well I am also looking at really nice 2007 Artic Cat 700 4x4 with only 750 miles and custom wheels and tires for only $4200

 

Price wise, that sound like a better deal, but you need check it out carefully. Read around some of the Cat forums, and see if there are any frequent issues with that model quad. All brands have them. I think some of the Cat's are notorious for leaky seals... something to have a close look at.

Once you've found one that looks and sound right, take it for a good ride and make sure it fits your style.

Good luck with your decision.

 

I appreciate all the responses. I just don't want to make the wrong decision and have just looked at the artic cat and the polaris so far.

 

fearless......I'm with DCT on this one. Replace belt, fix clutches and anything else? You had mentioned new tires....now were adding up close to a new entry Sportsman 500. I know it's apples and oranges......the engine is not an 800 but at least it's new..... along with new tires too.....and a warranty. Does the 2005 have bumpers or a winch.....any aftermarket add ons? There is always something that comes up unexpected and sometimes buying used ends up adding to new. Good luck on your choice.....NoJoke

 

the only added feature on the polaris is he has big aftermarket bumpers on the front and rear, it really hauls butt, but you get the chatter if you just full throttle it right away. If you ease into the gas, then you hear no problem at all?

 

ok guys after addressing my concerns on the polaris the owner HAS to sell the bike because of bills and is offering me a brand new polaris belt with the bike as well if I buy it.

 

Well...I would not pay the asking price. Sounds like you might have the upper hand...and if repair costs come into play...then that could be big $$$.

One question I would ask: Did you ever sink the popo in deep water?

Offer him $500 less...and make it a firm offer...IMO. Of course that would include the new PVT belt.

Good luck...


biz

 

well he was already selling it for $5500 so I got him down $1000 already and he owes the bank on the atv so he is having to put his own $500 with my $4500 to pay the loan off and get me the title.

 

$4500 is a bit high for an 05 800- especially a stock one with drive train problems.
His original price of $5500 was plain comical!

I understand he owes the bank money to pay it off, but that’s not your problem- he’s the one who financed it with an APR- He was “under water” on the bike (value wise) the day he brought it home- why should you absorb these costs.

Just for contrast- I bought an 06 800 sportsman / dual stainless exhaust with a 60” Polaris quick latch plow, front & rear bumpers, upgraded 14” Polaris aluminum wheels, 26” tires & a 3500lb warn winch for $5500- and it only had 148 miles on it.

The arctic cat sounds like a better deal- or look at the brute force 750’s, you could find an 06 – 07 for around $4- $5k with all kinds of upgrades and you’ll love the power.

This guy isn’t giving you any deal here.

Also- by the way, KBB.com & NADA.com both list an 05 Sportsman 800 value at low retail - $3800 / high retail $4900.
So, given the drive train issues (parts & labor for a shop to repair it- NOT YOU) I'd make a fair offer of around $4000- no more.

 

thanks for the advice i will see if I can get him down any lower on it.