Facts and History About ATV
Fact: The History term “All-Terrain Vehicle” or ATV is used in a general sense to describe any of a number of small open motorized buggies and tricycles designed for off-road use. However, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) defines an ATV as a vehicle that travels on low pressure tires, with a seat that is straddled by the operator, and with handlebars for steering control. By the current ANSI definition, it is intended for use by a single operator, although a change to include 2-seaters (in tandem) is under consideration.
Photo: Honda 1970 ATC
The rider sits on and operates these vehicles like a motorcycle, but the extra wheels give more stability at slow speeds. Although typically equipped with three or four wheels, six-wheel models exist for specialized applications. Engine sizes of ATVscurrently for sale in the United States (as of 2008 products) range from 49cc to 1000cc and 49cc to 700cc for two stroke ATVs.