5 things to consider when choosing an ATV for Canadian outdoor adventures

#1  IF YOU MOSTLY TRAVEL OFF THE TRAILS

For venturing where full-sized vehicles can’t, most ATVs will get you there and back. You just need to consider the terrain you’ll be covering, as slogging through mud, climbing over logs and navigating rocky terrain requires more horsepower, traction and agility when the going gets tough.

Also think about the comfort level you expect. Quads can carry you and sometimes a second person through the roughest and most demanding terrain. These ATVs feature motorcycle-style straddled seating and handlebar steering. Other than a visor or hand guards on some models, there is no rider protection. Larger, more stable UTVs, on the other hand, feature automotive-style seats inside a protective roll cage, along with room for one or more passengers. UTVs also utilize a steering wheel and foot pedals, offering the familiar driving feel of a car.

Of the two, quads provide more traction and manoeuvrability in extreme conditions, though many UTVs also handle admirably in the rough. For the most part, off-trail models require larger engines—typically ranging from 400 cc to 1000 cc—for the necessary torque. Knobby tires for aggressive traction are also the norm.

If traversing rough terrain, look for a locking differential

If traversing rough terrain is expected, also look for a locking differential, which provides additional traction in sticky situations. A locking differential works by locking the two front axles together to evenly distribute the drive torque between both wheels. That way, each wheel turns at the same speed, no matter what lies in your path. While some manufacturers offer limited variations and improvements on the differential lock, having it onboard can keep you rolling when things get gnarly, no matter how it operates.

When heading into the backcountry, an essential consideration is how far you will be able to travel on a tank of fuel, which can be difficult to gauge. Guidelines in the owner’s manual may provide an estimated range (or at least the fuel economy rating) based on the engine size; most ATVs should get anywhere from 50 to 300 kilometres per tank. Dashboard calculators on some models may also provide this data. Keep in mind that your fuel use will depend on the type of driver you are, your payload and whether you’re towing a trailer, among other factors. For long-haul travel, your best friend (and insurance) is an extra jerry can.

Consider how far you’ll be able to travel on a tank of fuel

Whatever distance you plan to travel, you want an engine that runs cool to ensure constant power, less maintenance and a more comfortable ride. ATVs use one of two cooling systems; the one you select will again depend on the type of driving you plan to do. A liquid-cooled system is the most efficient, and the best choice for off-trail use. It uses a radiator and pump to circulate coolant, and an auxiliary fan for helping keep the engine cool at slower travelling speeds. Air-cooled systems require airflow over the engine, meanwhile, so they may not be the best option for long, slow journeys, especially if there’s a heavy payload putting a strain on the engine.

A final major consideration is the type of tires you select, which can mean the difference between superior traction and a comfy ride. For off-trail travel, knobby tires for traction are what you need. As with pickups, SUVs and cars, stock tires typically don’t provide the best performance. Serious off-trail users should consider tire upgrades as an additional upfront cost.