buy used ATV

How To Buy A Used ATV

Have you ever experienced riding an ATV? Is riding one in your ultimate bucket list? Heck, maybe you’ve ridden all sorts of ATVs and UTVs because you’re simply renting them out.

But sometimes, there’s something that renting out an ATV can’t fulfill. I know that feeling of craving for that one ATV that you can call your own.

Let me tell you this, there is something truly spectacular when riding your very own ATV. If you’re afraid to buy one because your budget doesn’t permit, then you might want to reconsider buying a used one to save some bucks.

Why Should I Buy A Used ATV

An ATV, either used or brand new, is a big purchase, literally and figuratively. You wouldn’t want to waste your valuable resources to buy a worthless junk, would you?

Even if a used ATV is not as attractive as a brand-spankin’ new one, it’ll still work. Don’t worry, I’ll help with that. but for now, let’s look at some reasons why you should buy a used ATV.

  • Price – Price is the most obvious and main reason why you’d buy a used ATV. Some used ATVs will cost a lot less because previous owners are due for an upgrade.
  • Testing the waters – Although you can ride an ATV with rentals, you’ll get the full-on experience by owning one. You’ll get to know how to maintain it, customize its shocks and suspension, tow and load it, and many more. It will help save you from purchasing an expensive high-end one when you realize that you’re not really into it. Moreover, you’ll be able to discover whether you simply like riding or the whole ATV experience.

A Guide To Purchasing An ATV

Whether you are in the market for a new ATV or a used one, you shouldn’t buy at a whim. Don’t rush fool. Take your time and follow these steps to get the most out of your purchase.

Do your research

Don’t be lazy and do your research. Whether you do your research sitting down and gathering information online or you rent out different kinds of ATV to try them out, do it.

Many ATV owners are vocal with their experiences with their own units. Read reviews, join forums and study product features. Also, take see if what the brand promises is true by asking your fellow riders.

Make a list of the things you liked and those that you don’t like about a particular ATV. In that way, you can create a shortlist of the brands, models and makes that you love.

Carefully select where to buy

There are many ways on how you can source a used ATV. Check online and you’ll find loads of sellers but be mindful of them. Only make a deal through trusted websites where there are real reviews from real customers.

One of the safest ways to make a purchase is to find a local dealer. They might be selling mostly brand new ATVs but they can also be one or two used ones. It is also possible that they know someone who is selling a used ATV.

Prioritize specifications and features

Some ATVs may prioritize one feature from another. I know we all wish we had all those features but that would just rack up the price higher. In reality, you just have to prioritize the features and specifications you want.

This would highly be dependent on where and how you plan to use your ATV. For example, some ATVs are ideal to carry cargo while others are not. There are some that have room for passengers, others don’t.

Prepare your budget

With all the features that you hope to find on an ATV, you must also be prepared to pay for it. Let’s be realistic here and don’t try to low ball your way out of the transaction.

Used vehicles are more affordable but remember that they are selling them and not just giving them away. Be wary when you find deals that seem too good to be true. Most probably, they are.

Test ride and check

Before you finalize the deal, make sure you test drive the ATV first. Just like buying a car, you need to know if it works or not. Use your senses and feel the right. If it doesn’t feel right, look closer.

Have a mechanic check and inspect the unit. It may look great in your eyes but it might have some hidden problems that aren’t visible in an untrained eye. Some dealers have a mechanic but you can also hire one privately.

Expect a paper trail

Your transaction must have a paper trail. If they won’t give it to you, then run far far away. A receipt will help protect you of your purchase. It also protects the sellers because they are no longer liable when it comes to ATV.

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About the Author

Fred Willett

Fred Willett, an off road junky from Memphis who, from the best of his recollection, was born on back of an ATV riding the trail north of Hotsprings, Arkansas. In addition for writing for a couple other ATV blogs including this one, Fred spends whatever money & time visiting Offroad hotspots throughout North America.

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