Question 1

What ATV accessories are most useful for trail riding?

Accepted Answer

A winch (3,000 lb minimum), undercarriage skid plates, handlebar hand guards, and a rear cargo bag cover the most common real-world needs. A winch gets you out of most stuck situations; skid plates prevent one exposed rock from ending your ride. Together these four items run $400–$800 depending on brand.

Question 2

What size winch do I need for my ATV?

Accepted Answer

The rule of thumb is 1.5× your ATV's dry weight. A 500 lb ATV needs at least a 750 lb winch; most full-size utility ATVs (900–1,200 lbs) should use a 3,000–4,500 lb rated winch. Warn, Superwinch, and Badland are the most trusted brands. Synthetic rope is worth the premium over steel cable — it's lighter, safer when it breaks, and doesn't kink.

Question 3

What are the best ATV tires for mud?

Accepted Answer

The ITP Mud Lite XTR, Maxxis Zilla, and STI Roctane XD are the three most recommended dedicated mud tires among competitive ATV riders. All three offer 6-ply puncture resistance and self-cleaning lug patterns. The Maxxis Zilla is generally the most budget-friendly; the STI Roctane XD carries a higher load rating for utility work.

Question 4

Can I plow snow with my ATV?

Accepted Answer

Yes — any ATV above 400cc with a front hitch point can mount a plow blade. Warn, Cycle Country, and Moose Utility all make bolt-on plow kits for most major brands starting around $400. A 60-inch blade handles most residential driveways; a 72-inch blade clears commercial lots faster. 4WD lock is recommended for plowing in deep snow.

Question 5

Do I need skid plates on my ATV?

Accepted Answer

If you ride wooded trails or rocky terrain, yes. An exposed A-arm, belly, or differential is one log strike away from a repair bill that dwarfs the cost of skid plates. Most manufacturers offer factory skid plate kits; aftermarket options from SuperATV and Ricochet Offroad typically provide better coverage than OEM kits at similar prices.

ATV Accessories: Shop by Category

Protection & Armor

Utility & Work

Trail Performance

Storage & Racks

Safety & Rider Gear

ATV Accessories — Common Questions