All terrain vehicles are usually referred to as ATVs. They are also called quads, quad bikes, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers. Some are for recreation, others for utility purposes. There are two basic types. Type I is for the operator only. Type II is for the operator and 1 passenger. They are designed for off the road use only. The seat of ATVs are similar to a motorcycle seat. It has to be straddled by the vehicle operator. Another similarity to a motorcycle are the handle bars for steering. They are designed to be driven, or operated, on rugged territory unsuitable for automobiles.
In 1970, the Honda ATC90, a three-wheeler was born. The C was abbreviation for cycle. Honda holds the trademark for the ATC name. It had a single wheel in front, two in the back, and it was fast and fun. The seat had to be straddled like a bicycle seat, and it had handle bars for steering. It had large balloon, low pressure tires. It was unlawful on streets and highways. By 1975, farmers were beginning to use them as farm work tools. Their fuel economy exceeded that of a tractor. They could travel faster over rough territory. All ATV’s are designed for off the road use. They still feature the bicycle type seat, handle bars, and low pressure tires. Type I models have seating for the operator only. Type II models have a passenger seat. The passenger seat is located behind the operator. This gives the operator room to shift his or her weight.
By 1980, popularity was rising. Three-wheelers were being used for utility purposes, as well as recreation. Hunters, farmers, ranchers, and construction site workers saw their value as work tools. Kawasaki’s three-wheeled model of 1981 featured a dual mode differential.
Honda’s “Big Red” was born in 1982. Its 5 speed engine, sealed rear brakes, and dual range gearbox made it the workers’ favorite. Suzuki presented its first three-wheeled model, and the first four-wheeler, in 1983. Also in 1983, the SVIA was founded by the Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha companies of the United States. It’s purpose is the promotion of safety through education and rider training. Honda’s first four-wheeler came out in 1984. It was the highest sales year ever for Honda. 1985 was the first year for Kawasaki’s four-wheeler, the Bayou.
In 1984, Honda brought out its first four-wheeler. ATV sales reached an all-time high, with Honda in the lead. Yamaha introduced its first model, and the first youth model, also in 1984. The percentage of usage of all ATVs has increased from thirty in 1985 to about eighty-five. In 1985, Kawasaki’s four-wheeler came into being. Three-wheeled models flipped easily. Lawsuits increased. In 1987, manufacturers signed the preliminary Consent Decree with the CPSC. For 10 years, none were manufactured. None are produced in the U. S. Today.
In 1991, the Breeze, by Yamaha, was the first automatic model. Artic Cat presented its first model in 1996. IN 1997, Japanese Kawasaki’s first full sized belt-drive model won ATV Magazine’s first ATV of the year award. In 1998, Honda began its “Ride Smart, Stupid Hurts” safety campaign.
In 2001, Massey Ferguson Farm Equipment Company’s first model was made by Arctic Cat. United States’ sales were almost 900,000 in 2003. Arctic Cat and BRP introduced the first type II in the U. S. In 2005. Yamaha’s Grizzly 400, of 2006 was the first with electronic power steering.
All terrain vehicles continue to be a popular item with many adults and children. Whether for recreation or work, the sales remain lucrative. Safety of operation remains of great importance. The SVIA continues to offer training in attempt to foster rider responsibility. Dealerships are monitored for adherence to age and size guidelines. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages law makers to forbid sales to persons under sixteen years of age.
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