If you’re looking for the best ATV for Trail Riding then you’ve come to the right place. As more and more people enjoy the thrills of recreational ATV riding, the market for these vehicles has also grown exponentially over the past years.
ATV manufacturers and styles have increased tremendously since the start of the sport in the late 1980s. While this can be good news for the consumer, it also means there is that much more to sift through when trying to decide which ATV to buy.
Trail riding can be the most fun and exciting activity that you can do with family and friends, but you’ll want to take the time to find the best four-wheeler that is fun, comfortable, and can handle a wide variety of terrain.
Here are our top choices for the best ATV for trail riding.
What is a good ATV for trail riding?
When purchasing an ATV for trail riding, several key factors should be considered to ensure you make a suitable choice:
- Engine Size and Power: Consider the terrain you’ll be traversing. More challenging terrains may require a more powerful engine.
- Tire Quality: Tires designed for trail riding often have deeper treads for improved traction.
- Suspension and Handling: Look for an ATV that offers a smooth ride and responsive handling, especially on rough trails.
- Fuel Efficiency: Depending on how long or frequently you ride, the fuel efficiency of the ATV can be a crucial factor.
- Reliability: Research the ATV’s reputation for durability and longevity. A good ATV should be able to withstand the rigors of trail riding.
- Safety Features: Look for safety features such as a speed limiter, sturdy construction, and good brakes.
- Price: Your budget will obviously play a significant role in your decision. However, remember that paying a bit more for quality can save you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
What is the top-selling ATV?
The Polaris Sportsman is widely recognized as the top-selling All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV). Known for its reliability, outstanding performance, and superior comfort, it’s the go-to choice for many outdoor enthusiasts.
The Sportsman’s powerful engine and innovative design make it perfect for a variety of terrains. It offers a balance of power and control, with features designed for optimal traction and stability.
Its popularity is a testament to its versatility, making it a favorite among both beginners and experienced riders.
Best ATV for Trail Riding
Starting at: $15,499 US MSRP
The Polaris Sportsman XP 1000 doesn’t care what kind of terrain you’re on, it goes above and beyond to deliver one of a kind trail riding experience.
It features the ProStar twin-cylinder motor that produces a whopping 90 horsepower which can take miles and miles of trails with much power.
It comes off as a big ATV, but its sport-tuned suspension and electric power steering provide for a smooth and light feel when riding.
The Sportsman’s included Ride Command system keeps you connected to your navigation and your group at all times. This makes the Sportsman the industry’s smartest ATV on the market .
Starting at: $9,399
One of the best ATV for trail riding in 2021, the Yamaha Raptor 700R continues to remain on top this 2022. Its aggressive and bold styling complements its amazing features that are set to go whether it’s on the trails, the dunes, or on the track.
It is equipped with the most powerful big-bore engine ever, 686cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected. The engine produces big torque upon start and transitions into a fat mid-range and monstrous top-end.
Its advanced chassis is a combination of a hybrid steel aluminum frame, Controlled-Fill aluminum subframe, and cast aluminum swingarm for a super-strong structure and lightweight feel.
The Yamaha Raptor 700R holds many strong suits, one of which is comfort in riding. It has plush seats, footpegs, and handlebars that are placed perfectly for all size riders. Controls are within proper reach, plus it has an adjustable rear foot brake lever and gear shifter to accommodate varying boot toe sizes.
Starting at: $9,499
The Can-am Outlander is known for its remarkable stability and power which allows for confident handling.
Each Can-Am is equipped with Can-Am’s Class-leading Rotax V-Twin engine in 91-hp (1000R), putting its torque down with responsive throttle, a signature roar, or while retaining power.
The 1000R engine makes one of the heaviest ATVs, but Can-am has managed to minimize the large feel of these powerful machines through the addition of dynamic power steering, intelligent throttle control, and Fox Podium suspension components.
Outlander puts power and stability on equal footing. Known for confident handling, tremendous horsepower & the best hauling of its category.
The Outlander performs well on any terrain and in any season. It is great for trail riding and for utility work which makes it a versatile ATV to choose.
Capable of hauling an impressive 1,650-lb (750 kg), these four-wheelers are powerful companions whether it’s for work or play.
Starting at: $7,499 US MSRP
The Polaris Sportsman 570 is among the best-selling ATVs of 2021 and is currently one of the top ATVs on the market in 2022.
Its ProStar liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine provides 44hp which is just enough to conquer most trails.
Another thing to love about its engine is its narrow design that allows for a more comfortable seating position for the hips and knees.
The Multi-Select Electronic Power Steering allows you to adjust the level of steering assistance which allows you to ride in comfort and confidence. With almost a foot of ground clearance, the Sportsman 570 suspension rides over obstacles and smooths out bumps on the trails for easy ATV riding.
