A Quick Buyer’s Guide to ATVs/UTVs

Whether you’re buying your first off-road vehicle or making a long-awaited upgrade, you have your work cut out for you when it comes to making your decision. ATVs have been around for a long time, and need no introduction. UTVs and side-by-sides came a little later when ATV owners wanted to combine fun with functionality. Here’s a look at both types of vehicles to help you begin you search. To learn more, come see us at Schnelker Marine & Powersports in New Haven, Indiana. We proudly serve UTV lovers in Fort Wayne and Auburn, Indiana.

What’s the Difference?

ATV stands for "All-Terrain vehicle" and UTV stands for "Utility Terrain Vehicle." ATVs are primarily designed for one rider, and models range from sporty quads designed for speed to powerful four-wheelers that you can take deep into the woods. UTVs can do all of the same things that ATVs can, but they also include a lot of additional work features. A standard ATV can be equipped with racks and some other accessories, but a UTV also features a roll cage and additional seating. UTVs usually have more horsepower, higher torque and more towing capacity. 

Which One Is Right for Me?

You can’t go wrong with either type of off-road vehicle, but UTVs do cost more than ATVs. The extra money for a UTV is definitely worth it in terms of the additional features that you get, but an ATV is fine if you’re just a solo rider looking for something fast and powerful. On the other hand, you can’t afford to pass up the convenience of a UTV if you have a farm or ranch. A UTV can go lots of places where you could never take a tractor or a truck, and there are a ton of great aftermarket utility attachments to make quick work of just about any task you can imagine. Some UTV models can also seat up to six passengers, and you’ll enjoy more safety features like roll cages and doors.

Can I Buy a Pre-Owned ATV/UTV?

You can find some fantastic deals on pre-owned off-road vehicles if you search online, but it’s a good idea to give them a thorough inspection before you take delivery. It’s a safe bet that the ATV or UTV has seen plenty of action, but that’s OK if the owner took good care of it. Be sure to also check for deep discounts near the end of the year as the new years’ models are released.

To see our current inventory of new and pre-owned UTVs for sale, visit Schnelker Marine & Powersports in New Haven, Indiana. We serve off-roaders in Fort Wayne and Auburn, Indiana.