While many people use ATVs to transport equipment from place to place or enjoy off-roading trails, others prefer to race them. Though any ATV can technically participate in a race on the dunes or against other riders, sport ATVs are specifically designed for fast speeds and optimal racing performance.
Sport ATVs typically include high-power engines that don’t add much to the vehicle’s overall weight. However, they will usually include streamlined wheels better suited for racing on dirt or paved tracks rather than pure off-road performance. They will also typically have long-travel suspensions, lightweight construction, and fantastic handling both on and off the race track.
When driven by the experienced hands of a capable rider, sport ATVs can do what no other quads can. Aside from their technical distinctions, these vehicles are also aesthetically designed to look more aggressive, streamlined, and colorful.
The majority of sport ATVs on the market today have five-speed transmissions. These include manual or hand-controlled clutches rather than automatic clutches. Sport ATVs are usually more difficult to operate in large part due to this design feature.
As a result of this declining popularity in manual transmissions, manufacturers currently make fewer sport ATVs than in previous years. The popularity of the vehicles has experienced a steep decline, becoming almost exclusively reliant upon the racing and motocross market.
Still, you can find plenty of sport ATVs from major manufacturers, such as Honda, Yamaha, and Polaris.
When you go shopping for a new sport ATV, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure that you purchase a quality vehicle:
While you can find sports ATVs from all kinds of manufacturers, you can also find used ATV models on websites like ATVtrader.com. Alternatively, check out online marketplaces like Craigslist and eBay. If you ever plan to purchase a used sport ATV, be sure to do a personal inspection before finalizing the transaction. Some sport ATVs are ridden quite hard by their original owners, which can cause some of their components to degrade more than you might expect.
Alternatively, purchase new sport ATVs directly from manufacturers’ websites or dealerships in your local area.
The Yamaha YFZ 450 is a race-ready, out-of-the-box model with a sleek, aggressive aesthetic that experienced racers will love. More importantly, it features a 449cc liquid-cooled and four-stroke engine with titanium valves.
Featuring a proprietary fuel injection system and five-speed transmission, this speedy and sporty ATV will be a favorite for individuals wanting to ride fast and look great while doing so. You can pick up a new YFZ 450 starting at $9,499, with previous year’s models listed at prices starting around $5,500.
The Yamaha Raptor 700R is also an excellent sport ATV, and. Featuring a 686cc, liquid-cooled, and four-stroke engine, the 700R comes with a transistor-controlled ignition system (TCI), as well as a five-speed transmission with reverse functionality.
It also includes hydraulic disc brakes for both the front and the rear to ensure safety and tight corner control. You can pick up a brand-new Raptor 700R from the manufacturer for $9,099, with used models running about $7,000 or so.
The Can-Am Outlander comes in two different models: the 450 or the 570. Both ATVs feature vented side panels and very durable chassis. You can choose between a 38 hp or 48 hp engine, and both models are incredibly reliable and efficient either on-road or off-road. Both vehicle models can also tow up to 1,300 pounds of equipment at once, making them each great utility ATVs in addition to a solid racer.
New vehicles start at $6,299, and used models can be picked up for a little cheaper, around $5,999.
The Polaris Scrambler 850 is a state-of-the-art sport ATV that offers both comfort and performance in equal measure. Featuring a 78 hp engine, the Scrambler 850 has electric fuel injection and features a sport-tuned, independent rear suspension for better control and maneuverability off-road. Brand new Scramblers start at $10,699, while used models can be found for prices as low as $8,718.