FIRST DRIVE

BY DERREK SIGLER // PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICK SOSEBEE

ATLAS JSVGRAVELY

The blended DNA of the Gravely Atlas JSV

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GRAVELY ATLAS JSV

ATLAS JSVMany people are familiar with the Ariens Corporation. It has been a family owned business in Brillion, Wisconsin since 1933 that started out manufacturing agricultural equipment. In 1982, they acquired the Gravely Corporation, a major manufacturer of lawn care equipment. Today, under both brands, the company is a leading manufacturer of power equipment, making snow blowers, lawn mowers and more. With a reputation for making solid equipment and a very strong international dealer network, Ariens was very attractive to other companies for partnership opportunities. In particular, another Midwest company, Polaris, was very interested in partnering with Ariens. In short, after a great deal of planning and development, the end result is the Gravely Atlas JSV – A workhorse utility UTV that is a combination of DNA from both companies.

WHAT’S A JSV?JSV stands for Job Site Vehicle, and that should tell you something about the target market for this machine. During the introduction, the development team kept referring to landscapers, construction crews, farmers and land managers as potential buyers for the JSV. Now I know what you’re thinking- doesn’t Polaris already have a machine for this market? Well, yes, and no. Polaris does have the Brutus line of utility machines. What they don’t have is the foothold of the massive dealer network in these markets that Ariens/Gravely does. It also makes sense to partner with an established company to spread out the development costs. So, does this mean that the Atlas JSV is simply a rebranded Brutus? No, it isn’t. Ariens/Gravely developed the machine using some of the technology of the Brutus and other Polaris machines. There are some other elements that are completely Gravely. The MX-18 Jobbox bed is has an all-steel construction and has a 1,250lb. capacity, as well as a 1,900 lb. payload capability. The Gravely-designed bed has 18 cubic feet of cargo space that will hold a fully-loaded pallet. Making dumping the box easier is an electric deck lift that comes standard. The control for the dump box is conveniently placed on the dash. The dash and steering wheel are other Gravely-designed elements. Both were designed to enhance productivity on the job site. The steering wheel is oversized and actually reminded me of the steering wheels on my grandfather’s old tractors that we used all the time while growing up on the family farm. The oversized wheel helped a little when driving the non-EPS equipped versions of the JSV. EPS is not a standard option when buying the machine, but after driving it, I would strongly suggest you opt for EPS. Another very noticeable feature that is distinct to the Atlas is the

front bumper and grill. The massive front bumper just scream rugged and everyone remarked at how good it looks. Made from heavy-duty steel and made winch-ready, the bumper is as functional as it is stylish.All of the Atlas JSV components that are distinct to the vehicle are built by Gravely and then shipped to a Polaris factory for final assembly.

ABOUT THAT POLARIS DNAThe basic frame and suspension components are from Polaris. The front suspension is right off the Ranger line, with spring rates set to match the weight of the various JSV models. The rear suspension was borrowed from the Brutus line and uses the same multi-link, coil over De-Dion Suspension with 6-inches of travel. The De-Dion system reduces sag when the cargo area is fully loaded. It also maintains ground clearance and suspension travel even when the machine is at maximum 2,000lbs. towing capacity. There are four basic variations of the Atlas JSV. The machine features either a Polaris ProStar 570 DOHC engine, or a Kohler 1028cc diesel engine. The 570 produces 40 horsepower from a single-cylinder engine that is pretty common in Polaris machinery right now. The diesel pumps out 24 horsepower and loads of torque. Both engines are available in a 3-seat or a 6-seat configuration. The 3 seat variations weigh 1,575 lbs. for the 570 version and 1,675 for the Kohler. Add the second row of seating and the weight goes to 1,800 lbs. for the 570 and 1,900 for the diesel. Both engines bring power to the wheels via a dual range CVT transmission. Also from Polaris comes the On-Demand AWD system that Polaris is known for. The transmission also features the VersaTrac Turf Mode, which unlocks the rear differential. This again aims right at the target market for the Atlas JSV. Top speed for the Atlas JSV is limited to 35mph. Bringing the machine to a stop are four wheel hydraulic disk brakes. A 10-gallon fuel tank supplies the go-juice for long days on the job. Most Polaris Lock & Ride accessories fit the Atlas JSV, and Ariens is currently designing additional attachments that are distinctly designed for the machine.

DRIVING THE JSVWe got to spend a little time behind the wheel during an introduction near the Brillion, Wisconsin headquarters. While we didn’t have a “job site” to run around, but the fields set up as a test area worked for first impressions. As stated earlier, the Atlas JSV doesn’t come standard with

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FIRST DRIVE 2015 KYMCO UXV 450i LE 4X4

electronic power steering. If you’re in the market for one, especially the diesel version, opt for the EPS add on. The extra weight of the diesel engine can make the machine a workout if you have to drive it much. For basic use around the job site, it may not be much of an issue, though. Some of the steering issues come from the tire choice. The Atlas JSV is outfitted with Carlisle All-Trail tires, an All-Trail I for the front and an All-Trail II for the rear. The front and rear are both a 25-inch tire and the tread pattern is best described as an aggressive turf tire. This means it will get decent traction, but was designed to not tear up lawns and landscaping. What it isn’t designed for, however, is good steering manners. Under load, with the bed loaded to full cargo capacity, the driving characteristics are unchanged, which came as a pleasant surprise. The suspension and cargo box do just as advertised and if you didn’t know the bed was weighed down, you can’t tell when

driving it. One other thing to keep in mind, however - the bed does stick a little further back than a standard Brutus/Ranger dump box. This can affect the ability to tow if your trailer has a short tongue. A hitch extender is a cheap cure if you’re working with various trailers.

SO, DO YOU WANT ONE?If you’re business is in landscaping, construction, agriculture, land management, or some other occupation where a vehicle like this would be a great addition, then you probably should take a look at the Gravely Atlas JSV. It’s rugged and purpose-built for work. Another factor that can make this an attractive option for the market is the Ariens/Gravely dealer network, which is world-wide and massive. With the machine and the companies backing it, the folks at Ariens were very proud of what they are coming to market with, and they have a right to be.

