because i want a raptor but wondered if i would be better to buy a used 05 or 04 model rather than a new one???

 

Its an age old debate that can be applied to all kinds of items, but more specifically big ticket items.

If its used you save a ton of money, but you are then unsure of the history and have to deal with potential problems. You are also paying on an older machine that is closer to needing major work done than a new machine would be. This is less important when buying a year old model as in your case, but these are still things to take into consideration. You miss out on any small updates or changes may have been done from one model year to the next and you will most likely not get a warranty on a used atv.

Basically, you have to save enough money to warrant the risks of buying used. If you are only saving a couple hundred bucks, its not worth it. If you are saving a bunch, its something to think about.

Personally I went the new atv route the last 5 times. In fact the only used atv I've ever purchased was one that I had bought new and sold to a friend. I bought it back from that friend a couple years later and then sold it again.

 

Yeah, this is mostly an opinion topic, or what people what been through with experience. I've never had enough money to buy new, so I've always bought used. I believe it's absolutely fine as long as you learn, or bring someone that knows what to look for in a used four wheeler. I am into sport quads/dirt bikes, so finding on in excellent condition is much more rare. However, I bought my Warrior used (two years old) from a woman. She was the wife in the family and never abused it. I paid only $2500 for it without a scratch on the frame. So, there are benefits to buying used, but then again, there are many cons. Just know what you're looking for, and you should be fine. Goodluck.

 

Liek you said, this is an age old question... I might offer some pointers about a used machine. If buying form a dealer, ask if it was a trade in, and if the bike was sold and service in their shop. If the answer is yes, have them pull the service record of the machine. Any reputable shop should be able to do that.

If you are buying from a private citizen, ask them where they had it serviced... and check with them for the records again.

You might also join a riding club, and buy form a fellow member... or better yet, ask them if they are a member of a riding club and talk to some of the members about the way the bike was maintained, ridden etc.

Hard riding is OK, if the bike has been maintained... but if the guy does his own work, you might want to look real close......

Just remember a couple things. If it is a deal too good to be true.. it probably is. Don't worry about someone else buying it if you don't decide today. think about it, if it goes it goes... there will be another one come along... Set your price and stick to it... walk away friends, and give them your phone number if they change their mind...

 

If you research the model and year quad you are looking at you will be able to look closer at the known problematic areas. You can never 100% believe what they seller is saying (excuse me for stating the obvious). I like to drill him with questions if I think he is BSin me. When I bought my Scrambler I checked over every little thing and didn't see anything major. I lucked out and got one hell of a quad.

I just bought my first brand new quad this past Monday. I'm thinking it will be the last time I buy new. You save so much money if you go used and use your very best judgement, as well as don't rush into it. Just the same as buying a car. If you buy a brand new Chevy Suburban 1500 4x4 you pay how much brand new? About $40k at least...right? If you buy one that is a few years old and has 40k on it for half the price you gotta stop and think, were those 40k miles really worth $20k (to the old buyer)? You paid $20k and you'll be able to drive the thing for another 100k miles provided it's a solid vehicle and you used good judgement. Sorry for rambling.

jon06,
Here's an idea for a gameplan:
Keep checking you local paper and the Cycle Trader for a good looking deal on a used quad. If you find something that looks good go take a good look at it and a test ride if possible...form a general impression. Then go to the dealer and sit down with the salesman and tell him you've got cash in hand, what's the bottom line for the brand new quad (same model as the used one you are looking at). Work out the best OTD price you can get, then go home and call around and see if anyone will beat it. I took a whole day calling around all over and the price kept getting lower. Once you get it as low as you know you can get it, think about your options. How much more is the new quad? What is the difference b/n the two (pros/cons)? Then come to these forums with your options and we'll do the best we can to let you know what sounds best.