Buying a used Mini ATV can certainly save you a lot of money, but do you know what to look for to make sure that the used Mini ATV is worth the price you will be paying for it? Mini ATV’s are ridden in the dirt and mud, through fields and brush, they can get a little beat up, that is to be expected of a used Mini ATV. But on the other hand, Mini ATV’s are typically ridden by children who outgrow them quickly, especially the 50cc Mini ATV’s, so they shouldn’t look like they have had the same kind of abuse that an adult’s ATV would have. But how do you know, especially if it is your first Mini ATV purchase?


First, take a close look around the Mini ATV and look for parts that seem newer than the rest of the bike. Ask about these. Have they been replaced? When and why were these parts replaced, and is it the first time that these repairs have had to be made? Chances are the owner won’t tell the full truth, especially if the Mini ATV has a defect that has caused him to continuously repair certain parts, but he might tell you if you ask.

Next, look at the bottom of the Mini ATV. This will require lifting the front off of the ground because you want to look at the undercarriage. Examine things like the skid plates and the A-arms. Do they look torn up? If so, then the Mini ATV has had some excessive use, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing unless the seller tries to tell you that it hasn’t been ridden much. If that is the case, then he is probably hiding something from you. Look for grease and oil on the undercarriage, this could suggest that something is leaking. Check especially around the drain plug.

Take a look at the overall cleanliness of the Mini ATV, especially when you are looking underneath. Many sellers will clean it up on the top and sides, but won’t bother to pull the dirt and mud out of the undercarriage and clean that up. If this is the case, you have to wonder how well the bike was taken care of when it was being used.

Always check for recalls on the bike before you buy it. If everything looks good and checks out, and you are getting a good price, then go for it!