GRAVELY ATLAS JSV SPECIFICATIONSENGINE: Polaris / Kohler 570 cc Single cylinder, DOHC Gas /

3-Cylinder Diesel

Fuel system: Gas / Diesel EFI / Indirect Injection

Starting system Electric

DRIVETRAIN: Drive system On-Demand True 2WD/4WD/ VersaTrac Turf Mode

Transmission CVT

SUSPENSION (TYPE): Front IFS Dual A-arm, adjustable pre-load

Rear De Dion, adjustable pre-load

TIRES: Front 25x10 Carlisle All Trail I

Rear 25x11 Carlisle All Trail II

BRAKES: Front / Rear Dual hydraulic disc / Hydraulic Disc

DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase 72 in.

Ground clearance 10 in.

Length x width x height 128x64x73.5 in.

Fuel capacity 10 gal.

LOAD CAPACITY: Towing capacity 2000 lb.

Cargo Bed and Dimensions 1,250 lb, 48.2”x57”x11.4” = 18 cu ft

Bed Lift Standard, Electric

Hitch Front: Accessory, 2” Receiver; Rear: Standard, 2” Receiver

Instrumentation Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, hour meter, odometer & trip meter, gear indication, glow plug indicator light* & engine oil pressure* (*diesel models only), seat belt reminder light, battery voltage charge system, engine/coolant temp, 2 in-dash 12V power outlets

Warranty 1 Year Limited Commercial Warranty

MSRP Starting at $12,999

Website www.gravely.com/en-us/utv

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2 | www.atvillustrated.com

NEW MODEL REVIEW

Gravely has been makingprofessional outdoor powerequipment for a century.Now they have four newSide x Sides to offer as well.

By Wayne Davis

Anyone who spends time perched on top of or pushing a mower aroundthe yard knows the Ariens name as one of the premier makers of lawnand garden equipment for homeowners. Ariens doesn’t just limit their

reach to residential customers, though. Through their heavy duty Gravelybrand, landscape professionals and turf managers have been tackling aboutany tough job using professional grade, reliable Gravely equipment they cancount on all day, every day. In fact, the Gravely brand has been in the fieldfor nearly 100 years and as the company prepares to celebrate its 100th an-niversary in 2016, they’re introducing an all-new lineup.

ATV Illustrated | Volume 13 Number 5 | 3

The heavy duty, metal dump box on the back of theGravely Atlas JSV is perfect for this type of project.

INTRODUCING A JOB SITE VEHICLE

In keeping with their hard working,heavy duty line for professionals,Gravely is calling their newSide x Side models the AtlasJSV for Job Site Vehicle, andAtlas for the Greek Godwho could carry theweight of the world.That’s a bold statementto be sure, but to insurethe new JSV modelscould handle hardwork, Gravelytapped one of the in-dustry giants to helpwith the design andmanufacturing of thenew machine. Polarishas a huge influence inthe recreational side of thesport, and their expertise and advice wouldbe welcome with the new JSV as well.

At the heart of any hard-working ma-chine is a solid chassis and with thenew Gravely JSV, that means asteel tube structure with dual A-arms at the front and a suspensionat the rear unlike anything else.Rather than going with dual A-arms at the rear, Gravely gavethe JSV what is called a de-Dionrear suspension. Although itsounds a bit like a 50’s boyband, we guarantee it’s all mus-cle. Unlike traditional A-arm in-dependent rear suspension,

the de-Deion rearsuspension islinked from side

to side, but theload carrying ca-pability is in-creased. This

type of suspensionhas been used foryears in the auto-mobile market, pri-marily for itsreduced unsprung

weight, easier shockvalving, and minimal

camber changewhich helps keep

wheels firmly planted on the groundand driving forward. Since the JSV isn’t

likely to be turning laps on any race course,though, it was all about handling a heavyload in this case. As the song says, it’s allabout the bass! To help dial in the ride,both the front and rear shocks are preloadadjustable.

Inside the cab structure of the new JSVmodels anyone familiar with the PolarisRanger lineup will feel right at home. That’sa good thing. Polaris has turned ergonom-

ics and driver and passengercomfort into anart form and it’seasy to seetheir influencehere. On thedash is ahandy shiftlever with for-ward, neutral,high, low, andpark gears. Atilting steer-ing wheeladjusts for

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GRAVELY ATLAS JSV

driver comfort, and directly in front of thewheel is a digital instrument display. In thecenter of the dash are switches for lightsand accessories, and two 12V accessoryoutlets. Thankfully, there is plenty of stor-age underneath the dash along with a cou-ple cup holders, but Gravely added theirown touch by topping the dash with a cou-ple more recessed areas for storing smallitems, just like in your truck. Down belowthe serrated floor board offers enough gripto keep your feet in place even in muddyboots, and since the JSV is designed forthree people in the front seat, there areseatbelts for all.

Since everything about the JSV vehicleswas designed for hard work, they needed asturdy rear dump box up to the task as well.Rather than a composite box, like mostrecreational side by sides, the JSV gets aformed and welded steel box with stiffeningribs underneath and along the sides formaximum load carrying capacity. At therear is a heavy-duty metal tailgate with twometal pins to keep the tailgate closed. It’s avery simple set up, but it is incredibly reli-able and it works. It’s not always about get-ting fancy, but more about getting finished.One feature we really appreciate about therear dump box is that there are no wheelwells intruding. That means it’s easy toload a pallet with no obstructions. A 2 inchreceiver hitch down below also gives theJSV the ability to pull a trailer, and discbrakes at all wheels help you bring every-thing to a quick stop.

Gravely gave all JSV models Carlisle’sAll-Trail tires. These tires feature a muchtighter lug pattern than typical off-road tires,which makes for a smoother ride on hard-packed surfaces, increased load carryingcapability and control from less sidewallflex, and better puncture resistance. Thatwill be a comfort to construction site man-agers or anyone operating the JSV on siteslittered with construction debris. The onlydrawback is slightly less traction on muddysurfaces. Steel wheels are used for maxi-mum durability.

