Best ATVs for new Riders

Pairing the right ATV with the right rider is vital, especially when you want to have the most fun you can and stay as safe as possible. Are you a beginner just starting out? An experienced rider looking to tear up your favorite dunes or backwoods trails? At Polaris® of Benton, in Benton near Paducah, and Bowling Green, we've got a wide selection of both new and used ATVs for you to choose from, so you'll find the perfect ATV whether you're old-hand or a first timer getting ready for your first trail.

Picking the Right ATV

Getting the right ATV for a beginner is a big decision! There are so many different ATVs out on the market, can be difficult to identify the right model for a new rider. One of the first elements of an ATV that you should be concerned with is the engine. If you're buying for you (an adult) it can be especially tempting to lean towards vehicles with big engines that you'll 'grow into' but sometimes too much engine can really cause problems if you're not used to riding on the trail so it's best to be conservative about your first ATVs power. If you're shopping for kids, this is a little easier, as most manufacturers create youth model ATVs with engines chosen specifically to fit a particular age group. In general, you'll want to pick an ATV with a 50cc - 90cc for little riders, while teens and learning adults will get plenty of fun out of a 250cc - 300cc engine that won't overwhelm them with too much power.

In addition to the size of the engine, you should also consider the transmission style of your ATV. Younger riders are likely going to be intimidated by a clutch driven ATV, but an Automatic CVT will help them settle into their comfort zone while riding before you introduce the versatility of a manual transmission.

Finally, the style of riding you plan on doing should influence the body type of your ATV. If you're looking for a ride that packs plenty of utility, and is designed for long distance touring more than aggressive track riding, you'll probably enjoy the amenities of a boxy, utility ATV. If you're all about speed, then the more streamlined style and powerful suspension of a Sport ATV will be better for you.

ATV Brands

Here at Polaris® of Benton, we carry several brands of off-road vehicle that will help you get riding. Polaris® offers several new rider ready ATVs in the Polaris® Youth lineup, including the Outlaw® 50 the Sportsman® 110 and the Phoenix® 200. Our Can-Am® Youth ATVs include the DS 70™, DS 90™, and DS 250™ which each offer increasing complexity to help young riders get comfortable without overwhelming them or you with too much machine.

Other Gear

OK, you've got the proper ATV but what about other gear? There are a few pieces of critical equipment that you need to have before you can ride safely. First, pick up a good helmet that fits comfortably. Full face or dual sport helmets are recommended, but make sure that if you're going without a visor to pick up a good set of goggles for eye protection. When you ride, you'll also need to wear a long sleeve shirt, sturdy gloves, long pants, and a good set of boots.

Remember, the size of the engine doesn't matter as much as the rider who's using it, so don't pick the biggest engine, pick the right one. Remember to consider where you're going to ride, as a utility ATV might be more appropriate for long distance touring and full-day rides, while a sport ATV is perfect for tearing up the track. Whichever ATV you choose, be sure to visit Polaris® of Benton and let our friendly and professional staff pair you with the perfect ATV for how you want to ride!