Top Speed of ATVs, Side x Sides, and UTVs

As a Segway dealer we are very often asked the ‘top speed’ question. “What is the top speed of a Segway ATV?”, and for comparison “what is the top speed of CFMoto?”, and “what about CanAm and Polaris?”

ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles), Side-by-Sides (SxS), and UTVs (Utility Terrain Vehicles) are all powersports vehicles that can handle rough terrain and provide thrilling off-road adventures. One of the most common questions people have about these vehicles when purchasing is their top speed, but it’s not a simple answer because several factors can affect speed.

Factors Affecting ATV Top Speed

• Vehicle Specs: Engine Horsepower Output, Transmission Gearing, Tire Size, Suspension, Weight of the vehicle

Horsepower is a measure of the engine's power output, or the amount of work the engine can perform in a given amount of time. The more horsepower an ATV's engine produces, the more power it has to move the vehicle forward. This is why horsepower is one of the main factors that can affect the speed of an ATV, but it's not the only factor.

The speed of an ATV depends on several factors, including the engine power, transmission gearing, tire size, suspension and weight of the vehicle. Generally speaking, the more horsepower an ATV has, the faster it can go. However, the power needs to be translated into motion through the transmission and drive system.

For example, an ATV with a 50 horsepower engine could potentially reach a higher top speed than an ATV with a 25 horsepower engine, but it also depends on factors like the gearing of the transmission and the size of the tires. The gearing ratio determines how much torque is available to move the ATV forward, and the tire size affects the amount of force needed to turn the wheels and maintain speed.

• Terrain

ATVs, UTVs, and SxSs are designed to conquer many different terrains, but the type of terrain can affect the top speed capabilities.

Here are some examples:

1. Soft Sand: ATVs can get bogged down in soft, deep sand as the wheels can sink in, making it difficult for the vehicle to gain traction and maintain speed.

2. Mud: Thick mud can be difficult to traverse for an ATV, as it can stick to the wheels and cause them to lose traction.

3. Steep Inclines: Steep hills or inclines can be challenging for an ATV to navigate, especially if they are rocky or uneven.

4. Water: Waterlogged terrain can slow down an ATV, particularly if it is deep or has a strong current.

5. Dense Vegetation: Overgrown foliage or dense vegetation can make it difficult for an ATV to navigate through, as the vehicle can get stuck or tangled in the branches and brush.

Overall, any terrain that impedes the ability of the wheels to maintain traction and grip, or slows down the speed of the vehicle, can slow down an ATV.

• Added Weight

The weight of the rider and any cargo or gear can affect the top speed of an ATV, UTV or Side x Side. Heavier loads will slow the vehicle down and make it more difficult to achieve high speeds.

• Wind Resistance

The design of the ATV, UTV and SxS can affect wind resistance and, therefore, the top speed. An ATV with a more aerodynamic design will be able to achieve higher speeds.

The top speed of an ATV, UTV, or Side x Side seems to be one of the ‘go to’ questions when purchasing and it can be an important factor for those looking for speed and performance. However, it's important to remember that speed is not only dependent on many factors but it's also not the only consideration when it comes to selecting a powersports vehicle. Other factors, such as handling, stability, durability, and safety features, should also be taken into account.

If Top Speed is Important to You

If speed is important to you then I would suggest doing your research and using horsepower as a starting point. Powersports manufacturers don’t generally post top speed numbers but most will post horsepower numbers. As a Segway Dealer, I can give you a few Segway numbers as a starting reference point but remember all the other factors above that affect speed. Not all 44 hp machines will have the same top speed.

• A 570cc Segway Snarler ATV puts out 44 hp and can produce a top speed of approximately 100 kms/hour. As a quick online comparison, a CFMoto CForce 600 puts out 45 hp, a CanAm Outlander 500 creates 40 hp and the Outlander 700 creates 50 hp, the Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV is advertised at 44 hp. To convert these into kms/hour you’ll have to ask someone with experience riding them.

• A Segway Fugleman UT10 (1000cc) puts out 105 hp and can produce a top speed of approximately 110km/hour. Remember UTVs and Side x Sides are much heavier than ATVs so it takes more hp to get high speeds. The CF Moto Uforce 1000 has 79 hp, the Polaris Ranger XP 1000 has 82 hp, and the CanAm Defender is listed at 82 hp. For top speeds you’d have to ask an experienced rider of the specific unit.

L1FE Outdoors ATV can help Increase Top Speeds for CFMOTO, Polaris, CanAm, Yamaha, Honda, and of course Segway

Once you make your purchase if you’re still wanting more speed there are things that can be done! L1FE Outdoors ATV specializes in ATV, UTV, and Side x Side upgrades for any make or model. Let’s say you decide on a CFMoto, our knowledgeable parts and tuning staff can help increase your top speed. We have a large selection of CFMoto upgrade parts and accessories in-stock and on our website. Contact us any time for help with your purchases.