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The Ultimate Buyer's Guide to Choosing the Right ATV for Your Off-Road Adventures in Canada

Feb. 21 2024 Miscellaneous By FFUN Motorsports Central

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For most people, ATV is the perfect vehicle to explore offroad adventures. Its large wheels, high ground clearance, and all-wheel drive make navigating rugged terrains a breeze. You can find side-by-side (SXS) models with an extra seat for a friend, as well as single-rider models. Our buyer’s guide focuses on finding the right all-terrain vehicle for off-road adventures. We explore the makes, engines, pricing, financing options, usage, and more.

Types of ATVs

ATVs are off-road vehicles that can take on mud, water, snow, hills, and other rugged terrains. However, not all are equal. Some ATVs are for sports and thrilling adventures. Others are more suited to general utility. To select the right ATV, you need to distinguish the different types. 

Here's an overview of the different kinds of four-wheelers and their suited applications:

  • Sport ATVs: These models offer race-proven engines, power, suspension, and handling. Examples include Polaris Scrambler 850, XP 1000, and Cam-Am Outlander.
  • Recreation ATVs: You can use recreation or utility ATVs for trail riding, camping, hunting, and small to big tasks. Examples include Polaris Sportsman 450, 850, and XP 1000.
  • Youth ATVs: These models feature lower displacements, speed restriction and other youth-optimized specifications. An example is the Cam-Am Renegate DS 70cc-250cc rig.

Engine Size Selection

ATV models feature varying engine sizes. As an ATV buyer, you may think the biggest engine is the best. However, this isn't always true, as you'll find out from our buying guide.

Here's a look at the different engine size categories available for ATV engines:

  • Up to 300cc: Under 70cc engines are primarily used in youth ATVs for beginners under 12. Engine sizes between 90cc and 125cc suit youth riders under 16, while 200cc to 300cc is generally ideal for teens with some skill and ready to move from entry-level models.
  • 400cc to 700cc: If you want a solid high-output workhorse, choose engine sizes between 400cc and 500cc. These options are ideal for new adult riders looking to navigate semi-rough terrain. Engines between 550cc and 700cc offer enough power for aggressive mudding and trail riding. They also use less fuel efficiency than models with over 800cc.
  • 800cc to 1000+cc: You can look into such engines if you want the most powerful ATV for the toughest terrain. These ATV models have immense load and towing capacity and feature accessories to complement their power and ruggedness.

Makes and Models

Choosing the best ATV can be overwhelming, considering all the makes and models available. Popular brands include Can-Am, Polaris, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Arctic Cat, and CFMoto. Can-Am Renegade is generally the best for off-road adventures and features various models, including a 650cc XMR and XXC and an improved 1000cc XMR mud machine.

Polaris also offers top models for adventure, including the Polaris Sportsman and the powerful 850cc Scrambler. You can also find models for youths and general recreation. Each make has unique perks and edges. For instance, Yamaha has electronic power steering (EPS) and special edition (SE) models with upgraded factory-installed winch and four-wheel drive diff-lock.

TRX520 Foreman from Honda is excellent if you fancy a powerful workhorse. Suzuki, Kawasaki, and Arctic Cat all offer distinct features and edges. New brands like CFMoto are also worth a look when exploring ATV versatility.

Conclusion

The type of ATV you buy will depend on your intended application, budget, and preferences. You can go for a new ATV with an affordable financing plan or purchase a used ATV to cut down your budget. FFUN Motorsports has a wide range of off-road vehicles, each with a warranty. Speak to our dealer today to learn more about our four-wheelers in Canada.