The paper describes a quad bike multi-body model intended to extract maximum dynamic forces acting on the vehicle frame. This complex full-vehicle model includes all essential systems such assuspension, steering, frame, power train, brakes, payload, as well as tire-road interaction model. A number of the quad bike operation events has been simulated. Time histories of the forces acting on the vehicle frame and tire contact patch have been analyzed and load cases with maximum forces have been extracted for subsequent finite-element analysis of the frame. In case the sufficient number of the events is simulated, the load cases can be used in the design optimization process, such as topology optimization, at early stages of the frame development.

The article demonstrates the results of the experimental evaluation of the traction and coupling properties of the wheeled utility terrain vehicles (UTV) during which parameters and indicators allowing for their use during designing of new generation UTVs are determined. This work demonstrates the results of the tests in determining maximum drawbar pull; determining maximum drawbar pull at snatch load of the Russian-made UTVs RM 650-2, Stels 800 Guepard and foreign-made UTVs Yamaha Grizzly, BRP Outlander Max XT, BRP Outlander 6x6, Polaris Sportsman 1000 equipped with wheels with grouser height of 15 to 40 mm.