THE FOUR HORSEMENLandscapers, construction workers, utility

crews, and timber harvesters all have toughjobs and plenty of tools specific to their pro-fession. It would be a mistake to assumethat a “one-size-fits-all” vehicle would suit alltheir needs. Gravely recognized this andthere are actually four unique Atlas JSV ve-hicles to choose from. While they sharemany of the same hard working features, itis the engine and seating capacity optionsthat create the different models. Here is abreakdown of the four different models:

Regardless of what youhave to haul, the Atlas JSVcan get the job done.

The de-Dion rearsuspension of theAtlas JSV

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ATLAS JSV 3000 – EFIPolaris ProStar 570cc 40hp Liquid CooledEFI equipped GAS engine, seating forthree

ATLAS JSV-3000 – DieselKohler 24HP / 1028CC liquidcooled, indirect InjectionDIESEL engine, seating forthree

ATLAS JSV 6000 – EFIPolaris ProStar 570cc 40hpLiquid Cooled EFIequipped GAS engine,seating for six

ATLAS JSV-6000 – DieselKohler 24HP / 1028CC liquidcooled, indirect Injection DIESELengine, seating for six

We’ve always been extremely fond of thePolaris ProStar 570 engine, and it has per-formed incredibly well in the stock Polarisunits. It offers excellent power, it runssmooth, and it has been extremely reliable.We love it. In the JSV chassis, the ProStar570 will be tuned more for pulling a heavyload than climbing dune faces, and topspeed will be dialed back slightly in keepingwith its working class mandate. The Kohlerdiesel engine offers fleet managers a niceoption and it definitely simplifies fueling.

Whenever you fuel up the dozer or buckettruck, splash a little diesel in the JSV as welland you’ll be good to go! In addition, theenormous torque of the Diesel engine pro-vides plenty of power to pull a trailer loadedwith everything from cinder blocks to irriga-

tion pipe, andwe expect thereliability ofthis motor tobe outstand-ing. Both en-

gines are matedto the sameCVT/Belt driven

transmissionwhich features

the Polaris engi-neered On-De-

mand TrueAWD/2WD/VersaTrac with

Turf Mode. Turf managers love thisfeature to avoid damage to sensitive

areas, but when things get sticky, all youneed to do is flip the switch to engage allfour wheels and power out of trouble!

WISCONSIN TEST RIDEThe gently rolling terrain outside the

small town of Brillion, Wisconsin providedan excellent place to spend an afternoonwith the ATLAS JSV. There were hills,woods, a few rocks, and plenty of fieldspocked with farms in every direction. Inshort, it was just like home! Gravely had asmall fleet of JSVs waiting for us, and asusual we were anxious to try them all.

We hopped into the three seat, gas ver-sion of the Atlas JSV and with a twist of thekey, the ProStar engine purred to life. After

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GRAVELY ATLAS JSV

The six seat version of the Atlas JSV.Notice the extreme duty bumper thatcomes on all JSV models.

Don’t think the Atlas JSV ismeant only for work. It’s alsoperfectly capable of recreationon the weekends.

a couple minutes to warm up, we slippedthe gear shifter into High and we were off.Our initial concern with the heavy duty de-sign of the de-Dion rear suspension wasthat it might offer a harsh ride. Often timesmachines designed to haul a mountain ofgear, dirt, or anything else have a roughride when the vehicle is carrying less than afull load or only a passenger or two. Thatwas definitely not the case with the GravelyJSV. The suspension was soaking upbumps, rocks, and logs with ease. Wewere off to a good start, but the next partsurprised us even more.

We’ve always loved the ProStar 570 en-gine, especially in the mid-sized chassis.When Polaris slipped that same engine intoa full-sized chassis, though, the relationshipended badly; for unknown reasons, it gotLOUD. However, with the Gravely JSV full-sized chassis package, it was back to itsquiet self, purring along nicely at all RPMranges. We’re not sure how they did it, butit works. It was possible to have a normalconversation on the trails without feeling likeanyone needed to yell.

Part of the course wound through muddysections and it gave us a chance to try theJSV in the mud, and with a flip of the switchall four wheels were clawing for traction.The Carlisle tires got us through, but you

could tell they are happier on hard-pack.The only other feature we didn’t care forwas the extra turning effort required by thetoo-wide front tires. A wider footprint defi-nitely helps with flotation, but it also requiresmore turning effort, and we would suggestGravely opt for a narrower version of thistire on the front of future models. This wassomething Honda also had to learn withtheir first Big Red MUV.

We also had time aboard the Diesel ver-sion of the JSV, and although the chassisperforms pretty much the same as the gasversion, we were highly impressed with theKohler Diesel engine. It feels like it has

enough torque to pull a full-sized log out ofthe woods, but its best feature is its veryquiet and smooth ride. There was no no-ticeable vibration from the Kohler engine,and again it was quiet on the trail.

WORK READYThe Atlas JSV will fit in nicely with the

Gravely brand of power equipment. It’smore than just another product line for theirdealers, however. All of the Atlas JSV ma-chines are fully capable of handling all thework you can send their way, and just likeany other good member of the crew, they’llbe ready to go again the next morning.

