Average ATV Towing Capacity (21 Popular Models Compared)

Are you wondering how much an ATV can tow?

If so, you’re not alone, as this is one of the key factors people consider when choosing an ATV.

With ATV engines ranging from 50ccs to 1,000ccs and 3 to 90 horsepower though, this can be challenging to figure out.

As four-wheelers and quads can have towing capacities ranging anywhere from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds, depending on the make and model.

Because of this, we created the below table, which breaks down ATV towing capacities based on make, model, engine displacement, and class.

So that you have a better understanding of ATV towing capacities.

Plus, we also discuss:

• Average ATV Towing Capacities
• Factors that Impact Towing
• Sport Versus Utility Towing Capability
• Which Brands Have the Highest Tow Ratings
• ATVs With the Highest Towing Capacity

Key Takeaways

• ATV towing capacities range from 500 to 1,830 pounds, depending on the make and model.
• Some ATV models are not rated or equipped for towing.
• Many factors affect ATV towing capacity including size, class, engine displacement, transmission, suspension, and towing equipment.

Popular ATV Models (Lowest to Highest Towing Capacity)

Average ATV Towing Capacity

As you can see from the table above, ATV towing capacities can range from as little as 500 to as much as 1,830 pounds, depending on the make and model.

So to help break down ATV towing capacity even further, we analyzed the numbers to come up with average ATV towing capacities based on size and engine displacement of the machine.

That way you’ll know what kind of towing capacity is bad, good, or average based on the size of the machine you’re looking at.

• Entry-level / 200 – 400cc ATVs – 500 to 800 Pound Towing Capacity
• Mid-size / 400cc – 700cc ATVs – 800 to 1,300 Pound Towing Capacity
• Full-size / 700cc – 1,000cc ATVs – 1,200 to 1,800 Pound Towing Capacity

It’s important to keep in though that these are just averages, as there are often outliers.

For example, ATVs with smaller displacements may not be rated for towing at all or could have a towing capacity well beyond the average for its size.

As a lot more goes into the towing capacity of an ATV than just its size including engine power, drivetrain, chassis, suspension, and integrated towing equipment.

Factors that Impact ATV Towing Capacity

ATV towing capacity is influenced by several key factors directly impacting how much weight an ATV can safely pull.

Understanding these elements is crucial for both recreational riders and professionals who rely on ATVs for work. Here’s a breakdown of the primary factors affecting ATV towing capacity:

• Engine Size and Power Output: Larger, more powerful engines can produce higher torque to tow heavier loads. The displacement of the engine, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), often correlates with the vehicle’s towing capabilities.
• Vehicle Weight and Build: Heavier ATVs typically have a sturdier build, which allows them to tow more. The construction materials and frame design also play a role in an ATV’s ability to handle additional weight.
• Transmission and Gearing: The design of the ATV’s transmission, including the gear ratios, affects its pulling power. ATVs with a low gear option can tow heavier loads more effectively.
• Suspension System: A robust suspension is vital for towing. It must be able to maintain stability and handle the added stress that comes with pulling a trailer or cargo.
• Tire Size and Tread: Tires with a larger diameter and aggressive tread pattern can provide better traction, which is necessary for towing. The right tires ensure that the ATV doesn’t slip or lose control while towing on various terrains.
• Braking System: An ATV must have a strong braking system to safely slow down and stop when towing, as the added weight increases momentum and stopping distance.
• Hitch Type and Position: The type of hitch and its position on the ATV can influence towing capacity. A well-positioned hitch can distribute weight more evenly and improve towing performance.
• Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Capability: ATVs with 4WD can tow more effectively because power is distributed to all wheels, enhancing traction and control, especially on challenging terrains.

Sport Versus Utility ATV Towing Capability

The term ATV encompasses a wide range of off-road vehicles, including everything from aggressive sport quads designed for quick acceleration to large utility models designed for work.

Because of this, there can be a big difference in setup from one ATV to the next, which will ultimately affect its towing capacity.

For instance, sports quads are engineered with a lighter frame and a high-strung engine, which is great for quick acceleration and aggressive handling but not for towing heavy loads.

In fact, many sports ATVs are not even rated for towing or lack towing equipment altogether.

On the other hand, utility ATVs are the workhorses of the ATV world.

Offering lower geared higher-torque engines and sturdier frames designed to withstand the rigors of towing and carrying heavy loads.

Which is why they are the go-to choice for farming, landscaping, and heavy-duty trailering.

Which ATV Brands Have the Highest Tow Ratings?

You might think that there wouldn’t be much of a towing difference from one ATV manufacturer to the next, especially when comparing models of similar size and engine displacement.

However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Because towing capacity can vary significantly between brands due to differences in engineering, build quality, and target markets.

For instance, brands that focus on utility ATVs tend to design vehicles with stronger frames, better towing features, and more powerful engines that translate into higher tow ratings.

Can-Am, for instance, is renowned for its high-capacity towing, with certain models capable of pulling loads that exceed 1,800 pounds.

