A Guide To UTV & ATV Tires and Wheels

Taking your utility truck or SUV on the dirt trail can be a blast, but taking your off-roading to the next level may mean looking into an ATV or UTV. These 4x4 recreational vehicles are designed for particularly tough and uneven surfaces that larger cars just can’t handle. Not only are ATVs and UTVs used for off-road adventuring, but they’re also utility vehicles used in agriculture, construction, and military scenarios.

Before we get into the ins and outs of tires and wheels, let’s first explore the differences between a UTV and ATV.

Utility Task Vehicle Definition

A UTV, or utility task vehicle, is the larger of the two. In a UTV, you sit side-by-side with the other passenger and operate it like a car with a steering wheel and pedals. According to ATV.com, UTVs have better hauling and towing capabilities as they come with higher horsepower and additional storage space. UTVs are more expensive, as they're larger and more robust than an ATV. Because of this, UTVs are considered more customizable and upgradeable than ATVs. If you’re looking to trick out your 4×4 with custom wheels, a UTV is the far better choice.

All Terrain Vehicle Definition

An ATV, or all-terrain vehicle, is a 4×4 designed to be straddled like a motorcycle. The operation of it is most similar to a motorcycle with handlebars for steering and acceleration. Most ATVs only seat the driver; however, there are some models that allow for a second passenger, usually behind the driver. ATVs are far less expensive than UTVs, but also have fewer capabilities and safety features. If you’re looking to off-road on a budget, an ATV is a fantastic choice.  

Why Do UTVs & ATVs Have Different Types of Tires?

Because ATVs and UTVs are used in similar rugged environments, both of their tires must be similarly tough and versatile. Both types of tires need to have a tread design that can grip uneven surfaces and structures that can withstand hazards like sharp rocks. ATV and UTV tires are also similarly sized, as both vehicles tend to have roughly the same proportions.

However, that’s where the similarities end, as UTV tires need to be extra-durable to handle greater loads and additional passengers. ATVs, on the other hand, usually seat only one person and a much lighter load. ATVs will travel on low-pressure or non-pneumatic tires that don’t need to be as robust as a UTV’s tire.

What Type of Tires Do UTVs Use?

UTVs have a standard four wheelbase, but the specific height, width, and diameter that you require will be specified in the owner’s manual. Because UTVs have a greater load capacity, more durable tires are needed to maintain performance in off-road situations.

The type of terrain tire that you buy for your UTV depends on what you plan to use it for. If you plan to stay on-road, you can get a tire with a smooth tread pattern for a comfortable ride. If you’re looking to off-road most of the time, you’ll need an uneven tread pattern that will maintain grip in any situation but may not be as comfortable on-road. Tires with treads meant to be used off- and on-road also exist, so you’ll have options depending on your specific needs.

What Type of Tires Do ATVs Use?

ATVs can have a four- or three-wheel base. Three-wheel ATVs are very rare. According to the ATV safety institute, an ATV tires will have lower tire pressure than UTV tires and even have the option to run non-pneumatic tires that aren’t supported by air pressure. While ATVs don’t have as much load capacity, they’re still used in off-roading situations and will need to maintain traction in those scenarios.

The type of ATV tire that you get depends on what you plan to use it for. If you plan to ride around your property mostly on the grass, you’ll probably prefer a tire that skews more on-road than off-road for a smoother drive. If you intend to ride your ATV in the mud, you’ll want a full off-road tire that can be used on trails. 

What About ATV and UTV Wheels?

ATVs and UTVs use wheels with different offsets than normal cars. An offset is the distance from the centerline of the wheel to the hub. Most cars will have zero offset, meaning that the centerline of the wheel is directly in the middle. However, many off-road wheels will have positive or negative offsets, meaning the centerline is closer to the inside or outside of the wheel.

The benefit of having a negative offset when off-road is having better grip on rugged, uneven terrain, according to Low-Offset.com. 

ATVs and UTVs may also use beadlock wheels, which are wheels specifically meant to be used in off-roading situations. For more about beadlock wheels, check out our article about how beadlock rims work.

While you can technically use custom wheels on both ATVs and UTVs, it’s far more common to buy custom rims for a UTV rather than an ATV. With a higher price and necessity for greater performance, UTVs are considered to be the more customizable of the two. ATVs are the better budget option and require less performance out of their tires and wheels. Therefore, the wheels included with your ATV will likely work just fine.

List of UTVs & ATVs Types 

There are several options for ATVs and UTVs depending on what you’re looking for. Here are some examples of off-roading vehicles with key characteristics that define the vehicle type.

• Recreational and utility ATV
  • Fits one person
  • Smooth and comfortable to ride
  • Good traction in most situations
  • Not easily modifiable
• Touring ATV
  • Fits two people
  • Stiffer rear shocks to account for added weight
  • Less nimble riding experience
• Sport ATV
  • Fits one person
  • More stable and better handling
  • Lighter weight
  • Not as smooth and comfortable
• Utility UTV
  • Fits two to three people
  • Protective roll cage
  • Decent off-roading
  • Higher overall weight and load capability
• Crew Cab UTV
  • Fits four to six people
  • Heavier
  • Expensive
• Sport UTV
  • Usually fits two to four people
  • Powerful engine
  • Higher off-roading capabilities
  • Not meant to haul or carry cargo

Source: BoostAtv.com

If you’re considering purchasing an ATV or UTV and are worried about finding the right tires, Tire Agent has you covered! You can shop for specific tires and wheels that work with your vehicle by using our wheel matching tool. Simply enter the make, model, size, and answer some additional questions and we’ll find a set of tires that works with your off-roading vehicle.