Ask the Editors: Are ATV Print Magazines Still Around?

We wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t recommend giving our editorial site a look. You’ve already found our vast and informative forums but vehicle and equipment tests, riding editorials and regular features (like reader questions being answered, for example) can be found on our homepage: atvconnection.com

That being said, if it’s print magazines you’re after, there aren’t a whole lot left standing these days. Whereas once there were close to 20 of them being offered simultaneously domestically, here is a list of some of the players we’re aware of still holding down the fort:
Dirt Wheels: A player since the first 3-wheelers came on the scene, these guys have maintained a rep for delivering decent editorial and picture-heavy content. Often criticized though for ridiculous amounts of advertising and abundant articles that are really more advertising in disguise (“How to make your $10,000 ATV go faster”), you would likely find something to enjoy here regardless.

UTV Action: These guys are actually stable-mates with the same publisher as Dirt Wheels. As a result they often test the same machines as their sister-publication. However, while thinner physically, UTV Action has become a bit more outspoken of the two brands and contrary to their name, they do discuss more than just side-by-sides. They used to be called 3 & 4 Wheel Action then ATV Action before finding a niche’ market that doesn’t quite compete with Dirt Wheels.

ATV Rider: A shadow of its former self back in the late 1990s, ATV Rider is still a decent overview of the industry with an occasional cool article on someone’s private collection or a a custom build.

ATV & SxS Illustrated: This is another magazine that got big back in the early 2000s when the ATV market was sizzling hot and the internet hadn’t changed the way consumers get information. Of all the mags mentioned here, this one could just well contain the best editorial per advertising ratio. Their ATV reviews are especially pertinent, if not quite as technical as what you’ll find in UTV Action.

ATV World: Because they are based out of Canada, these guys can get away with calling themselves North America’s Best ATVing Magazine. In truth, they are a pretty solid piece of reading material with a lot of industry news and decent photographs.

UTV Off-Road Magazine: This is one of few we’re aware of that truly devotes itself to UTVs/ Side-by-Sides exclusively. They’re pretty well rounded with everything from reviews to set-up tips but again, so long as you realize side-by-sides are their passion.

Dirt Toys: These guys do a decent job covering the scene with a more down-home feel than many of the corporation- owned media out there with a definite slant toward side-by-sides as time goes on.

Of course there others out there; many of which aren’t devoted entirely to ATVs/ UTVs but rather off-roading in general, desert machines, hill climbs etc.

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