Erin Fletcher
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Apr 05/04) - Look out snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) aren't just for summer any more.

Many NWT residents are using the popular fat-tired bikes in every season and for everything from shovelling snow off the driveway to taking a spin out to the cabin for the weekend.

"There's so much you can do with a four-wheeler," said Donna Lee Jungkind, the recreational vehicle sales and finance person for Kingland Honda in Hay River.

Jungkind, her husband and her daughter use their Honda 400 for treks to the cabin, hauling firewood and "mudding" in the spring.

The multi-purpose appeal of the ATV is gaining ground in Hay River, she said.

Last year the dealership sold 75. Jungkind anticipates selling even more this year.

"They are definitely becoming more popular in Hay River," said Jungkind.

"It seems to grow every year. It's such a good family vehicle. I often see families go out together for a picnic or wiener roast."

Snowmobiles continue to be number-one for winter travel in the Beaufort Delta, said Hans Lennie, co-owner of Westwind Recreation in Inuvik.

"You can put a (winter) track on them, but it's easier to get on your snowmobile and go," said Lennie.

While Lennie sells more than 110 snowmobiles a year, he only sells about six ATVs.

"Workhorse" type models like 4x4s are the most popular model in the Delta. Hunters usually use them for going out on the land.

"Bigger, badder and faster" always makes a new line of ATVs more attractive, said Lennie.

Improved suspension and engine power will be featured in most new ATV models, said Lennie.

"They're always looking for a smoother ride," he said.

Also look out for a built-in Global Position System and fully automatic transmissions on Honda models, said Jungkind.

"The big thing is know what you'll be using it for," said Lennie of what to do before buying an ATV.

Research models, get to know accessories and decide how much maintenance you want to do before purchasing, said Jungkind.

New ATVs in Hay River usually cost between $3,400 for a kid-sized quad; to $11,700 for a top of the line model. In Inuvik, prices are in a similar price range: $3,000 for kid-sized models and $12,000 for the largest ones.