ATV Shakes at High Speeds: 13 Causes & Fix

All-terrain vehicles are designed for thrilling off-road adventures, offering riders an exhilarating experience in various terrains. However, it’s not unusual for enthusiasts to encounter ATV shakes or vibrations at high speeds. In this article, let’s explore the most common causes of this unsettling problem and the corresponding fixes that’ll get your quad back on the trails in no time.

Here are reasons why an ATV shakes at high speeds:

1. Off-Center Wheels
2. Wheel Runout
3. CVT Problems
4. Power Transfer Issues
5. Faulty CV Joints
6. Engine Mount Damage
7. Low Tire Pressure
8. Unbalanced Tires or Uneven Tread Wear
9. Compromised Suspension
10. Exhaust Resonance
11. Ignition System Problems
12. Overboard Modifications
13. Aggressive or Reckless Driving

Understanding the mechanics behind these problems and implementing the recommended solutions can enhance your ATV riding experience and ensure a smoother journey through the off-road trails. That said, let’s delve into each issue in detail.

Top Reasons an ATV Shakes at High Speeds

1. Off-Center Wheels

Misaligned wheels signify the uneven distribution of weight and pressure on tires. They can cause the machine to pull to one side, resulting in vibrations as tires struggle to maintain consistent contact with the ground. And yes — the irregular tire wear and friction resulting from this can generate wobbling and shaking, especially during high-speed runs.

Depending on its severity, wheel misalignment may occur alongside noisy steering or screeching tires — both of which necessitate professional wheel alignment. However, this process is less common for quads than cars and differs from a traditional wheel alignment due to independent suspension systems and the unique design characteristic of ATVs.

Relative to this, inspecting the condition and integrity of your knobbies following an off-road collision or tire replacement is crucial. These situations are often when misalignment issues initially arise.

2. Wheel Runout

Wheel runout is the deviation from a perfect circle in a rotating wheel or tire. When this imbalance problem surfaces, even a small amount can cause variations in tire contact with the ground, leading to the feeling of your ATV shaking.

Vibrations caused by wheel runout become more pronounced during high-speed riding because the forces acting on the wheels are greater, causing the machine to shake due to these irregularities. That said, wheel runout issues need to be promptly addressed to mitigate the typical shuddering inherent to ATV riding and maintain a smooth, safe ride on the trails.

3. CVT Problems

Issues with the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) can contribute to ATV shaking due to the CVT’s role in managing engine power delivery. The component is designed to provide a seamless and “continuously variable” range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band.

Belt wear, improper tension, and slipping are some CVT-related problems that can lead to inconsistent power transfer from the engine to the wheels. These occurrences disrupt an ATV’s smoothness and stability during acceleration and cruising. Ultimately, they can result in noticeable shaking during spirited riding and in the quad, struggling to maintain a constant speed.

CVT problems can manifest as poor shifting behavior in response to an ATV’s speed and load demands. Suppose the CVT doesn’t adjust the gear ratio correctly or has delayed responses. In that case, it can lead to the engine revving at inconsistent RPMs, which may (again) translate into vibrations at higher speeds.

4. Power Transfer Issues

Drivetrain issues in an ATV encompass problems with components like the axles (view on Amazon), differential, and transfer case. These issues can cause shaking at high speeds as they disrupt the smooth transfer of power from the engine to the wheels.

For example, worn or damaged differential gears can create an imbalance in wheel rotation, resulting in uneven power distribution and vibrations. Similarly, pushing the ATV beyond its limits can lead to overheating and shaking. Any time the drivetrain isn’t functioning correctly, it can lead to a quad struggling to maintain stability, causing that noticeable shake during high-speed riding.

5. Faulty CV Joints

CV joints are not as difficult to diagnose in ATVs compared to vehicles. However, the process does require some mechanical knowledge and a systematic approach. Familiarity with other symptoms indicative of a failing CV joint — such as popping noises, torn or cracked boots, and grease leaks — is also fundamental in catching issues early on and preventing the decline of the component.

As CV joints deteriorate, they can introduce irregularities in the drive system, causing the ATV to vibrate. These vibrations become pronounced during acceleration or when navigating rough terrain when the demands on the CV joints are greater. Replacing or repairing the damaged CV joints is essential to restoring the smooth and stable operation of the ATV.

6. Engine Mount Damage

Engine mounts secure the engine to the ATV frame. When these mounts become worn or damaged, they can allow excess engine movement, compromising stability and leading to unwanted oscillations that can intensify at high speeds. These vibrations are often transferred to the entire machine, resulting in a noticeable shake. That said, promptly addressing worn or damaged engine mounts is essential to maintaining a smooth and stable ride.

7. Low Tire Pressure

Like powertrain and misalignment issues, low tire pressure can lead to ATV shaking at high speeds because of the uneven distribution of weight and pressure on the tires. Underinflated tires can create an imbalance, causing the four-wheeler to wobble or shake as it struggles to maintain consistent contact with the ground.

