing, carrying, and transporting activities.
Differences between a UTV and an ATV
The following can highlight the differences:
Vehicle size
ATVs are smaller in size than UTVs and also lighter in weight. That makes them easier to maneuver, especially in narrow areas. It is also more convenient to park ATVs in smaller spaces than the larger, heavier UTVs.
Vehicle speed
With ATVs, you can attain speeds of 50-80 mph. That makes them the first choice for people looking for high-speed vehicles. UTVs are comparatively slower with their 35-55 mph speeds. You cannot turn them as quickly as you would an ATV as, with their heavier bulk, there would be a rollover risk.
Steering system
Like motorcycles, ATVs have handlebars for steering, and you can use these to turn the front wheels to the left or the right. If you find such maneuvering cumbersome, you can go for the power steering option. UTVs already come equipped with power steering and have steering wheels like regular cars.
Seating configuration
ATVs only have one seat and can carry only one passenger. You have to straddle the seat like a motorcycle seat and rest your feet on footpegs on either side. The position can get uncomfortable if you go on long drives, especially over rough terrain. On the other hand, UTVs can carry two to six passengers and come with comfortable seats similar to car seats.
Safety features
ATVs have fewer safety features as compared to UTVs. You can install roll bars at the back, but these are not as effective as the roll cages on UTVs. If there is a vehicle rollover, you will have to jump off the ATV. On the other hand, UTVs have roll cages to protect both the vehicle driver and the passengers.
UTVs, unlike ATVs, have suspension seats and four or six-point harnesses to keep everyone safe. Some UTVs come with fixed or removable windshields—or you can install them—and enclosed cabins to protect riders from branches and debris. ATVs do not have windshields and cabin enclosures, and the riders must wear protective helmets and goggles.
Driving ease
UTVs can be much easier to drive than ATVs. If you know how to drive a regular car, you may not require much time to get familiar with a UTV’s steering wheel and brake and gas pedals. You may also be able to manage the clutch pedals and gear shifters of manual UTVs. It is trickier to drive ATVs, as you will need to master the different levers necessary for shifting gears, throttle, and braking.
Vehicle toolkits
If you decide to buy a UTV, do not forget to get a UTV toolkit. Some of the tools you should have in it are a UTV belt extender kit, a primary clutch adjustment tool, a secondary clutch belt removal tool, a primary clutch puller, and a clutch compression tool. Make sure the UTV toolkit you buy is specifically suitable for your UTV model.
Aside from dealer-provided tools, you can add wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, T-handles, and vise grips to your ATV tool kit. You can also get a winch or a tow strap, power flashlights, and a tire pressure gauge.
Vehicle modification
You can modify both ATVs and UTVs by installing new wheels and tires, upgrading the exhaust, and adding racks and lights. You can also fit mirrors, rear reflectors, mud flaps, and speedometers. Additionally, you can get accessories like plows, tillers, sprayers, spreaders, and loaders.