The idea of investing in an all-terrain vehicle is appealing, but there is only so much money set aside for the purchase. The thing to remember is that the buyer can find a used ATV that will provide excellent transportation for many years. Here are a few tips that will make it easier to select the right used vehicle.
Checking Out the Body
After spotting a used ATV that seems to be worth considering, take the time to go over the body carefully. The goal is to determine if there are any signs of rust. While the bodies of most all-terrain vehicles are painted and then coated with some type of sealant, the presence of rust indicates that the vehicle was not well maintained in the past.
Another issue to look out for is cracks along the surface of the body. It is not unusual for aluminum to be used for certain areas & since aluminum does resist rusting. If the frame is cracked, it will appear darker than the rest of the piece. Remember that cracks do indicate the body is weaker and that is something the buyer wants to avoid.
Taking a Look at the Airbox
In many models, the airbox is located under the seat and is easy to reach. Take a peek inside and get a good look at the condition of the air filter. If it is relatively clean, that bodes well for the condition of the engine. Should the buyer notice a lot of debris and maybe even some moisture, chances are the vehicle has some significant problems. It would be best to move on to other options.
The Test Drive
Taking the vehicle for a quick spin is a must. The buyer wants to see how well it steers, and if there are any vibrations or rattles that become apparent while the vehicle is in motion. Even something like rough idling could indicate the need for some engine repair in the near future. If the ride is smooth and the vehicle handles well, it is worth investigating further.
For help in finding the right all-terrain vehicle, visit Musselman’s Honda today. There is a good chance of finding the ideal vehicle and being able to drive it off the lot in a matter of hours.
