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Many people will tell you that all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), also called quad bikes or quads, are designed and built to be workhorses for jobs on farms and building sites. However, in reality they are used as much as recreational and sports vehicles as they are for more serious matters.

To put it simply an all-terrain vehicle looks like a motorbike with four large wheels. The rider straddles the all-terrain vehicle and steers it using handlebars. The big, thick wheels and strong engines, usually about five hundred cc make them suitable for driving on any kind of terrain. That said, all-terrain vehicles can vary anywhere in engine size from 50cc to one thousand cc.

ATVs are produced by many of the big motorbike makers, like Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. There are 2 chief varieties of quad bikes – utility and sport. Utility quads are made for practical use like on the farm, while sport ATVs are meant for leisure pursuits.

There are some big differences between the 2. Sports ATVs are more lightweight and faster and are meant for jumps and stunts.

Utility quads are slower and heavier, and are generally meant for dealing with tougher ground and for dragging heavy objects.

Other popular kinds of quad bikes are youth quads, for children and teenagers, and side-by-sides, which have two seats and generally have roll bars, so are like buggies.

There is a large range of gear on sale for all-terrain vehicles and quad bike enthusiasts. These include safety gear like helmets, eye wear, chest protectors and protective boots, in addition to jackets, shorts and jerseys.

Despite the wide availability of safety gear, ATVs are thought by many to be hazardous. There have been some fatalities and injuries associated with all-terrain vehicles, but sometimes due to improper use.

However, because they can attain high speeds on rugged terrain, safety should always come first. Here are some hints on how to stay safe on a quad:

* Take it slow, particularly at the beginning. ATVs do not behave like other vehicles, and have a tendency to drift at high speeds. Learn how to handle the all-terrain vehicle before increasing your speed.

* Always wear a helmet and chest protector.

* If you use your ATV for recreational use, start off on easy ground. Follow some beginners’ tracks with no excessively steep slopes or rough surfaces until you hone your skills.

* Make sure your quad bike in good condition. Like any vehicle they require regular servicing. Always check brakes and tires before you take your quad bike out, and regularly check cables, oil, coolant, chain and filters.

All-terrain vehicles generally cost in the region of $5,000 to $10,000 and there is a big market in second hand vehicles. So, whether you need a workhorse or a sports all-terrain vehicle, you should be able to find the right quad for you.

Jim is a technical writer with over 12 years of writing experience. Jim is presently working as a freelance writer for many well-known b2b portals and is considered the company guru on all terrain vehicles. Take the time to visit our useful website for additional information on 250cc Atvs and 50cc Atvs.