Choosing an Off-Road Vehicle

If you want a vehicle that can serve many purposes, both recreational and professional, you should look into off-road vehicles (ORVs). These come in the form of the all-terrain vehicle (ATV or four wheeler) and the utility terrain vehicle (UTV or side by side). Thanks to their durable construction, small size and superior maneuverability, these machines are capable of tackling all sorts of hard riding conditions that your average car or truck can’t.

Whether you want to go on an off-roading or trail riding adventure or you want some vehicular assistance with work around your farm, ranch, construction site or property, an ORV can help you do it. Your local ATV and UTV dealership is Family Powersports Odessa, so we’ve provided this rundown of things you’ll want to consider when choosing an off-road vehicle.

Differences Between ATVs and UTVs

Several key differences exist between ATVs and UTVs that you’ll want to be aware of when determining which one you want. Both styles have four wheels with durable tires made to handle a range of terrain conditions, both are motorized, both are open to the air without windows or a full enclosure and both can be used for work or play.

ATVs are made to hold no more than one person, with the rare exception of a few models that can handle a second rider. Originally constructed with three wheels, they had a fourth added to their design during the 1980s for improved safety and stability, giving them the moniker of four wheeler. They’re smaller and generally faster than UTVs. Four wheelers are operated using a throttle and brake on handlebars to steer, similarly to a motorcycle. They usually don’t have a lot of extra space on them.

UTVs are larger and can hold anywhere from two to six passengers at a time. Their bench-style seating allows for pairs to sit side by side, hence their other nickname. They sometimes come with a windshield and the option to add a soft roof for sun and rain protection. These vehicles often have room for cargo in the back and more storage space on them in general. They’re operated more like a car, with seat belts, a steering wheel and brake/gas pedals.

ATV Benefits

The best usage for four wheelers is as a recreational off-roading and trail riding vehicle. Because they aren’t able to carry as much and only hold one person, they aren’t as practical for work-related purposes, although they can haul and tow trailers and pull large items with a winch.

When you buy an ATV, you’re getting a machine made to send adrenaline surging through your veins as you tackle twists and turns and coast through mud. Trails exist throughout the country that allow you to ride your ATV on them so you can admire nature at the same time. Some people even race their four wheelers on tracks!

UTV Benefits

Your side by side, on the other hand, is designed for utility work. Its large size, higher towing capacity and extra cargo space make it an ideal work vehicle. Use it as a means of transporting workers across construction sites and fields, or to transport landscaping or farming equipment.

Some families opt for a side by side so they can ride those same off-roading trails as a family. Because of their high seating capacity, they’re great for group riding so no one feels left out and you don’t need separate vehicles for each person. The larger size can make them less agile and slower than an ATV, so they’re no good for racing.

Hopefully, this guide has demystified powersports vehicles for you so you now know which type you want! Visit our dealership in Odessa to check out our full selection of new and used side by sides and four wheelers for sale. Family Powersports Odessa proudly serves the cities of Midland, Andrews, Pecos and Fort Stockton, Texas.