Looking for used utility ATV recommendations

[RedRocket204]

So, looking to see if a few of you can help share some of your expertise with general recommendations since I am a UTV/ATV noob. In about 6 months I will be looking to buy an atv, most likely used via private party. I am doing a bunch of online research but continually run into a lot of "what I bought is the best" mentality. In my area, it seems that right now is not the best time to buy used as hunting season is quickly approaching as well as winter. I also want additional "disposable" cash for the purchase.

Primary use for this machine will be utility, snow plow and towing using a rough-cut mowing deck on my property. Mowing deck will probably only be used twice a summer. Property is not huge but big enough for a riding mower and there is some off-camber sections but nothing significant. Area to be plowed is relatively flat but the bigger issue is right now it takes a while with my snow thrower. I figure if I buy the right machine and accessories, should help minimize time spent plowing/mowing. Using it for jeep trails/exploring will be something I would like to do but is not the priority (have to remember justification for the wife 😉 ). My house is at just under 8k ft. elevation and jeep trail elevations would exceed 11,500 ft.

I'd like to limit my budget at $6k. I also understand that it is recommended for plowing, to try and purchase a 500 (+) and make sure 4x4 is at least available. Obviously I would be looking for an utility model and not a sport model. Reliability is another priority. So, insight into different options and models are something I am asking about. I do understand FI and power steering might be nice but the cost starts going up for those options. Are they worth it and/or really needed are just some questions below:

FI?
PS?
Factory or aftermarket winch (for slow plow)?
Snow plow type recommendations?
At what point is mileage/hours an issue for reliability (if history for proper service has been followed)?

Used models that seem to come up and appear reliable, based upon noob research:

Honda Foreman
Yamaha Grizzly

Looking for additional model recommendations, thx.

[grooveman]

We have a couple of Honda Rancher quads with auto trans and power steering that we use for trail riding. In the Winter I use mine to push snow and it does a great job. They are rock solid machines with plenty of power to do everything we need.

[flyinguy68]

RedRocket204 wrote:

flyinguy68 wrote:
Did I read right? You want to mount a mowing deck on an ATV? If so I never heard of that being done, so I can't comment.

I do however own both a 2008 Can-am Outlander 650, & a 2004 Honda Foreman 450.

Swisher 44" ATV Trailcutter™ Pull Behind

Not necessarily the one I will buy, just a link to show you they exist and as well, MeandMyLabs from post before yours, indicated the same with his ATV. I have no need for a finish cutter so I am interested in brush or rough cutters that can handle mildly off camber hills.

Was curious about Can-Ams but have also read on brand specific forums that X brand quad had pulled out many broken down Can-Ams but I am certain there was some brand loyalty showing in those posts.


I really appreciate everyone who has posted information as it is very helpful. Hope the posts keep flowing.

Thank you to all

Pretty neat! Thanks for the education, never seen one before. Ouch that price tag hurt my eyes.

[David_L6]

I've had a Yamaha Big Bear 400 and currently have two ('11 and '12) Kawasaki Brute Force 750s. Never had a problem with any of the three. All have been / are good reliable machines. I don't do the snorkling / lifting / mud hogging / etc. stuff. Just trail ride. The one I like the best is the '12 Brute Force because it has power steering.

[RedRocket204]

flyinguy68 wrote:
Did I read right? You want to mount a mowing deck on an ATV? If so I never heard of that being done, so I can't comment.

I do however own both a 2008 Can-am Outlander 650, & a 2004 Honda Foreman 450.

Swisher 44" ATV Trailcutter™ Pull Behind

Not necessarily the one I will buy, just a link to show you they exist and as well, MeandMyLabs from post before yours, indicated the same with his ATV. I have no need for a finish cutter so I am interested in brush or rough cutters that can handle mildly off camber hills.

Was curious about Can-Ams but have also read on brand specific forums that X brand quad had pulled out many broken down Can-Ams but I am certain there was some brand loyalty showing in those posts.


I really appreciate everyone who has posted information as it is very helpful. Hope the posts keep flowing.

Thank you to all

[flyinguy68]

RedRocket204 wrote:
Primary use for this machine will be utility, snow plow and towing using a rough-cut mowing deck on my property. Mowing deck will probably only be used twice a summer. Property is not huge but big enough for a riding mower and there is some off-camber sections but nothing significant. Area to be plowed is relatively flat but the bigger issue is right now it takes a while with my snow thrower. I figure if I buy the right machine and accessories, should help minimize time spent plowing/mowing. Using it for jeep trails/exploring will be something I would like to do but is not the priority (have to remember justification for the wife 😉 ). My house is at just under 8k ft. elevation and jeep trail elevations would exceed 11,500 ft.


