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The smarter way to find your next vehicle — RVs, boats, cars & trucks, motorcycles, ATVs & side-by-sides, and snowmobiles.

Complete ATV Buyer's Guide — Expert tips on choosing, inspecting, and buying atvs & side-by-sides

All Buying Guides

Complete ATVs & Side-by-Sides
Buyers Guide.

New to ATV shopping? Learn about different types, features, and what to consider when buying a four wheeler or side-by-side.

Start Your ATV Search
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Before You Buy

Determine Your Riding Lifestyle

Recreational Rider

Weekend trail rides, exploring off-road

Farm/Work Use

Property maintenance, hauling, ranching

Trail Enthusiast

Long rides, varied terrain, adventure

Sport/Racing

Performance, speed, competitive riding

Budget Planning

New vs. Used ATVs

✓ New ATV Advantages

  • Full manufacturer warranty
  • Latest features and technology
  • Customization options
  • No hidden issues or wear

✓ Used ATV Advantages

  • 30-50% lower price
  • Less depreciation
  • Often includes accessories
  • Immediate availability

Choose the Right Type

Popular ATV & Side-by-Side Types Comparison

Sport ATVs

Best for: Performance riding, racing, agility

$5K - $12K

Utility ATVs

Best for: Work tasks, hauling, durability

$6K - $15K

Side-by-Sides (UTVs)

Best for: Multi-passenger, versatility, comfort

$10K - $30K

Youth ATVs

Best for: Beginners, young riders, safety features

$2K - $6K

Touring/Recreation

Best for: Trail riding, leisure, comfort

$8K - $18K
Key Considerations

Engine Size & Power

  • • 50-125cc (youth, light trails)
  • • 250-450cc (recreational, moderate work)
  • • 500-700cc (serious trails, heavy work)
  • • 800-1000cc+ (extreme terrain, max hauling)

Drivetrain & Terrain

  • • 2WD (flat terrain, racing, cost savings)
  • • 4WD (mud, hills, heavy loads)
  • • Intended terrain (trails, farm, desert)
  • • Load capacity (hauling needs)

Key Features to Consider

Drivetrain & Performance

Drive System

  • • 2WD vs 4WD capability
  • • Switchable 4WD (on-demand)
  • • Locking differentials
  • • Electronic or manual shift

Transmission Type

  • • Automatic CVT (continuous variable)
  • • Semi-automatic
  • • Manual shift
  • • Reverse capability
Suspension & Handling

Suspension Travel

  • • Front travel (6-12+ inches)
  • • Rear travel (6-12+ inches)
  • • Adjustable shock preload
  • • Independent vs solid axle

Steering Features

  • • Electronic power steering (EPS)
  • • Steering effort adjustment
  • • Turning radius
  • • Handlebar ergonomics
Cargo & Towing Capacity
  • Front rack capacity (50-150 lbs)
  • Rear rack capacity (100-250 lbs)
  • Towing capacity (up to 1,500 lbs)
  • Bed/cargo box (UTV models)
  • Hitch receiver (2-inch standard)
Essential Features & Accessories
  • Winch (2,000-4,500 lb capacity)
  • Skid plates and guards
  • LED lighting package
  • Digital instrumentation display
  • Storage compartments

Buying Process

1

Research & Compare Models

Browse online listings, read reviews, and watch video comparisons of different ATV models.

2

Determine Financing Needs

Get pre-approved for powersports financing to know your budget and strengthen negotiating position.

3

Dealer vs. Private Party

Dealers offer warranties and financing, while private sellers may have lower prices. Each has pros and cons.

4

Test Ride on Varied Terrain

Don't just ride around the parking lot. Test on hills, rough terrain, and in turns. Verify 4WD operation if equipped.

5

Professional Inspection (Used ATVs)

For used machines, invest $150-$300 in inspection by a qualified mechanic to check frame, engine, and drivetrain.

6

Negotiate & Complete Purchase

Research market values, negotiate price, and review all paperwork: title, bill of sale, warranty documentation.

