All About ATVs

This past September, Living the Country Life magazine teamed up with the editors of Successful Farming magazine, our sister publication, to complete the most exhaustive evaluation of all-terrain vehicles and utility vehicles ever conducted. This 12-member team put 18 vehicles to the test on the mountains and in the fields surrounding the Little Goose Ranch near Sheridan, Wyoming. These were actual tests performed by experienced riders in real-life conditions.

With evaluation segments including ease of shifting the transmission, ease of engaging four-wheel drive and differential lock, steering responsiveness and maneuverability, acceleration, braking, noise level, and general fit and finish, the testing was thorough and intensive.

So many choices!
With the variety of ATVs on the market today, it's easy to be overwhelmed. The range of engine sizes is wide open, and the specifications for each seem to be endless. As if that weren't enough, each of these vehicles can be decked out with any number of accessories, including racks, trailers, covers, and boxes.

Though the category of large ATVs (600-cc's and bigger) is growing, the 400-cc range remains the most popular. That's why the tests targeted this category and why this product guide examines those vehicles.

For vehicle specs and scores, visit Putting UVs and ATVs to the test