ATV in 2010

All terrain vehicles are not new to the recreational sports scene. They have been around for decades now, and while certain models like 3-wheeler all terrain vehicles are no long available on the market due to a spotty safety record, there are plenty of options to choose from when you want to get off the beaten path and enjoy some truly all terrain recreational fun. The all terrain vehicles that are on the road, paths, hills, and trails today are also called 4-wheelers, quads, ATV's, or sometimes quad bikes. The feature 4 wheels that sport low pressure tires, use a bar rather than a wheel for steering purposes, and are typically straddled by the rider on a saddle-type seat, much as one would straddle a motorcycle.

Today's four wheelers are usually operated by just the driver, but some tandem ATV's are available that offer an extended seat and foot rests for one passenger. There are no seat belts as one finds in vehicles with overhead support in case of a roll-over accident. The feeling with All Terrain Vehicles is that if since no roll cage is present, if there is a roll-over situation the rider or riders will be less likely to be injured by being thrown away from the vehicle rather than having it roll on top of them.

The major players in the All Terrain Vehicles world are the ones that got the trend started, plus some newer companies that are contributing quality products to the showroom. Honda introduced the first 3-wheeler in 1970, and it caught on quickly Hollywood, as well as in back yards, woods, and off road venues everywhere. Suzuki brought the first top-selling 4-wheel All Terrain Vehicles to the market in the early '80's, and have been in the game ever since. Yamaha, Arctic Cat, ATK, Polaris, E-ton America and KTM are also manufacturers with significant market share.

These vehicles are used for sporting purposes today, and racing them is common. Utility All Terrain Vehicles are also enjoyed by their users as hunting vehicles, landscaping vehicles that can pull a lawn roller or mowing deck, or a unit fitted with a tool box for getting to work sites in hard to reach places.