Steady-State and Transient Response of Selected All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)

Lateral directional dynamic response properties and handling characteristics of All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) have been the subject of several investigations. Experimentally measured steady-state and transient handling response parameters of four ATVs are presented, reflecting two traditional automobile handling tests, the circle-turn and the J-turn test. Two three-wheel and two four-wheel ATVs were tested. One of the three-wheel and one of the four-wheel ATVs were equipped with conventional, but lockable differentials. The J-turn tests yielded transient response properties including lateral acceleration and yaw rate response times to step steer inputs, and steady-state response properties such as understeer coefficient, steering sensitivity and yaw response gain. ATV J-turn test results are compared to J-turn test results from selected automobiles. The circle-turn tests provide a tool to investigate the influence of axle configuration on the handlebar steering effort required to negotiate a turn.