The early beginnings of ATVs or all-terrain vehicles started back in 1961. Toronto was the place where the birth of the first ATV or AATV as it was known at the time, is. Called the Jiger, this off-roading vehicle had 6 wheels and 2 engines. But this changed in the late 60s when Honda introduced its first ATV and it dominated the market until 1988 when the demand for ATVs dropped.
It hasn’t been that until recently ATVs have started to gain in popularity simply because nowadays they are much safer and much more powerful than what they were back in the day. This is thanks to the advancement of various parts that make up ATVs today.
Parts of an ATV
Engine
The engine choices of ATVs are similar to those of cars since they come both air and liquid-cooled. But unlike the engines in cars, ATV engines come either as 2 or 4-stroke. The former ATV UTV parts are what most ATVs used to have back in the day as they are able to accelerate quicker but also require less maintenance. 4-stroke engines are more durable though as they operate at lower RPMs. They are also able to use less fuel and run much smoother and quieter than their simpler counterparts.
Exhaust
The exhaust comes next in line as it’s hooked up directly to the engine. This system is what helps make the ATV run quietly and pollute less. Placed under the fairing, the exhaust creates a lot of heat which is why it’s hidden under all those layers of metal and plastic. Different exhausts will make your ATV act differently as some offer more HP than others and some allow more growl than others.
Transmission
The transmission works together with the engine to help transfer all that power to the wheels. ATVs, just like cars, can have either a manual or an automatic transmission. Manual ATVs are more reliable but they are not able to make your riding experience as enjoyable as ATVs with automatic transmission. Luckily most ATVs come with an automatic transmission which makes them easier to handle.
Suspension
What helps make an ATV go over any terrain be it effortlessly or with a little bit of struggle is the suspension. Typically, ATVs come with independent suspension for each of its wheels. This is what allows for versatility on all four corners as well as for a more dynamic movement on awkward terrain.
Wheels
Found in every ATV parts shop, the only components of an ATV that come in contact with the ground are the wheels. These ATV UTV parts in Australia also play an important role in the comfort of the ATV as well as its ability to go over rocks and other uneven surfaces. The size of the wheels is what affects that as well as the type of tyres you put on it.
Handlebars
Placed right on front of you, the handlebars are the only way you can steer an ATV. These ATV UTV parts found Australia wide move suspension components which then move the wheels in the direction you want to go. The handlebars also have all the switchgear necessary to start the ATV, turn on the headlights, operate the indicators and use the throttle and clutch if you have a manual ATV.
Brakes
The only way to make your ATV slow down or stop is by using the brakes. While engine braking is possible on an ATV it’s not as safe. The brakes on an ATV are similar to those of an actual car as these ATV UTV parts are made up of pads and a calliper that pushes them onto the rotor.
Protective Bars
Another form of protection that ATVs come with is protective bars. Although not many bars are found in an ATV parts shop they are quite crucial since they are placed on the body of the ATV to provide extra protection during an accident. This way the body won’t hit the ground directly, as the bars are the first line of defence. This way both you and your ATV are safer in a crash but as long as you’re wearing protective gear.
Seat
The only part that comes in contact with your backside should be the most comfortable but also the most durable one. The seat should also not be too padded as this can be counterproductive when riding through uneven terrain. You will start bouncing around and this can easily make an ATV less comfortable than it already is.
Final Thoughts
Although not all ATVs are made the same, all of them have the above components inside in one form or another. Therefore it’s crucial to be aware of the inner workings of an AT if you plan on getting one and using it for many years. This information can help you in finding out the solution to a certain issue or in preventing it from happening in the first place.
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