When Is The Best Time to Buy an ATV?

How To Get The Best Deal For A New ATV

So, you want to purchase a new ATV. You’re hoping to purchase a high-quality quad that serves your needs, and you want the best deal possible. Understandable.

Yes - ATVs can be great fun. They offer a unique way to explore the outdoors and can be used for a variety of purposes - from hunting and camping to off-road racing. But before you buy an ATV, you should know a few things.

Keep reading and learn about what you can expect from the vehicle market during each season, and what other factors might affect your decision. This guide will help you figure out everything you need to know before taking the leap and cashing out on a new pet.

Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying An ATV

Let's cover the basics first, shall we? Yeah, ATVs are fun, but there are a few things to keep in mind, always.

1. ATVs Can Be Dangerous

They are not toys and should be operated with caution. Read the owner's manual carefully and follow all safety instructions. When riding, wear proper safety gear, including a helmet.

2. ATVs Require Regular Maintenance

Again, referring to the owner's manual, you'll need to bring your ATV for maintenance regularly to keep it running properly. This includes changing the oil, checking the air filter, and ensuring the brakes and tires are in good condition.

3. ATVs Can Be Expensive to Operate

ATVs can range from a few thousand dollars to over $10,000. The cost of the ATV will depend on its size, type, and features of the ATV. If you don't have much budget, you may want to consider a used ATV or a smaller, less expensive model.

Read More: Tips for First-Time ATV Owners

Not only is the initial investment for an ATV often high, but you'll also need to factor in the expense of fuel, maintenance, and repairs. Be sure to handle these additional costs before making your purchase.

4. ATVs Can Be Loud

If you're planning on using your ATV in areas where noise might be an issue, such as near residential areas or hiking trails, be sure to purchase a model equipped with a muffler.

5. ATVs Have Varieties

Be sure to research the different types of ATVs available before making your purchase. There are a variety of models on the market, each with its own set of features and benefits. By taking the time to find the right ATV for your needs, you'll be sure to enjoy many hours of fun and adventure.

6. ATVs Need a Test Ride

Before making a purchase, take the ATV for a test ride. This will allow you to check how the ATV does and make sure it is a good fit for you.

7. ATVs Are Specific for Experience Levels

Are you a seasoned rider or a beginner? You shouldn't purchase a powerful speed machine if you're a beginner ATV rider because it could be challenging to control.

Read More: The Beginner’s Guide to Buying an ATV

Look for a durable, entry-level quad with a tiny engine, straightforward controls, and a manageable power output. You can advance to a bigger engine and improve power steering as you get better and more experienced.

Being a four-wheeler, an ATV's fantastic feature is that learning to drive one isn't too difficult. Making the appropriate decision will allow you to receive a tool that you will likely use for years to come, even as your abilities advance.

Choose an ATV that matches your skill level to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

8. ATVs Have Different Varieties

ATVs come in a range of styles and sizes, each designed for specific uses. For example, some ATVs are designed for off-road racing, while others are better suited for leisurely trail riding.

If you are tall, for example, you will want to choose a larger ATV. Likewise, if you plan on doing a lot of off-road riding, you will wish for an ATV with more ground clearance.

9. ATVs Have Different Performance Levels

ATVs are not all made equally. The performance of an ATV is directly related to its intended use. As a result, before going to an ATV dealer, you must decide how you want to utilize your ATV. For example, if you require a hunting vehicle, you should pick a smooth-running, quiet ATV over one with power steering.

However, you could be better off looking for a UTV or utility terrain vehicle if you need something more durable.

The following questions should be considered when choosing the performance level perfect for you:

• Will you transport items like hunting equipment on your ATV?
• Will you only use the ATV for business, for leisure, or both?
• Will you have to transport others, like your family, spouse, or a friend?
• Do you want an ATV made for off-road terrain or a racing vehicle?
• Are you getting your child an ATV? If so, take into account a compact ATV.
• Do you currently possess an ATV and want to upgrade it?

3 Types of ATVs

ATVs are available for specific purposes in addition to the two types, such as ranching and racing.

Sport ATVs

These ATVs can reach high speeds because of their strong horsepower, excellent suspension performance, and precision handling. They are available in various models for motocross, desert racing, or trail performance.

Recreational or Utility ATVs

Outstanding handling, smooth-riding performance, effective electronic fuel injection, and a superior all-wheel-drive system are significant characteristics of utility ATVs. These ATVs are adaptable, making them perfect for a variety of jobs, including hunting, adventurous trail riding, and camping.

