With so many ATVs out there designed for different purposes deciding which one is right for can be tough. This guide will help determine what type of ATV will be most suitable. It then goes on to explore what to look for in a used ATV to help make the right buying decision.

It never ceases to surprise me how many ATV owners do little research before visiting a ATV dealer or buying an ATV for sale online. Are they mad? A little research will ensure don’t make the same mistake and enable to get the machine that best fits needs, abilities and budget. The more research undertaken the happier will be with purchase. More times than care to remmember have made a purchase only to find a couple of weeks later a product that would have suited my needs much better. simply can’t afford to let that happen with an expensive product like an ATV or Four Wheeler ATV.

The first thing to consider is budget. How much can afford to spend on ATV? If haven’t previously owned one don’t forget to make an allowance for the ancillary equipment that will need e.g. helmet, boots and gloves etc and a proper training course. 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 great deals available ATVs available and don’t take such a hit on vehicle depreciation.

The next most important consideration is the intended use of the ATV.Unlikely to want a 4 stroke 4×4 if looking for a machine that is suitable for racing. Likewise won’t want a 2 stroke lightweight racing machine for towing things around the farm. This might sound obvious and it is obvious but have lost count of the number of times have seen machines bought that did not meet the owners requirements (especially online purchases).

So for towing and farm work check out 4×4 machines. These are the most expensive new so a used atv can save a couple of thousand dollars but remember to use the checklist below to make sure everything is in order before buy. In my opinion Arctic Cat make some of the best 4×4 machines.

If its a speed machine that looking for will want to be looking at Yamaha ATV and Kawasaki ATV 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 intend to ride ATV? If don’t know check out the local trails and see what sort of machines fellow riders are using. Get their opinions. An interesting all round machine that suits quite a few different environments is the Polaris 400 4×4 which has a 2 stroke engine (very unusual in a 4×4). A great all round ATV for most trail blazers. It’s biggest limitation is push and pull where a 4 stroke engine definitely has an edge due to it’s greater torque.

What riding experience do have? Make sure that the machine buy matches experience. If have never ridden an ATV before please book on a proper and extensive training course. It’s a great investment and will help get the most from and machine.

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. This can uncover if a used atv is stolen, accident damaged, had a registration transfer or has outstanding finance.