ATVs and UTVs are becoming more and more popular these days – and when you look at everything they can do, it is no wonder why. ATVs and UTVs are faster, lighter, easier to store and can reach those hard to get to places on the back 40 where other vehicles can’t. They come in multiple colors, styles and sizes, and can often be customized to fit your needs. Having an ATV can be a big help on the farm; if you need to reach your cows in a pasture with rugged terrain, an ATV can make that job easier and faster. If you have a smaller machine shop or garage, an ATV will store nicely in a tighter space. If you have rough pastures that need sprayed for weeds, you can even purchase a sprayer attachment for your ATV so you don’t have to sacrifice your tractor.
Substituting an ATV for Horses or Trucks
The pros of using an ATV in place of a larger truck or a horse are plentiful – if you need to reach a steep or rugged area to check livestock, for example, an ATV can maneuver such an area much more efficiently than a larger vehicle can. Being smaller and more aerodynamic, ATVs and UTVs do not require as much gas or diesel fuel – “the fuel consumption is less than larger vehicles,” said Mike Sellers, the manager of Sellers Trading Post, an Odes UTV retailer in Arkansas. ATVs don’t have as high of ongoing maintenance costs as horses do – you don’t have to feed or vaccinate an ATV. ATVs can also be more reliable during bad weather – they have tires that are built for handling mud and snow, and many models come with four wheel drive features.
There are a few cons about ATVs and UTVs in agriculture to bear in mind as well, though. While some UTVs do have ample storage room for driving around tools and equipment, they still won’t hold as much as the bed of a pickup truck might. And unlike horses, the noise from an ATV motor can sometimes frighten livestock during roundups or routine checks.
Choosing and Maintaining Your ATV
The first thing to consider when choosing an ATV or UTV for your farm or ranch is the purpose of the vehicle.
“We are seeing more of a rise in UTVs over ATVs,” said Jason Higgins, sales manager for Artrac in Clarksville, Ark. “You are able to haul more equipment on UTVs, which is more practical for agriculture.”
Once you have determined the primary use for your ATV, the next thing to consider is the style and look you are after. Do you want red, blue, camouflage or orange? Do you want your UTV to have a backseat? And of course, you have to consider price. Buying brand new from a dealership is the most expensive choice, but that may be best if you are looking for some custom options. If you are just looking for an ATV that runs well, but don’t mind a few nicks or scratches, many ATVs can be purchased used for a cheaper price.
“Diesel engines are available in some UTVs. This makes it easier for the farmer because he can use the same fuel as his tractor, which cuts down on costs and makes it more efficient,” said Higgins.
“There are three main types of UTVs, sport, sport utility and utility,” Higgins continued. “A utility is mainly for farm use and offers the diesel engine. They have higher pulling power and is a lower speed vehicle so there are no doors making it more convenient for farmers.”
An ATV is an investment, so you will want to make sure you keep up on the maintenance of your vehicle. Change your oil at recommended intervals. This will increase vehicle performance and engine life. Also check the air filter regularly. Seller noted that “general maintenance is very important” and that the vehicle should be inspected routinely for wear and tear.
