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ATV is the short form of "all terrain vehicle".  Like the name suggests, these four-wheeled dynamos are built to cruise up hills, over rocky surfaces, through mud and can even tackle the snow with ease.  But an ATV is only useful on all terrains if the wheels and tires are up to the task.

While a strong chassis, powerful engine and good suspension are important components to any ATV, it is the wheels that make it possible for all-terrain vehicles to crank out solid performance, even in the absence of roads.

All ATV wheels share similar characteristics:  large defined treads for better traction in all kinds of terrain, extra durable tear- and snag-resistant materials that can protect the tires against punctures from sharp rocks and debris, and large, balloon-like shape to help the wheels avoid lodging into small pits and between rocks along the trail.  These wide tires also help the wheel climb up and away from any obstacle.  In some cases, these balloon-like tires can even allow the vehicle to float.

The ATV was invented in Japan by the Honda Research and Development team.  This group, led by Osamu Takeuchi, created the machine because of society's rising need for a small, versatile and powerful vehicle that would be suitable for winter travel.  The outcome was a prototype designed by the development team that featured six wheels.  While the initial success of these vehicles was due in part to the ATV wheels, the invention didn't have the cutting edge technology that enabled it to meet the demand.

Undaunted, Osamu Takeuchi took an American invention called the 'Amphi Cat' and applied the design to the burgeoning ATV.  The U.S. Amphi Cat had rolled on six 20-inch low-pressure, high flotation balloon tires.
Mr. Takeuchi modified his ATV invention until it was able to accept the Amphi Cat's wheel design.  This became the trademark of modern day ATV wheels.

Today's ATVs feature a variety of wheel and tire designs, each created to meet the demands of specific types of terrain.  While most wheel types will allow the ATV to operate adequately on other types of terrain, some ATV wheels are not compatible with certain terrains.  For example, racing ATV tires are not effective while driving on sand dunes.

Race Tires

Those who race ATVs need specialized tires to create better traction over a variety of surfaces.  Racing ATV tires typically sport more defined knobs and tread.  These tires are also typically flatter, to allow ample hold on the terrain.  In other words, flatter tires have more "grip" on the track.

Sand Tires

Also called "Paddle Tires", these tires have distinctive treads that actually "paddle" through the sand.  The tires are usually wide and balloon-like.  There are not many treads on the tires, but the few that are there are very large.  The balloon construction prevents the ATV from sinking even in the softest sand, while the large "paddle" treads provide effective traction.

Trail Tires

The most durable of all ATV tires, trail tires are created of heavy duty, puncture-resistant materials.  There are many obstacles on the trail that can cause a tire to tire or puncture, such as sharp rocks, branches or even large wood splinters.  For true all-terrain use, some trail tires are also large and balloon-like.  This particular shape allows the ATV to perform well in mud and soggy terrain, and can protect the ATV and its rider from sinking in to bogs or sandy areas.

Despite the type of terrain you'll be riding, there are certain characteristics to look for when buying ATV tires.  Make sure that the tires have well-defined treads, a wider balloon shape, and are created from tear- and snag-resistant material.  Remember, if it won't cross all terrains, it's not much of an ATV.