FI?
PS?
Factory or aftermarket winch (for slow plow)?
Snow plow type recommendations?
At what point is mileage/hours an issue for reliability (if history for proper service has been followed)?

Used models that seem to come up and appear reliable, based upon noob research:

Honda Foreman
Yamaha Grizzly

Looking for additional model recommendations, thx.

Did I read right? You want to mount a mowing deck on an ATV? If so I never heard of that being done, so I can't comment.

I do however own both a 2008 Can-am Outlander 650, & a 2004 Honda Foreman 450.

I have plows for both. Neither have power steering.

Let me start with the Can-am, again mine is a 2008 & I can't comment on any model year newer. Awesome Machine. I consider Can-am the high end of the ATV/UTV world and their price tags usually reflect same. It is Fuel injected, starts right up and is ready to go. My only complaint: In it's stock state it is very fragile. It's frame is basically a hollow 2x4 channel, with aluminum supports branching off of the main frame. Can-am's have taken hard strikes to this channel and broken in half. They need skid plates if you intend to ride in rocky terrain. I also put an aftermarket aluminum spar down the channel. Some guys have driven 2x4 lumber down them. Don't know if the design has changed but something to consider & be aware of. Still it's an "A" machine.

Now my Honda. Well it is a tank. It rides like one too. It is a carb model and is really cold blooded, needs moderate warm up time. It's a 450cc with 4x4 and has plenty of grunt to push moderate loads of snow.
I bought it from a gent that heavier springs put on it. So it really is a stiff ride. My intent was to sell it after I got my can-am, but it's so dependable & fun I couldn't part with it.

I don't have Power steering models, but from what everybody tells me is that it is a very nice option. Personally INMHO if you aren't riding hard then it's not worth the cost.

Final opinion: Honda gets my vote as best bang for the buck.

[MeandMyLabs]

When buying used, you cannot be too picky on your wants/needs or you will never find the exact machine you want. I purchased a 2007 Kawasaki 650 Brute Force about 3 years ago and I have been relatively pleased with its performance. It is a carburetor model (before fuel injection on that model) and that can cause some fumes in the TH when traveling but nothing serious. I have had a little trouble when pulling the mower at 90+ temps and it overheating (slow speeds and not enough air). I guess this is a common problem with this model and you must keep the radiator cleaned out when operating in those temps. This has not been a problem when using at cooler temperatures.

I use mine for plowing snow (Warn), Rough cut mowing (Agri-fab), Discing food plots and broadcast planting.

The transmission on mine is an automatic with high and low speeds and of course reverse. The 650 has awesome power for pulling the disc and dragging cut limbs etc. but this is a little bigger than the machine I was initially wanting.

I hope this helps a little. Best of luck.

[coolbreeze01]

That is an excellent checklist. Even though you intend to buy used, test drive as many new ones as you can. The differences between brands is substantial in some cases. Compared to my Can-am, the old Honda was like riding a rock. If you plan on a passenger, buy a 2-up. They are great with or without a passenger.
We just bought an 800RZR which is serious fun. Don't rule out side x sides :C

[RedRocket204]

Brodie3Az wrote:
Take a mirror to allow viewing the underside of a vehicle that is for sale. look for dents, creases, bends in the plates and tubes.

Check compression for excessive engine wear.

You can always require that the unit be inspected at the local dealership.

All good points!

Here is some info I just dug up in regards to shopping for a used, private party ATV/UTV:

Carbuyingtips.com wrote:
16 Tips for Buying (or Selling) a Used Quad
November 19, 2004 — OK, let's admit it up front. For most of us, money is tight.Real tight.
But you've got to have a quad, either another one of your own for the garage or one for the spouse or one for the kids.
Heck, you're feeling generous. Quads for everybody!
So what do you do?
Buying used is the way to go. Deals may be hard to find, but they're out there.
So here are 16 tips on what to look for when buying a used quad to be sure you are getting the best machine possible for your hard-earned cash. Or, if you look at it another way, here are tips for checking your machine and fixing what needs to be fixed so that you can get top dollar when you sell.
Also, we've included information on how to keep from getting ripped off in Internet scams, which are becoming more and more common.
When you go to look at a used quad, you may want to take this issue of ATVA News with you and follow the tips step by step. It could save you from some serious unwanted surprises after you get the machine home. If the owner has a good machine for sale, he or she won't mind.
Remember, though, you are buying a used machine. So don't expect it to be showroom quality.
Good luck.

