If you’re planning on buying an ATV, it’s a good idea to know if the machine was rated for your weight. The manufacturer’s recommended weight limits aren’t set in stone. But if you push it too far, you could do damage to the ATV shocks and other parts. If you’re here to understand the weight limit to ride your ATV, you’ve come to the right place.
Before we proceed, let me emphasize the importance of using the manufacturer’s specifications for weight limits or load limits. Typically, this information can be found on the ATV, indicating the maximum weight it can handle, including the rider, cargo, and accessories. However, in real-life scenarios, it is often acceptable to slightly exceed the recommended weight limit without adverse effects.
What you should closely monitor is how the ATV responds to your weight. If you exceed the maximum weight limit, refrain from jumping or performing any aerial maneuvers. If you observe the shocks bottoming out or experience altered handling, it is a clear indication that you should not ride that particular machine.
This article provides everything you need to know reading the subject. So you want to keep reading!
What Are the Weight Limits of Popular ATVs?
When it comes to riding ATVs, understanding weight limits is essential for ensuring your safety and optimizing vehicle performance. Different ATV models have specific weight limits that you must consider before embarking on your off-road adventures.
By familiarizing yourself with the weight limits of popular ATV models, you can make informed decisions and select the appropriate vehicle that can safely accommodate your body weight and additional cargo. Below are different popular ATV models and their respective weight limits;
Sport ATV Weight Limits
| Make And Model | Weight Limit | |
| Honda 400EX | 220 lbs | |
| Polaris Scrambler XP 1000 | 290 lbs | |
| Yamaha Raptor 700 | 220 lbs | |
| Yamaha YFZ450R | 220 lbs | |
| Can-Am Renegade 1000R | 400 lbs |
As you can see, for sport or racing quads, the weight limit varies but most are around 200 pounds. Notice the Can-Am Renegade weight limit of 400 lbs, well that’s a 710-pound machine to begin with. It’s important to find a quad designed to hold your weight, but if you’re 250 lbs, I’m sure you’ll handle a 400EX just fine. Let’s look at some utility 4×4 models next.
Utility 4×4 Weight Limits
| Make And Model | Weight Limit | |
| Can-Am Outlander 570 (1 seater) | 517 lbs | |
| Can-Am Outlander 570 (2 seater) | 598 lbs | |
| Can-Am Outlander T Series 1000 | 600 lbs | |
| Honda FourTrax Foreman 500 | 485 lbs | |
| Polaris Sportsman XP 1000 | 715 lbs | |
| Yamaha Grizzly ESP 700 | 485 lbs |
Right away you can notice how much more weight the utility ATVs can carry than the sport quads. But these machines are designed for carrying weight, doing work, and towing. A lot of these machines also have front and rear racks and some even have a seat specifically designed for a passenger. These ATVs were made for carrying the extra weight.
Youth ATV Weight Limits
| Make And Model | Weight Limit | |
| Polaris Sportsman 110 | 180 lbs | |
| Polaris Outlaw 110 | 180 lbs | |
| Yamaha YFZ50 | 90 lbs | |
| Honda TRX90X | 187 lbs | |
| Can-Am DS90X | 120 lbs |
Youth ATVs are made for kids usually around age 10. A lot of these models state in their owner manual to not let children under the age of 6 ride the ATV. Any child under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult. Also, none of the youth models I’ve seen allow for a passenger.
Do with that info what you will. I know when I was a kid we rode with passengers everywhere, we used to tie ropes to the back of the quads and pull each other on sleds. Maybe times have changed, the point is if your kid is getting to be above 120 pounds, it may be time to look at a bigger four-wheeler for them. Don’t forget, the weight limit may say 120 lbs, but that includes everything else on the quad not just the rider.
What To Do About ATV Weight Limits?
I would always advise that you follow your user’s manual. Going over the manufacturer’s weight limits could damage crucial parts of your ATV. Another option to think about, if you like a certain model but happen to be over the weight limit a bit, is to get yourself some after-market shock absorbers designed to hold the extra weight.
A good example to get your search started is these GZYF Pair Air Shock Absorbers from Amazon. They come in sizes from 280mm to 400mm and great reviews. This particle brand comes in different sizes and colors so you can pick what will work best for you. I recommend you check the size details to make sure it will fit your quad before committing to a purchase though.
The manufacturer of these shock absorbers claims they fit most 150cc – 750cc Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, sport bikes, dirt bikes, and quads. Again, I would double-check your size and get the one that fits your machine. The size is from eye to eye on these shocks, you can measure your machine or look through your user’s manual to find the size you need.
Can I modify My ATV To Increase Its Weight-carrying Capacity?
Modifying an ATV to increase its weight-carrying capacity is not recommended. ATV manufacturers design their vehicles with specific weight limits in mind, considering factors such as frame strength, suspension capabilities, and braking systems.
If you change the ATV’s structure or components to accommodate higher weights you might compromise its structural integrity and may lead to unsafe riding conditions. It is always best to choose an ATV that suits your weight requirements from the available options rather than attempting to modify an existing one.
What should I do if I am close to or exceed the weight limit for my ATV?
If you find yourself close to or near the weight limit of your ATV, it is advisable to reassess your load and make adjustments.
Start by removing any unnecessary cargo or accessories that may be adding unnecessary weight. Consider redistributing the weight more evenly across the ATV, focusing on keeping it balanced and centered. If you frequently carry heavy loads, you may want to consider upgrading to an ATV with a higher weight capacity to ensure optimal safety and performance.
Sum It Up
To sum up, real quick, it’s important to use the ATV the way it was designed to be used. If you’re going to ride a quad not rated for your weight, take it easy and see how the ATV responds to the extra load.
If you feel the quad bottoming out on bumps or jumps you’re most likely causing excessive wear and tear and damaging the four-wheeler. Invest in a quality pair of shocks to prevent damage and increase the load the machine can handle.
Thanks so much for reading to the end!