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Used
4 Wheelers for Beginners
Best Buys for
the New ATV Rider
Which
used 4 wheelers are the best for beginning riders? That's
a question we
hear a lot, so we thought it was about time to get some answers. Since
we have access to thousands of ATV owner surveys, we decided that was
the best place to find those answers.
Owners were asked to rate
their ATVs for performance, reliability, quality, and comfort. After
several hours of bleary eyed research, some used 4 wheeler models began
to emerge as clear favorites.
Common traits that make these used ATV 4 wheelers great for
beginners are: Low price - easy to ride - easy to maintain - reliable.
While there may be other used
four wheelers that are just as good, we don't think you can
go wrong
with any of the ones that made our list.
Best
Beginners Used 4 Wheelers
Utility
Class
Honda Recon
250 - The Recon has good power at lower speeds
and nimble handling on trails. That, combined with lighter weight and a
smaller size make it easy to handle for new riders.
The simplicity of an air cooled engine
and the easy maintenance of sealed brakes and shaft drive make this a
great beginner's ATV.
And,
according to owner surveys, the legendary Honda reliability is once
again confirmed with the Recon 250. Basic maintenance keeps it running
for years with very little trouble.
Kawasaki
Bayou 250
- Only ATV in this class with a multi-link rear suspension which offers
better ride and handling than the single shock swingarm types. Downside
is that it requires more maintenance than the simpler designs.
Good
power and decent handling but may need better tires for more serious
trail riding. Good ATV for work and you can find them at good prices
for used ATVs.
Suzuki Ozark
250 - Another great example of a simple, reliable, easy to
maintain four
wheeler for the new rider. We think the Ozark is a little sportier than
the Honda with a slight performance edge.
You won't find a
bunch of gimmicky electronics or foo-foo equipment on these ATVs. You
will find everything you need for basic chores and trail riding with a
big dose of fun.
Much like the Honda, the Ozark is highly
rated by it's owners. Good performance and reliability will tend to do
that. Another great choice for a beginning rider or just someone that
needs a solid ATV at a value price.
Yamaha Bruin
250
- Longest wheelbase in the class may make this ATV more comfortable for
larger riders. Also has an adjustable rear shock that accommodates a
wider range of rider weights. Includes a trailer hitch to give you a
head start on those utility chores.
An automatic clutch with
the 5 speed transmission makes it easy to ride. Shaft drive and air
cooled engine keep it easy to maintain. Good for trail riding and
plenty of low end power for getting some work done.
Sport Class
Honda Sport
Trax 250 - This
sport quad had one of the highest owner satisfaction ratings of any ATV
on the market. We think when the folks that spent their hard earned
cash recommend an ATV that highly - it speaks volumes about the real
value of this great little sport quad.
Honda keeps it easy to
keep running with a solid air cooled engine, manual shifting
transmission with the easy to operate Sport Clutch, and shaft drive.
That all adds up to a lot more time riding them than working on them.
Which is exactly what makes this used Honda ATV such a great choice
for a beginner.
Suzuki Quadsport
250 - Like
the Honda, the Suzuki is a favorite among owners. It echoes the themes
of simplicity and functionality that make it and the Honda great for
beginning or smaller riders.
It shares a lot of the same running
gear with the Ozark 250 but with pure sport quad styling. So you're
really getting the strong utility mechanical parts with the style of a
sport machine.
Air cooled engine, 5 speed manual shifting
transmission with automatic clutch, and shaft drive keep the
maintenance simple and easy.
Best
Beginners Used 4 Wheelers - Conclusion
You notice all these ATVs have a few things in common:
- They're from name brand manufacturers.
- Simple and reliable running gear.
- Easy to operate.
- Easy to maintain.
We
think those are all important traits in a good used ATV for a beginner.
Simpler drivelines are easier to operate and maintain for a new rider
than the more complicated 4x4 systems with locking differentials, etc.
When
shopping for used 4 wheelers, it's always a good idea to find a
reliable dealer in your area for the brand you're considering. Driving
long distances for service and repairs can get old in a hurry.
Related
links:
Used ATVs - How To Find the Best
Buys.
World of ATVs Home from used 4 wheelers.

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