1. Have a friend or the owner help you raise the ATV up and stand it on the rear grab bar. This will allow you to inspect the undercarriage for any serious dents or damage.
2. Look closely at the frame, especially the shock mounts, A-arm mounts and intersections of frame components for any signs of rust. This is normally a sign of a stress crack and would require welding and repainting.
3. On 4x4 ATVs, inspect the CV joint boots. They should be in excellent condition. Any crack or tears will allow water and dirt to enter and cause costly repairs.
4. Also on 4x4 ATVs, if possible remove the front and rear differential inspection plugs. If the gear lube looks like chocolate milk the oil is contaminated with water and there could be damage to the bearings.
5. Check the engine oil to see whether it looks contaminated.
6. Shine a flashlight into the gas tank and look for rust. Yes, a gas tank can rush, and rust can cause carb problems.
7. Raise the ATV and support the front of it with jack stands. Then try to move each front wheel in and out from top to bottom and side to side to check for worn wheel bearings and ball joints. Do the same for the rear.
8. With the ATV on the ground, move the handlebars back and forth. This will identify worn tie rod ends.
9. Remove the seat and take the air box lid off. This is often overlooked. An air box can collect water and damage an engine. A clean air box and filter is a good sign.
10. Check all head lights, tail lights, the engine shut off switch and key switch.
11. Check the hand, foot and parking brakes. Do they operate smoothly or stick? Check for damaged or cracked cables.
12. Check the exhaust. Has the spark arrestor been removed? Almost every state and national forest requires that you have one. You don't want to get to a forest and then find out you can't ride because you don't have a spark arrestor.
13. Check for worn out tires or tires full of plugs. It's not really a problem, but worn tires or plugs should be a negotiating point on price. And the tires should be replaced with new ones. If you have never taken a tire off a wheel, don't do it. They are extremely hard to remove. It's much easier to remove a car tire from a wheel than an ATV tire.
14. Look closely at the front or rear sprockets. Each point should be uniform. If they are worn more on one side or have a hooked appearance, a new chain and sprocket set is in order.
15. After you buy a used machine, it's a good idea to change all the fluids so that you know you have fresh oil, etc.
16. Ride the machine.

I've yet to actually locate the link on carbuyingtips.com but this check list comes up on a couple of ATV/UTV/Quad sites.

[hammer21661]

dcmac214 wrote:
Any of the Jap brands probably best. We ran into a good deal few years ago, got matching pair of +year-old leftover Honda Foreman 500s. If I'd had a clue as to how very useful they are around the 'ranch' I'd've bought one decades ago. Don't do any plowing or brush hogging with them, but work them HARD hauling, both towing trailers (1 ton trailer & 2-1/2 ton wagon) and trees. And trail riding in Utah. They're nominally 4WD (truly 3WD since there's no lockout for wheels) and I've needed that extra pulling traction a few times.

Don't have experience with ATV snow plowing but don't see how it would be very effective. Used to plow decades ago when we lived in NH and there's no way our ATVs would handle the snows we used to get up there. Maybe if there's a snow blowing attachment it'd work okay.

Friend has a little gas-powered brush hog he pulls behind his ATV. Says it works pretty good.

I would NEVER get a Polaris. Bought pair for Gkids (came with shop manual too), throttle cable on one broke a few weekends ago. Found out (1) shop manual next-to-worthless, (2) frustrating as hail for a shade tree mechanic to do anything more than lube the chain & change the oil. Took 2 weeks to get replacement throttle cable ($$). Found out had to take whole front end apart to replace cable. Ended up breaking choke cable in process of pulling old throttle cable out. I'm now debating whether I bring it to shop and have a real mechanic fix it or get choke cable and take a chance on continuing on my own.

You don't want to take it to the atv dealer some of the ones I have dealt with Should not have been allowed to assemble bikes at Walmart. I have had decent luck out of Polaris except when they had a bad batch of belts 10 or 12 years ago and the one that went under water. They do require more maintenance but the guys that had the Hondas the best thing that ran on them was the owners mouth. They used to go and go till they were a pile of junk one day(bushings and linkage had no grease fittings).The electric shift would break and drum brakes froze. But the Polaris would out mud and perform them all day. This was 10 or 12 years ago.I am sure both have gotten better.

[dcmac214]

Any of the Jap brands probably best. We ran into a good deal few years ago, got matching pair of +year-old leftover Honda Foreman 500s. If I'd had a clue as to how very useful they are around the 'ranch' I'd've bought one decades ago. Don't do any plowing or brush hogging with them, but work them HARD hauling, both towing trailers (1 ton trailer & 2-1/2 ton wagon) and trees. And trail riding in Utah. They're nominally 4WD (truly 3WD since there's no lockout for wheels) and I've needed that extra pulling traction a few times.