ATV Illustrated | Volume 13 Number 5 | 7

GRAVELY ATLAS JSV SpecificationsPolaris Engine: 570cc Single Cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC Gas with EFI -

40hpKohler Engine: 1028cc Three Cylinder, liquid cooled, indirection injection

Diesel - 24hpTransmission: Continuously Variable (CVT) with Sealed Belts, OnDemand

True AWD / 2WD / VersaTrac with Turf Mode Steering: Rack & PinionBattery: 575 ccaFront Suspension: Dual A-Arms with adjustable preload shocksRear Suspension: de-Dion rear suspension with adjustable preload shocksBrakes – F & R: Hydraulic Disc sTires – Front: 25 x 10 Carlisle All Trail I – 12 x 6 Steel WheelTires – Rear: 25 x 11 Carlisle All Trail II – 12 x 8 Steel WheelFuel Capacity: 10 GallonsTowing: 2000 lbsCargo Bed Cap.: 1250 lbsElectric Bed Lift: StandardTop Speed: 35 mphInstrumentation: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, hour meter, odometer

& trip meter, gear indication, glow plug indicator light & engineoil pressure (diesel models only), seat belt reminder light, bat-tery voltage charge system, engine/coolant temp, 2 in dash12V power outlets

Color: Gravely RedGRAV

ELY AT

LAS J

SV Sp

ecsInside the cab area of the Atlas

The Polaris ProStar 570 engine of thegas powered versions of the JSV.

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DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 31, 2015

VOL 12 • NO 1 • 2015 • $ 5.95

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The utility UTV market has a new player in themix, and if work, work, and more work is onyour attribute list, the new Gravely Atlas Job

Site Vehicle (JSV) could very well end up on top. The new AtlasJSV combines the proven performance and ride attributes of theindustry leading Polaris Ranger, with a concise dose of purpose-built features designed by Gravely.

GRAVELY ENTERS THEUTILITY SIDE-BY-SIDEMARKET WITH AWORK FIRST ATTITUDE

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WORKINGFOR A LIVING

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Gravely, which has been under the Ariens' umbrella since the company was acquired in 1982,is well-known within the lawn and tractor industry . With an extensive line of commercial basedmowers and accessories, the addition of Gravely was a perfect fit for Ariens, which is highlyregarded for its snow throwers, and is known as the “king of snow” within that industry . Theintroduction of the Gravely Atlas JSV will bolster offerings to their extensive job site customers,and just might lure in a few new ones as well.

The heart of the JSV is pure Polaris. A vailable in both a 1028cc, three cylinder Kohler diesel,producing a torque heavy 24-horsepower, and the 570cc fuel injected Polaris four-stroke puttingout 40-horsepower. Both engine options come in both a standard three-passenger , bench seatversion called the JSV-3000, as well as a six-passenger crew named the JSV-6000.

Approximately 90% of the JSV, including frame, suspension, engine and drivetrain, all comesfrom Polaris, but it’s the work specific details from Gravely that sets the JSV apart from otherutility targeted vehicles.

From the outset, one of the key differentiators of the JSV is found head-on, where an all steel,wrap-around bumper and accompanying styled grill, gives the Atlas a tough as nails demeanor .More than just looks, the burly bumper is designed to withstand more than a few bumps andnudges. The bumper also incorporates a center cut-out to accommodate a winch of choice. Moreof this same, all steel toughness can be found under the vehicle as well, where a full underbodyskid plate is fixed to the frame, in case you find the limits of the 10-inches of ground clearance.

WORKING FOR A LIVING

Another key difference found on the Atlas,compared to its Polaris Ranger sibling is themassive, all-steel workbox out back. The MX-18Job Box is big; big enough in fact to comfortablyfit a standard wooden pallet inside (48.2-inchesdeep x 57-inches wide). Steel from top to bottom,including the sides, the box features four heavy-duty tied-downs, a smooth tailgate for minimalresistance when dumping materials, and astandard electric cargo lift. The end result is a boxwith an industry best, 1,250-pound capacity.

The final defining piece of the Atlas is the rearsuspension. Dubbed the De Dion rear suspension,the design is unique to the Atlas, and combinescomponents of two different Polaris suspensionsinto a stout, semi-independent design. While theride might not be as compliant as a fully-independent design, in our opinion it does offer a

The new Gravely Atlas comes in two chassissizes with seating for three or six. Power isavailable in 570 Polaris four-stroke, orKohler three-cylinder diesel offerings.

Gravely has a long and robust history as a lawn and tractormanufacture, and we got a chance to learn more during our time

in Brillion by visiting the Ariens museum.

49ATV WORLD MAGAZINE • VOLUME 12 • ISSUE 1 ✪ www.atvworldmag.com

better ride than other work-specific vehicles. What’s more, theDe Dion suspension is designed to carry a big load, both inthe box and on the hitch. The combo platter design minimizessag, allowing the Atlas to retain much of its ground clearance,even when fully loaded.

One look at the specifications of any of the four newvehicles will tell you just how serious Gravely was in thedesign of the Atlas when it came to getting work done. Any ofthe four are capable of towing up to 2,000-pounds; yeahthat’s right, one big ton. Throw in the Polaris dual-rangetransmission, on-demand all-wheel drive, and the extensiveofferings of custom fit and easy to install accessoriesincluding integrated cabs, plows, storage racks, andadditional lighting, and you have a strong recipe for job-sitesuccess.

Our time with the new Atlas JSV was limited to a shortafternoon of trails just outside Ariens’ hometown plant in

Powersports isn’t entirely new to Ariens. The companyhad a brief run in the snowmobile market during the

sports heyday of the early 1970s.

While skeptical at first, aftersampling both Atlas models wecould see both being used for anoccasional hunting trip, workaround the cabin, or even aSunday afternoon trail ride.

The profiled tubes of the roll-frame are the same as found onmost Polaris models, allowing for quick and easy installation

of windshields, roof tops, and other cab accessories.

An all steel, oversized box is unique to the Atlas and featuresenough room to accommodate a full-size, standard pallet rack.

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Brillion, Wisconsin. Nevertheless, it wasenough to get a strong understanding ofthe true capabilities of the JSV. As onewould expect, the vehicle is incrediblystable, given the Polaris DNA and stout,work focused suspension. Controls, cab,ingress, and egress are classic Polaris, andboth the 570 four-stroke and three-cylinder diesel were strong down-low andrelatively quiet. The all-steel rear box andDe Dion rear suspension did contribute toa few unwanted rattles and squeaks, andride compliance over sharp edge objectslacked the more plush attributes of a fully-independent ride as one might expect.

