Made to traverse even through the most challenging terrain, an ATV is the most capable off-roading vehicle despite being the smallest. It's actually its size that makes it so capable but it's also because of the drivetrain and wheels.
An all-terrain vehicle, as it's also known, is able to only transport one or two people including luggage but this isn't necessarily seen as a downside by off-roading enthusiasts. This way you are able to have your own little adventure without having to worry where you'll park your vehicle or if you're going to pass through a certain path. In fact, you can find a path of your own and a location too.
ATV Anatomy
Engine
The powerplant that moves most vehicles including ATVs nowadays is the engine. The engine in an ATV works in the same way the one in a car does, it's just smaller and produces less power but that doesn't mean it's not powerful. Engines like most other systems are in need of essential ATV and UTV replacement parts in order to keep the vehicle running hence why they're so fundamental.
Transmission
Just like the engine, the transmission is also made of various ATV UTV parts but it's not necessarily as complex. The transmission is simply put the link that transfers the power generated by the engine to the wheels. Through various linkages and gears, be it in the form of an automatic or manual system, it helps distribute vast amounts of force in a smooth manner so the ATV is predictable.
Exhaust
Since an ATV has an internal combustion engine, it generates harmful emissions and the exhaust is there to filter them out. Although far less complex than both the transmission and engine, the exhaust is also able to reduce loud noises coming from the engine making your ATV quieter but in a way that doesn't restrict performance.
Suspension
Made from a wide variety of ATV parts in Australia, the suspension is a far more complex system of components than you might think. It's definitely more complex than the exhaust as it doesn't just help with the stability of your ATV. The suspension helps with steering and comfort while it keeps you in a straight line without many corrections. It's also what helps you turn.
Handlebars
Talking about turning the handlebars, they are synonymous with steering. While that is obviously true, the handlebars serve another purpose and that is a place for all the switchgear to be found. Stuff like blinkers, power on and off, brakes and the throttle are placed on the handlebars.
Brakes
The only ATV UTV parts made to slow you down and make you stop are the brakes. These essential ATV UTV safety parts include discs and pads connected together with the lever on the handlebars, and some lines filled with hydraulic fluid. When you squeeze the lever the hydraulic fluid is pushed through and that force is applied to the pads which come in contact with the discs. The discs are where the wheels are mounted.
Wheels
The wheels are the only components of your ATV that come in contact with the ground, no other part does. Except for the keys, when they slip away from your hands. Jokes aside, the wheels affect your ride quality, stability and even your steering and it all has to do with how much air they have in them.
Protective Bars
The bars responsible for keeping your ATV safe during an accident are called protective bars. Made of metal, they go around the front of the ATV so that the shell or engine doesn't get damaged.
Types of ATVs
Utility
The most popular ATV you'll come across is a utility ATV which essentially means it's meant for short-distance travel. You can still ride it over any terrain but a utility ATV is made more for hunting and work as its engine is made to pull rather than rev at higher speeds.
Youth
Smaller than any other type of ATV, a youth ATV is made for, well the youth or rather children. They come with engines ranging from 50cc to 100cc and weigh anywhere between 100 and 150 lbs or 45 to 68 kg. Some can be as powerful as 125cc but these are top-of-the-line youth ATVs that are not that safe.
Sport
With a sport ATV, you can do more than just hunt or ride around a sand dune. They are made for you to travel quickly through some of the roughest terrain without issue. It's exactly because of these capabilities that they are so expensive and allow you to even make wheelies which is not the safest approach to adventure riding.
Side-by-Side
Side-by-sides are essentially more equipped ATVs that act much like UTVs since they have a longer wheelbase than any of the above and even allow you to transport people. They are more forgiving in regards to the terrain you're on as they don't jump around as much.
