I am getting ready to start looking for an ATV. I don't want to be taken advantage of so I need some direction from you experienced folks. I know there are lots of newby posts on here and I've read them but I have some specific info that might help you to help me decide what to start looking for.

First, I am a woman so I need something I can handle. I'm 5'8" so I need some leg room.
I have 18 acres with trails so I want to have fun.
I do a lot of farm work around here so it has to be practical as well.
I like power but I don't really need anything fast.
My trails get really muddy at times.
I also have a 2 acre lake on my property that I'd like to be able to haul stuff back and forth too. That too can get really muddy on the banks at times.
I think I prefer new or gently used if there even is such a thing.

How much can I expect to pay for something new? How do I get the dealer to not take advantage of me because I'm a girl and I'm an inexperienced buyer. Do dealers "deal" on ATV's like on cars?

Thanks ya'll.

 

Welcome to the site...
Lets see...everyone DEALS, do not buy until you come back on and post what you are looking at and the offered price. we can can help there.
What area are you in? someone here probably knows of something near you.
For your purpose you will want a smaller 4x4. I am only saying smaller bc the big bores get pricey and you would not use it to full potential. I am thinking Rancher 4x4 maybe.

my$.02 I am sure you will get alot of opinions.

 

Thanks Lob;
I will check in before I purchase. I'm located near Shreveport, LA so that's where all the dealers are. I appreciate your advice and I'm looking forward to other opinions!

 

I have been looking also and found that price/size/options all play into my decision at a couple dealers locally for these things the polaris sportsman 500 was my best fit 4X4 higher CC engine and at 5'8" it has the best fit to me it is automatic VS. electronic or manual shift and cheaper than the rest that I looked at (Honda 420 Yamaha 400) up to $2,000 cheaper IMO the polaris is a good all around rounded machine with everything I could ever want I am not a speed rider I want something that can go over/through about anything I would encounter (power and 4X4) VS the other models (some were 2 wheel drive and all were under powered in comparison)

 

I would say any of the major manufacturers mid to full size machines (400-550) with 4x4 and low range would suite your needs. Your best bet is to test ride as many different machines you can before you decide, then try to get the best price possible. Allot of dealers will take big cuts on previous years models, (New Non-current) just to get them off their books. Just something to keep in mind when shopping around. Good Luck!!!!

 

Welcome to the fourm.

For a work/play machine it's tough to beat a Polaris X2. I have the older 500 version which also came in a 700 or 800. The newer version comes in a 550 or 850. It has plenty of leg room for taller folks like me. The newer versions have easier steering than the older ones.

If the mud really gets bad having all 4 wheels turning in 4wd is a good thing. My only gripe with Honda is that they don't have any way to lock all 4 wheels in for traction. Not a major issue until the mud gets deep or if there are steep rocky climbs.

The X2 is very work related but does have a fun side too. It comes with a dumpbox on the rear kind of like a mini dumptruck. This box holds an honest 400 lbs. so the X2 shines when it comes to chores requiring carrying things. This dumpbox also has a 2nd passenger seat that you can setup in 15 seconds very easily for another rider. It also has very high towing numbers. All X2s also come with the largest under rack storage in all of ATVdom. I carry a ton of stuff under my front rack.

You should be able to find a used X2 500 for around $5000-$6000. A new one costs $8999. You can probably get a dealer down to about $8200 or so if they deal.