If you’re in the market for a new ATV, you might be overwhelmed by your options. Nowadays, it can feel as if every small motor manufacturer is releasing a new four-wheeler–overwhelming you with seemingly endless choices.
Thankfully, the best ATV brands have been in the game for a long time, and they specialize in all kinds of terrain vehicles–be it a sport model or a rugged crossover.
If you’re on the fence about what kind of ATV to purchase, we’ll help you recognize the specialties of each ATV brand worth buying.
Leading ATV Manufacturers and Their Flagship Models
ATVs, also known as quads or four-wheelers, have carved their niche in the realm of off-road vehicles. They’ve been embraced by many for their versatility and performance across a spectrum of uses, from recreation and sport to utility purposes. The ATV market is brimming with renowned manufacturers, each bringing unique offerings to the table.
However, a few brands stand out for performance and reliability. The top 5 ATV manufacturers include:
Regardless of what brand you choose, rest assured, you’ll be able to find a versatile ATV that suits your specific needs and preferences. All five of these ATV manufacturers carry powerful sport ATVs and utility ATVs–even if you’re looking for utility ATV that outranks even the best utility ATVs on the market.
Remember: when you choose from this list of manufacturers, you really can’t go wrong.
Honda, a name synonymous with reliability and innovation, has maintained its reputation since the late 1960s. On the other hand, Polaris, a leader in global ATV sales, is famed for its broad range of ATV categories.
Then we have Yamaha, a champion of recreational riding, with models like the YFZ 450R. ATV manufacturers such as Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Can-Am also contribute significantly to the market with their diverse and high-performing models.
Polaris: Innovators of the ATV World
Polaris, the brand that leads global ATV sales, has been innovating since 1985 with their first American-made models, the Trail Boss 250 and the Scrambler 250.
The brand’s lineup boasts high-performance models like the Scrambler XP 1000 S and the top-of-the-line Sportsman XP 1000 S, making Polaris a name that symbolizes power and performance, rivaling competitors such as Arctic Cat.
The Sportsman 500, with its innovative front storage system, is an excellent example of Polaris’ ability to blend functionality with performance. It’s not just about the veterans, though. Polaris also caters to aspiring young riders with models such as the Outlaw 70/110 and the Sportsman 110, carefully designed with adjustable speed limiting and essential safety features.
Best Polaris ATVs
- Polaris Sportsman XP 1000 – $17,799
- Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. EPS – $8, 299
- Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 EPS – $10, 499
Image Courtesy of polaris.com (Model pictured above: Polaris Sportsman)
Honda: The Tried and True 4-Wheeler
Honda has been a pioneer in the ATV world, famous for producing the first models of ATVs some 50 years ago.
Unlike competitors who focus on niche performance or extreme power, Honda prioritizes durability and dependability, evident in their legendary engines. These powerhouses, like the liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engines found in the Foreman and Pioneer models, are renowned for their smooth operation, fuel efficiency, and ability to handle tough tasks.
This reputation extends beyond the engine into the chassis and drivetrain, with features like the HondaMatic automatic transmission (eliminating the need for manual shifting) and the TraxxLok differentials that provide confident traction in varying terrains.
Additional features like ABS, electric start, and reverse-gear make Honda ATVs ideal for a beginner or an experienced rider.
Best Honda ATVs
- Honda FourTrax Rincon – $9,599
- Honda FourTrax Recon – $4,799
- Honda TRX250X – $5,399
Image courtesy of powersports.honda.com (Model pictured above: Honda FourTrax Rincon)
Yamaha
Well-known in the recreational riding and trail riding sphere, Yamaha lauds the Grizzly EPS as one of its top models. This ATV is designed with an impressive 11.3 inches of ground clearance and comes equipped with 26-inch Maxxis® tires, ensuring superior off-road handling.
Durability underpins the design of the Grizzly EPS, featuring power steering for a smooth ride. It has a heavy-duty 2-inch receiver that can tow up to 1,300 pounds and a high-mounted drive system air intake to prevent water and debris ingestion.
