The MAX Buffalo Truck 6x6 amphibious ATV, like the 2004 model recently for sale on eBay, is a piece of off-road exotica. Recreatives Industries - opens in new window or tab.—the maker of the MAX Buffalo—is among an obscure group of power sport vehicle makers with an underground following. Their offerings are often made-to-order.
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6x6 ATV Innovators
Recreatives Industries, based in Buffalo, N.Y., introduced the first MAX ATV in 1969. That was a couple of years after ARGO - opens in new window or tab. created a similar 8x8 machine. The two brands were the leading manufacturers of 6x6 vehicles in the 1970s. Six-wheeled amphibious MAX ATVs gained popularity due to their prowess in mud, water, and snow.
Vintage MAX 6x6 (Photos: Recreatives Industries)
Soon after the first 6x6 models came out in 1969, 6x6 races began taking place at Pine Lake Raceway - opens in new window or tab. near Ashtabula, Ohio. Pine Lake continues to hold annual 6x6 ATV race events.
Recreatives Industries produced the MAX ATV line—including the Buffalo Truck 6x6—through 2013. That’s when it sold to new management, which kept the Buffalo Truck in production until 2016. The total number of units built between 1969 and 2016 is estimated at around 25,000 vehicles.
2024 Max Buffalo 6x6 prototype
In 2021, Planet Resource Recovery Incorporated purchased MAX ATV and all of its assets to resurrect the brand. Updated MAX ATV models are starting to roll off the assembly line at the company’s new production facility in Bradenton, Fla.
Today's MAX ATV line offers a range of models equipped with modern features such as improved suspension systems and enhanced seating comfort. The company aims to make buggy-like amphibious vehicles capable of handling harsh environments.
Show and Go
The 2004 Buffalo Truck 6x6 is MAX ATV's two-passenger all-purpose utility vehicle with a power-tilt bed. It can haul up to 1,000 pounds of cargo on land. It is also amphibious, with a rugged polyethylene body that allows it to float and move across the water at speeds up to six miles per hour.
What differentiates the Buffalo Truck from its competition is the T-20 skid-steer - opens in new window or tab. non-differential transmission, which delivers full-time six-wheel-drive regardless of the amount of traction on each wheel.
MAX ATV designed models like the Buffalo Truck for easy repair and service. This ease of maintenance, reliability, and durability make it an ideal choice for agriculture work, forestry, and emergency services. Of course, hunters, anglers, and adventure-seeking weekend explorers also appreciate the 6x6.
Stylistically, the Buffalo Truck has remained virtually unchanged since the late 1960s. That gives the 2004 Buffalo Truck 6x6 for sale on eBay a high coolness factor. But more importantly, this small ATV keeps moving when the going gets rough.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.