UTVs, or “utility task vehicles”, are evolutions of off-roading ATVs. Designed initially in Canada during the 1960s, UTVs are side-by-side seating vehicles that have at least four wheels, floor controls for braking or throttling, and a variety of other functions to help you reach your destination. In contrast to regular ATVs, UTVs are suitable for driving on both paved roads and rugged terrain. Many UTV’s also feature rolling cages to protect their occupants.
While UTVs can be excellent purchases, you have to know what to look for to ensure you are making a good investment. There is a lot to consider when deciding whether to buy a new UTV or pick up a used model. It is generally cheaper to buy a used UTV than it is to pick up a new model. However, used UTVs may come with hidden maintenance issues that could lead to greater costs down the road.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to buying a new or used UTV. Take these factors into consideration to ensure you are making an educated decision.
You will need to do a thorough inspection on a used UTV before purchasing. It is vital you do this so you don’t end up having to pay tons of money as a result of maintenance issues you could have avoided.
Here are the following parts you should check specifically:
By doing this inspection, you can order maintenance work right after your purchase, or you can avoid a problematic used UTV in favor of a better machine.
Generally, you can buy new and used UTVs at major retailers or ATV manufacturers. In fact, many of the best ATV brands also produce high-quality new and used UTVs for various needs.
If you are looking for a used UTV specifically, you can check out websites like ATVtrader.com, an excellent resource for finding reliable used UTV deals near your geographic location and by price points. You can also check out places like Facebook Marketplace or eBay.
Can-Am manufactures several quality lines of UTVs, many of which are very affordable in both the new and used market.. Many have even begun cropping up on some of the aforementioned online marketplaces. Take the Can-Am Commander Max XT 1000R, for instance.
This superb UTV features a powerful engine and transmission with four durable seats. The XT 1000 R is built with an ultra-resistant chassis and easy handling capabilities with 2,000 pounds of towing capacity, 13 inches of ground clearance, and a 100 hp 976cc liquid-cooled engine to boot.
New models can be picked up for $16,399, and the used Can-Am Commanders can be found for as little as $8,000.
Honda creates some of the world’s most popular ATV and UTV lines. Their Honda Talon 1000X was recently updated in 2020 and features a 999cc liquid-cooled engine with four valves per cylinder. Weighing 1,500 pounds with 28-inch tires, this ATV comes equipped with independent double-wishbone front suspension and a six-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission. This is a powerful, versatile machine with plenty of room for two passengers and cargo.
New Honda Talon 1000Xs sell for $19,999, and used models are listed around $18,000.
Kawasaki is another manufacturer that makes great UTVs for all kinds of purposes and budgets. Their 2020 Kawasaki Teryx Camo UTV model has a four-stroke, liquid cooled, fuel-injected 783cc engine. Featuring 12-inch steel wheels, 7.9 gallons of fuel capacity, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), this UTV is a solid choice for both off-road exploration and on-road cargo transportation alike.
The Kawasaki Teryx Camos are listed at $14,499 brand-new, and the used vehicles can be picked up for around $12,000.
Yamaha’s UTVs are some of the best in the industry, being well-known for their unique aesthetic, open-air passenger compartments, and padded seats. The Viking EPS Ranch addition demonstrates these qualities very well, with its 686cc single-engine and independent front and rear suspension. With enough room for three people, padded seats, and a trunk, it is ideal for getting around town or your ranch in a hurry.
New models can be picked up for $14,299, or used UTVs can be found for much less, with the 2015 models going for nearly $7,000.