How to Choose an ATV
So you want to buy an ATV. First of all let me congratulate you on making such a great decision. Even though many ATVs are used by outdoor workers they are still great fun to ride and if you're buying a model for pleasure what a buzz.
It never ceases to amaze me that many ATV owners do so little research before visiting a dealer or buying via the web. Are they mad? A little research will ensure you get a machine that matches your needs, abilities and budget. The more research you do the happier you will be with your purchase. More times than I remember I have made purchases during my life to find just a couple of weeks later a product that would have suited my needs much better. You simply can't afford to take that chance with an expensive product like an ATV or Four Wheeler.
Perhaps the most obvious place to start is with budget. How much can you afford to spend on your ATV? If you haven't previously owned one don't forget to make an allowance for the ancillary equipment that you'll need e.g. helmet, boots and gloves etc. Your budget will determine whether you should buy new or used although my preference would always be a used ATV as there are plenty of absolutely brilliant used ATVs available and you don't take such a hit on vehicle depreciation.
Our store offers some fantastic deals but don't forget to ask some the questions you'll be introduced to here.
As far as pricing goes, an ATV 4 Wheeler with 4x4 will usually be more expensive than the same model without this ability. The bigger the engine the more expensive (common sense really).
Generally speaking ATVs with 4x4 that can push, pull and provide ride comfort will cost you more than those that don't do all well. Similarly in the racing classes the faster, lighter more powerful machines will be the more expensive. It is rare to find a low cost ATV that out guns it's more expensive rivals.
The next most important consideration is the intended use of the ATV. You are unlikely to want a 4 stroke 4x4 if you are looking for a machine that is suitable for racing. Likewise you won't want a 2 stroke lightweight racing machine for towing things around the farm. This might sound like I'm stating the obvious and it is obvious but I've lost count of the number of times I've seen machines bought that did not meet the owners requirements (especially online purchases).
So for towing and farm work check out 4x4 machines. These are the most expensive new so a used machine can save a couple of thousand dollars but remember to use our checklist below to make sure everything is in order. In my opinion Arctic Cat make some of the best 4x4.
If its a speed machine that your looking for you'll want to be looking at Yamaha and Kawasaki who produce some awesome models that balance power and speed with good handling.
There is also a need to take account of your local riding conditions. Where do you intend to use your ATV? If you don't know check out the local trails and see what sort of machines your fellow riders are using. Get their opinions. An interesting all round machine that suits quite a few different environments is the Polaris 400 4x4 which has a 2 stroke engine (very unusual). A great all round ATV the only thing it being less than suitable for being push and pulling where a 4 stroke engine is definitely more suitable due to it's greater torque.
What riding experience do you have? Make sure that the machine you buy matches your experience. If you've never ridden an ATV before please book yourself on a proper and extensive training course. It's a great investment and will help you get the most from yourself and your machine.
As this site sells mainly used ATV we have put together a check list of things to look out for and check with the owner. What should you look for first. Well a full service history is the best place to start. Don't even go near a machine without a service history - you've been warned.
Electrics - check or ask if they all work and make sure there are no shorts, removed or damaged accessories.
Wheels - Ask about the condition of rims - damaged rims are a sign that the bike has taken it's share of knocks and bumps.
Bodywork - Check/Ask about damage to bodywork and check things like flaps, instruments and levers.
Rear Axle - Check for leaking seals and the level and condition of the oil. Watery or muddy looking oil is a sign that there is a problem with seals.
Front Axle - Here you want to know if there are loose steering joints, excessive bearing wear or suspension link movement.
Engine - Surprisingly ATV engines don't cause that many problems but watch out for smoking exhausts (sign of worn valves). Clattery noises heard whilst revving can point towards a worn camshaft or drive change. Again notice the condition of the oil. If it is dark and thick it has not been changed with sufficient regularity.
Who owns it? ATVs are stolen all the time so always examine the engine and chassis number and check that no financing is in place by doing an online check.
Follow this checklist and the risk or buying a rogue machine is massively reduced. Now check out our used ATV for sale