With a top speed of 35-mph, the Atlas

can be more than a work only side-by-side; think of i t as a work f irst andsecond…with the option to expand itsboundaries to an occasional hunting tripor cabin weekend ranking third. Thisadded versatility could very well helpbolster sales at Gravely dealerships,where traditional lawn and garden andother potential job-site customers canenvision a new Atlas in their f leet,beyond the work week.

Atlas JSV-3000 models start at$12,999 and the Atlas JSV-6000 crewmodels start at $14,799. For moreinformation visit www.GravelyAtlas.com

Perhaps the most unique feature of the Gravely Atlas is the De Dion rearsuspension, a combination of two different suspension designs in one. The

multi-link coil over rear is mated to a more traditional dual A-arm suspensionup front for great handling and huge payload and towing capacity.

Heavy-duty and work specific features can be found throughout the Atlasincluding these simple, but effective and fool-proof rear gate latches.

An all-steel, wrap-around front bumper, unique orangepaint scheme, and stylized front grill, complete with alarge Gravely emblem, sets the Atlas apart from other

models, both in terms of style and function.

Inside the cab, you’ll find traditional Polariscontrols including a toggle for the standard

electric rear cargo box lift.

Additional storage can be foundundersea, where two large bins reside oneither side of the center mounted battery.

2015 Gravely Atlas JSV Review Story by Rick Sosebee Photo by Ariens Company Oct. 14, 2014 0

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Ariens partners with Polaris on this UTV for the jobsite Working the Utility Side-by-Side you own can be a profitable venture if you choose the right

machine for the job. Moving people equals saving time along with getting heavy loads to certain

spots on the jobsite, which is key for that profitability to shine through. Ariens Company, located

in Brillion, Wis., has come up with a plan and machine it believes will get the most out of

everyday on the job. You might even enjoy a trip down the trail after the work is finished.

We haven’t talked much about Ariens Company on this site, but it is primarily a land

maintenance business with a host of brands that service needs like snow removal and commercial

mowing. One of those brands is Gravely, which produces a variety commercial outdoor power

equipment.

For model year 2015, Ariens has launched a brand new Side-by-Side in partnership with Polaris

– the Gravely Atlas JSV. This UTV is designed to give farmers, construction companies and the

labor-minded home or small rural farm owner a really solid platform for the job. We had a

chance to spend some time with Dan Ariens this past week, along with his team of scientists and

designers. This is a very deep corporation with many new markets being covered, but at least for

this trip our focus was on the UTV and its thrust into our industry.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2014 Polaris Ranger Crew 900 and Ranger 570

The 2015 Gravely Atlas JSV comes in several different forms. We spent most of our time with

the gas burning JSV3000. This machine will be very familiar to many, as it is powered by the

Polaris ProStar 570 engine. This mill has the same 40 hp, fuel injection and CVT transmission

driveline that come in Polaris’ 570 mid- and full-size vehicles. This was done in part because it is

obvious that Polaris has this engine system figured out very well and it saved the Ariens

company much time as well as engineering in bringing the product to market.

The gas-powered JSV3000 and JSV6000 borrow Polaris’ 40-horsepower ProStar 570 engine.

Also familiar is the chassis. Ariens tells us it had laid out its goals for the machine and Polaris

helped with the construction, but also noted that the framework on this JSV is indeed that of

Polaris. With a suspension that includes Independent front A-arms and the De-Deion rear

suspension, the Atlas JSV has a great base for the product. The front suspension gives its owners

10 inches of ground clearance to assist in avoiding jobsite debris as well as getting through other

obstacles around the property line.

The Atlas JSV is also available as a crew-sized vehicle, using the same 570 Pro-Star engine.

We’re sure the crew dress code gets some form of transmission recalibration for the extra

payload, although it was not discussed.

With room for six passengers, the JSV6000 is available with a gas or diesel-powered engine.

If you work on a farm or around equipment that is primarily diesel fueled, you will be happy to

know the JSV does come with the Kohler three-cylinder diesel engine as an option that is rated at

24 hp and indirect injected. This 1028cc mill puts the torque to the ground via the same

CVT/Belt driven transmission system as the gas burner. Both versions of this JSV will have

Trans setups that feature the Polaris engineered On-Demand True AWD/2WD/VersaTrac turf

mode gearboxes.

With a rugged exterior look, the Atlas JSV body style reflects tough and hard working yet

professional as well. This was a goal of the Ariens Company and it proved to be a great

direction. The front of our test vehicle had a full-faced push bumper bearing the Gravely name

and dual headlights on each side that work independently for low beam and together for high.

We noticed the protective roll structure was that of the Ranger line from Polaris and even

accepted many accessories (non-Polaris branded, of course) that would be available from the

original designers.

The Gravely Atlas JSV3000 strikes an aggressive pose.

Under the hood of our Atlas JSV we found general access to service related items, as well as

preformed mounts for things such as winch relays and associated windshield wiper function

parts. Not much storage here, but easy accessibility for the jobsite mechanic should anything

need attention.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2014 Kubota RTV X-Series

Inside the cab we found the seating to be contoured for each individual left or right side rider.

The middle (or third wheel rider) has to ride the inevitable hump. In our view, this is a machine

that can keep you comfortable throughout the work day. Seatbelts are three-point harness style.

The digital over analog gauge is taken right from the dash of the aforementioned Polaris Ranger

line and provides enough information to keep your mind working. Slipping the Atlas JSV into

H/L/N/R or park is simple with the dash-mounted shift lever and has a definite position for each

that can be felt when moving the lever. The passenger side glove box is sufficient for any smaller

items and under seat storage will hold the rest.

Inside the cockpit you’ll find contoured seats, dash-mounted shift lever, and roomy glove box.

We did not have a chance to load the JSV3000, but Ariens assures us the bed capacity is 1250

pounds with an overall payload rating of 1900 pounds. The bed dumps via an electric motor

actuated by a dash-mounted rocker switch. This will be a blessing to anyone carrying rock, sand

or any other non-packaged dumpable material.

