How many cc should a beginner's ATV have?

For beginners, ATVs up to around 500 cc can be perfectly adequate. What matters most is what the vehicle will be used for.

Is 700 cc enough for an ATV?

For many uses, yes. Mid-range ATVs offer enough power in reserve for leisure riding, touring, off-road, hunting, estate work and many working jobs.

Do I need a 1,000 cc ATV?

Not necessarily. A 1,000 cc ATV offers a lot of power and large power reserves, but not every rider needs them. For many purposes a smaller engine is enough.

Is a bigger engine automatically better on an ATV?

No. More displacement does not automatically mean the vehicle suits your own use better. What matters are your requirements in terms of power, handling and intended use.

What ATV power output makes a good all-rounder?

For many riders, the mid-range between around 500 and 800 cc makes a versatile all-rounder for leisure, touring, off-road and work.

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Guides · Technology & performance

500, 700 or 1,000 cc? How much power do I need on an ATV?

500, 700 or 1,000 cc? We explain which power output suits which purpose and why more displacement isn't automatically the better choice.

By Anton BaderCo-manager of the family business

Published on 24.09.2026

ATVs with 500, 700 and 1,000 cc at Bader Powersports

How much power do I need on an ATV?

More power is not automatically the better choice. What matters most is what you want to use your ATV for.

Up to approx. 500 cc: ideal for beginners and lighter jobs

ATVs up to around 500 cc are particularly suited to beginners, relaxed leisure rides and lighter work. For looking after your property or occasional off-road trips, this power class can also be perfectly adequate.

If you don't need maximum acceleration or especially large power reserves, you already get a versatile ATV here.

Approx. 500 to 800 cc: the all-rounder

The mid-range between around 500 and 800 cc offers considerably more power in reserve and suits many different uses.

Whether it's touring, off-road, hunting, estate work or general work, for many riders this power class is a good middle ground between sufficient power and everyday practicality.

From approx. 800 cc: perfect for maximum power reserves

If you want a lot of power, regularly ride demanding terrain or simply value strong acceleration and high power reserves, you'll find the right models among ATVs from around 800 cc.

Current 1,000 cc ATVs in particular offer a great deal of power. However, not every use calls for it.

Do I really need a 1,000 cc ATV?

Not necessarily. A 1,000 cc machine offers a lot of power and the reserves to match, but it is not automatically the best choice for every rider.

If you mainly ride at a relaxed pace or do lighter work, you can be perfectly happy with a smaller engine. If, on the other hand, you want maximum power, strong acceleration and the largest possible reserves, you'll be better served by a more powerful ATV.

Conclusion: your intended use decides

For beginners and lighter jobs, smaller engines can be perfectly adequate. For many riders, the mid-range makes a versatile all-rounder. If, however, you want a lot of power and power reserves, take a closer look at the larger engines.

The key is not to buy as much displacement as possible, but to choose the power that suits what you'll actually use the ATV for.

Not sure which vehicle suits you? Go to the buying guide