As the preferred choice for outdoor enthusiasts, ATVs are the more capable, bigger-boned and undoubtedly more versatile version of dirt bikes. They’re easier to maneuver, more stable, comfier and a beginner-friendly off-roading vehicle ready to tackle any type of weather conditions or terrain (it’s in the name).
Besides providing endless thrills in recreational riding, ATVs and their bigger UTV siblings are extensively used for work, replacing larger and more expensive 4×4 vehicles and machinery. This all-round versatility also means they’re some of the best selling vehicles around. Part of the appeal is that there are ATVs and quad bikes for all ages and skill levels, from smaller kid-friendly quads to huge, race-ready side-by-sides. There’s also the fact that factory vehicles can easily be tailored to personal needs and tastes with hundreds of factory and aftermarket ATV parts and accessories.
These can boost performance with higher power numbers and improved efficiency, offer more practicality in dozens of riding and driving scenarios, and keep you and your quad protected against common trail obstacles and bad weather. For anyone still on the fence as to how to upgrade their quad and riding experience, here’s a short list of common ATV accessories and parts that bring the best bang for your buck.
Engine and Power Parts
Aftermarket Exhausts
Exhausts are a relatively straightforward and inexpensive power upgrade. They open up the engine with improved breathing and airflow from the straighter and wide-diameter piping. And they’re built to handle higher heat levels, as well as typical off-roading conditions with higher impact and puncture resistance.
Opting for full performance exhausts or slip-on mufflers helps build more engine power and torque, regardless of your machine’s displacement. Quad bikes are more responsive to throttle input, faster from a standstill and can reach higher top speeds. The deep, full-bodied rumbling exhaust note from the tips is an added bonus, further contributing to riding fun.
Quad bike owners will also see slight improvements in fuel use (from improved engine efficiency and reduce restrictions). The major difference though is the use of higher metal grades for lasting longevity, and with piping in a variety of finishes, the choice to customize your bike’s looks.
Clutch Pulleys
Clutch pulleys are directly involved in power transfer. Common problems and prolonged wear in factory pulleys can lead to dozens of performance and operating issues, from slippage in the drive belts, shuddering during starts and stops to delayed acceleration and power loss to name a few. Check pulleys for worn weights, rollers and springs, clear them of any debris and double the tension in the belt.
For a performance boost, consider upgrades. A performance clutch pulley is essential in tire upgrades (to balance gear ratios), when tackling specific types of terrain (sand, mud and snow), and to ensure correct alignment and calibration. All are built with higher grade steel alloys and iron that are more resistant to extreme stress and torque (particularly in bigger-engined quads).
As such, they will last way longer than the factory pair, and provide improved power delivery to the axles and wheels. Also consider the parts for a comfier ride. Pulleys can be tuned for smoother engagement, for a stress-free ride. Pairing pulleys with equally capable (and well-built) drive belts in sturdy natural or synthetic rubber brings the best results.
Cold Air Intakes
Getting denser, oxygen-rich air into the engine improves combustion efficiency. Cold air intakes consist of better filters, bigger airboxes and more plumbing to provide higher air volumes at specified angles and speeds. These performance ATV parts raise stock power numbers, improve throttle response and get you a faster quad. More efficient and reusable filters also get more dust, sand and water out, leading to improved engine longevity, fewer filter replacements and lower running costs.
Practicality and Convenience Parts
Everyday riding and work tasks with your ATV or side-by-side are more than just about pure power. Winches fitted to factory cradles or as an integral feature of bumpers and bull bars raise your quad’s versatility, providing recovery ability in varied terrain, the power to pull larger vehicles, and haul workplace necessities such as stumps or boulders.
Consider the winches weight capacity relative to that of your quad (a good value is 1.5 times that of the quad’s wet weight) or 2,500 pounds in ATVs and 3,500 in bigger side-by-sides. Choose synthetic ropes for higher safety, lower weight and simple use, or steel winch cables for durability, especially in rocky terrain. Opt for durable and tough motors for smooth and secure operation, weather and waterproof builds and wireless control to recover vehicles from a safer distance.
For night rides and when working well into the dark, equip your ATV with suitable lighting. Flood and work lights have a decent spread of light and high brightness from durable LED chips to illuminate work and camp sites and provide secondary lighting to the sides of the vehicle in combination with front-mounted driving lights or bigger LED light bars. Pair these with fog lights to make out obstacles in low visibility and improve overall safety.
Summing Up
Apart from protective clothing (e.g. helmets, googles, vests, chest and knee protectors) suited to the terrain, and basic quad bike protective parts (e.g. bumpers, bull bars, skid plates, door, roofs and handguards), choose aftermarket all terrain vehicle parts and accessories to improve power delivery for smoother rides, faster acceleration, and more riding fun.
The added power is welcome when negotiating tough terrain, hauling heavy loads and general riding satisfaction. Pair performance parts with practical extras such as winches and additional lighting for a well-rounded and versatile quad bike capable of everything you throw at it.