THE coronavirus pandemic and its knock-on effect to recreational activities have seen UK sales of junior ATVs increase by 56 per cent already this year, with the most popular buying time of Christmas yet to come. This is according to manufacturer Yamaha, which has seen sales for junior machines rise from 539 in 2019 to 839 so far in 2022.
Yamaha power products manager Dan Palmer said: “Several brands have pulled out of the junior market in recent years, but during the restrictive years of the pandemic there was a huge spike in numbers of junior ATVs selling as everyone had to stay at home or have staycations. The numbers have settled a little, but the pandemic has definitely left behind a healthier market.”
The popularity of the pocket-sized ATVs was realised as a means of occupying young people during the lockdowns and during periods when travel was otherwise prohibited. Junior quads remain a popular choice for children starting out in biking.
This is largely because the four-wheel design makes for an easier, and in some ways, safer introduction to off-road riding than two wheels.
Simple controls make ATVs accessible to riders as young as six and even have parent-adjustable speed limiters.
Yamaha offers the YFZ50, starting at £3,050, which mimics the design of the larger YFZ450R race ATV. Also in the junior range is the more powerful YFM90R, which features a CDI plug to adjust engine power output for different riding abilities.
Both feature a fully automated gearbox, making them easy to manage for younger riders. Mr Palmer suggests that, ahead of Christmas, dealer demand has hit new levels.
“Dealer stock has gone up by 23.6 per cent and we are still seeing orders rise to cope with stock levels leading up to Christmas.
“We are also offering competitive finance packages on all junior models with 10.4 per cent APR to help families spread the cost of an ATV,” he concludes.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.