Side-by-side ATVs

Side-by-side ATVs seat two people side-by-side and are often used for off-roading or hunting.

When Is The Best Time To Buy An ATV?

When buying an ATV, timing is everything. The time of the year you choose to purchase an ATV can determine pricing and the options available to you. Some say that the best time to buy an ATV is right before the release of next year's models, so around May or June. But, that's not always the case - don't rely on rebates on specific models since they depend on various factors. If you ask us, you should time your buy by the season.

Buying In Spring

Spring comes right before peak ATV-riding season, so most sales happen at this time. Sure, it’s convenient to buy right before you head out for your first ride, and retailers often increase their stock heading into the spring. However, most ATVs sell for higher prices during the spring. Additionally, you will have to compete with other shoppers for the vehicle you want. It’s up to you to determine whether you prioritize lower prices or convenience.

Buying In Summer

Summer buyers will have an experience similar to that of spring buyers. Demand is high, and so are the prices. However, some buyers can find good deals on used ATVs, as other riders tend to upgrade to a better vehicle during the spring or summer.

Buying In the Fall

Most buyers agree that fall is the best time to buy an ATV, for a simple reason. Riding season comes to a close, fewer people are buying quads. Retailers respond to this low demand by pricing their stock lower. This means you'll be able to find better deals as retailers move older models off the floor and mark them as clearance. Plus, fewer people are shopping for ATVs, so you won’t have to compete with many others for the vehicle you desire.

Buying in the fall does have a few drawbacks, though. The window in which you can ride your ATV after purchasing it could be small. However, riding in winter is awfully fun, so if you're free-spirited and brave  - buying at this time has no drawbacks really.

Read More: Winter Storage Tips for ATVs and UTVs

Buying In Winter

As with the fall, buying in the winter comes with plenty of advantages. This is the off-season, so demand is lower, and deals are plenty. Since winter marks the end of the quarter and the entire year, you may come across season-specific sales or end-of-year events. Plus, new models often come along at this time. Before you settle on buying in the winter, make sure you are ready for storage.

What Can Affect The Deal?

As mentioned above, there are e few things that could affect the deal, such as your location, specific dealerships, the condition of the ATV, etc.

Timing is one of the biggest factors that could affect your purchase, and for a good reason. Each season has its own impact on the market and a lot depends on you as well. Are you hoping to ride right away? Do you have a space for storage?

Another factor is location. Some areas have climates that remain consistent year-round. In these cases, you probably won’t see prices reach high highs or low lows. Otherwise, places vary in the length of their off-season. You should consider your own area’s geography and climate, and consider when each season begins.

What constitutes “ATV-riding season” might differ, depending on the area. Summer is most often the season that quads are heavily used, but this isn’t always the case. For example, some areas have a significant hunting season in the fall or winter. This might affect the prices. These climates are also where you might benefit from buying right before the release of next year's models.

Also, not all dealerships offer the same deals. You might find significant differences in the prices you come across. Some dealerships have more storage or display space and will therefore be able to offer a larger supply.

Dealerships may also differ in how successful they are. If a dealership is struggling, it might offer better bargains and have fewer customers to compete with. The specific deals may differ among dealerships, as well. Some honour specific holidays, or even have sales on their own anniversary. When planning your purchase, it’s smart to keep a few dealerships in mind and compare your options.

Should I Buy An ATV?

Well, we might be a bit biased when answering this question, so it's up to you. ATVs are fun and great to ride, but there are a few things you need to think about: maintenance, storage, how often you'll use them, etc. Having an ATV depends greatly on your lifestyle and before purchasing it, you should really make a list of pros and cons.

Read More: ATV Vs. UTV: Which Four-Wheeler is Right for Your Lifestyle?

The Takeaway

Before purchasing an ATV, there are a few things you should consider, such as assessing what you will be using the ATV for and ensuring you are aware of the maintenance required to keep an ATV running properly, etc.

By considering these things, you can be sure to have a fun and safe experience when riding an ATV. But, ultimately, you should determine when it is most convenient for you to buy an ATV. Give deep consideration to the timing of your purchase, and you might find yourself getting a fine deal on a high-quality vehicle.

Whether you're looking for a brand-new vehicle or just need to tune up your off-road vehicle before hitting the trail, we at Dunfords of Havelock can help. We are among the best ATV dealers in Ontario. View our current stock online or give us a call to arrange a service.