One wheelbase, HUNDREDS of different LEGO minifig ATVs

In the early 80's, I was constructing a MASSIVE LEGO fortress. After the main structures and large vehicles were created, I needed small vehicles to provide perimeter ground security.

After surveying my leftover pieces, I decided to build ATVs all based on a simple wheelbase. On this page are 5 typical varieties.

The Universal WHEELBASE

A common wheelbase allowed me to maintain a motor pool or "fleet depot" of ATV bodies.

The compact, short wheelbase above would become the basis for HUNDREDS of iterations of my LEGO ATVs. I preferred to build ATVs with the SHORTEST wheelbase to conserve pieces and to preserve the more LEGO-ish proportions.

ATV #1 - Original grey ATV

The one that started it all...

This grey ATV was typical of my early ATVs - it was comprised of just a few common surplus pieces.

My first ATVs incorporated a TILT steering wheel.

ATV #2 - "Police" ATV

A WHITE ATV? Only in LEGOLAND.

I had many unused white fenders from LEGO Police sets.

These exaggerated handle bars eventually became my favorite. The etched "grips" are a nice touch.

ATV #3 - RED ATV

FINALLY, an iconic RED ATV.

Despite my varied LEGO set collection, I only had 2 RED fenders from LEGO set 6679 (1980 Tow Truck). This ATV is a favorite because I was able to use the TORSO of an early LEGO non-articulating minifig as the center fuel tank!

ATV #4 - (Another) "Police" ATV

Still avoiding a longer wheelbase, sometimes I'd extend the body's rear a stud for a different look.

ATV #5 - Tank-like ATV

An UPRIGHT seat in a heavy ATV with no rear ROLL-BAR?

Minifig seats were nearly as ubiquitous as minifig steering wheels. One feature of the minifig seats is that it is a bit easier to remove a seated minifig without losing their pants.