ATVs and side-by-sides are leaving showrooms in droves, urged on by the huge-fun factor rivalling full-sized 4WDs for off-roading capability and dirt bikes for agility and handling prowess. Machines come in different guises, engine capacities, horsepower numbers and skill levels tailored to all age groups and experienced and new riders alike. All quad bikes can be customised to meet individual needs, and if the quad is short on push and shove, dozens of aftermarket parts and accessories fill any voids and add that something extra. 

Riders and drivers should look for performance, protection, comfort and convenience parts from a dedicated and well-stocked ATV parts online store. These offer better value, a wider parts catalogue, more quality and a range of brands in different price brackets. Some also offer proprietary components rivalling big brand names with improved designs, increased quality and real-world testing to get the most out of the bike. 

There are also the usual benefits of buying online, including convenience, same-day deliveries, different payment options and return policies. If you’re after more performance, better throttle response, improved wheel articulation and a faster, better-handling machine, choose from the range of performance parts and accessories compatible with your quad. Here’s what to look for: 

Aftermarket Exhausts 

All ATVs and side by sides have a healthy dose of power as you work the throttle. Anyone needing a cheap power upgrade should install a slip-on or full exhaust to extract a few extra ponies. Aftermarket systems improve airflow, come, better made to resist mud, corrosion and staining, and with a fine-tuned growl out the back. Go for established exhaust brands to get the best bang for your buck. Remus, Akrapovic, HMF and Yoshimura are just a few options. 

Upgraded CVT Belts 

Continuous Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are involved in getting power through the engines to drive axles and from there to the wheels. Belts positioned between the drive and driven clutches are what get things moving. They’re constantly stretched, squeezed and subjected to heat as gear ratios and engine speeds change. While factory belts are adequate for most uses, improved power delivery comes from better-made aftermarket drive belts. 

These supremely handle elongation, compression and heat with strengthened aramid (Kevlar) tensile cords, reinforced rubber outers, and rounded cog and trapezoid teeth designs to smoothly engage the clutch pulleys. Swap out your stock worn belt for a high-end offering and notice more power at mid and high RPMs, better acceleration, and a crisper throttle. The parts will also last longer in spirited rides, so offer more fun. 

Clutch Kits 

Clutch kits are another upgrade to consider from an ATV parts online store, especially if you’re after reworked gear ratios and improved engagement. Pulleys in different sizes and weights can improve low-end torque, gripping wheels on looser ground faster, meaning a better connection of rider and machine. Clutch kits can also be optimised for higher redlines and changed to suit varying terrain. 

Suspension Upgrades

Long-travel shocks, stiffened springs, heavy-duty ball joints and bushings, and adjustable control arms (for camber and alignment) are just some of the aftermarket suspension upgrades to consider. Shocks tame compression and rebound rates in springs for a smoother, more controlled ride, ball joints in better builds and strengthened materials go for better durability and lower maintenance. while incremental adjustments with suspension arms and linkages allow for a better steering feel and crisper response, especially over technical terrain.  

What Else to Consider?

Once you’ve prepped your quad with more horses, better sound, and improved wheel articulation, consider essentials that keep you (and the quad) protected, add more grip and improved visibility in bad weather or trail conditions. Items to consider here are front and rear bumpers, skid plates, and the right tyre and wheel combinations. You may also want LEDs in the headlights, bumper or roof-mounted LED lightbar or flood lights for work surveillance  or hunting purposes. 

Bumpers can be tubed or sheet metal variants (or a combination of both), shield the lights, fragile engine parts and riders from spraying mud, water and debris. They also offer are more purposeful look, specifically when optioned with integrated winch cradles. Bumper kits go a step further, with included side rails, essentially offering all-round protection. Choose thick gauge coated stainless steel in both types for optimal impact and corrosion resistance, and consider mounting points for adding extras like aftermarket lights. 

When it comes to tyres, swap out the general-purpose rubber that came with the quad for tyres best suited to the terrain. Aggressive treads and thicker block placement in mud tyres offer the best traction in mud, water and tougher terrains littered with undulations. For sand you’ll be looking for the opposite. Smoother treads, and paddle designs shift sand left and right, helping your steer and build speed. Also consider the number of plies and compounds. More interspersed plies mean more durability and fewer punctures, but can add weight. And choose harder compounds for better grip on loose surfaces, or softer tyres on lighter trails and going full-out on the throttle. 

Lastly, if you’re used to riding in overcast and foggy conditions, or at night, consider the numerous lighting upgrades. Here LED headlights, light bars, taillights  and fog or work lights can be used alone or together to get the best possible visibility in any driving or road conditions. While speed and handling are priorities for most riders, don’t leave out safety. Choose lights according to rate brightness output (or lumens), colour temperatures (for a more natural look) and power consumption (in Watts), particularly if you’ve added more electrical extras such as winches.