What Factors Affect ATV Values?

The value of an all terrain vehicle (ATV) can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the manufacturer, the size, the function, the condition of the unit, and even the location in which the ATV is being bought or sold. Generally, ATV values will be higher if they are bought from a dealer; they tend to be lower if bought from a third party. Used ATV values will be lower than those of new ATVs, and high performance vehicles will generally be quite a bit more expensive than entry-level vehicles.

The size of the unit will largely dictate ATV values as well. ATVs, like motorcycles, are measured in cubic centimeters (cc). This measurement indicates the engine displacement; a larger number means a larger engine and therefore a more powerful unit. A 700cc ATV will therefore usually be more expensive than a 50cc unit, and these two types of ATVs are designed for distinctly different types of riding as well as different types of riders. More powerful ATVs will require more durable components that are designed to accommodate the type of riding the rider is likely to do on such a machine.

The types of components can also affect ATV values fairly significantly. Premium components tend to be lighter in weight and far more durable, which means more research and design will go into manufacturing such components. Premium materials will also be used to manufacture such components, which means the price is likely to go up. An ATV that features premium parts is likely to have a higher value than one that features lower-end components that may be heavier or that may not function as well as the higher-end models.

Perhaps the most significant determining factor of ATV values is the condition of the vehicle. An ATV fresh off the assembly line will almost always have a higher value than one that has been used, especially if it has been used off road. Used ATVs can vary in price according to the condition; a high-end unit that is not running may be less expensive, but it may not be less expensive than a lower-end unit that is used but still running. If the ATV is street legal, this may boost the value of the vehicle, but if it has been in an accident and has been deemed a total loss, the ATV may not be worth much more than scrap parts.