7

Safety Gear & Initial Setup

Purchase essential safety gear (helmet, goggles, gloves, boots) and any needed accessories before your first ride.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Frame & Body
  • Frame for cracks or bends
  • Plastic bodywork condition
  • Skid plates and guards
  • Front and rear racks
  • Fender cracks or damage
  • Overall structural integrity
Engine & Drivetrain
  • Engine condition and leaks
  • CVT belt wear (if applicable)
  • Differential and axle seals
  • 4WD engagement operation
  • Transmission shifting
  • Exhaust system condition
Suspension & Steering
  • Shock absorber condition
  • A-arms for bends or cracks
  • Tie rods and ball joints
  • Wheel bearings for play
  • Steering alignment
  • Suspension travel and response
Wheels & Brakes
  • Tire tread depth and wear pattern
  • Wheel condition and damage
  • Brake pad thickness
  • Brake fluid level and condition
  • Brake line condition
  • Parking brake operation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • • Frame cracks or visible welds (indicates crash damage)
  • • Excessive oil leaks from engine or axles
  • • Bent A-arms or tie rods
  • • Unusual engine noises (knocking, rattling)
  • • Worn CVT belt or burnt smell
  • • 4WD system not engaging properly
  • • Severely worn or mismatched tires
  • • Missing maintenance records on used machines

Financing & Insurance

Financing Tips

Loan Terms

  • • 3-7 year terms typical for ATVs
  • • Shorter terms = higher payment, less interest
  • • 10-20% down payment standard
  • • Used ATVs may have higher interest rates

Where to Get Financing

  • • Credit unions (often best rates)
  • • Powersports-specific lenders
  • • Dealer financing (convenient)
  • • Personal loans for used models
  • • Compare at least 3 offers
Insurance Considerations

Coverage Types

  • • Liability (required in some states)
  • • Collision and comprehensive
  • • Accessory coverage (winch, racks, etc.)
  • • Uninsured motorist coverage
  • • Medical payments coverage

Cost Factors

  • • ATV value and engine size
  • • Your riding record and experience
  • • Where you ride (private vs public land)
  • • Deductible amount selected
  • • Storage location (garage vs outdoor)

After Purchase

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Wrong Type for Intended Use

Sport ATVs aren't ideal for farm work, and utility models sacrifice performance for hauling. Match the ATV type to your primary use case.

✓ Pro Tip:

Define your main use (work, recreation, racing) before shopping and stick to appropriate categories.

Ignoring Maintenance History

Used ATVs without service records may have hidden mechanical issues or deferred maintenance that will cost you later.

✓ Pro Tip:

Only buy used ATVs with documented maintenance records or factor in inspection costs.

Not Test Riding on Varied Terrain

Testing only on flat ground won't reveal suspension, drivetrain, or handling issues that appear on trails and hills.

✓ Pro Tip:

Test ride on hills, rough terrain, and varied conditions similar to where you'll ride.

Underestimating Safety Gear Costs

Quality helmets, boots, gloves, goggles, and protective gear add $500-$1,500 to your budget but are essential for safe riding.

✓ Pro Tip:

Budget $800-$1,200 for proper safety gear as part of your initial purchase.

Choosing Wrong Engine Size

Too small and you'll lack power for terrain/loads. Too large and it may be hard to handle, especially for beginners.

✓ Pro Tip:

Match engine size to rider experience: 50-125cc (youth/beginner), 250-500cc (intermediate), 500cc+ (experienced).

Skipping Pre-Purchase Inspection

Hidden frame damage, engine problems, or worn drivetrain components can cost thousands to repair after purchase.

✓ Pro Tip:

Invest $150-$300 in a professional ATV inspection for used machines - it's worth it.

Ready to Find Your Perfect ATV?

Browse our complete inventory of ATVs and side-by-sides from trusted dealers nationwide, or reach out for personalized guidance.

Ask Scout: Help me with this buying guide for atv vehicles.

How to Buy ATVs & Side-by-Sides

This atv buyer's guide covers what you need to know. Learn about the types on hand and key traits to check. Read about the buying process, what to look for, loan tips, and pitfalls to skip.

New buyer or looking to upgrade? Use this guide to make a smart choice. Get the best value for your money.

ATV & Side-by-Side Buying Resources

Ready to shop? Find ATV and UTV dealers near you, browse current inventory, and read expert buying guides before you visit.

Find ATV Dealers Near You

Browse the Searchshop ATV and UTV dealer directory. Compare inventory, read buyer reviews, and contact local dealers.

Browse ATVs & Side-by-Sides for Sale

Search sport quads, side-by-sides, utility ATVs, and youth models from dealers across the U.S. Filter by engine size, seats, or price.

ATV Research & Reviews

Browse in-depth ATV and UTV buying guides, model comparisons, and expert tips from the Searchshop editorial team.

ATV Dealerships Near Me

Find ATV and UTV dealerships by state. Browse local dealers with full inventory, hours, and directions.