Finding used ATV that is not scrap metal

First, decide on the TYPE of ATV that you wish to buy because there are many different types of ATVs designed for different purposes. For instance, do you want a used ATV made for racing, sports, utility, work or an ATV that can do all of the above? Then decide on the size of the engine, speed and see if you have the budget for an ATV like that. After that's done, go through the newspapers or internet to begin the hunt for a used ATV that isn't fit for the junkyard. If the seller gives you a picture, you should go to a local ATV dealer and take a spin or test out the model. Ask the sales person about the ATV - they're usually so bored with their job that they'd be happy to share the information with you!

Ask ask ask

We feel the need to remind you that you should never make a hasty decision and always try to source from multiple channels and give some time to properly consider your options first before you make a decision. It would be best if you could actually ASK some people who own the same model or get reviews from experienced ATV owners. Signing up and using online tools such as a message board is perfectly fine too! in fact, if you might get a more realistic view of the used ATV model if you asked it in an online forum.

Check out the body

Once you've shortlisted a few used ATVs, call the owners and make an appointment to meet them for an inspection. Of course, the condition of the plastic has nothing to do with how fast the used ATV will run but it will give you a pretty good idea about how long and how well-treated the used ATV under this current owner. By inspecting the body of the used ATV, you can actually tell whether it's been severely wrecked before. Anyway, if there are many cracks in the body of the used ATV, you might have to get it replaced…and replacing the ATV body is not going to be cheap.

The tires and the seats

Before selling their used ATVs, a good seller will replace the used ATV tires before selling it. ATV tires can be expensive, so, it is the current owner's responsibility to ensure that the used ATV does not come with bald tires! Bald tires can cause accidents if you attempt to use the used ATV.

Under the hood

After checking the things that you can easily see offhand, it would be good if you could spend some time looking at the hidden ones. For example, look under the front of the bike, the undercarriage, the A-arms, shake the handlebars, check security of the wheel, check the oil, brakes, rotor, cables…etc.

Sounds like a lot of work since you're not only inspecting one used ATV? It'll be worth it, trust us on this one!