5 Common Mistakes Honda ATV Owners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

August 30, 2025

ByChris Nichols 0 Comments

5 Common Mistakes Honda ATV Owners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Honda ATVs are known for their reliability, durability, and all-around performance. Whether you’re riding through mud parks, trails, or working on the farm, these machines can handle just about anything. But even the toughest Honda ATV can run into problems if it’s not cared for properly.

At Vessel Powersports, we’ve seen it all—from simple maintenance slip-ups to expensive mistakes that could have been avoided with the right upgrades and know-how. Here are the five most common mistakes Honda ATV owners make—and how you can avoid them

1. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Many Honda riders assume their machines are “bulletproof.” While they are extremely tough, they still need consistent maintenance. Skipping oil changes, ignoring air filters, or failing to grease fittings can lead to premature wear and costly repairs.

How to avoid it:

• Stick to Honda’s recommended service intervals.

• Check your fluids, brakes, and air filter before every ride.

• Keep your ATV clean after muddy runs to prevent buildup and corrosion.

2. Riding in Deep Mud or Water Without a Snorkel Kit

Nothing kills the fun faster than water or mud getting into your engine or electrical system. Many new riders underestimate just how damaging water intrusion can be.

How to avoid it:
Invest in a quality Honda ATV Snorkel Kit. Snorkels reroute your intake and vent lines higher up, protecting your ATV’s most critical components when riding through deep mud or water.

3. Running the Wrong Tires for Your Terrain

Not all ATV tires are created equal. Some owners run stock tires into thick mud holes and wonder why they get stuck. Others put aggressive mud tires on for trail riding and sacrifice handling.

How to avoid it:

• Choose tires that match your primary riding style (mud, trails, work, or mixed).

• Upgrade with beadlock or crush lock wheels to keep tires secure under extreme conditions. Check out our Honda ATV Crush Locks for extra durability.

4. Overlooking Small Comfort & Control Upgrades

Many Honda owners focus on big upgrades like lifts or exhaust but forget how important rider comfort and control are. Stock grips wear out quickly and can cause fatigue on long rides.

How to avoid it:
Swap your grips for a set of ODI Lock-On Grips. They provide better traction, reduce vibration, and lock securely so they won’t spin—even when wet and muddy.

5. Ignoring Safety Gear and Prep

One of the most overlooked mistakes is not taking safety seriously. Riding without proper gear, forgetting a tow strap, or heading out without checking your machine puts both rider and ATV at risk.

How to avoid it:

• Always recommend wearing a helmet, gloves, and boots.

• Carry a basic tool kit, recovery strap, and tire plug kit.

• Double-check your ATV before every ride to prevent avoidable breakdowns.

Final Thoughts

Honda ATVs are built tough, but avoiding these five common mistakes will keep your machine running longer, performing better, and costing you less in repairs. At Vessel Powersports, we’re here to help riders get the most out of their Hondas with the best aftermarket parts and upgrades available.

👉 Explore our full collection of Honda ATV Accessories to keep your ride protected, powerful, and ready for anything.

Chris Nichols