Nov
17
The ATV: How It All Began
Filed Under ATVs
Like every items popular with the general public, the All Terrain Vehicle, or more known as ATV or the quad bike, has a very interesting past. The first ATVs were quite different compared to their modern counterparts. Primarily built to serve as a a valuable farming machinery, the ATV is now the center of an extremely competitive sporting and racing industry.
Long before Japanese motoring giant Honda Motors released the first modern ATV back in’70, various American motoring corporations have been working, sketching and tilling a concept vehicle that can go off the road and navigate unusual driving surfaces with less effort. It can be said that the United States launched the first ATVs, though the date could not be confirmed. These ATVs are assembled with six wheels, all driven, and could pass through swamps, ponds, and streams as well as dry land.
Generally, the old American ATVs was different in terms of engineering design. More than just the six wheels, these ATVs were built to seat multiple passengers and were rigged with steering wheels or control sticks rather than the more familiar handlebar of a modern ATV. The main body of the early ATVs was made of hard plastic or fiberglass.
Like in the United States, Japans version of ATV was also invented to be a farming machine and was a commonly sight in farming towns situated in the mountains. When Honda first released the first modern ATV, the US90, its popularity and demand for the vehicle grew. When the James Bond movie “Diamonds Are Forever” hit the big screen, its popularity grew even more, as the film featured the ATVs in some of its scenes.
With the international reach of the James Bond movie, soon the whole world was raving about this new type of vehicle. A vehicle that can traverse different type of terrains became a very wanted commodity. The thought of being able to drive through any terrain was very exciting, especially for hunters from Canada and United States.
It was in the’80s, however, when the ATV entered the mainstream and grabbed a large following. It was during this time when the sporting version of the ATV was launched. Soon, high profile motoring companies like Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Polaris joined the ATV fray and began manufacturing their own ATV lines.
There was also an issue of safety when companies began to manufacture and market three-wheeled ATVs. With concerns from the consumers growing, the production of three-wheeled ATVs were banned I’87. Though the decree ended in’97, no significant three-wheeled ATV was marketed.
Today’s ATVs are now divided into two types ” sporting and utility. The sporting ATVs are made of lighter materials and are designed for rapid acceleration. Utility ATVs, on the other hand, are heavier, bigger and slower but are equipped with engines that allow them to haul small loads.
Undeniably, the ATV is enjoying its status as a premier vehicle for racing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With many motoring companies joining the ATV race, it only indicates the steadily rising popularity if the said vehicle. The All Terrain Vehicle is definitely here to stay.
Looking for top class but affordable cheap atvs? You’ll find that our site will cater to your needs and wants when it comes to atvs. Our selection of models range from the popular to the practical brands, including used Kawasaki atv and many more. So what are you waiting for? Do yourself a favor and get that ATV you have always dreamed of.