Because the reduced stability of underinflated tires becomes more pronounced at higher speeds, it’s vital to maintain proper tire pressure using a Milton Precision Digital Tire Pressure Gauge S-580e Kit (view on Amazon) or a similar tool. To add, increase the cold-tire pressure by 3 psi above OEM recommendation in cold weather to prevent unexpected pressure drops and maintain it within normal range.

8. Unbalanced Tires or Uneven Tread Wear

Besides causing vibrations at higher speeds, out-of-balance or unevenly worn tires often exhibit a cupped or scalloped wear pattern — irregular tire wear characterized by small, uneven dips or high spots in the tire tread. Consequently, this wear pattern increases the likelihood of hitting potholes, bridge expansion joints, and curbs, resulting in greater oscillations during high-speed riding.

Balancing the tires and ensuring even wear is essential to reducing these vibrations and maintaining a stable ride. Relative to this, thoroughly inspect your ATV knobbies regularly and after every ride to ensure you don’t miss out on the proper intervals for this tire maintenance.

9. Compromised Suspension

A compromised suspension system, which includes components like shocks, springs, and bushings, is mainly known to result in a rough and unstable ride. However, it can also lead to ATV shakes at high speeds since the suspension can’t effectively absorb and dampen road or terrain irregularities.

This is particularly noticeable when traveling on uneven surfaces or rough terrain. Hence, maintaining the suspension system in good condition is crucial to reducing high-speed oscillations.

Shuddering that worsens by the minute, given certain speeds, often indicates worn differential and suspension mounts or tie rods. Meanwhile, shaking accompanied by whining or grinding noises typically pinpoint to deteriorated wheel bearings (view on Amazon). These components may be repaired if found defective at an early stage. But depending on the extent of damage or wear and the specific component in question, they may be better off being replaced.

10. Exhaust Resonance

Resonance in the exhaust system can occur when structural issues, such as loose or damaged components, or sound waves within the exhaust create vibrations. These vibrations can affect the overall stability of a quad, with the experience often characterized by handlebar vibrations or increased steering effort.

The ATV shakes caused by exhaust resonance can become more pronounced at high speeds because the engine typically operates at higher RPMs. The combination of engine speed and resonance frequency can lead to an increase in vibrations. This can result in a noticeable shake in the ATV, affecting ride quality and handling.

11. Ignition System Problems

Failed spark plugs or spark plug wires can significantly impact the smooth operation of an ATV, particularly at high speeds. These components play a crucial role in the ignition system, and when they fail, a chain of events unfolds that leads to vibrations and shaking.

Inconsistent, weak spark can lead to incomplete combustion in the cylinders, causing the engine’s internal pressure to drop. With less power generated, the remaining cylinders must compensate to maintain the quad’s speed and performance. This unbalanced power delivery often manifests as oscillations and shuddering.

Progression of this issue can often be observed in stages. Initially, you may notice a slight bounce or repeated dips in the RPM gauge when the ATV is at a standstill. As the problem worsens, these vibrations become more pronounced, particularly during high-speed rides when the engine works harder to deliver the required performance. Vibrations compromise the ATV’s stability and handling, making high-speed riding less safe and enjoyable.

12. Overboard Modifications

Unsurprisingly, this list includes excessive mods or lifts (view on Amazon). These alterations (sometimes done for aesthetic appeal more than function) can significantly alter a four-wheeler’s geometry, weight distribution, and steering dynamics (among other things).

When an ATV has excessive lifts, it can become top-heavy, leading to instability and ATV shakes at high speeds. Moreover, an increased center of gravity makes the machine more prone to tipping or leaning in turns, which can translate into noticeable shakes and wobbles as the ATV struggles to maintain balance.

That said, keep in mind that any modifications or lifts should be within safe limits to not compromise the ATV’s stability. For instance, lifts may enhance suspension travel and other facets of the stock suspension. But it also makes it less rigid, resulting in greater oscillations and vibrations exacerbated during high-speed riding.

13. Aggressive or Reckless Driving

Aggressive riding typically involves rapid acceleration and hard braking, which can strain the ATV’s suspension and chassis. During high-speed acceleration, the ATV’s front end can lift off the ground, reducing traction and affecting steering control, potentially leading to wobbling or shaking as the tires lose contact with the surface.

Furthermore, abrupt and forceful braking can lead to skidding and imbalance, making it challenging for the ATV to maintain stability. Maneuvers such as sharp turns and abrupt direction changes put tremendous lateral forces on the machine, causing it to lean and increasing the risk of tipovers (especially if the rider is not adequately prepared or the quad’s suspension and tires are not designed for such handling).

Psychology-wise, an aggressive rider tends to grip the handlebars tightly and may experience increased tension in their body, leading to jerky and unpredictable inputs in steering and throttle control. This can amplify the wobbling and instability, particularly at high speeds when minor rider inputs have a more significant impact.

