ATVs are very popular vehicles for off-roading enthusiasts who don’t want to deal with the hassles of owning a car. You don’t need a license to operate one, and teenagers aren’t required to have supervision while driving. However, this leads to a lot of inexperienced drivers at the wheel, resulting in many accidents. ATVs have a very high rollover rate, which could prove potentially fatal. Because of this, it’s important to buy a reliable ATV with good safety ratings.

Always shop for ATVs with a brand that has a good reputation. Here are some of the best ATV brands that you can trust, according to GoRollick.

Polaris

While it doesn’t have the speed or sheer power as some of its other competitors, Polaris ATVs are designed to take a lot of damage. This makes them one of the heaviest ATVs on the market.

However, this could also make them better beginner ATVs because of the low center of gravity. Polaris ATVs are so reliable that the U.S. military often uses them as mission and first response vehicles.

The most popular choice for the armed forces is the MRZR D4, which features a powerful diesel four-stroke engine with a displacement of 993cc. The company also offers reliable youth ATVs, such as the Phoenix 200, which comes equipped with many standard safety features and parent-adjustable speed limiting.

Arctic Cat

This manufacturer produces a wide variety of ATVs from youth models to high-performance sports machines. The company originally only made snowmobiles but started producing utility ATVs in 1996.

Its vehicles come with many standard features for improved performance, such as power steering and independent rear suspension. Arctic Cat vehicles are also known for having all the power and quality of higher-priced rivals at a more affordable cost. 

One of the most popular Arctic Cat ATVs is the Alterra 300. Because of its steady suspension and low weight class, it’s an excellent ATV for beginners or younger drivers. For sports drivers, the Wildcat is the best choice. That’s because it has a liquid-cooled 915cc engine capable of over 90 hp.

Suzuki

Suzuki was one of the first manufacturers to produce ATVs with dual sport-utility power. Pure sports ATVs aren’t as popular as they used to be, but some recreational drivers still appreciate the option for their ATV to have more practical functions, like towing power and metal racks for storage.

Suzuki definitely delivers this with models such as its KingQuad 750, one of the most powerful and reliable ATVs in its class. It can tow up to 1,322lb on even ground and has a maximum loading capacity of 434lb.

Yamaha

Despite the declining popularity of pure sports ATVs, Yamaha still makes two powerful and reliable models: the YFZ and the Raptor. These vehicles were appealing to thrillseekers because of high top speeds. However, both are more expensive to maintain, especially if the ATV is regularly used for racing.

Many of them, including the newest Raptor 700, also have manual gearboxes that could be a big turn-off for those used to driving with automatic transmissions.

Honda

This manufacturer may not be up to speed on all the latest ATV technology, but you probably won’t find a brand with better safety ratings across its vehicle catalog. Its ATVs come with electric gear shift and TraxLok technology to quickly distribute power to wheels when losing traction.

Honda is primarily known for its sports ATVs, particularly the FourTrax TRX250X. While it can be operated without a clutch, the vehicle features a very responsive and user-friendly SportClutch transmission. The handlebars aren’t too stiff and the suspension system is rock-solid, giving even beginner drivers a smooth and comfortable ride.