It seems like New is almost always the way to go. I have done a fair amount of searching for used machines each time someone in the family is looking to pick up a new machine. It seems like used will get you more bang for your buck, but that is rarely the case.
The reasons being:
-ATVs don’t really depreciate. So you will see a 10 year old machine for sale for 3,500 online/paper. When for a just a couple grand more you could get a brand new machine, with zero hours, and zero miles. For example, I often see 2004/2005 700s for over $4k. That is a decade plus old and people are apparently selling them for close to what they paid. I don’t understand who buys these? ATVs – Polaris – ATVTraderOnline.com
-You never know what the hidden issues are with a used machine. Or how tough it has been driven.
-Sometimes you think you will get a fairly new machine and should be paying less since it is already couple years old. So it seems instead of a new 570, maybe you can get a used 850 for the same price. But it seems like folks are always selling these for close to what you can get a new machine for in Cash. My theory on this is that people who are selling machines that are 1-4 years old did not negotiate with the Dealer and paid closer to MSRP than what you can get if buying new yourself.
-If you are buying used, you will probably have to be paying in cash. So you might as well get a little more cash and buy a new machine.
-I would avoid buying used from a dealer, especially. They have to make a profit and will tell you anything. We once drove to Indiana to see a 2010 550 that was priced great. The dealer said everything great about it. Really it had an ignition fault and was really a 2009 when I ran the VIN.
I think if you can find a great deal and are happy with it, then more power to ya. It just seems like it has never penciled out in our family. Maybe if you get a hand-me-down that keeps the price low.
Also, when you are inspecting a used machine, besides all the normal stuff to watch for, suspension, tires, AWD, etc. Also check the air filter. If someone is selling their machine there is a good chance they don’t use it much. Which means mice have probably made a home in the airfilter.