A faulty clutch assembly, starved engine, dislodged air or vacuum hose, incorrect fuel rating, engine sludge, and low-quality modifications are also known causes of shaking in most quads. However, I’ve excluded them from the list since they aren’t limited to high-speed situations.

How to Diagnose ATV Shaking at High Speeds

Maintaining a strict upkeep regimen and conducting regular thorough inspections have been briefly mentioned as the best courses of action for some of the factors listed in this guide. But for clarity, I’ve gone ahead and enumerated the different causes and their corresponding fixes below:

Off-Center Wheels

Check if the ATV’s wheels are correctly centered and aligned. Inspect for irregular tire wear, wobbling, or steering issues. If issues are present, adjust the wheel alignment and balance to ensure even tire rotation.

Wheel Runout

Look for symptoms like steering wheel wobble or vibrations, and carefully examine the tires for any visible deformities or irregular wear patterns. If you spot these symptoms, it’s important to address wheel runout by either balancing the wheel or replacing the affected tire.

CVT Problems

Watch out for changes in acceleration, unusual noises, or performance fluctuations. Then, perform a visual inspection of the CVT components. For a comprehensive diagnosis, consider consulting a professional mechanic. The key is to repair or replace damaged components and ensure the CVT system is properly maintained.

Power Transfer Issues

Listen for unusual noises from the drivetrain and assess the ATV’s ability to maintain speed and power. Inspect the drivetrain and transfer case for problems, and consult a mechanic for a thorough evaluation. Perform necessary repairs or replacements of damaged components to restore proper power transfer.

Faulty CV Joints

Identify faulty CV joints by listening for clicking or popping noises during turns and check for excessive play in the axles. Inspect the CV joints for damage; if issues are evident, replace them with new, functioning ones.

Engine Mount Damage

Check for damage or wear on the engine mounts. If they appear cracked, loose, or deteriorated, replace them to maintain engine stability and reduce vibrations. Also, pay attention to any excessive engine movement or unusual vibrations while the ATV is running.

Low Tire Pressure

Regularly inspect tire pressure using a gauge. If the tires are underinflated, inflate them to OEM-recommended levels specified in the ATV’s manual to ensure proper ground contact.

Unbalanced Tires or Uneven Tread Wear

Look for uneven tire wear patterns and irregularities. If you observe significant uneven tread wear or experience vibrations while riding, balance the tires to ensure even rotation and replace them if necessary. 

Compromised Suspension

Listen for unusual noises or rattling when riding and observe the ATV’s handling characteristics. Inspect the suspension components, including shocks and bushings (view on Amazon), for signs of damage or wear. Consult a mechanic to perform a thorough evaluation and get recommendations on replacements or repairs to maintain ATV stability.

Exhaust Resonance

Pay attention to unusual vibrations and resonance in the exhaust system while the quad is running at high speeds. The key to mitigating this issue is to modify the exhaust system by adding dampening devices or fine-tuning it to reduce resonance. This can effectively alleviate vibrations caused by exhaust harmonics.

Ignition System Problems

Address ignition system issues by listening for irregular engine performance, such as misfires or a rough idle. Additionally, visually inspect spark plugs for signs of fouling or damage. After which, replace or repair faulty spark plugs or spark plug wires to maintain consistent engine performance and reduce shaking.

Overboard Modifications

Assess any recent modifications, such as excessive lifts, which may affect the ATV’s stability. If you suspect modifications are causing the issue, consider removing or adjusting them to restore the ATV’s balance and handling.

Aggressive or Reckless Driving

Examine your riding style. If they fall under this category, adopt a more controlled and cautious approach. Ride with smoother and more deliberate inputs, especially at high speeds, to reduce stress on your four-wheeler and promote a smoother ride.

Diagnosing ATV issues may require mechanical expertise. Consulting a qualified mechanic or technician is often the best approach to accurately identify and address the problem. Nonetheless, prevention is still better than cure. Therefore, regular maintenance and thorough inspections are essential for preventing and resolving these issues.

Conclusion — ATV Shakes at High Speeds

Once again, here are 13 of the most common culprits why an ATV shakes at high speeds:

1. Off-Center Wheels
2. Wheel Runout
3. CVT Problems
4. Power Transfer Issues
5. Faulty CV Joints
6. Engine Mount Damage
7. Low Tire Pressure
8. Unbalanced Tires or Uneven Tread Wear
9. Compromised Suspension
10. Exhaust Resonance
11. Ignition System Problems
12. Overboard Modifications
13. Aggressive or Reckless Driving

ATV shakes at high speeds can be a disconcerting and potentially dangerous issue. However, understanding the underlying causes and implementing the appropriate fixes can significantly improve the stability of your machine and the quality of your ride. By addressing these common causes and following the provided solutions, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your ATV adventures to the fullest — free from unwanted vibrations and shaking.