What Is A Side-by-Side ATV?

ATV Definition

An ATV or all-terrain vehicle is a single-rider, sometimes two-seater (depending on the ATV you purchase), four-wheeled vehicle that is more similar to a motorcycle than a small car. ATVs are small, agile, and come in a wide range of sizes, both in seating and engine power.

ATVs are off-road vehicles with large, thick tires designed to maintain traction on dirt, mud, and grassy areas.

Side-By-Side (UTV) Definition

A side-by-side or UTV (utility task/terrain vehicle) is another type of off-road vehicle. Still, it includes a seating configuration closer to that of a traditional car or truck. People can sit side-by-side in a UTV. Instead of handlebars like those you would see on a motorcycle, UTVs have steering wheels, gear shifts, and other controls like regular cars.

They can be used for off-road excursions just like ATVs but can be used to drive on paved roads as well.

Can Side-By-Sides Be ATVs?

Technically, no. Although some people use ATV and UTV interchangeably, the two vehicles are designed for different things and provide distinct advantages.

An ATV is:

• A smaller, more agile vehicle that closely resembles a motorcycle, with three or more wheels designed for driving off-road.

A UTV is:

• A larger, stabler vehicle designed for multiple occupants and driving at both off-road and paved road locations

Side-by-sides are not just large ATVs. If you try to take a side-by-side to a trail designed for walking or ATV use only, you will quickly get stuck or flip your vehicle in the worst-case scenario.

Similarities Between ATVs And Side-by-Sides

Much of the confusion between ATVs and side-by-sides is due to their apparent similarities. For instance, both are called multiple names, including acronyms or names referencing their wheels (i.e., four-wheeler, three-wheeler, etc.)

Furthermore, ATVs and UTVs are often used for outdoor and off-road excursions. So these are both more versatile vehicles compared to jeeps. Plus, lots of ATVs and side-by-sides have the same attachments or accessories, like cargo space for hunting tools and so on.

Differences Between ATVs And Side-by-Sides

However, ATVs and side-by-sides are notable more because of their differences rather than their similarities.

• ATVs feature handlebars identical to those on motorcycles, while UTVs have steering wheels like cars.
• ATVs have various hand controls for the motor and other functions, and UTVs have foot pedals and other car-standard controls.
• ATVs use a straddle seating system. Both legs are placed on the opposite sides of the seat. As a result, you can only ever have one or perhaps two people on an ATV at once. UTVs feature regular bench or bucket seating like a car and comfortably fit between two and four people.
• ATVs are designed for open-air operation and are not as safe as UTVs, whereas UTVs can have closed cages and other safety features like seatbelts and doors.

Which Is Right For Your Needs?

Although both ATVs and UTVs can be useful, both are better for different situations.

For example, if you are on a budget and simply need something comfortable and nimble for your personal use alone, an ATV is the ideal choice. And because ATVs are smaller, they are often more affordable.

Furthermore, ATVs are better choices if you want to go on particularly narrow trails, as they are more maneuverable than even the smallest side-by-side.

If you have more money to spend and want to take a larger party out with you on a hunt or an outdoor excursion, the reverse is true. The side-by-sides give you the room and power necessary to carry four people or so to an isolated camping spot, for instance.

Bottom line: don’t consider ATVs and side-by-sides to be identical vehicles. They are different, and you will be more likely to purchase an off-road vehicle perfect for your needs if you know what they are both designed to do.