Best Yamaha ATVs
- Yamaha YFZ450R SE – $10,999
- Yamaha Grizzly EPS – $11,399
- Yamaha Kodiak 450 – $6,999
Image Courtesy of yamahamotorsports.com (Model pictured above: Yamaha Grizzly)
Kawasaki
Celebrated for their versatility and power, Kawasaki’s Brute Force 300 and 750 models have made their mark. With variable drive modes, these two-wheel drive ATV models can also switch to 4WD. Not to mention, these models promise variable front differential lock control and impressive towing capacities, making them stand out in the ATV market.
The Brute Force 300 is praised for its significant power and torque, ensuring it can tackle deep mud, plow snow, and handle challenging conditions such as rough terrain effortlessly.
Best Kawasaki ATVs
- Kawasaki Brute Force 750 – $9,999
- Kawasaki Brute Force 750 EPS – $11,399
- Kawasaki Brute Force 300 – $5,199
Image Courtesy of kawasaki.com (Model pictured above: Kawasaki Brute Force)
Can-Am: Capable of Anything
Can-Am has carved a unique niche in the market by blending industry-leading innovation with a rider-centric design philosophy. Unlike competitors focused solely on utility or performance, Can-Am ATVs like the Outlander and Renegade excel at both.
They boast powerful and refined Rotax engines, offering a potent blend of muscle and control. For example, the Can-Am Outlander 570 X MR, with its 11.7 inches of ground clearance and heavy-duty front bumper, is designed to handle demanding tasks and can tow up to 1300 lbs.
Can-Am’s Dynamic Traxx Suspension System delivers exceptional handling and adaptability to diverse terrains, while features like Tri-Mode DPS (Dynamic Power Steering) prioritize rider comfort and control.
Best Can-Am ATVs
- Can-Am Outlander Pro – $7,649
- Can-Am Renegade X XC – $15,949
- Can-Am Outlander DPS 500/700 – $8,349
Image Courtesy of can-am.brp.com (Model pictured above: Can-Am Renegade)
Suzuki: An Honorable Mention
Suzuki carves its path in the ATV world with a distinct focus on reliability and performance, particularly for no-nonsense riders who value a capable machine over bells and whistles.
Unlike other manufacturers that offer a wide range of models, Suzuki keeps their lineup focused on one core model: the KingQuad. Each ATV they sell is a variation of the legendary 4-cylinder KQ, including models with power steering.
Suzuki also values rider control, adding features like their T-LOC differential system, providing confident handling in challenging situations.
Best Suzuki ATVs
- Suzuki KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering SE – $10,399
- Suzuki KingQuad 400 ASi – $6,949
- Suzuki KingQuad 750AXi Power Steering SE – $11,399
Image Courtesy of suzukicycles.com (Model pictured above: Suzuki KingQuad)
Navigating the ATV Market: What to Look for in Your Next Purchase
Selecting the ideal ATV can be a daunting task. Consider factors such as a) price, b) brand, c) reputation, d) model capabilities, and e) intended use.
Characteristics of high-performing ATVs include the following:
- Efficient suspension
- Reliable braking system
- Advanced ATV features such as on-demand four-wheel drive and differential lock.
If you’re still having trouble selecting an ATV from the brands above, you can visit a local ATV dealer to check out their selection, test ride some quads, and ask specific questions about the models you’re interested in.
New ATV, New Storage Opportunity
No matter if you’re a first-time ATV owner (or just looking to upgrade), it’s essential that you choose a quad that fits your needs and lifestyle. ATV manufacturers offer lots of customization options, and choosing a four-wheeler has never been simpler.
But after you purchase your new ATV, you’ll need a place to store it. In most cases, you can keep your ATV in a garage or shed, but that takes up valuable real estate. A lot of people rent out 5’x20’ storage units to keep their ATVs in.
You can easily find local storage with a platform like Neighbor.com, which is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace. They find hosts with extra space, and you find the ideal storage solution for your ATV. Units are safe, budget-friendly, and easy to access throughout peak ATV season.
