Summer Fun on Land and Sea
Summer on Long Island brings endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're craving the rush of waves beneath a personal watercraft, the thrill of trails on an all-terrain vehicle, or the freedom of open roads on a motorcycle, the warm months offer perfect conditions for powersports enthusiasts. At Habberstad Powersports, we've spent years helping Long Islanders find their ideal summer ride, and we've gained some insights worth sharing about matching the right vehicle to your lifestyle.
The Expanding World of Powersports
The powersports industry has evolved dramatically over the past decade. What was once a relatively straightforward market has expanded to include vehicles for virtually every terrain, skill level, and budget. This evolution has been driven by technological innovations, changing recreational patterns, and a growing desire for outdoor experiences that balance excitement with accessibility.
"I've been in this business for over 15 years, and I've never seen such diversity in what people are looking for," says the owner of Habberstad Powersports. "Some customers come in knowing exactly what they want, while others are exploring powersports for the first time and need guidance to find the perfect match for their lifestyle."
This diversity is reflected in our showroom, where personal watercraft sit alongside dirt bikes, touring motorcycles share space with utility ATVs, and side-by-sides are displayed next to sport bikes. Each category offers its own unique experience and appeals to different types of riders. Let's explore the options and help you determine which might be right for your summer adventures.
Personal Watercraft: Mastering the Waves
There's something magical about skimming across the water on a personal watercraft (PWC), commonly known as a jet ski (though that's technically a brand name, like Kawasaki's Jet Ski). The sensation of freedom, the cooling spray on hot summer days, and the ability to explore Long Island's countless waterways make PWCs perennially popular among our customers.
Who Should Consider a Personal Watercraft?
PWCs are ideal for water lovers who want an accessible entry point into boating. They require less maintenance than larger vessels, can be transported on a standard trailer, and offer impressive performance for their size and price point. They're particularly well-suited for:
Water-loving families - Many modern three-seater models like the Yamaha FX Cruiser or Sea-Doo GTX are designed with families in mind, featuring stable platforms, comfortable seating for up to three riders, and safety features that make them suitable for riders of various skill levels. Parents can take younger children along for rides, and teens can eventually learn to operate them under supervision.
Coastal homeowners - If you're fortunate enough to live near the water in areas like the North Shore or South Shore of Long Island, a PWC provides convenient water access without the commitment of a full-sized boat. Storage is simpler, and you can be on the water within minutes of deciding to ride.
Active singles and couples - For those who enjoy adrenaline-pumping water sports, performance-oriented models like the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX or Yamaha GP1800R offer acceleration and handling capabilities that rival sports cars, but on water.
Fishing enthusiasts - Specialized fishing models like the Sea-Doo Fish Pro come equipped with GPS fish finders, coolers, rod holders, and other angling-specific features that allow access to fishing spots unreachable by larger boats.
One of our customers, James from Montauk, recently traded his center console boat for a pair of Sea-Doo GTX models. "I found I was using my boat less and less because of the preparation time," he explained. "With the PWCs, my wife and I can decide to go riding on a moment's notice. We're actually spending more time on the water now."
Popular PWC Models at Habberstad Powersports
Our Sea-Doo lineup includes the versatile GTI series (perfect for beginners and families), the luxurious GTX models (ideal for longer rides and multiple passengers), and the adrenaline-pumping RXP-X (for those who crave performance). We also carry Kawasaki's Jet Ski lineup, including the STX-160 series and the ultra-powerful Ultra 310 series.
When selecting a PWC, consider not just your current skill level but how you plan to use it over the next several years. Many buyers initially focus on comfort and stability but eventually develop skills that make them crave more performance. Our team can help you find a model that will grow with your abilities.
All-Terrain Vehicles: Conquering the Trails
While Long Island may be better known for its beaches than its trails, New York State offers abundant opportunities for ATV riding within a reasonable drive. From the permitted trails in upstate regions to private riding parks closer to home, ATV enthusiasts have plenty of options to indulge their passion for off-road adventure.
Who Should Consider an ATV?
ATVs provide a different kind of freedom than watercraft or street-legal vehicles. They allow riders to explore terrain that would be impossible in conventional vehicles, offering both utility and recreational benefits. They're particularly well-suited for:
Outdoor enthusiasts with access to land - If you own property upstate or have access to legal riding areas, an ATV opens up exploration possibilities that aren't available on foot or in larger vehicles. Models like the Polaris Sportsman or Can-Am Outlander can transport you to remote fishing spots, camping areas, or simply allow you to enjoy nature from a different perspective.
