Best New ATVs for Beginners According to U.S. News and World Report
Getting into the ATV world is exciting. But there are a variety of different quads to choose from. There are big bore beasts and four wheelers dedicated to sport and performance. Those models are tempting, but these are the best new ATVs for beginners according to U.S. News and World Report.
2020 Honda TRX250X
This is the cheapest quad on U.S. News and World Report’s list of the best new ATVs for beginners. The 2020 Honda TRX250X is a great beginner quad. It’s an ATV targeted more toward riders that plan to mostly ride for fun, as it has a lower payload capacity than other models.
It has a manual transmission, which is one of the primary reasons the 2020 Honda TRX250X is such a good beginner ATV. This is one that you can really learn to ride on, allowing for new ATV riders to “develop their shifting skills without being overwhelmed by power.”
With a starting price of $4,949, the 2020 Honda TRX250X is a quad with a lower initial cost, allowing new ATV riders to get into four wheeling as a hobby without paying upwards of $8,000 or more. The air-cooled 229 cc engine is also noted for its reliability. If you are just starting out, this model should be high on your list as one of the best new ATVs for beginners.
2021 Can-Am Outlander 450
The 2021 Can-Am Outlander 450 is another good beginner ATV. In fact, U.S. News and World Report names it one of the best new ATVs for beginners. It starts at $6,299 and it’s also a good ATV for utilitarian needs in addition to its recreational appeal.
This quad is a more entry-level unit than the Can-Am Outlander 570, as its powertrain is a bit more tame. The 2021 Can-Am Outlander 450 gets power from a 427 cc engine that U.S. News praises for its reliability. With 38 horsepower, this is a four wheeler that can handle some basic chores and take on a heavier payload than the Honda.
However, it remains beginner-friendly as the output isn’t too intimidating for a new ATV rider. Overall this is a quality machine. It’s fun, useful, and it makes sense why U.S. News named the 2021 Can-Am Outlander 450 among the best new ATVs for beginners.
2021 Polaris Sportsman 450
According to U.S. News and World Report, the 2021 Polaris Sportsman 450 recently underwent a redesign. Now this model shares more features with the range-topping Polaris ATVs. Some of these features include an automatic transmission and an on-demand all-wheel-drive system.
The 2021 Polaris Sportsman 450 uses a 499 cc engine with 33 horsepower. This is another great all-around ATV. In fact, while all three of the models listed here as the best new ATVs for beginners are also enough for more experienced riders as well.
It all depends on your intended use. The style of riding you plan to do will affect your decision as a quad buyer. The Polaris Sportsman 450 is priced starting at $6,399. It won’t overwhelm a new ATV rider, and U.S. News recommends this Polaris ATV model for beginners.
The best new ATVs for beginners
Although it’s difficult to pass up a big engine with tons of power, it’s wise to start off with a machine that you feel comfortable with. For many riders, an entry-level ATV is plenty. The quads on this list from U.S. News and World Report are fun models to start riding on. Plus, some of the best new ATVs for beginners cost a little less than the beefier top-tier models.
