What is a quad?
The quad bike, technically defined as an off-road four-wheeled vehicle derived from motorcycle engineering, is a four-wheeled vehicle used for driving on winding terrains and rugged paths.
Quads are divided into two main categories:
1) Sport quads: equipped with manual transmission and foot pedals (the first major difference from utility quads), they are much more powerful and lighter, with a more aggressive design, and are used in sporting competitions.
2) Utility quads: unlike sport quads, these vehicles have single-speed transmission, requiring only steering, acceleration or braking control. Heavier than sport quads, they prove perfect for excursions, both on paved and off-road routes. They're also ideal for fitting small rear racks to transport objects.
How and where were quads invented?
Quads originated in Canada during the 1960s when minor modifications began being made to golf course vehicles to better handle rainy periods: thus were born the earliest ancestors of quads, ATVs (All Terrain Vehicles).
These improved vehicles subsequently spread across America and, in the 1970s, reached Europe: the first Italian mass-produced model, after an initial failed attempt, was christened the Boomerang.
After a few decades, the vehicle was redesigned to shed antiquated characteristics like slow speed, wheel brake levers (which could number up to twelve) and two-stroke engines, gaining more motorcycle-like power: thus the transition was made from old ATVs to modern quads.
In Italy today, quad excursions are possible across the entire peninsula: from the magnificent routes offered by Quadventure Asd on Lake Maggiore, to the splendid outings organised by Quad Excursions Cefalù in Palermo, through Central Italy where Tuscany Adventures takes you to discover Siena.
Perfect experiences for those who love adrenaline while still wanting to discover new places: driving in search of the peninsula's hidden corners is the perfect way to combine fun and curiosity.
There are also quads specially designed for children, making the fun accessible at any age (obviously without requiring a B1 licence as is the case for adults).
So what are you waiting for? Get behind the handlebars of a fantastic quad and explore Italy's most beautiful landscapes!
