Before You Buy an ATV: Points to Consider
As every motor vehicle purchase, you will be spending loads of money. Though not as pricey as brand new cars, ATVs can get absurdly expensive if you're unsure about just what you’re looking for. The ATV classifieds available on the internet provide enough of a showcase to interest even a mild ATV fan but the absence of decent information (or a buyer's guide) in ATV classifieds has created more than a few furstrated purchasers.
Your ATV Budget
Probably the biggest factor in sifting through the ATV classifieds is your budget range. Depending on the model, brand and accessories you want installed, a funky new ATV could range from $7,000 on up (nearly the price of a new ride), while used ATV prices can range from somewhere around $2,000 upwards.
ATV Engine Types
The next thing to consider is the engine type. ATVs can have one of two engine types available: a 2-stroke engine and a 4-stroke engine. The engine type will vary largely based on your primary use for the ATV. Usually, if plan to race, then your ATV should have a 2-stroke engine since this engine type produces more power than a 4-stroke. Unbelievably, an ATV with 2-stroke engine of only 50cc can reach 130 km/hr (about 78mph) while a 4 stroke with a 70cc engine may have trouble maintaining even 110 km/hr (about 66 mph).
Given that, why would you consider a 4-stroke? Fuel consumption, for one. On a liter of fuel (slightly more than a quart), 2-stroke will run for about 21 miles. With a 4-stroke, that same liter will take you around 30 miles.
For another, since 2-strokes lack a dedicated lubrication system, unlike the 4-stroke, parts tend to wear-out faster. 2-strokes use an oil and gas mixture with the oil providing lubrication for the engine. Because of this, 2-strokes also tend to produce more pollution during combustion. And remember, that oil is mixed purely for lubrication, it doesn’t add to the ignition process. And adding to this fuel inefficiency factor, during the release of the burnt gasses, some of the new mix of fuel/air also leaks out into the exhaust port.
Drive System
If you are to be doing much racing then you should also decide on using 2WD since they are faster than 4WD. But if you are doing more rough terrain trekking or severe mud bogging then it is best to have a 4WD. 4WDs are powerhouses that are oriented more as work machines so if you intend to do some serious hauling and/or plowing, you'll get better value from a 4WD machine. Naturally, 4WDs are more expensive than 2WD, but having a nearly invincible machine is most excellent.
Engine Starters
Another important consideration could be the type of starter your ATV will have. To date there are three methods of starting ATV engines: electric start which uses battery and an ignition button, kick start lever that directly connects to the crank case, and the pull start handle often used in lawnmowers and chainsaws. It is highly recommended that you look for a machine with two alternative starter methods, especially if you choose a primary electric starter so that you’ll have an alternative in case of battery failure or other problems.
ATV Brand
Most of us tend to develop a certain favoritism for a particular brand, especially if you have bought a satisfying product with that brand in the past. Buying this way can be fine, but often it is advantageous if you compare prices, makes, models and reviews among multiple brands before making a purchase. That way, your choices won’t be limited to one brand and you may discover a superior product, with better features for your needs at the same, or even a lower price.
Used versus New
This can be a complex issue. A used ATV may come equiped with a variety of aftermarket accessories which can save you a bundle. And, of course, used ATV prices are lower. Some considerations are: how old is it? What's the repair history? How was it used primarily? Was it ever raced, crashed? Are there maintenance records? Is it still under warranty/guarantee? What's the condition of the body, the tires, the brakes and lights? Can you get the engine and transmission checked for any potential problems? Having an independent mechanic who you trust do an evaluation on an ATV you're seriously considering buying is well worth the cost - both to help avoid future problems and for your own peace of mind. Too few buyers of used vehicles (of any kind) get an expert opinion - and many regret it later.
A new ATV will cost you more. You can probably save some money by buying a prior year's model when new models come out or by buying off-season when the dealer's sales are low. The advantage is that you get the full warranty/guarantee and you know you have a vehicle in brand new condition. It will also, likely have a better resale price down the road.
The best of both worlds is to try to find a used ATV that was an impulse purchase, never really got used, and is still in nearly pristine condition. This kind of thing happens more often than most people think so it be worth spending the extra time to seek one out. The value of an ATV - like almost all motor vehicles - takes a major dive the moment it's sold for the first time.
Take your time. Know what you want and what you'll be doing with your ATV. Use these guidelines. That urge to get it NOW and get into the woods, is not the way to get the best deal - and these days we all need to get the best deals we can.
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