How Many Gears Does An ATV Have? When To Use Them | Hunt or Shred

Maximize your ATV's performance with our guide to understanding how many gears an ATV has and when to use them.

ATVs have five or six forward gears and one reverse gear. The choice between these gears depends on factors such as the terrain, riding conditions, and the desired speed. You should use ATV gears when you need to adjust your speed and torque to match your driving conditions.

I've researched and gathered information from reliable sources, including industry experts and customer reviews regarding ATVs gears.  As such, I’ll provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively use your ATV gears, ensuring a safe and enjoyable off-road adventure.

Table of contents

HideShow

Brief Overview of ATV Gears

ATV gear is an essential component of the vehicle's transmission system, which allows riders to navigate various terrains. Most ATVs have a manual transmission system, which means the rider has to shift gears manually.

Usually, the transmission system consists of gears mounted on shafts inside the engine. They are engaged or disengaged using a clutch mechanism controlled by the rider.

Proper gear selection is essential for safe and efficient operation, improving traction, reducing engine strain, and increasing fuel efficiency.

You should familiarize yourself with the number of gears, their location, and when to shift gears to maximize the performance of your ATVs. Doing so ensures a safe, enjoyable, and long-lasting riding experience.

How Many Gears Does an ATV Have?

Most ATVs (all-terrain vehicles) have five or six forward gears and one reverse gear. The exact number of gears can vary depending on the make and model of the ATV, but five or six forward gears and one reverse gear are standard across most ATVs.

Usually, these gears are numbered in ascending order, with the first gear being the lowest and the sixth gear being the highest.

The first gear provides the most torque and is used for steep inclines or rugged terrain. Higher gears are used for faster speeds on flat terrain, while the reverse gear is used for backing up or maneuvering in tight spaces.

Some ATVs also come with automatic transmission systems that do not require manual shifting of gears. These transmissions are popular among beginners and those who want a more comfortable riding experience.

In addition to the number of gears, the type of transmission system also plays a crucial role in an ATV's performance. Manual transmission systems provide greater control and power, while automatic transmission systems offer ease of use and comfort.

When to Shift ATVs Gears

Shifting gears on an ATV is an essential part of riding. Therefore, knowing when to shift gears can make your ride smoother, more efficient, and more enjoyable.

The first thing to consider is the terrain you are riding on. If you are on a rough and rocky surface, you will want to use a lower gear to maintain control and stability. You can shift to a higher gear for faster speeds on smoother surfaces.

Another essential factor to consider is the speed you are traveling. If you are going too slow, you may need to shift to a lower gear to maintain power and control. If you are going too fast, you may need to shift to a higher gear to maintain speed and efficiency.

It’s also vital to listen to your ATV's engine. If you hear the engine revving too high, it may be time to shift to a higher gear. If the engine struggles to maintain power, shifting to a lower gear may be time.

When shifting gears, it’s essential to do so smoothly and gradually. Abrupt shifts can cause damage to the ATV's transmission system and make for a jerky ride. Instead, ease off the throttle, shift gears, and gradually accelerate again.

Finally, practicing shifting gears in a safe and controlled environment is crucial before taking your ATV out on more challenging terrain. This will help you understand your ATV's transmission system and develop good shifting habits.

Here’s a table summarizing when shifting ATV gears for optimum ATV performance.

Factor When to Shift Up When to Shif Down
Terrain Smooth, even surfaces Rough, rocky surfaces
Speed Going too slow Going too fast
Engine Sound Engine revving too high Engine struggling to maintain power
Shifting Technique Smooth and gradual Avoid abrupt shifts

How to Shift ATVs Gears

Knowing how to shift gears properly can make your ride smoother, more efficient, and more enjoyable.

The first step is to locate the gear shifter. This is typically found on the left side of the ATV near the footrest. A gear shifter will have a gears pattern, with the neutral position in the middle.

Before shifting the gears, ensure the ATV is neutral. This is typically indicated by a green light on the dashboard. If the light is not on, gently rock the ATV back and forth while pressing down on the gear shifter until it clicks into neutral.