Ride Command technology provides reliable GPS navigation and group ride that can be used even without cell service. Polaris 570 made it easier to add with a pre-wired, plug & play harness for a winch, plow or hand warmers.
Most Reliable ATV
While powerful engines and innovative suspensions are important factors to consider, this means nothing if your ATV isn’t reliable.
If you want an ATV that can handle a variety of terrain and withstand the tests of time, we recommend the Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon as the most reliable ATV for 2023.
Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon
Starting at: $8,799
If you want power and comfort on the trials, Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon is what you need. Its Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) allows for a smooth ride and all-day comfort.
Every Foreman model comes with a tough 518 cc engine that provides the horsepower and torque for better hill-climbing ability and overall great performance on the trails.
Related Reading: How to perform an ATV Pre-Ride Inspection
Aside from its reliable engine, it features tough front and rear racks and an easy-to-use reverse system. With four models to choose from, you can choose the right mix of features including Honda’s automatic DCT(automatic transmission) or a manual transmission and power steering.
The Rubicon lineup comes with Honda’s famous durable, reliable, and overall quality build that can last for years to come.
Cheapest ATV
Most people make the mistake of assuming that all ATVs are expensive. While there are ATVs that sell for tens of thousands of dollars, you can still find quite a lot that are affordable and work great.
Here are a few of the best least expensive ATVs on the market that work great and are reliable whether it’s for play or work.
2022 Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O.
Starting at: $6,699 US MSRP
With an MSRP of $6,699, The Polaris Sportsman 450 brings a lot to the table. Although it’s among the least expensive choices on the market, its specs can line up with larger and higher-end ATVs.
It comes with 9.5 inches of rear suspension travel and a class-leading ground clearance of 11.5 inches is more than enough to conquer whatever comes it’s way. When the going gets tough, you can rely on its 25” tires with 6-ply construction for added durability and puncture resistance.
Despite weighing 700 lbs, its 33 hp produced by 499cc, twin-cylinder engine is enough for working around the farm or riding the trails. It also has a powerful 1,350lb towing capacity for bigger loads.
With these features, we agree that the 450 H.O. is among the industry’s best value ATV with smooth, strong, and versatile features making your hard-earned money go further.
2022 Kawasaki Brute Force 300
Starting at: $4,599
Coming in with a $4,599 price tag, Kawasaki Brute Force 300 is among the cheapest ATV you can get on the market with a fairly reasonable amount of specs and equipment.
Being about half the price of its Brute Force 750 sibling, you won’t expect so much surprise from this ATV. It is also worth mentioning that it still uses a carburetor and available with two-wheel drive.
Nonetheless, there is still something to love about this small entry-level ATV. For one, it has a towing capacity of 500 lbs which is still impressive despite its size.
The Brute Force 300 is a fine machine for the first-time ATV rider and vet riders alike. It’s comfortable, has simple controls, is easy to maintain, and has enough power and suspension for newbies to hone their newfound riding skills
ATV Rider
The 300 also has independent A-arm suspension up front, large 22-inch tires, and a ground clearance of 6.1 inches which positions it quite high up the ground.
If you want to enjoy the style and heritage that comes with Kawi’s big-bore Brute Force 750 but want something that fits the bill, you can also go for the Brute Force 300.
2022 Honda FourTrax Rancher
Starting Price: $5,599 MSRP
The Honda FourTrax Rancher is quite an impressive off-road vehicle for its low price. It offers a considerable number of features that you can see even on its base models.
Although it doesn’t come with the most advanced features compared to other models on the market today, they’re certainly hard to beat for their price. It has a 420cc single-cylinder engine that provides just enough power for a day of fun on the
The 2022 Honda FourTrax Rancher is available in 8 trims, with each of them offering a unique mix of features. On every model, you can expect a spacious front utility compartment, wide front drive-shaft guards, easy-to-use reverse system.
They also come with rugged front and rear racks that are compatible with Honda’s modular Pro-Connect system, which allows for easy installation and removal of luggage boxes.
Fun ATV Riding Clothes
While protective gear is essential on the trail, it’s ok to look cute and share your wilder riding side with the world. I’m a big fan of ball caps and love this adorable “ATV hair, Don’t Care” hat from Sew Vivid Design on Etsy. Be sure to Check out all this cute ATV apparel.
Download a FREE ATV Pre-Ride checklist
Recommended ATV Riding Resources
- Top ATV Trails Near Me in the Southeast
- Must-Have ATV Accessories
- ATV Riding Clothes– Everything you need to get started
- ATV Trails Near Me Facebook Group
More Related Resources
Before riding the trails make sure that you have these Must-Have ATV Accessories so you are safe and prepared for whatever the trails throw your way.
If you’re looking for a scenic place to ride an ATV, why not take a trip to the beautiful island of Hawaii and check out Big Island ATV tour at Aloha Adventure Farm.
