New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

Hi All,
I want to buy 2 ATV's and never have owned one before. I was thinking of buying used, maybe 4-7 years old. First of all, is that the way to go, or am I better off going new w/warranties and that stuff? Who builds the best new ATV? Any recommendations for used manufacturer's? My teenage kids and wife will be riding them as well, so I don't need an 800 power machine. I was thinking between a 250 and 400? Am I in the right area? I will be riding in open woods with hundreds of miles of trails, and occasionally using one around the yard. Any info would be greatly appreciated! Thank you, in advance ...

New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

Don't be afraid of two strokes. Mixing gas/oil is easy.

A 250 four stroke is a bit small - an average adult would master it quickly.

A 400 or better is good. (My wife wants at least a 400 4 stroke or 250 two stroke after mastering a rented 300ex in one wknd).

Electric start isn't always necessary. After all, the battery and starter add weight and maintenance.

I would buy used bikes, used equipment/etc. New bikes are very expensive. If you don't like the sport after a while - you won't have a ton invested (unless you're made of $$, then buy whatever you want.)

Don't rule out dirt bikes either - they are a whole different world. It takes an entirely different style of riding.
Teenagers love the power of 125/250 2 stroke bikes (I did!) You can get all supercross and stuff.

New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

Sometimes its hard to find a used machine that hasn't been abused. There are some good ones that haven't been riden much and in great condition, but they don't last long if the price is right. The 250-400 size quads are just about right. I'd suggest the Honda Recon or Honda Ranchers. They are pretty much bullet-proof. If you can get a deal on a Suzuki Ozark, I'd highly reccomend that one too. You really don't need 4WD for the type of riding you mentioned. Make sure you get the family a few helmets and ALWAYS wear them.

New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

Thanks for the feedback, guys .. I really appreciate it!! I've had bikes before, but never an ATV .... If you think of anything else, please post it ..

Many thanks,
Tominator

New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

yes has one has said you can find one at a real good price first figure out what quad you want by checking the websites or asking us like you are doing now after you have set you mind on the quad you want go to atvtrader.com or other places like that and i have seen 2003 400ex for like 3999 and his race ready

New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

Are we for sure talking sport bike here? Or do you need high ground clearance, racks, or 4wd?

For sport bikes, something in the 400 class for you, and something in the 250 class for the wife and kids. I like the Suzuki Z400 (best all-around machine available!) and the Honda 250EX.

New to ATV's - Want to buy one - Any tips?
 

On any used quad I wouldnt look at any of the pre 2000 ones.For what you are planning on doing I would go with a automatic or at least an autoclutch.Dont let anyone tell you that automaics arent good they give you the time and expereance to lean how to handle a machine.Then you can got o the clutch/shift ones if you like.Me I perfer auto because I am always in the right gear.