Overview
Most youth ATVs priced around $2,700 focus on introducing young riders to off-road riding with simple, forgiving mechanics and manageable size. The 2013 Arctic Cat 90 DVX fits into this category well, designed specifically for beginners and younger riders stepping into ATV riding. Its compact dimensions and light weight make it easier for smaller riders to control while still providing enough power and stability for fun on trails, open fields, or around the yard.
This model is built with safety and ease of use in mind, featuring a smooth CVT transmission that requires minimal shifting and a simple air-cooled 90cc engine that offers enough punch for young riders but won’t overwhelm them. Its suspension setup, with independent A-arm in the front and a swing arm in the rear, improves ride comfort over uneven terrain, making it a dependable choice for casual trail adventures or learning how to handle off-road obstacles. With a relatively narrow profile and a low ground clearance of 7.3 inches, it’s best suited to smoother trails and moderate terrain rather than serious rock crawling or deep sand.
Targeted at parents seeking a reliable, approachable ATV for their children to learn on and grow with, the Arctic Cat 90 DVX emphasizes safety features and simple operation. Its sturdy construction and simple mechanics have earned it a reputation for durability, with easy maintenance that fits into a family’s busy schedule. What makes this model stand out in its segment is its focus on providing a genuine riding experience without overwhelming young riders or demanding excessive upkeep, all at a competitive price point that makes entry into off-road riding accessible for many families.
Performance & Powertrain
Working a full day on trail riding or small chores puts the engine’s durability and simplicity to the test. The 90cc single-cylinder engine uses air cooling, which keeps maintenance manageable and ensures it won’t overheat during extended use. With a carburetor feeding fuel to the engine, throttle response tends to be predictable, making it easier for younger riders to develop confidence without sudden surges.
The engine’s 90cc displacement is modest but enough for controlled trail navigation and light work. It produces enough torque at low RPMs to handle moderate inclines or uneven terrain without feeling sluggish. This kind of power delivery is suited for beginners and young riders who are learning to control their throttle while gaining experience on varied surfaces. The engine’s modest output also helps keep fuel consumption reasonable, which is a practical benefit for daily use.
The drivetrain uses a CVT transmission paired with a 4X2 drive system. This setup simplifies operation, as riders don’t need to shift gears manually-just twist the throttle to accelerate or ease back to slow down. The CVT offers a smooth transition between speeds, making it easier to maintain steady control across different terrains. While it doesn’t have four-wheel drive, the 4X2 layout provides enough traction for most light trail conditions and small tasks around the property.
Suspension & Handling
Pull up the throttle and this ATV’s suspension setup begins to show its strength on a variety of terrains. The front independent A-arm suspension with 2.8 inches of travel offers enough give to handle small jumps, roots, and uneven trail surfaces without jarring the rider. This travel range helps absorb impacts on rougher off-road paths while remaining responsive on smooth, hard-packed singletrack or worksite gravel. The rear swing arm suspension with nearly 3 inches of travel adds stability when climbing over rocks or dragging through loose dirt, preventing the machine from bottoming out too quickly under moderate abuse.
The braking system combines a drum brake in the front with a hydraulic disc brake at the rear. The drum setup in the front is typical for youth ATVs and provides predictable stopping power under normal riding conditions, but it can fade if heavily used during aggressive downhill descents. The hydraulic disc at the rear offers more effective modulation and consistent braking performance, especially important when carrying gear or navigating downhill slopes on the trail. Paired with the appropriately sized tires, these brakes give young riders confidence in controlling the machine across various terrains.
The tires on this ATV are designed for outdoor adventure and work tasks. The front Kenda AT 20 x 7-8 tires grip well on loose gravel and dirt, while their size helps absorb bumps and provide stability on uneven terrain. The rear 19 x 8-8 tires are slightly wider, offering additional traction on soft surfaces like mud or sand without sacrificing maneuverability. These tires strike a balance between grip and durability, making the ATV dependable whether it’s used for trail riding, light hauling, or navigating rougher work sites. Their tread pattern and sizing are optimized for a mix of terrain types, giving a young rider a manageable yet confident ride experience.”
Dimensions & Ergonomics
With a length of 4.82 feet and a width of 6 inches, this youth-sized ATV is designed to be manageable for smaller riders while offering enough stability for confident handling. Its compact size allows it to fit in most standard pickup truck beds, making it easy to transport to trails or practice areas. The 38.4-inch wheelbase contributes to balanced handling, helping young riders feel secure without feeling cramped or overly stretched out.
