Winter is coming! As winter approaches, many people with driveways and large properties find themselves in need of a reliable way to clear snow. While traditional snow blowers and shovels can be effective, they can also be time-consuming and physically demanding.
For those looking for a more efficient and fun option, an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) with a plow attachment is the way to go. ATVs are versatile vehicles that are designed to handle a variety of off-road conditions, including snow and ice.
By attaching a plow to the front of the ATV, you can easily clear snow from your driveway, sidewalks, and other areas around your property.
In this post, we will take a look at some of the best ATVs for snow plowing, as well as the key features to consider when choosing the right one for your needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an ATV for Snow Plowing
When it comes to choosing an ATV for snow plowing, there are several factors to consider in order to find the best vehicle for your needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors to consider when selecting an ATV for snow plowing, including the vehicle’s power and performance, durability and reliability, and overall value for the price.
- Power and performance: Snow plowing is a demanding task, and it requires an ATV that is powerful and capable of tackling tough terrain and deep snow. Look for an ATV with a fuel-injected engine that provides plenty of power and torque, as well as a smooth-shifting transmission and a durable drive-train and suspension system.
- Plow attachments: The type of plow attachment used on the ATV will determine its ability to move and manipulate the snow. A straight-blade plow is the most common type, and it is effective for pushing and moving snow in a straight line. A v-shaped plow is better suited for moving large volumes of snow and can be more effective at breaking up and moving compacted snow.
- Durability and reliability: Snow plowing can be hard on an ATV, and it’s important to select a vehicle that can handle the added weight of a snow plow and withstand the rigors of regular use. Look for an ATV with a high-strength steel frame and a heavy-duty front bumper, as well as a durable drivetrain and suspension system.
- Tires: Snow-specific tires are important for maintaining traction on snowy and icy surfaces. Look for tires with a deep tread pattern and consider studded tires for added grip.
- Value for the price: Snow plowing can be a costly task, and it’s important to select an ATV that offers a good balance of performance, durability, and price. Look for an ATV with a competitive price point that offers the best value for your money, taking into account the vehicle’s power and performance, durability and reliability, and overall quality.
- Size and weight: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an ATV for snow plowing is size and weight. A larger, heavier ATV will be able to plow through deeper snow and handle heavier loads, making it more effective at clearing snow from your driveway or other areas. However, a smaller, lighter ATV may be more maneuverable and easier to handle, making it a better option for plowing in tight or confined spaces.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose an ATV that is well-suited for snow plowing and that will provide reliable performance for years to come.
Best ATV for Snow Plowing
Best Overall- Honda Rancher TRX420
This is a top-of-the-line ATV that is well-suited for snow plowing. This versatile and reliable vehicle is powered by a fuel-injected 420cc engine that delivers plenty of power and torque, allowing it to easily tackle even the toughest snow-covered terrain.
Best Value – Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O.
The Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. is a high-performance ATV that is well-suited for tackling a wide range of outdoor tasks including snow plowing. This versatile and reliable vehicle is powered by a fuel-injected 499cc engine that delivers plenty of power and torque, allowing it to handle even the toughest terrain. Its impeccable features and good price of around 6999 make it one of the best ATVs for snow plowing.
Best Budget – Can-Am Outlander 450
The Can-Am Outlander 450 is a budget-friendly ATV that is well-suited for snow plowing. This reliable and versatile vehicle is powered by a fuel-injected 450cc engine that provides plenty of power and torque, allowing it to easily tackle even the toughest snow-covered terrain.
Best ATVs For Snow Plowing
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Honda Rancher TRX420
One of the best ATVs for plowing snow is the Honda TRX420. This ATV is powered by a 420cc fuel-injected engine that provides plenty of power to handle tough plowing tasks.
It also features Honda’s automatic transmission with hydraulic torque converter, which makes it easy to shift gears and control the vehicle’s speed while plowing. Honda Rancher TRX420 also acts as a 4×4 ATV with snow plow when all attachments are fixed.
The Honda TRX420 also comes equipped with a durable steel plow that is 48 inches wide and 14 inches tall. This plow is capable of pushing large amounts of snow, making it perfect for clearing driveways and other large areas. Additionally, the plow can be easily attached and detached from the ATV, allowing you to switch between plowing and other tasks quickly and easily.
Other key features of the Honda TRX420 include a large, comfortable seat, a spacious cargo bed for carrying tools and supplies, and a durable, high-strength steel frame.
Overall, this ATV is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and efficient way to clear snow from their property. This is without doubt the best ATV for snow plowing.
Pros
- Comfortable, light, and nimble for any level of riding experience
- Low center of gravity with smooth consistent power in all gears
- Generous storage and hauling capability for work and play
Cons
- Lack of 12V power outlet
- Single sealed rear drum brake vs. all-wheel disc brakes
- Rear swing arm vs. independent rear suspension on all models
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Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O.
Another excellent ATV for plowing snow is the Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. This ATV is powered by a 450cc high-output engine that provides plenty of power and torque for plowing tasks.
It also features Polaris’s on-demand true all-wheel drive system, which automatically adjusts power to the wheels as needed to provide maximum traction on slippery surfaces.
The Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. comes equipped with an attachment point for a durable steel plow that is up to 60 inches wide and 20 inches tall. This means it comes ready for the attachment of an ATV snow plow kit.
This plow is capable of pushing large amounts of snow, making it ideal for clearing driveways and other large areas. The plow can also be easily attached and detached from the ATV, allowing you to switch between plowing and other tasks quickly and easily.
Other key features of the Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. include a comfortable seat with adjustable lumbar support, a spacious cargo bed for carrying tools and supplies, and a durable, high-strength steel frame. Overall, this ATV is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and versatile vehicle for plowing snow.
