ATV Steering Parts

There are several kinds of powersports vehicles including ATVs, snowmobiles, and personal watercraft, and each of them has its own steering system whose design depends on chassis construction, weight, and other parameters. The manual steering mechanism of an ATV commonly includes a handlebar attached to a steering column, an arm on the column's other end, and two tie rods connecting this arm to the steering knuckles of the front wheels. In order to provide the necessary flexibility, each rod has two ball joints known as tie rod ends.

Steering wheel equipped systems typically provide a smaller turning radius, especially if they feature a rack and pinion mechanism, almost the same as in cars. Such a system can be found in many utility terrain vehicles. Meanwhile, many modern UTVs and ATVs come with electronic power steering (EPS) that offers serious benefits and makes handling much easier. When you turn the handlebar or steering wheel, the torque sensor sends a signal to the control module that activates an electric motor attached to the steering assembly to reduce your effort.

As a result, the steering force increases, and the impacts that come from road irregularities and rocks feel weaker on the handlebar or steering wheel. It's very beneficial during off-road trips, and those who tried a vehicle with EPS, as a rule, don't go back to manual steering. Both of these systems are rather reliable, and the aftermarket even offers special kits allowing for manual to power setup conversion on some older vehicles. As for typical malfunctions, they are usually related to worn-out tie rod ends, a faulty electric motor or torque sensor, or just bad wire connections.

Most snowmobiles use manual steering. Depending on their construction and speed, some sleds are easy to steer, others require some effort, but it was a breakthrough when Yamaha introduced the Apex with EPS in 2010, which was an industry first. The model was amazing to ride and handle, but still, by 2016, the company dropped power steering for its new models. Probably, it happened because of the high cost of such a setup, or the manufacturer just found a decent alternative with similar efficiency. Actually, steering system upgrades are quite popular among snowmobile owners.

In many cases, stock rod ends and bushings are loose, which makes maneuvering not as sharp as you expect it to be. Aftermarket replacement parts can be a nice solution to the issue. As for personal watercraft, its steering system is one of the simplest ones. Operated by a cable, the steering nozzle directs a water stream to the right or left, which changes the PWC's course. However, over time, this very cable may start sticking and should be replaced. In our store, you can find everything to restore or modify the steering system of your vehicle. Tie rod ends, bearings and seals, electronic power steering kits, and plenty of other products are sourced from trustworthy aftermarket companies that ensure the high quality, longevity, and effectiveness of their products.