Some would say that the first ATVs were the amphibious vehicles of the 1960s that had six wheels and balloon tires, which pushed the machine through the water when they spun. Others would argue that the original ATVs were the three- and four-wheeled recreational vehicles that Honda and other Japanese companies made for the U.S. market in the 1970s and early ’80s. The first of those, Honda’s three-wheeled US90, was not intended to be as useful and as versatile as it became. When Honda introduced the US90, in 1970, the company promoted it only as a machine for off-road thrill seekers—even though ATVs had been used in Japan as agricultural vehicles. It wasn’t long before farmers and ranchers in this country were employing the US90 for utilitarian purposes, and hunters were using it to go where their pickups couldn’t take them. In the ensuing decades ATV builders and other manufacturers have developed vehicles specifically for racing, trail riding, hunting, farming, ranching, and traversing neighborhood streets. And there are a few ATVs, including some on the following pages, that will do a little bit of everything—except ride on water.

BRP Can-Am Commander 1000X
The new Commander 1000X has a Rotax 1,000 EFI V-twin engine that BRP claims is the most powerful engine in the side-by-side (two-person) class. In addition to the big engine, this high-performance sport entry in Can-Am’s new, five-model side-by-side lineup is equipped with 47 mm piggyback shocks that are made of aluminum and are fully adjustable. Both front and rear shocks offer 10 inches of travel. Other features in the X package include 12-inch aluminum wheels, 26-inch Maxxis Bighorn tires, a heavy-duty front bumper, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and special seat trim and graphics. The 1000X is available in black with yellow accents. Starting price: $14,700

Yamaha Raptor 700R SE
The 700R’s 686 cc fuel-injected engine makes this sport ATV Yamaha’s most powerful ever. The engine produces plenty of torque at every point on the rpm spectrum. The special-edition version of the 700R comes with wave-style rear brake discs, a front grab bar, heel guards, and distinctive graphics and colors. The SE and standard models also feature a digital display that includes a speedometer, two trip meters, an odometer, a clock, engine warning indicators, and neutral and reverse indicators. The steel-and-aluminum frame and cast aluminum swingarm help to make this the lightest ATV in its class. The long-travel suspension—9.1 inches in the front and 10.1 in the rear—cushy seat, and excellent ergonomics allow you to ride the Raptor hard without feeling the effects in your back and backside. Starting price: $9,000

Polaris Sportsman XP 850 EPS
The 2011 version of Polaris’ mighty Sportsman XP 850 EPS (EPS stands for electronic power steering) features a few upgrades over last year’s model. Polaris has softened the engagement of the engine braking, improved the splash-protection features, and added a new, less slippery vinyl seat. The XP 850 also is about 12 pounds lighter than it was a year ago, and it can carry about 16 percent more fuel, giving it greater range than its predecessor. With its huge, 850 cc engine and rolled independent rear suspension—which angles the shocks rearward for a smoother ride and less squat during acceleration—the XP 850 EPS is ideal for trail riding. And with a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and cargo racks capable of carrying 360 pounds, it’s also well equipped for hauling away any hunting trophies. Starting price: $10,000

Kawasaki KFX 450R
The KFX’s 449 cc fuel-injected engine produces massive amounts of torque for this race-ready ATV, and its all-aluminum frame weighs only 26 pounds. It also has shocks that adjust to 20 different positions, which should be enough to accommodate just about any terrain—whether you’re on a racecourse or in the woods. The vehicle’s front headlight assembly can be detached easily, enabling you to quickly convert the KFX from trailblazer to racer. This year the KFX 450R is available in lime green, in case you were afraid of blending in with the racing pack or with the trees. The two-tone seat features a smooth top surface that lets you move freely and slip-resistant sides so that you can get a good grip with your leg when leaning into a turn. Starting price: $8,100

Honda FourTrax Rincon
The Rincon is designed to be a workhorse, one that’s suited to a variety of off-road adventures, including hunting—it’s available in camouflage as well as red and olive. The vehicle is propelled by a liquid-cooled 675 cc engine that delivers plenty of low-range and midrange power. The three-speed automatic transmission features a hydraulic torque converter and Honda’s TraxLok, which lets you choose between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. The fully independent rear suspension provides optimal traction and a smooth ride over rugged terrain. Price: Not yet available (the 2010 model’s starting price was $8,600)

Suzuki KingQuad 750AXi Power Steering
The KingQuad’s 722 cc liquid-cooled engine is tuned to deliver abundant torque, especially in the low- and mid-rpm range. The vehicle also features independent rear suspension and a locking front differential. The compact and lightweight electric power steering is positioned high on the vehicle, keeping it clear of water and debris. The fuel injection system provides excellent throttle response, fuel efficiency, and quick engine starts. The model year’s new color schemes are Champion Yellow and Great Blue. The KingQuad also comes in white and black. Black rims are available on Great Blue, Champion Yellow, and white models; silver rims are offered for the black and the white models. Starting price: $9,050