The height of 37.9 inches keeps the overall profile low, which improves stability during turns and on uneven terrain. Ground clearance of 7.3 inches provides enough space to navigate rougher trails and small obstacles without scraping or catching on rocks and roots. The 260-pound dry weight makes this ATV light enough for most younger riders to manage with basic lifting or loading assistance, but still substantial enough to feel stable during riding.
The seat height is designed to be accessible for kids with a comfortable reach to the handlebars and footrests, promoting proper riding posture and control. Its 1.5-gallon fuel tank delivers sufficient range for extended sessions without frequent refueling stops, which is handy for longer outings or repeated rides around a trail system. the dimensions and ergonomic design prioritize a secure fit for a wide range of young riders, making it suitable for learning and growing in confidence on the trails or in the yard.
Notable Features
If you’re planning to introduce a young rider to off-road fun, you’ll want to know what sets this model apart from other youth ATVs in its class. The 2013 Arctic Cat 90 DVX offers some thoughtful upgrades that improve usability and enjoyment for both kids and parents. While many models at this price point stick with basic features, this one includes several enhancements designed to boost confidence and convenience.
- Electric start for quick, reliable engine ignition without the fuss of pull-starts
- Ergonomically designed seat and controls tailored for smaller riders, making handling easier
- Enhanced safety features such as a throttle limiter and speed governor to help parents control speed and encourage safe riding habits
- Lightweight chassis combined with a simple CVT transmission, providing smooth acceleration suitable for beginner riders
- Durable plastics and a low-maintenance design aimed at reducing repair time for busy families
While it doesn’t come packed with high-tech gadgets or luxury accessories, these features focus on safety, ease of use, and durability. They contribute to a more confident riding experience and lower ownership hassles, making it a sensible choice for introducing young riders to the world of off-road vehicles. Many of these features are standard for this price point, but Arctic Cat’s focus on safer and more manageable riding helps it stand out against less equipped competitors.
Pricing & Value
Most youth ATVs in the $2,500 to $3,000 range aim to balance affordability with sufficient features for beginner riders, and the Arctic Cat 90 DVX, priced at $2,699, fits neatly into this segment. It positions itself as a relatively accessible option for parents who want a machine that can handle a variety of small trails and backyard rides without breaking the bank. When you compare it to other youth models, it offers a reasonable entry point with enough features to keep younger riders engaged as they learn the basics of off-road riding.
This ATV sits near the middle of Arctic Cat’s lineup for youth models, serving as a step up from basic versions that might lack some of the safety and convenience features found here. Its price is close to entry-level machines from competitors like Honda and Yamaha, but it pulls ahead with the Arctic Cat brand’s reputation for durability and ease of maintenance. Above it, models tend to add more power, larger tires, or additional safety features, which increase the price significantly. Below it, cheaper options may skimp on quality or ride comfort, making the $2,699 mark a reasonable point for value.
At its current price, the 90 DVX offers a fair return for those looking to introduce a young rider to the joys of off-road riding. It isn’t overpriced when compared with similar machines, especially considering Arctic Cat’s warranty and the parts support network. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end youth models, it provides enough durability and features to justify the cost for most families who want something reliable for regular use. It’s a worthwhile choice for parents seeking a balance of affordability and quality that will stand up to daily use and growing skills.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to introduce a young rider to off-road adventures, you’ll want to know that the Arctic Cat 90 DVX offers a manageable size and user-friendly controls ideal for beginners. Its design prioritizes safety and simplicity, making it a good first machine for kids stepping into motorized riding. While it lacks the power for more aggressive trails or high-speed riding, it provides enough performance for stable, controlled outings around the yard or on beginner-friendly paths.
The most defining feature of this machine is its low-seat height and easy-to-use throttle, which help new riders build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. This focus on ease of operation makes it less suitable for older children or those with more riding experience who may want more speed or technical capability. If you’re purchasing with an eye toward long-term growth or more challenging terrain, you’ll probably want to look at larger models with more power and advanced features.
For families seeking a dependable, entry-level ATV that emphasizes safety and simple operation, the Arctic Cat 90 DVX is a worthwhile choice. However, for anyone who wants more capability or plans to ride in rougher conditions regularly, this machine will quickly reach its limits. Consider this ATV a gateway for young beginners rather than a machine meant to grow with seasoned riders or handle serious terrain.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2013 Arctic Cat 90 DVX
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassYouth ATV
- Drive4X2
- Front tire20x7-8
- Dry weight260 lb
- Youth helmet and gogglesDOT rated, sized for young ridersShop on Amazon
- Tires20x7-8Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit90ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- CoverStorage and traileringShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps1000 lbRated above the 260 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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