Pros
- Powerful 450cc engine suitable for snow plowing
- Strong winch for attaching snow plow kits
- Sturdy construction for snow plowing conditions
- Good suspension system for comfortability on bumpy rides
Cons
- A bit pricey
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Can-Am Outlander 450
The Can-Am Outlander 450 ATV is a versatile and powerful vehicle that is well-suited for snow plowing. With a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine, the Outlander 450 delivers smooth and consistent performance, even in cold weather conditions.
The vehicle’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is ideal for plowing snow in residential areas.
One of the standout features of the Can-Am Outlander 450 for snow plowing is its durable construction. The vehicle is built to last, and its rugged design ensures that it can handle the harsh conditions that come with plowing snow.
The Outlander 450 also comes equipped with a high-capacity winch, which is perfect for clearing heavy snow drifts and other obstacles.
Another great feature of the Outlander 450 for snow plowing is its impressive suspension system. With front and rear suspension, the vehicle is able to tackle even the toughest terrain with ease, and the suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride for the operator.
Some potential drawbacks of the Can-Am Outlander 450 for snow plowing include its relatively high price point and its limited plow capacity compared to larger vehicles.
However, overall, the Outlander 450 is a great ATV for plowing snow and offers a good combination of features and performance. The Can-Am Outlander 450 is also the best ATV for landscaping.
Pros
- Powerful engine for smooth and consistent performance in cold weather
- Compact and lightweight design for easy maneuverability in tight spaces
- Durable construction for tackling harsh snow plowing conditions
- High-capacity winch for clearing heavy snow drifts and obstacles
- Impressive suspension system for a comfortable and smooth ride
Cons
- Relatively high price point
- Limited plow capacity compared to larger vehicles
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Yamaha Grizzly EPS
The Yamaha Grizzly EPS is another popular option for plowing snow, thanks to its powerful engine and durable construction. The Grizzly’s engine delivers plenty of power for moving snow, and the ATV’s rugged design can handle the toughest conditions.
The Grizzly also has a large cargo bed, so you can easily transport any equipment you need for the job.
The Yamaha Grizzly ATV is a powerful and versatile vehicle that is well-suited for plowing snow. With a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers 471cc of power, the Grizzly is capable of tackling even the toughest snow conditions.
The vehicle’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the harsh conditions of snow plowing.
One of the standout features of the Yamaha Grizzly for snow plowing is its high-capacity winch. The winch has a maximum capacity of 2,500 lbs, which is perfect for clearing heavy snow drifts and other obstacles. The winch is also equipped with a 50-foot synthetic rope, which is both durable and easy to use.
The above features make the Grizzly the best Yamaha ATV with snow plow.
Another great feature of the Grizzly for snow plowing is its impressive suspension system. The vehicle is equipped with front and rear independent suspension, which provides a smooth and comfortable ride for the operator. The suspension is also adjustable, so you can customize it to your specific needs and preferences.
Some potential drawbacks of the Yamaha Grizzly for snow plowing include its relatively high price point and its limited plow capacity compared to larger vehicles. However, overall, the Grizzly is a great ATV for plowing snow and offers a good combination of features and performance.
Pros
- Superb build quality and very reliable
- Has high wheel wells for fitting larger tires ideal for snow plowing
- It has differentials lock suitable for snow operations
- Comes with Ultramatic CVT belt which offers a smooth ride
- Pre-installed curved A-arms for improved ground clearance which is a plus for snow riding
Cons
- The storage box on the right is not weather proof as water leaks through
- When left in garage for long it experiences vapor lock plus fuel bubbling or starvation
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Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4
One of the best ATVs for snow plowing is the Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4. This powerful ATV is equipped with a 449cc engine and a manual transmission, making it capable of tackling even the deepest snow drifts.
The Foreman also has a front-mounted plow, which makes it easy to clear snow from driveways and sidewalks. It is a versatile and reliable ATV that is well-suited for snow plowing.
Its powerful engine and four-wheel drive capabilities make it capable of handling heavy snow loads, and its rugged construction ensures that it can withstand the harsh conditions of a snow-covered landscape.
One of the standout features of the Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4 is its 475cc engine, which provides plenty of power for plowing through deep snow. This engine is paired with a durable automatic transmission that makes it easy to shift between gears, even when dealing with slippery conditions.
In terms of handling, the Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4 excels. Its four-wheel drive system provides excellent traction, allowing you to plow through even the deepest snow with ease. Additionally, the ATV’s independent rear suspension helps to smooth out the ride, making it more comfortable to use for long periods of time.
One of the downsides of the Honda FourTrax Foreman 4×4 is its weight. At 661 pounds, it is one of the heavier ATVs on the market, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, the ATV’s large size can make it challenging to store, especially if you have limited space in your garage or shed.
Pros
- Powerful engine provides sufficient power for plowing through deep snow
- Four-wheel drive system provides excellent traction
- Independent rear suspension helps to smooth out the ride
- Durable automatic transmission makes it easy to shift gears
- Rugged construction can withstand harsh conditions
Cons
- Heavy weight can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- Large size can make it challenging to store
- The ATV’s weight and size can make it more difficult to transport than lighter, smaller models.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, after researching and testing several ATVs, we have determined that the Honda Rancher TRX420 is the best option for snow plowing. Its powerful engine, four-wheel drive system, and independent rear suspension make it capable of tackling even the deepest snow, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the harsh conditions of a snow-covered landscape.
While the Honda Rancher TRX420 may not be as powerful as some of the other ATVs we tested, such as the Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. or the Can-Am Outlander 450, it more than makes up for this with its combination of reliable performance and user-friendly features.
If you need a reliable and capable ATV for snow plowing, the Honda Rancher TRX420 is the way to go.