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The term "all-terrain vehicle" is used to describe a number of small open motorised buggies and tricycles designed for off-road use. The 4-wheeled versions are most commonly called "quads," "four-wheelers" or "ATVs" in the United States and Canada, and "quad bikes" or "quad cycles" in other English-speaking countries. Models with 3 wheels are typically known as ATCs (though this is a Honda trademark) and "three-wheelers," and less commonly "all-terrain cycles" and "trikes." 6- and 8-wheel models exist for specialized applications. The rider sits on these models just like on a motorcycle, but the extra wheels make them more stable at slow speeds. ATVs can also be considered Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) or Off Road Vehicles (ORV), along with motorcycles, Jeeps and other off-road capable machines.

Manufacturers of ATVs

• Arctic Cat
• Bombardier Recreational Products
• Deere & Company
• E-Ton
• Honda
• Kawasaki Heavy Industries
• Kymco
• Polaris Industries
• Roketa
• Suzuki
• Yamaha
  

Safety Issues

4 or more wheeled ATVs are universally accepted as being inherently safer compared to 3-wheeled ATVs. However, despite the move from 3-wheel to 4-wheel models, some deaths and injuries still occur. Focus has shifted since the Consent Decree to pay attention to machine size balanced with rider age. Many states have enacted legislation specifically governing the usage of ATVs on state run land categorized by age ranges and engine displacements - in line with the Consent Decree. ATVs are mandated to be labelled from the manufacturer that the use of machines greater than 90cc by riders under the age of 16 is prohibited. Critics point out that blanket policies concerning age are not sufficient and often use as example that early teen male children are physically larger and stronger than many adult women riders. Some localities have either banned minors (typically those under 16 years of age) from using ATVs or are considering such legislation. Advocates of ATVs argue that starting younger improves safety. They recommend that children can develop the necessary expertise by starting as young as 6 years of age instead of waiting until age 16. The Consumer Product Safety Council approved the use of sub-50cc ATVs by youngsters as young as age 6.

In 1988 the All-terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (ASI) was formed to provide training and education for ATV riders. The cost of attending the training is minimal and is free for purchasers of new machines. Successful completion of training such as provided here is in many states a minimum requirement for minor-age children to be granted permission to ride on state lands.