The all-terrain vehicle (ATV) is rapidly joining the tractor as a standard workhorse around the farm.
Read More (ATVs)Many of the big names now have offerings in the market, such as the John Deere Gator, Massey Ferguson Bull, Kawasaki Mule and Kubota TRV. Other brands, such as Suzuki and Honda, which are not normally associated with the agricultural sector are also active in the ATV niche. The ATV can be used for a variety of tasks. At a basic level they can be a simple, quick and economic way to get around the farm to check up on crops, livestock and boundary fencing. They can also be used for ferrying workers, materials, tools and even livestock. Choosing an ATV is a simple matter of looking at your everyday requirements. If all you are looking for is a quick way to get around the farm and check up on things, then there are lots of quads to choose from, with offerings from the likes of Suzuki and Honda. These tend to be single-seat machines, so if you have requirements for passengers or loads then you should look elsewhere. Many of these quads offer useful accessories, though, such as trailers, which can boost their utility quite dramatically. Elsewhere on the market, however, you can find more substantial ATVs on offer.
The likes of the John Deere Gator or Kubota TRV are built for slightly different uses. They will almost certainly be far slower than the quad-type ATVs, but they are larger and have more passenger and load space to play with. At this level, you will find ATVs with a second bench row of seats, which can make them excellent for ferrying workers around the farm to areas requiring attention. The load space is obviously one of the key elements to consider. Many models have tipping load sections, which can make unloading a breeze. Others will have removable load-space sleeves to keep the vehicle undamaged by heavy and rough loads. Thinking about what you intend to carry should steer you towards the right weight rating. Remember too that many models are equipped with tow bars and can haul trailers when extra capacity is needed.
For all but the lightest duties, you are probably going to want four-wheel drive. This, along with some advanced suspension settings, greatly extends the working environment of the ATV. Most makes offer at least some models with switchable two- and four-wheel-drive settings to save on fuel when 4WD is not needed. If you are carrying valuable tools, you might want to look at a model with a lockable compartment to store them in. With all of these issues sorted, it is time to look at creature comforts. Most ATVs are open but some models do offer closed cabs, or at least the opportunity to add a conversion. If you are going to be spending a lot of time out on the farm in poor weather, this might be a fair investment. It also provides some welcome shelter at break times. Some models offer air conditioning and heaters and seat belts are a welcome safety addition. Power steering, meanwhile, can take much of the effort out of driving an ATV.
A good ATV can greatly increase your productivity and also save money on fuel as you no longer need the tractor to get around. With specialist options such as low-pressure tyres and six-wheeled vehicles to protect fine turf and prevent soil compaction, there should be an ATV for every operation.