All-Terrain Vehicle - Three wheeled ATV - Four wheeled ATV - Personal ATV - ATV Racing model - Multipurpose ATV - ATV attachment - Cooling arrangement for ATV - Criticisms of ATVs - ATV Development - ATV Enclosure - Flying ATV - ATV Tire - All-terrain wheeled vehicle - Power transmission device of ATV

ATV Development

ATVs were made in the United States a decade before 3- and 4-wheeled vehicles were introduced by Honda and other Japanese companies. During the 1960s numerous manufacturers offered similar small off-road vehicles, that were designed to float and were capable of traversing swamps, ponds and streams as well as dry land. Typically constructed from a hard plastic or fiberglass "tub", they usually had six wheels - all driven - with low pressure (around 3 PSI) balloon tires, no suspension (other than what the tires offered) and used a skid-steer steering setup. These early amphibious models were the original all-terrain vehicles - or ATVs. Contrary to to days ANSI definition of an ATV, they were intended for multiple riders, sitting inside, and would usually have steering wheels or control sticks rather than motorcycle-type handle bars as stipulated in the current definition.

Since the advent of three- and four-wheeled, straddled ATVs, these have more or less 'taken over' the term, leaving the 6x6 and 8x8 floating variety now mostly known as AATVs (Amphibious All-Terrain Vehicles). Current brands of these machines include Argo and MAX. Though not as fast as other ATVs, they can be operated with precision at slow speeds, and of course, have the ability to float. The spinning action of the tires is enough to propel the vehicle through the water, albeit slowly. Outboard motors can be added for extended water use.

Three wheelers

See Main Article Three Wheelers

Honda made the first three-wheeled ATVs in 1970, which were famously portrayed in the James Bond movie, "Diamonds Are Forever". 

Four wheelers

See Main Article Four Wheelers

Suzuki was a leader in the development of 4-wheeled ATVs. It sold the first ATV, the 1982 QuadRunner LT125, which was a recreational machine for beginners.

Racing Model

See Main Article Racing Model

Sport models are built with performance, rather than utility, in mind. To be successful at fast trail riding, an ATV must have light weight, high power, good suspension and a low center of gravity.

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