I am looking for a solid reliable used ATV in the 300cc range for my 14 year old. Seems Blasters are a plenty on Craigslist in our area. He wants to blast up and down our roads in the Winter and eventually race competitively in the Spring/Summer. Looking in the $1200-$2000 range to start.

Any suggestions/opinions would be greatly appreciated!

 

First off, what kind of racing is he looking to do? Check with the local organizations to find what will be appropriate for his age and experience. Blasters are pretty good, lots of hop up potential in that motor. Chassis wise and probably overall a 300ex is likely a better starting point. Don't rule out the 250 raptor either. Stock it is only giving up 30cc or so to the 300, and has a much more modern chassis. I love Yamaha, and the way I would go if in your shoes.

 

Thanks Scooter! I did find a 2001 Raptor but it is a 660 which is way more machine than I wanted for him for now. I may consider that beast for myself though!!!

 

I am 13 years old (Yes I am on a lot of ATV Forums and very mature for age) and I currently have an 04 Yamaha Blaster. Blasters are fun quads, not a bad size. One thing I suggest if you get a blaster is try to get an 03 or above model. The older models (with handlebar mounted headlight) have more problems with brakes. The older brakes are total garbage. I suggest getting a newer blaster due to the hydraulic brakes. I am thinking about selling my blaster because I just was never pleased with it. I am looking more into a new 4x4 utility quad like a Can Am Outlander L 500 or a Polaris Sportsman 570 (New Version of Sportsman 500 H.O). If your son likes to go fast or likes racing then I suggest starting out on a blaster. First get him used to getting used to riding on trails, and once he gets to the track, maybe I suggest an ATV like a YFZ450 for racing. Blaster is not really a race quad but more of a play quad in my opinion. Also if he is looking to race now is the time as a lot of applications for sponsorships are closing for the season. Just my .2

 

Also I live in Northern new Jersey as well so it is quite similar trails to NY