Common Questions about ATV’s
If you’re new to ATV use, whether it’s for work or recreation, it’s good to know the basics. We get a lot of questions about ATV’s here at Gator Sports. Some pop up more than others, and we’ve answered a lot of them in our blogs! However, if you’re browsing the Internet in search of answers, it can be really convenient to have them all in one place. That’s why we put together this cheat sheet of frequently asked questions about ATV’s.
ATV Questions Everyone’s Asked at Least Once
Some of the answers to these questions may seem fairly obvious, but if we’re truly honest with ourselves, we’ve all asked these questions at some point. Whether you’re a novice rider or you’ve been riding ATV’s since you were big enough to reach the pedals, give our list a read. After all, it never hurts to have a refresher!
What does ATV stand for?
ATV is short for All-Terrain Vehicle. It defines a motorized, off-road vehicle with 4 wheels and handlebar steering. There are various models of ATV’s that range in size and function to suit specific age groups and use.
How old do I have to be to ride an ATV?
You must be 16 years or older to operate an ATV without adult supervision in the state of Florida, unless you have completed an approved OHV Safety Course. Learn more about Florida’s ATV laws and regulations here.
Is there anything other than safety gear that I should bring with me on a trail ride?
Yes! You never know when something can go wrong on a ride, so it pays to be prepared. Make sure you bring the essentials with you on every ATV ride, including basic repair and survival kits, water, gas, cell phones, and chargers.
Do I have to wear safety gear?
Any ATV rider or operator under the age of 16 must wear a DOT approved helmet and protective eyewear. However, we cannot stress how important it is to wear protective gear at any age when operating an ATV. Click here to view a full list of essential protective ATV gear you should wear on every ride.
How do I know when it’s time to buy a new ATV?
If your problem is one that can be remedied with basic maintenance or repair, then typically that’s the best option. It’s when your vehicle’s repair costs more than it’s worth, maintenance or repairs become a monthly occurrence, or if it has any safety issues such as a damaged frame that it’s time to get a new ATV. However, if you’re just itching for an upgrade, you can always trade in your old ATV toward the purchase of a new one. Simply ask us about a quote on your old vehicle!
Are ATV’s “one size fits all?”
No. There are various makes and models to accommodate different sizes and weight limits, including youth models. Click here to learn about kid-friendly ATV’s.
What’s the difference between an ATV and an UTV?
UTV stands for Utility Task Vehicle. It was created for specialized work, such as hauling heavy objects or on and off road excursions. ATV’s are fast and nimble off-road vehicle typically used for recreation or sports.
Have an ATV Question?
If you have a question about ATV’s that we haven’t answered here, don’t be shy. Call Gator Sports at 863-675-1464! We’ll be happy to answer them for you.