Next, use your left foot to press down on the gear shifter to shift to a higher gear or lift on the gear shifter to shift down to a lower gear. Ensure to do this smoothly and gradually to avoid jerky movements and potential damage to the ATV's transmission system.

When shifting up to a higher gear, ease off the throttle slightly to reduce the load on the engine. This will make it easier to shift gears smoothly. Once the gear is engaged, gradually accelerate again.

When shifting to a lower gear, gently apply the brakes to slow down the ATV. This will make it easier to shift gears smoothly. After the gear is engaged, gradually release the brakes and accelerate again.

Tips for Effective ATV Gear Use

It’s vital to use your ATV gear for optimal performance efficiently. Below are tips on how to use ATV gears effectively.

Match the Gear to the Terrain

Matching your gear to the terrain can help you to ride more effectively and reduce engine strain.

When riding on challenging terrain, shifting to a lower gear is essential. This provides more torque to the wheels, improving traction and stability.

You can change to a higher gear for faster speeds and improved fuel efficiency when riding on flat terrain.

Use First Gear for Starting

When starting your ATV, always use first gear. This gear provides the most torque and is essential for moving on inclines or challenging terrain.

Shift Gears Smoothly

When shifting gears, make sure to shift smoothly to avoid jerking or stalling the engine. This can prolong the life of your ATV's engine and improve your riding experience.

It’s also vital to match the engine speed to the vehicle's speed when shifting gears.

Don't Ride in Too High of a Gear

Riding in too high of a gear can cause the engine to work harder than necessary, leading to overheating and potential engine damage. Make sure to shift down to a lower gear when required.

Don't Ride in Too Low of a Gear

Riding in too low of a gear can cause the engine to rev too high, resulting in unnecessary wear and tear. Shift up to a higher gear when appropriate.

Use the Reverse Gear Cautiously

You should only use the reverse gear for backing up or maneuvering in tight spaces. Make sure to use the reverse gear carefully to avoid accidents.

Benefits of Different ATVs Gear Ratios

Different gear ratios can provide different benefits depending on the intended use of the ATV. Here are some of the benefits of different ATV gear ratios:

Low Gear Ratio

This gear ratio provides more torque and acceleration, making it ideal for climbing steep hills, navigating through mud or snow, and towing heavy loads. Also, it provides better control and stability on rough terrain.

High Gear Ratio                        

It provides more speed and efficiency, making it ideal for cruising on smooth surfaces like dirt roads or highways. Additionally, it provides better fuel economy and less engine strain.

Balanced Gear Ratio

This gear ratio compromises torque and speed, making it ideal for all-around use. It provides good acceleration, speed, control, and stability on rough terrain.

Custom Gear Ratio

Custom gear ratios can be designed to meet specific needs, such as racing, towing, or heavy-duty work. These gear ratios can be tailored to provide the ideal torque, speed, and control balance for a specific purpose.

Automatic and  Manual Transmissions in ATVs and How They Affect Gear Usage

As mentioned, the transmission type can affect how the gears are used. You can control the ATV's performance in manual transmission and choose the appropriate gear for the terrain and speed.

This means you can select a lower gear for steep hills or rough terrain and a higher gear for cruising on smoother surfaces. In addition, you can downshift to slow down or upshift to speed up, depending on the situation.

In an automatic transmission, the ATV's computer system selects the appropriate gear based on the ATV's speed and other factors. This means you have less control over the ATV's performance and cannot manually select the gear.

However, this can make it easier for beginners or those who prefer a more comfortable riding experience.

Key Takeaways

  • An ATV typically has five gears, including neutral and reverse.
  • Understanding when to shift gears can improve your ATV's performance.
  • The appropriate gear depends on your ATV's terrain, speed, and load.
  • Shifting gears smoothly and appropriately is essential for safe ATV riding.

About THE AUTHOR

Gary

Gary

45 years old. I'm in business marketing. I write for Hunt or Shred on the side. I love hiking, camping, and everything outdoors with my family. I have 6 years of experience working at an ATV shop selling, fixing, and test driving all brands and models.

Read More About Gary