Did you know that you can’t just drive your ATV on public streets or highways? The rules vary depending on your state. You can’t just pop into your ATV and head to the nearest ATV trails, or even go drive on the sand dunes all over the US.
If you and your family are big ATV enthusiasts, then you probably have a couple of ATVs to transport. Since there are more kids under 12 years of age that have ATVs, your kid probably also has an electric quad or small ATV to transport. You also want the convenience of being able to transport your ATVs whenever you want.
You need to start considering what is the best trailer size to haul ATVs.
A 5×8 trailer is good if you’re hauling one ATV. If you have kids, don’t think it’s the last ATV you’ll have to transport. You may also want to haul more items. A 12’ to 14’ trailer is good for 2 ATVs, and a 16’ or 18’ trailer can carry multiple ATVs and heavier loads.
Keep on reading for a detailed guide on everything you need to know about trailer sizes to haul ATVs.
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Can You Just Use Your Truck Bed?
If you have a single ATV, you may be able to use your truck bed. An average ATV is about 83 to 85 inches long. These will generally fit comfortably on your truck bed.
As you know, ATVs can get heavy depending on what type of ATV you have. An average ATV can weigh about 100 to 530 kilograms without fuel, cargo or passengers. You should make sure that your truck can handle that weight without issues.
You will need to invest in ramps so that your ATV can be loaded on and off easily. If you’re careful, you can end up damaging the rear windshield of your truck. If your ATV falls, you can also end up breaking the taillights of your truck or damaging your ATV.
If you don’t want to damage your truck or get a ramp, you can consider getting a trailer. Most ATV trailers can be easily pulled by a truck, small SUV, or even a minivan.
What Features Do You Want in Your ATV Trailer?
Whether you’re getting a trailer for your new ATV or upgrading your trailer, you want a trailer that makes your next trip to the ATV tracks or sand dunes easy and convenient.
You want your trailer to fit everything you need. You want to think long-term and consider whether you plan on getting more ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, or dirt bikes in the future. You want to be able to haul ATVs for your friends on longer trips.
You must consider whether you can load ATVs onto the trailer sideways. Having side ramps on your trailer will make your life easier because loading ATVs sideways gives you more space.
You also need to think about the weight of the trailer and the kind of car you have. If your trailer is too heavy, your small or medium-sized vehicle may not be able to haul it, especially over long distances.
What Is the Best Trailer Size to Haul ATVs?
You’re probably asking yourself what size trailer is needed for 2 ATVs, or even what size trailer do I need for 3 ATVs. When you go on trips, you want to be able to haul your friends’ ATVs as well.
As your family grows, your needs will grow too. Your kids will grow out of the electric ATV and move on to bigger engine sizes. The best ATVs sizes for youth change based on their age from 50cc to 250cc.
You should choose the best trailer size to haul ATVs based on your current and future needs.
What Size Trailer Is Needed for 1 ATV?
If you’re committed to a trailer for a single ATV, you should consider a 5×8 open trailer. While a 4×6 trailer can fit many ATVs, many avid ATV riders complain about the size. They wish they had bought a slightly larger trailer to allow them more flexibility with its use.
A 5×8 feet trailer is durable, sturdy, and lightweight. You can pull a 5×8 trailer using a smaller pickup or SUV.
What Size Trailer Is Needed for 2 ATVs?
You can go enjoy the solitude and riding your ATV on your own, but it’s a lot more fun when you have company. If you’re asking, what size trailer do I need for 2 ATVs, you’ve come to the right place.
To haul 2 ATVs, you’ll need a 6×12 trailer if you load nose to tail. If you can load the ATVs sideways, then you can also get a 6×10 foot trailer. If your ATV is greater than 550 cc, then you should get a slightly bigger trailer at 7×12.
If you want more space for other things, like your lawnmower, and snowmobile, then get a 12’ side load trailer.
What Size Trailer Do I Need for 3 ATVs?
If you have 3 ATVs, the first thing you need to do is get your measurements so you know what you’re working with. Generally, you want to get a 16’ or 18’ feet trailer that you can load from the side or rear.
You also want to consider any extra racks and accessories that you have or want to purchase later on.
For 4 ATVs, a 16’ trailer may be enough, but 18’ will give you the space you need for full-size ATVs and larger tires.
Do You Need Extra Space?
Did you know that the ATV market size was $3 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow 7% between 2021 and 2017? That means you’ll have access to new technology and newer models of ATVs in the next few years. You’ll meet more people interested in ATVs as the market grows.
You may not need extra space now, but things may change in the future. It’s an investment for your future. Making the right decision now can help you in the future.
Long term, your needs will change. You need to think about what else you might want to use your trailer for.
You can use a trailer to haul several items like ATVs, lawnmowers, cars, equipment, motorcycles, and snowmobiles. Your trailer can also help you with that mattress you want to throw out, or help your kids move to their new place.
How to Haul an ATV on a Trailer?
Before you haul an ATV on a trailer, you should consider some tips and tricks to make it easier and more convenient for you. Let’s take a look:
Find the Right Tire Size
If your trailer has tires that are too small, you can end up wearing the tires down fast and having to spend more money in the future. The terrain you choose will also impact your tires. Rocky and muddy terrain can end up wearing them down quicker. Consider 13-inch tires for your next adventure.
Weight Requirements of a Trailer
Consider the total weight of all the ATVs and equipment you want to haul. Make sure your trailer can handle the weight of all your equipment.
For example, a Polaris 570 Sportsman has an estimated dry weight of 320 kilograms. A 475cc Honda Pioneer 500 weighs 1,010 pounds.
Strap Down and Secure
Make sure you spend time strapping down and securing everything. This is even more important with an open trailer. Things can shift and move around during transit. You don’t want to lose your accessories and equipment on a long journey.
Multiple ATVs
When you’re loading multiple ATVs, try keeping the smaller ones closer to the front. This will allow you to keep an eye on all your ATVs while driving. You can even put a high flag on the largest ATV at the back, so all you need to do is keep an eye on the flag to make sure everything is safe and sound.
Trailer Accessories to Consider
Do look for a trailer with side ramps. Side ramps are really useful to have because you can haul more ATVs if you are able to load them sideways.
Do consider used trailers. If it’s in good condition with good tires, you can save yourself some money.
Don’t get a wider trailer. For driving long distances, it’s easier to use a long trailer rather than a wide trailer. You want it to be the same size or slightly wider than your truck or SUV.
Do research trailer licensing requirements. They vary by state and you don’t want to spend money on tickets and penalties for not registering your trailer.
Check Out More Tips and Tricks on ATV Riding
Now you know exactly what size trailer you need to haul 2 ATVs or 3 ATVs. You know the best trailer size to haul ATVs and how to haul ATVs. With these tips and tricks, you can start hauling your ATV to the trails in no time.
If you’re looking to learn more about ATVs, UTVs or snowmobiles, check out our blog for more articles on fun tops like 12 ATV sand dune riding tips.