Ride Impressions

After a brief tour of the manufacturing facility, one of several owned by Ariens, we headed out

to a local private hunting club to give the Gravely Atlas JSV a quick rundown. Triple J farm is a

place for those who love the outdoors and shooting sports. With clay shooting sports and

Pheasant or dove hunting available, it was my kind of location.

We found the Gravely Atlas JSV3000 to be a capable trail cruiser.

We made our way around the semi rolling hills of this property and over one section of buried

rocks. The rock garden showed us that the Atlas JSV is indeed an off-road capable machine and

has a suspension that is flexible for traversing off-camber terrain. It also proved the unit does

handle well without any cautionable characteristics.

COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2015 KYMCO UXV 500i G

Our trips through the fields gave us a chance to try out the 4WD as some sections had very

muddy bottoms and the JSV powered through, pitching mud biscuts into the air behind us. The

turf tamer-style tires did seem a bit wide to us on the front and possibly could use a pound more

of air to help the steering under slow conditions. The very wide flat surface of the front tire was

noticeable in the steering wheel.

You can haul up to 1250 pounds in the cargo bed.

We had just enough time to sit down in the JSV Diesel Crew and get a couple of photos before

jaunting off to the airport for our next adventure. This Kohler three-cylinder feels like it could

pull a house off its foundation even though it only officially denotes 24 horsepower. The familiar

rumble of the indirect injected engine just screams “work the hell out of me, please!” We hope

for more time in this new line of off-road-capable jobsite machines very soon and maybe we can

then test all of the claims just to be sure the brochure is correct. Wink wink.

Overall, the Gravely Atlas JSV has what it takes to be a great jobsite machine. It will carry a

huge payload and even six people in the Crew model, but to say it is not a UTV could be off base

just a tad. I think a weekend trip through the mountains of North Georgia or over some part of

the Hatfield-McCoy trail system would be a good time in this brute and I might even pull a tent

trailer along to stay in overnight.

You would be wise to get to your local Gravely dealer and ask about this new machine

Gravely Atlas Side-by-Side Has Features Land Managers Need

By: Jared Blohm | October 26, 2014

Polaris and Ariens

Partner to Create

an Intriguing New Option for Hunting Properties

By Jared Blohm

Most land managers rely on a variety of vehicles to oversee their hunting properties. They use a truck to

haul wood, seed, lime, fertilizer, deer feed and other heavy loads. A tractor is usually needed to

complete food plot work. And an ATV or UTV is used to transport hunters across the property.

As ATVs and UTVs evolve though, many land managers have begun using the machines in expanded

roles, whether it’s for hauling loads across the property or pulling a plow or other implement to work up

out-of-the-way food plots. But most of these units simply aren’t built for performing all of the heavy-

duty jobs a land manager faces.

The new Gravely Atlas JSV has the potential to push the boundaries of what a UTV can accomplish

though.

Built for Performance

When Polaris and Ariens teamed up to create the Atlas under Ariens’ Gravely brand, they designed the

UTV as a “Job Site Vehicle” for workers in labor-intensive fields such as construction, landscaping and

farming. But they quickly realized the performance capabilities of the side-by-side also catered to the

needs of land managers.

With a 1,900-pound payload and 2,000-pound towing capacity, the Atlas can literally haul a ton. The

UTV’s all-wheel drive, heavy-duty traction, De Dion rear suspension and abundant ground clearance

makes it a capable of delivering people or loads to remote areas, too.

The all-steel MX-18 JobBox can hold up to 1,250 pounds, and the extra-large 48-inch by 57-inch bed

easily holds a standard wooden pallet. The electric cargo bed lift comes standard on all Atlas models.

The Altas JSV-3000 fits three adults comfortably across one bench seat and the Atlas JSV-6000 crew

model fits six adults across two bench seats. Both models are available with a 1-cylinder, 570cc Polaris

DOHC gas engine or 3-cylinder, 1028cc Kohler Diesel engine. All engines provide a 10-gallon fuel capacity

and ground speed of 35 miles per hour.

Accessories include winches, snowplows, front receiver hitches, tool racks, chainsaw presses, gun

mounts, cargo boxes and more.

Ride in Style

We were able to test drive the Atlas recently and walked away impressed. Despite the heavy-duty

features, the UTV is a sharp-looking, smooth-riding, comfortable and roomy machine. We tested it in

various conditions, including rocky grasslands and muddy fields, and the rugged Atlas handled every

situation with ease.

We loaded one Atlas JobBox to its 1,250-pound capacity, and it barely seemed to slow the UTV down.

The electronic cargo bed lift was also a handy feature and performed well. High-beam and low-beam

light options would come in handy when working on hunting properties at night.

Although we were unable to test food plot implements, the Atlas specs lead us to believe it could

effectively pull the equipment necessary to be used for plot work.

Check out ShopDeerHunting.com for more ATV accessories, like the GameXtractor.

There are a number of accessories that would make the Atlas even more appealing to hunters. The

option to fully enclose the cab would be desirable, especially for Northern land managers, and the gun

mount would be useful in all climates. The HD Pro 4,500-pound winch is another accessory those taking

the machine off-road would likely consider.

Another option that will appeal to hunters will be offered soon, according to the Ariens team. The Atlas

only comes in red now, but they are working on a camouflage option that should be available within the

next year.

Pushing the Envelope

The Gravely Atlas JSV might not have been designed with hunters in mind, but we think land managers

should definitely take notice. With power and performance in all the right areas, this job site vehicle

could be the answer to your hunting property needs.

For more information, visit www.GravelyAtlas.com.

Discover proven strategies and tactics for the upcoming rut. Don’t miss out on the latest tips you’ll need

for a successful season.

Click here and subscribe to Deer & Deer Hunting magazine today!

First Ride: Gravely Atlas JSV

By:

Derrek Sigler Posted: 12/7/14

The Gravely Atlas JSV machines are a combination of Polaris Ranger DNA and Ariens power equipment

quality.