Hunters and landowners - Utility-focused ATVs like the Honda FourTrax Rancher or Yamaha Kodiak 450 excel at tasks like hauling equipment, maintaining property, and accessing remote areas. They combine work capabilities with recreational potential, making them versatile investments.
Thrill-seekers and motorsports fans - Sport models like the Yamaha Raptor or Can-Am Renegade deliver motorcycle-like thrills with greater stability, making them ideal for riders who want to experience high-performance off-road action without the learning curve of a dirt bike.
Families with older children - Youth models from manufacturers like Polaris and Honda offer scaled-down versions of adult ATVs with appropriate power and safety features for younger riders, creating opportunities for family trail riding activities.
Tom, a customer from Smithtown, purchased a Can-Am Outlander and two youth models last summer. "It's completely changed our family vacations," he told us. "Instead of the kids being glued to their phones at our upstate cabin, we're all out riding together. It's become our favorite family activity."
Popular ATV Models at Habberstad Powersports
Our ATV inventory spans from entry-level utility models to high-performance sport quads. The Polaris Sportsman line offers options ranging from accessible 450cc models to powerful 1000cc machines. We also carry Honda's reliable FourTrax series, Yamaha's versatile Grizzly and Kodiak lines, and Can-Am's innovative Outlander models.
When choosing an ATV, consider not just the power but also the intended use. A high-performance sport quad might seem exciting, but a utility model with more comfortable ergonomics might better suit weekend explorers. Our staff can help match you with the right machine based on your experience level and riding goals.
Side-by-Sides: Sharing the Adventure
The fastest-growing segment in powersports is the side-by-side (SxS) category, also known as UTVs (utility terrain vehicles). These vehicles combine the off-road capabilities of ATVs with car-like controls and the ability to bring passengers along for the ride.
Who Should Consider a Side-by-Side?
Side-by-sides offer unmatched versatility in the powersports world, serving both recreational and practical purposes. They're especially well-suited for:
Couples and families - Models like the Polaris RZR Trail or Can-Am Commander allow you to share the off-road experience with passengers in a more comfortable and accessible format than traditional ATVs. No need to master balancing skills – the steering wheel and bench seats make operation intuitive for anyone who can drive a car.
Property owners with work needs - Utility-focused side-by-sides like the Honda Pioneer or Kawasaki Mule offer impressive hauling and towing capabilities, making them practical tools for property maintenance, farming, or even small construction projects.
Adventure seekers who value comfort - High-performance models like the Polaris RZR Pro XP or Can-Am Maverick X3 deliver extreme off-road capabilities without sacrificing comfort, with features like adjustable suspension, climate control, and premium audio options.
Older riders or those with physical limitations - The car-like seating position and controls make side-by-sides accessible to people who might find straddling an ATV or motorcycle challenging.
Robert, a retired firefighter from Huntington, chose a Kawasaki Teryx4 after considering both ATVs and side-by-sides. "At my age, I wanted something that wouldn't be hard on my back and knees," he explained. "The Teryx lets me take my grandkids out on trails when they visit, and I use it for clearing fallen trees and maintaining trails on my property upstate."
Popular Side-by-Side Models at Habberstad Powersports
Our side-by-side selection includes utility-focused models like the Honda Pioneer and Kawasaki Mule, versatile recreation-utility crossovers like the Polaris General and Can-Am Commander, and performance-oriented machines like the Polaris RZR and Can-Am Maverick.
When selecting a side-by-side, consider cabin comfort if you'll regularly have passengers, cargo capacity if you'll use it for work, and suspension sophistication if you'll tackle challenging terrain. Our team can guide you through these considerations to find your ideal match.
Motorcycles: The Ultimate Open-Air Experience
Despite the growing popularity of other powersports categories, motorcycles remain the quintessential symbol of freedom and adventure. From cruising coastal roads to commuting through traffic, motorcycles offer practical benefits alongside their undeniable cool factor.
Who Should Consider a Motorcycle?
