All-terrain vehicle

From ArticleWorld

When talking about all-terrain vehicles (ATV) we are describing small buggies or tricycles that are used for off-road movement. The most common amongst them are the quads, ATVs, four-wheelers, quad bikes and quad cycles. These are all four-wheeled machines and, although similar in characteristics, they have these different names in different countries and regions.

The tricycles are usually referred to as ATC, with other terms being used like: three-wheelers, all-terrain cycles and trikes. One may also find 6 or 8 wheeled versions, but they are used just for special applications.

Advantages of an ATV

The main advantage of these type of vehicles comes at slower speeds. The rider will sit on the model, just like on a motorcycle. At higher speeds the riding is not a problem. When the all-terrain vehicle has to move at lower speed it has more stability. This is because it has more wheels and it is easier to manoeuvre.

Short History

The ATV has a history dating back since 1970. That was the first time a model was built and it became famous thanks to inclusion in “Diamonds are Forever” from the James Bond TV series. Nowadays we will only find 4 wheeled versions of the ATV because of strict security restrictions regarding the 3 wheeled vehicles.

ATV Types

Two categories of all-terrain vehicles are being built: sport models and utility models. The sport models are lighter, more powerful, with stronger suspensions and must have a low centre of gravity. These are all to ensure that the machine can go as fast as possible in an off-road situation. They can reach 120 Km/h. Utility ATVs are bigger and have the possibility to haul weights or may toll trailers.

The 6 or 8 wheeled ATVs have been introduced in the United States of America even before the 4 and 3 wheeled versions. A 6 wheeled all-terrain vehicle will have an extra pair of wheels in the back and can have 4 or six wheel traction. A big advantage of these motors consists of the long watered usage possibility. This means that they can be operated in swamps and extremely moist conditions without fear of deteriorating.