There are a lot of UTVs available these days and more keep popping up all the time. As the overall

number of vehicles on the market has increased, companies have begun to offer more specialized

machines. Polaris has the lion’s share of the market with a lot of models, and their Ranger UTV is a

dominant player in the utility/recreation arena. Polaris sought to bring their technology onto the

worksite, while at the same time increasing their dealer network. Enter the Ariens Corporation.

Ariens has been a family-owned business based in Brillion, Wisconsin since 1933. They got their start

manufacturing agricultural equipment, much like Polaris did. Today they are a leading manufacturer of

power equipment, making snow blowers, lawn mowers, and more. In 1982, they acquired the Gravely

Corporation, a major manufacturer of lawn care equipment. Polaris came to Ariens with the idea to

partner on a worksite-specific UTV. The end result is the Atlas JSV (Job Site Vehicle).

Mixed genetics

I’ll be the first to admit that I went into my introduction to the Atlas JSV with the mindset that it was a

rebranded Ranger. Let me clear up right now that I was very wrong. The driveline and frame are from

the Ranger UTV, with some very different features. The bodywork, controls, and function are distinctly

Gravely. The end result is a machine that is purpose built and pretty interesting.

The MX18 box is a work of art and something that will really help sell the unit.

There are four basic variations of the Atlas JSV. The machine either features a Polaris 570 Prostar engine,

or a Kohler 1028cc diesel engine. The 570 produces 40 horsepower from a single-cylinder engine that is

common in Polaris machinery right now. The Kohler mill pumps out 24 horsepower. Both engines are

available in a three-seat or a six-seat configuration. The three-seater 570 weighs 1,575 pounds version,

and the Kohler 1,675 pounds. Adding the second row of seating takes the 570 to 1,800 and 1,900 for the

diesel. Both machines have a 2,000-pound towing capacity rating.

Power steering is available as an optional accessory. After driving both variations and engines, I

recommend spending the few extra bucks for power steering. The added weight of the diesel especially

screams for power steering. Other options are available, too. Most of the Polaris Lock-and-Ride

accessories will fit the JSV and Gravely is working on some new stuff of their own.

The styling is all Gravely. Two things that immediately draw your attention are the front bumper, which

is about as beefy as you’ll find, and the dump box. Both are works of art. The front bumper and stylish

grill make the front of the Atlas look mean. The dump box is awesome. Constructed out of steel, the MX-

18 Jobbox bed has an astounding 1,250-pound capacity and 1,900-pound payload capability with 18

cubic feet of cargo space. It will hold a fully-loaded pallet. An electric deck lift comes standard, so you

can dump cargo with the touch of a button.

Of course, all of that cargo capacity doesn’t mean anything unless the vehicle can haul it, right? Out

front, the Atlas machines have Polaris Ranger suspensions with spring rates set for the job site. Out

back, there is the de Dion suspension system developed for the Polaris Brutus commercial vehicle. This

combination gives the Atlas a good ride quality with the cargo capacity needed to get the job done. The

de Dion system lets you fill up the box or tow a hefty load without sacrificing ground clearance.

The front bumper is beefy and stylish.. It screams tough, rugged, and durable. The construction backs

that up, too.

Markets, targets, and sales

So who is the target buyer for the Atlas JSV? The name “Job Site Vehicle” ought to tell you something.

This machine is geared for hard work, be it with construction, agriculture, or lawn care. Wherever there

is a job that needs a workhorse, you could see the Atlas there. Both machines are limited to 35 mph at

top speed, which is plenty fast for the type of environment they’ll be used in.

The secondary market is what interested me the most—land managers. For some of us hunters, our

ATVs and UTVs are used primarily for managing our lands for hunting. We’re using them to haul

supplies, put in food plots, and going on the hunt. For these tasks, the Atlas JSV would really shine. I

wouldn’t mind getting my hands on one for use around my farm.

Overall impressions

I liked the Atlas JSV, especially the six-person, 570 setup. The styling is very good and the features are

good, too. If it were mine, I’d swap out the Carlisle All-Trail tires for some proper knobbies, but for the

wide reach of the Atlas, those are decent tires for sure.

Polaris was smart to seek out Ariens. Ariens is an outstanding company with a great dealer network and

a solid reputation for building some of the best power equipment you can find. Adding the Atlas to that

network opens new doors for both companies. According to Ariens, reaction from the dealers has been

overwhelming. In fact, all of our test units that we rode on were already spoken for by the dealers.

The partnership opens up a lot of possibilities for future new machines and products for Ariens. A look

at what Polaris has offered in the Ranger line can let you see that there is a lot of potential there.

Combine that with what Ariens does best and the future looks pretty good for the Wisconsin company.

If you’ve looked at the Polaris Ranger and thought that it was close to what you needed for your tasks,

but want a heavier-duty version, you need to take a look at the Gravely Atlas JSV. It is a tough, purpose-

built machine, backed by a one-year warranty and two long-lived and well respected brands. Just make

sure you get the power steering!

Powersports Business > Features > Ariens unveils Gravely Atlas Job Site Vehicle

Ariens unveils Gravely Atlas Job Site Vehicle

November 17, 2014

Filed under Features, In this issue

Powersports dealers have opportunity to carry Polaris-partnered vehicle

By Liz Keener

Managing Editor

Ariens Company’s Atlas is so unique to the market that company employees rarely refer to it as a UTV or side-by-

side; instead they call it a JSV, meaning Job Site Vehicle.

The Gravely Atlas JSV-3000 and JSV-6000 crew cab are based off Polaris’ Ranger platform, but they’re built

specifically for contractors and other professionals who need a heavy-duty work vehicle. They’re positioned between

the consumer-facing Ranger 900 and the commercial-focused Brutus.

