If you travel off-road or occasionally set out for Overlanding tours, you are probably familiar with an off-highway vehicle. For the uninitiated, these vehicles are specifically designed to operate on uneven and extremely steep grounds. You can even use these vehicles on agricultural terrains. Many travelers prefer taking their off-highway vehicle (OHV) to off-roading tours simply because of their sturdiness and efficiency.
Typical OHVs:
- 4×4 SUV/ Jeep
- Pickup Truck
- Monster RV
- Trailer (add-on)
But what are these different types of recreational OHVs? Usually, quad bikes, buggies, trailers, and dirt bikes are some common ATVs. Although these are also ATVs, they often double up the function of an off-highway vehicle. The ideal recreational off-highway vehicle would be a jeep or a truck that can accommodate up to four to six people.
What’s more, these vehicles also feature huge tires along with densely carved treads. Their suspension is flexible, and their tracks follow the caterpillar pattern. If they weren’t recreational, these vehicles would fall under the category of your regular agricultural vehicles like cranes, bulldozers, and tractors among others.
But what are the different types of off-highway recreational vehicles and what are their key takeaways? We will learn all that and more in the following few sections.
Getting Started with Recreational Off-Roading Vehicles
If you are just getting to learn about recreational off-roading vehicles, you probably want to know more about it. So, how do these vehicles? Well, these off-roading vehicles are like our regular jeeps and vans that can accommodate a minimum of two and a maximum of six individuals.
Although ATVs can double up as an OHV, they will still miss out on an important functionality. Unlike the former, a recreational off-roading vehicle will feature dedicated seats by the bench and the bucket. The takeaway here is that you can control these seats using a steering wheel or similar device. Most of the high-quality ROVs also features a cage that offers protection in the event of a rollover.
In the next couple of sections, we will discuss the different types of ROVs and their features in detail.
4×4 SUV
When it comes to choosing a vehicle for off-roading, many travel enthusiasts settle with a 4X4 SUV. Common examples would be anything ranging from a Jeep Wrangler to a Land Cruiser. The biggest highlight of these vehicles is the fact that they are extremely flexible.
If you are heading for a camping tour, you can easily mount a rooftop tent in the car. The same applies to your Overlanding trips. In the case of Overlanding, you can also create a makeshift bed at the car’s back.
Either way, these SUVs are comfortable and extremely easy to ride. Because they also come with thick tires, chartering through difficult terrains is even easier. Most 4X4 SUVs are also compact enough to travel across any destination. Their body is sturdy and can be resistant to the hardest wear and tear.
So, if you are looking for a solid recreational vehicle for your off-road touring, this just might be one of your best options.
Pickup Truck
This is yet another excellent option when it comes to recreational off-roading vehicles. Most recreational trucks follow the 4×4 pattern and they are just as compact as the aforementioned jeeps. Unlike regular off-roading vehicles, pick-up trucks come with multifaceted uses, and depending on the make and model you can use them in various ways.
For instance, if the truck comes with two whole lines of seats, you can easily create your makeshift bed at the back. These seats are comfortable, and they will easily accommodate two or more individuals.
Next, you will notice that your truck comes with a dedicated bed. Most pick-up trucks have this facility, and you can also utilize this area as your sleeping corner. If privacy is a concern, consider getting a cover on top.
As with the jeeps, you can also install a tent on the roof of your pickup truck. If you already have a bed rack, positioning this tent would be even easier.
The final and biggest benefit of these trucks is that you can easily install a camper bed on them. The mechanism is simple and because these trucks are extremely easy to operate, the installation would be a breeze.
In case you are wondering what pickup truck to get, we would recommend Toyota Tacomas or Tundras from Toyota. In case you are looking to go fancy, try the heavy Jeep Gladiator.
These vehicles are known for their superb durability and given their multifaceted use; they will certainly live up to your expectations.
Monster RV
This is probably the biggest and best recreational off-roading vehicle on our list. Don’t let the name frighten you, because this is nothing but a massive camper truck. The Monster RV is nothing like your regular RV. The biggest difference lies in the fact that you can use these vehicles to drive off-road, unlike your regular RVs, all thanks to the large wheels of the monster variants.
These Monster RVs also come with a flexible suspension that makes way for proper and consistent ground clearing. Given these incredible features, it can tolerate all types of weather, temperature, and terrains.
The Biggest Difference
Now, the biggest benefit of a Monster RV is perhaps the fact that it offers you a dedicated space for yourself. It’s like a mini home with your own bed, a small area for the kitchen, and a fully functional toilet. Of course, these amenities will vary depending on the size of the RV.
While exploring your options for recreational off-road RVs, you will also find some pick-up variants and larger ones that are often touted as monster trucks. Depending on the size of the vehicle they are also called adventure and overland trucks.
While you will find multiple similar trucks available, always make your final pick depending on the flexibility of the vehicle. Even though the make itself should be sturdy and the wheels large, the suspension should be easy to work with and fully flexible for rugged roads.
Ample Room in These Monsters
In case you want to go for something larger than the regular Monster truck, you can try any other off-roading van that is larger than the usual 4×4 structure. Many vans meet this criterion, and you can conveniently convert them into your adventure vehicle. The biggest takeaway of using these bigger vehicles is simply the fact that they leave you with ample room. Thanks to this, you have space for a bigger bed that can accommodate a couple or even a small family.
Amenities vs. Narrow Terrain?
However, there is one disadvantage associated with handling these larger than usual RVs. Because of the massive size, you may not be able to traverse certain narrow terrains that you could otherwise reach with your 4X4 vehicle.
That is why, once again, understand your expectations from the vehicle before making the final pick. This will not only make it easier to filter out options but will also help you get the right vehicle for the right kind of adventure.
Most Monster trucks come in multiple variants and with varying amenities. Explore each of these amenities and check what matters to you before finalizing the pick.
Trailer
Yes! You can also use a trailer as an off-road Overlanding vehicle. These trailers meet the 4X4 structure parameter and because they are extremely efficient, you can travel with them off-road on the hardest of terrains. Most high-end and heavy-duty trailers can withstand bad roads and they help you travel the longest time, conveniently and comfortably.
DIY or Buy a Trailer?
The biggest takeaway of getting a trailer is that it comes with plenty of options. If you are looking to unleash your DIY side, you can build a makeshift trailer from an old jeep or van. Again, if you are looking for something high-end, you will find that as well in almost all leading vehicle outlets.
The best part: some of these trailers can be personalized. This is especially relevant for the ones looking for extra space.
Final Thoughts
As you already know at this point, most recreational off-roading vehicles come with at least four wheels, a dedicated and spacious bench, proper seats (often bucket-shaped), and automated control for the steering function, throttle action, or pulling brakes. While many people consider doubling up their ATVs as OHVs, they wouldn’t enjoy the similar function or convenience, especially when it comes to the steering.
Because we shared a comprehensive list of the best OHVs, you will probably have an easier time exploring your options and picking the best OHV from the lot. While making your pick, try to ensure that the vehicle comes with roll bars and other handy features like restraint systems for the occupant. This adds to the safety and is an extremely crucial feature considering you would be using the vehicle on difficult terrains.
Also, check if your vehicle can reach beyond 30mph because this is crucial while chartering arduous lands. Some individuals also participate in OHV races. Depending on your vehicle, you can do the same.
That is why, before everything else, try to understand your expectation from the vehicle. Next, choose your desired category of the vehicle from our list. And finally, get your vehicle from your desired outlet or online store. It’s that simple!
