ATVS VS. SIDE BY SIDES

Choosing between a side by side (or UTV) and an ATV (or quad) can be a challenge. Both vehicles are useful in their own ways and can provide both recreational off-roading fun as well as being powerful machines to use around the farm or construction site. If you’re not sure what the difference between these two vehicle styles is, then read this comparison by Campers RV Center of Shreveport.

ATVs

All-terrain vehicles, or ATVs, are meant for one rider in a straddle-style seating position, similar to a motorcycle, but on four wheels. They’re powered with a throttle which is another way they’re similar to motorcycles. ATVs are nimble and fast and smaller than their side by side counterparts, so they often fit into smaller spaces more easily and they’re much better if you want to race or go on a track at high speeds.

ATVs are much harder on your body to ride, though, so you’ll want to prepare yourself accordingly, since you use more of your body weight when turning and often end up standing to get more leverage. You are also at a higher risk of falling off or rolling over if you hit a ditch or obstacle, so wearing a helmet and protective clothing is very important on an ATV. The one-person riding style does let the user determine their own course and feel in control, though.

ATVs are generally less expensive than UTVs due to their smaller size. They are better suited towards recreational riding, but that doesn’t mean ATVs can’t be used for work purposes. Some of the very powerful styles can tow and haul just fine. If you want to use your ATV for work, just make sure you get one with a sufficiently powerful engine and the capacity to tow or haul the payloads you regularly handle.

Side By Sides

Side by sides, also known as UTVs or utility-terrain vehicles, are a somewhat different animal. They’re called side by sides due to their bench seating style that allows riders to sit -- you guessed it -- side by side, instead of the straddle seat common to ATVs. UTVs often have seat belts to protect riders a little better and rollover protection cages as well, but this latter feature mainly serves to protect the vehicle itself rather than its occupants. This is why it’s still important to wear a helmet when riding a UTV, even though they may feel safer.

UTVs are steered with a steering wheel, which is another way they’re similar to passenger vehicles. They often have more cargo capacity and a wider base and are larger in general, which can be very good for stability when towing heavy payloads. Side by sides don’t go as fast as ATVs, but they’re very powerful. If you want a vehicle that can carry multiple passengers plus cargo, you’ll likely want to go with a side by side over an ATV. These vehicles are more suited to specialized tasks and especially to towing when equipped with a winch or tow strap. They also have a rear platform that adds to their cargo capacity. You can add plenty of customizations to your UTV to make it even more suitable for whatever work you’re doing, from LED lights to stereos and heaters for entertainment and comfort.

Whichever style of vehicle you choose, you’ll get a great value when you buy it from our lot. Visit our Shreveport dealership location to see our wide array of new and used ATVs and UTVs for sale. Campers RV Center serves the cities of Bossier City, Ruston and Monroe, Louisiana.