ATV vs. UTV Differences and Similarities to Consider

Since their invention, ATVs have been used for everything from work to play.

It's not uncommon to see ATVs out on the trail or used on a farm. They're a great machine for many purposes, but did you know that UTVs are also very useful?

UTV stands for "utility task vehicle," which perfectly describes what this machine does. It can also go by the name "side by side."

Are you looking to find out ATV vs. UTV differences? Keep reading to find out what's the same and what's different.

Different Functions and Maneuvers

Both ATVs and UTVs are great for going off the beaten path. That can be through a field, stream, or even through the trails.

They can handle everything from mud to water with ease. They differ from each other in how they're maneuvered.

ATVs are smaller and lighter than UTVs. You can make sharp turns, and fit through smaller spaces easily. It's also known for being faster than a side by side.

This is why many people choose an ATV if they're looking to go on recreational rides through the backwoods rather than use them for work.

UTVs are much larger and heavier. When you're riding in one of these machines, you'll be making wider turns and taking up a lot more space. In many ways, a side by side can feel similar to driving a car.

For example, they use gas pedals rather than the thumb throttles that come on ATVs. While this doesn't make a huge difference in performance, it is something to note.

You're also looking at a steering wheel set-up on a UTV rather than handlebars on an ATV.

While the two machines are quite similar, they do differ in many ways. If you need a workhorse that can also be great for fun on the trails, a UTV is a great choice.

Lots of Passenger Space

If passenger space is important to you, then it's important to know how it differs from an ATV to a UTV.

ATVs typically seat one or two people at most. You're seated one behind the other, with the driver straddling the machine.

The passenger can be straddling the machine also. But it's common for there to be a passenger seat on the back instead.

Side by sides are much more passenger-friendly. They come in a two-seater or four-seater option. This is perfect for families who want to ride the trails together but don't want the trouble of bringing along multiple machines.

It's also great for anyone who uses the UTV for work-related reasons. You can bring a helper along with you or use the extra seats for storage space.

ATVs are all about recreation when it comes to passenger space, but UTVs can handle both.

Room for Cargo

If you're using your machine for work, you know the importance of having cargo space.

ATVs are great for transporting or carrying small items or supplies. There's not much space on them, but you could strap a toolbox or small bag to the back.

UTVs are much more useful for transporting goods. You can put multiple items inside or in the rear cargo area.

You're not limited to small items either. You can carry large bags, tools, or equipment in the back of a side by side.

If you're looking at an ATV vs. UTV for hunting, you might consider the game that you're hunting. ATVs are great for bringing home small game. However, UTVs can handle both small game and big game.

A deer or moose might not fit on an ATV, but the rear cargo space on a UTV can handle the larger and heavier game.

In the case of ATV vs. UTV for the farm, you might be able to fit some wire on the back of an ATV but a UTV will carry the wire and the fence posts.

For these reasons, a side by side is a great choice if you need lots of space for work or play.

You Can Accessorize

Both machines have their own accessories, but the most customizable of the two is the UTV.

A side by side can function similarly to a car depending on how many accessories you choose for it.

Externally, you can get a windshield, winches, and tracks for it. These can make the machine much more useful in many ways.

Internally, you can get a few different upgrades that you can't with an ATV. To improve your experience, you can get a stereo system. You can also get heating and cooling to make driving more tolerable in the summer heat or winter frost.

ATVs can also have some customizations, but nothing to this level.

Both of these machines can have additions such as plows or seeders. It comes down to how comfortable you are while driving them.

The hot summer sun can be difficult to stand when you're on an ATV. But with the air conditioning on a side by side, you might feel more comfortable.

Safety That Counts

Both of these machines are safe to ride, but the UTV can be arguably safer.

This is due to the roll cage that can stop you from getting hurt in case of a roll-over. ATVs don't have this feature, so falling off or having the bike roll-over on you can be much more likely.

UTVs also have seat belts that have been proven to be life-savers.

Cost-Effective

ATVs are considerably cheaper than UTVs. While ATVs do provide a lot of value for the money, side by sides do as well.

Being a machine for both work and play, a UTV can give you the best of both worlds. For that reason, the extra costs can be better in the long run since you'll get even more use out of your new machine.

If you want the most value for a reasonable cost, you'll love using a UTV.

ATV vs. UTV Differences: Get the Most Value From Your Machine

ATV vs. UTV differences come from the performance, function, and attributes of the machines. Both offer a lot of value for the price, but it's easy to see that the UTV shines in many areas.

Are you in the market for a UTV? At Holzhauer Pro Motorsports, we have some great Kawasaki models to choose from. If you're looking for a Kawasaki UTV, check out our selection of new and used models today!