Shopping for a used Quad - tips on what to look for/avoid?

[David Ward]

I'm in he market for a gently used sport quad (4-wheeler) - is there such a thing as "gently used"?  I'd like to find something that's 2005 or newer.  Prefer Kawasaki, but I'm open to other brands.

Anyone out there who's an experience owner that might suggest things I should look for when considering one?  Things to watch out for?  Signs of trouble?

I've been checking out the ad's and auctions and I'm surprised as how many that seem relatively new that already report having rebuilt engines.   

Thanks.

[David Ward]

Well, I never did buy a used quad.  After looking and researching I became frustrated at the condition of used quads and really didn't want to buy a beat up has been.  So here's what I bought....

Its a new '08 Polaris 525S with the KTM 510cc engine.  Picked it up a couple of weeks ago.  Still doing the break-in, but its clear this thing is a rocket!

[Jim M]

I'm shopping for one too. You bought a new '08 in '10..I do see new '08's still out there.I like the KFX450R...aluminum frame and EFI..