“What we identified is we saw an empty space. There was nobody claiming a space for a job site vehicle that was

developed strictly for the commercial contractor or for that job site. So we saw an opportunity there, and we saw there

was empty space in here that nobody was claiming,” Bill Engler, Ariens’ director of sales for Commercial Products,

told Powersports Business during a media unveil at the company’s Brillion, Wis., headquarters.

Polaris partnership

The partnership between Polaris and Ariens was announced in December 2013. The goal was for the two companies

to share information, technology and R&D investments to produce a work vehicle and to strengthen both companies’

dealer networks.

Ariens is an 81-year-old family-owned manufacturing and distributing company that produces consumer and

commercial lawn and garden equipment. Its Gravely brand, under which the Atlas is being brought to market, is a

commercial lawn and garden brand.

With the partnership, both companies leveraged their experience, and the knowledge of their potential customers to

create the Atlas JSV.

“We didn’t just sit in a room and figure this out. We went out and spent time in the marketplace and did focus groups

all around the country,” Engler explained. “We got together contractors, homeowners, hobby farmers, large estate

owners. We sat down in rooms all over the country with the different groups and asked them questions. We showed

them the competition, and we showed them images of what we were thinking of.”

The themes the focus groups came up with were: reliability, quality, durability, powerful, productive and investment.

The Polaris and Ariens teams added these concepts to a design storyboard and went to work.

The JSV

What both teams developed was the Atlas JSV, a vehicle designed first and foremost for work.

The most notable difference between the Atlas and other vehicles on the market is the MX-18 JobBox. At 57-by-48.2

inches, the JobBox accommodates a standard 48-by-40-inch wooden pallet with the tailgate closed. The all-steel box

also has a 1,250-pound capacity, four integrated tie-down points and an electric cargo bed lift standard.

The Atlas JSV also has a 1,900-pound payload and a 2,000-pound towing capacity. It features on-demand, true all-

wheel drive along with De Dion rear suspension, allowing the vehicle to provide heavy-duty traction and suspension

and maintain full ground clearance and a smooth ride even when carrying a full load.

Four models are available at the outset, with gas and diesel versions of both the JSV-3000, which seats three across

one bench seat, and the JSV-6000, which seats six across two benches. The gas models are powered by Polaris’

570cc DOHC engine, while the diesel versions feature a 1,028cc Kohler Diesel engine. All four models include have

10 gallons of fuel capacity, and each tops off at 35 mph. The JSV-3000 starts at $12,999, while the JSV-6000 starts

at $14,799.

The Atlas has a variety of accessories available, including cab enclosures, winches, plows, a front receiver hitch, a

tool rack and a cargo box. The vehicle also accommodates Polaris’ LOCK & RIDE accessories.

Every feature of the vehicle was designed to be “right sized,” a phrase Ariens uses throughout its company, from

manufacturing to product development.

“The right size vehicle means this isn’t an engine that’s too big or too small; we feel it’s the right size for the

application of a job site,” Engler said. “We feel that the box is the right size for the most efficient use at a job site. We

feel that the interior and the storage that we’ve given it, the dash that we designed, is the right quantity and the right

size for that professional contractor, so again, we tried to create a product where we don’t have too much of one thing

or too less; it’s just the right size to get the most productive, profitable job done for that contactor.”

The primary audience the vehicle was developed for includes landscape contractors, governments/municipalities,

educational institutions, farm management and entertainment complexes. The secondary audience Ariens is targeting

includes homeowners, large estate owners, famers, ranchers, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, hobby famers and

prosumers.

“We’re making a really good quality job site-type vehicle, the JSV, and we know if we can get those in the

professionals’ hands — those professional contractors — that a large segment of the homeowners or hobby farmers

or hunters or recreational people will see that and will want to buy it,” Engler said.

Dealers wanted

Ariens first unveiled the Atlas to 250 North American dealers in late September. Of those, more than half booked the

JSV for their stores.

“Some of those are existing traditional lawn and garden dealers, all they’ve ever carried is zero-turn [lawn mowers],

snow throw,” said JW Washington, regional manager for the Western Region. “Some of those are powersports

dealers as well, so as we look at who would complement our Gravely dealer, obviously powersports dealers move

very nicely because they’re already familiar with the industry, and ag implement dealers because we’ve oriented this

unit toward production agriculture, the rural lifestyle owner.”

Ariens is giving first right of refusal of the Atlas to its current Gravely lawn and garden dealers, but it’s looking to fill

any holes with powersports dealers. Those holes could come in areas where the current Gravely dealer has chosen

not to carry the Atlas, or they could be in locations where a Gravely dealer does not already exist. In that case, the

Atlas dealer could also pick up the lawn and garden lines, if he or she chooses. Ariens’ lawn and garden dealer

contracts are separate from the Atlas contracts.

Powersports dealers were identified as ideal partners because they’re familiar with selling and servicing side-by-

sides, as well as selling accessories. Though Ariens has been looking to some Polaris dealers with the initial launch,

the company has also heard from dealers of other brands of side-by-sides, who are seeking a work-oriented vehicle.

“There has been a tremendous amount of interest,” Washington said. “When the press releases went out last year

about the partnership with us and Polaris working together on this unit, we had a lot of inbound calls to us with that.”

Though Ariens is looking at bringing on some powersports dealers who are already familiar with selling vehicles to

the commercial demographic, the company will also consider partnering with dealers who are looking to broaden their

customer base by entering the commercial market.

“We want to make sure it’s the right dealer, a dealer committed to customer service, a dealer committed to this

channel in terms of that work segment. We know homeowners will use it as well, but it’s a work unit first,” Washington

said.

So far, dealer reaction has been positive, as many reported being excited to carry this unit.

“I support the Western Region, Texas, and we have a ton of powersports dealers, and they were excited to see the

space that it fills. They feel that we provided a unit that will meet the needs of production agriculture, farm plots, … as

well as the landscaper and governmental entities,” Washington said. “So it was very well received, especially once I

think the differentiation of how it’s different than a Ranger, how it’s different than a Brutus, and its own unique

platform [is explained]. If you answer some of those questions, overall the excitement’s been really good.”