Motorcycles require more skill development than other powersports options, but they reward that investment with unmatched versatility and connection to the environment. They're particularly well-suited for:
Commuters seeking efficiency - Models like the Honda Rebel 500 or Kawasaki Ninja 400 offer economical transportation with the added benefit of easier parking and the ability to bypass traffic congestion in many situations. With fuel economy often exceeding 50 mpg, they're also budget-friendly options for daily transportation.
Weekend explorers - Adventure tourers like the BMW GS series or cruisers like the Indian Scout allow riders to cover significant distances in comfort while maintaining a closer connection to the surroundings than is possible in a car. Long Island's scenic routes take on new dimensions when experienced on two wheels.
Performance enthusiasts - Sport bikes like the Yamaha YZF-R series or Kawasaki Ninja ZX models offer acceleration and handling capabilities that rival exotic sports cars at a fraction of the price, appealing to those who appreciate mechanical performance and riding skill development.
Individualists seeking self-expression - Perhaps more than any other vehicle type, motorcycles offer opportunities for personalization that reflect the owner's personality and style preferences. From classic cruisers to modern naked bikes, the motorcycle category encompasses countless aesthetic and functional variations.
Lisa, a nurse from Bay Shore who purchased her first motorcycle (a Honda Rebel 300) last summer, shared her experience: "I was initially interested in a scooter for commuting, but after taking the motorcycle safety course, I realized how much I enjoyed riding. It's become more than transportation – it's my stress relief after long hospital shifts."
Popular Motorcycle Models at Habberstad Powersports
Our motorcycle inventory spans multiple categories, including cruisers from Indian and Honda, sport bikes from Kawasaki and Yamaha, adventure tourers from BMW, and versatile standards that bridge multiple riding styles. We also offer a selection of scooters for those seeking the simplest entry point into powered two-wheelers.
When choosing a motorcycle, consider not just the style that appeals to you visually but also your intended use, physical dimensions (seat height and weight are important factors), and power characteristics. Our team includes experienced riders who can provide guidance based on your specific needs and concerns.
Making Your Decision: Factors to Consider
With so many exciting options available, how do you determine which type of powersports vehicle best suits your lifestyle? Here are some key considerations:
Access to appropriate riding environments - Be realistic about where you'll use your vehicle. If you live near water and rarely travel to areas with trails, a PWC likely makes more sense than an ATV. Conversely, if you have property upstate but no trailer or water access, off-road vehicles might be more practical.
Storage and transportation - Consider where you'll keep your vehicle when not in use and how you'll transport it to riding locations. PWCs and ATVs require trailers unless you have waterfront property or live where you ride. Motorcycles can be parked like cars but need protection from the elements.
Physical capabilities and experience - Different vehicles demand different physical skills. Motorcycles require balance and coordination; ATVs require upper body strength for steering; PWCs require comfort in water. Be honest about your abilities and willing to invest time in skill development.
Budget for accessories and gear - The purchase price is just the beginning. Factor in necessary safety gear, storage accessories, transportation equipment, and maintenance costs when calculating your total investment.
Family involvement - Consider whether this will be a solo pursuit or a shared activity. If you want to include family members, vehicles that accommodate passengers or allow for multiple riders may be preferable.
Training and Safety: Starting Right
Whatever option you choose, proper training is essential. For motorcycles, we strongly recommend the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's Basic RiderCourse, which provides fundamental skills in a controlled environment. Similar courses exist for ATV riders through the ATV Safety Institute.
For personal watercraft, New York State requires operators to complete a boating safety course and obtain a boating safety certificate. These courses cover not just operation but also navigation rules, emergency procedures, and environmental responsibilities.
Your Summer Adventure Awaits at Habberstad Powersports
Whether you're drawn to the splash of waves, the dust of trails, or the wind of open roads, summer on Long Island offers perfect conditions for powersports adventures. At Habberstad Powersports, we're committed to helping you find the vehicle that best matches your lifestyle, budget, and recreation goals.
Our showroom features the latest models from top manufacturers, and our team brings decades of combined experience riding and maintaining these vehicles. We understand that purchasing a powersports vehicle is both a significant investment and a gateway to new experiences, and we approach each customer interaction with that understanding.
Visit us to explore our inventory, ask questions, and perhaps even schedule a test ride (where applicable). Summer is short on Long Island – make the most of it with the perfect powersports companion from Habberstad.