Don't have experience with ATV snow plowing but don't see how it would be very effective. Used to plow decades ago when we lived in NH and there's no way our ATVs would handle the snows we used to get up there. Maybe if there's a snow blowing attachment it'd work okay.

Friend has a little gas-powered brush hog he pulls behind his ATV. Says it works pretty good.

I would NEVER get a Polaris. Bought pair for Gkids (came with shop manual too), throttle cable on one broke a few weekends ago. Found out (1) shop manual next-to-worthless, (2) frustrating as hail for a shade tree mechanic to do anything more than lube the chain & change the oil. Took 2 weeks to get replacement throttle cable ($$). Found out had to take whole front end apart to replace cable. Ended up breaking choke cable in process of pulling old throttle cable out. I'm now debating whether I bring it to shop and have a real mechanic fix it or get choke cable and take a chance on continuing on my own.

[YnotTurbo]

I own a 2008 Can-Am 650 XT and I love it. One of the most dependable quads I have ever owned. Climbs like a goat and is so comfortable. Look at one.

[Brodie3Az]

Hello RedRocket204,

The name brands are prefferable due to proven product history. The low cost off brands have not had a chance to show how they can stand up to use and punishment.

2-stroke motors have been on the way out and are more sensitive to changes in elevation and require tweaking when traveling.

Fuel Injection is the in-thing for the ATV's nowadays. Those having prior experience with carbuerated motors report that the FI models are able to compensate for elevation changes.

Power steering is new to the ATV world. I have not had experience with it, but like an automobile it might be helpful if stuck, not moving, and trying to turn the front end.

Independent rear suspension - Smooths out the ride tremendously.

Take a mirror to allow viewing the underside of a vehicle that is for sale. look for dents, creases, bends in the plates and tubes.

Check compression for excessive engine wear.

You can always require that the unit be inspected at the local dealership.

Good luck to you in your search.

[RedRocket204]

tmm2good wrote:
My 2 cents, I would stick with the Japanese models. I have had bad luck with Polaris, but some people love them. FI would be nice in your elevation, but not critical, like you said, price goes up on them, so look for a larger bore 5-600 cc and up and as long as it is jetted for your altitude, you should be fine. If you wait till spring, that is when there will be the most out there, and at the highest prices. Look for a maintained machine if you can and the less previous owners, probably better chance of knowing how it was maintained. Once you do decide on one, there are lots of forums that are brand/model specific to help you with any problems that might arise. IN your price range of up to 6K, you should have no problem finding a couple year old quad that is pretty nice.

Honda and Yamaha, from my limited research, seem to consistently come away with the most happy owners for reliability. Just as with anything mechanical, I'm sure it can be a gamble though.

Your comment is interesting about Spring. I will probably target a purchase sometime in January/February. Should be a good time since some will get a new ATV/UTV during the holidays and be looking to off load a used unit. I was thinking for a utility ATV, right now would also demand higher pricing since hunting season is upon us shortly.

Something interesting I did learn on another site as well. I understood the bigger engine to be better for plowing. What I didn't consider is that the bigger the ATV, generally the heavier the ATV which will be much better for slow plowing traction. I was really only looking at it from a power perspective. But, that is why I am throwing these questions out there.

Again, thanks for the response. 🙂

[tmm2good]

My 2 cents, I would stick with the Japanese models. I have had bad luck with Polaris, but some people love them. FI would be nice in your elevation, but not critical, like you said, price goes up on them, so look for a larger bore 5-600 cc and up and as long as it is jetted for your altitude, you should be fine. If you wait till spring, that is when there will be the most out there, and at the highest prices. Look for a maintained machine if you can and the less previous owners, probably better chance of knowing how it was maintained. Once you do decide on one, there are lots of forums that are brand/model specific to help you with any problems that might arise. IN your price range of up to 6K, you should have no problem finding a couple year old quad that is pretty nice.

[RedRocket204]

Generally what brands I am seeing:

Honda
Yamaha
Can-Am
Suzuki
Polaris
Arctic Cat

I would stick to name brands as some of the others I am not familiar with and wouldn't want to take a chance on them. However, even from my list above the online information/opinions are all over the place at best. Seems you visit a ATV brand forum and their brand is the best...not a surprise you can't get an unbiased opinion.

I guess I am also looking for information of certain models to stay away from...just like you get with car manufacturers...they all have their models that are lemons.

Very much appreciate the responses so far as that is info I am curious about. Didn't even consider FI as something important for elevation. Was thinking more in terms of overall engine size and power. 🙂