The all-terrain vehicle (ATV), also known as two- and four-wheelers, was first developed by the Japanese as a farm-to-town vehicle in mountainous areas. The two and four-wheelers proved to be an excellent mode of travel and soon became a recreational vehicle that provided transportation to areas inaccessible by other motorized vehicles. It was not long before the Japanese manufacturers realized that the ATV could be sold to Americans. Since that time many Americans argue which machine is safer. Although four-wheelers are considered much more fun to ride and also safer than two-wheelers, statistics show two-wheelers to be safer.
When the ATV first appeared in the United States in the early 1970's, it was promoted and sold mainly by Honda as a recreational vehicle designed to provide thrills for the rider. This is still its primary use today. Two- and four-wheelers are both designed for off-road use only. .
Two and four-wheelers both provide their own type of thrill for the rider. While two-wheelers provide much better jumping capabilities and thin trail riding, ATV's easily climb steep hills and can ride through very rough terrain. It all depends on what you like to do. Both two- and four-wheelers are considered ATV's.
I have been riding two-wheelers for 13 years, and I have been riding four-wheelers the past three years. In comparison I believe the two-wheeler to be safer much more versatile than a four-wheeler. .
The main safety concern with a four-wheeler is the roll factor. It is very easy to tip a four-wheeled machine and have it roll right over you. The lightest four-wheeler to date, the Yamaha 660 Raptor, weighs in at 400lbs. This is enough weight to easily crush and severely injure a human being.
There are also many other safety concerns with four-wheelers.