This is a reflection of their commitment to producing ATVs that are not just recreational vehicles but also powerful workhorses.

Polaris is another brand known for its robust towing capabilities, often incorporating heavy-duty components and technologies that enhance towing performance.

Their ATVs are frequently the choice for those who need reliable towing for work or serious outdoor activities, as some of the larger models can tow as much as 1,500 pounds.

Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki tend to be pretty evenly matched when comparing similar-sized units, often ranging from 1,000 to 1,300 pounds of towing capacity on their more powerful models.

Surprisingly, Honda while loved by the powersports world, generally, brings up the rear when it comes to towing capacity.

While their models offer excellent durability and reliability, they tend to be geared more toward general use, with a focus on recreational and light-duty work tasks.

Because of this, even their mid-range FourTrax models with 400 to 700cc engines, top out at less than 1,000 pounds of towing capacity.

ATVs With the Highest Towing Capacity

When it comes to heavy-duty work and demanding outdoor tasks, not all ATVs are created equal, as we’ve seen from above.

Because of this, we’ve highlighted three ATVs that stand out from the pack with their exceptional towing capacities.

Whether you need to pull a trailer around your property or transport heavy materials across a work site, these ATV powerhouses have best-in-class towing capacity.

Polaris Sportsman 850

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $9,500
• Engine Displacement: 850cc
• Power: 78 Horsepower
• Drivetrain: On-Demand All-Wheel Drive
• Towing Capacity: 1,500 Pounds

The Polaris Sportsman 850 offers robust power combined with class-leading stability, making it a powerhouse for towing.

Available in three main trim levels, including base, premium, and ultimate trail, all three versions offer the same 1,500-pound towing capacity.

Known for its impressive 78 horsepower engine, it delivers quick acceleration and responsive handling.

The Sportsman 850 offers class-leading towing capacity, thanks to its high-output 850cc twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine.

This power is supported by a sturdy chassis and a robust suspension system that’s ready for tough tasks.

With ample towing and payload capacity and a reputation for reliability, the Sportsman 850 is one of the best options out there for those looking for an ATV that combines power, performance, and utility in a single machine.

For more information on the Polaris Sportsman 850, check out Polaris’s website by clicking here.

Can-Am Outlander DPS 500

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $7,000
• Engine Displacement: 650cc
• Power: 40 Horsepower
• Drivetrain: Selectable 2WD/4WD With Auto-locking Front Differential
• Towing Capacity: 1,830 Pounds

The Can-Am Outlander DPS 500 provides the best bang for your buck if you’re looking for the maximum amount of towing capacity at an affordable price.

This popular ATV offers 1,830 pounds of towing capacity and a very affordable $7,000 price tag.

The Can-Am Outlander DPS 500 stands out as a versatile and powerful ATV designed for both work and play.

Equipped with a reliable 650cc Rotax single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, it offers a good blend of power and efficiency, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.

It’s built with a rugged frame and advanced suspension system, ensuring durability and comfort during long rides.

The Outlander DPS 500 is a well-rounded mid-size machine that successfully delivers excellent off-road capability with best-in-class utility and functionality, at an affordable price.

To learn more about the Can-Am Outlander DPS 500, check out Can-Am’s website here.

Can-Am Outlander XT 700

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $9,000
• Engine Displacement: 650cc
• Power: 50 Horsepower
• Drivetrain: Selectable 2WD/4WD With Auto-locking Front Differential
• Towing Capacity: 1,830 Pounds

The big brother to the Outlander DPS 500, the Can-Am Outlander XT 700 offers more power and capability.

However, a feature that both versions of the Outlander share is their towing capacity, as both models offer an industry-leading 1,830-pound towing capacity.

Designed to expand off-road capabilities significantly, the Outlander XT 700 features a Rotax® ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, providing robust performance for various terrains.

The ATV is equipped with 26-inch XPS Trail Force tires mounted on 14-inch aluminum wheels, enhancing its off-road traction and capability.

The model is also loaded with utility features that make work tasks easier and more manageable, including a 3,500-pound winch, front and rear racks, and plenty of storage for all your tools and gear.

To learn more about the Can-Am Outlander XT 700, visit Can-Am’s website here.

Frequently Asked Questions

ATV Towing Capacity Wrap-Up

In this blog post, we’ve explored the towing capacities of 21 popular ATV models, ranging from the least capable Honda FourTrax Recon to the most capable Can-Am Outlander XT 700.

From sport to utility ATVs, each model offers unique towing strengths, influenced by various factors like engine size, design, and brand.

Understanding these differences is crucial in selecting the right ATV, to ensure that it offers the proper balance of off-roading thrill with practical functionality for your particular needs.

Additional ATV Resources

• Does ATV Oil Go Bad? (When to Replace It & Toss It Out)
• Do ATVs Have VIN Numbers? Decoding Vehicle Identification Numbers
• How Much is a Kawasaki ATV (Full Cost Breakdown)