Winter in Canada is a time of contrasts - it brings snowy landscapes for thrilling adventures but also comes with some unique cold-weather challenges. If you’re considering purchasing a quad or side by side, during this time, our guide will help you navigate the pros and cons so you can make an informative decision. The used all-terrain market in Canada experiences some fascinating dynamics during the winter season, with price cuts, increased selection, and key considerations to keep in mind when buying a rig during the snowy months. Let's dive into our comprehensive guide on buying an ATV in the winter!
Winter Season Pricing Explored
The winter season offers a unique time for an ATV purchase due to pricing dynamics. As temperatures drop, the prices tend to follow suit, making it an ideal time to snag a great deal on a new or used ATV. However, the downside is that while winter pricing may be enticing, it may also indicate that some sellers are looking to offload vehicles that have seen better days before having to perform their annual maintenance prior to storing their four wheelers. A careful assessment of the ATV’s condition is crucial before making a purchase. We recommend having a professional weigh-in on condition, whether it be a mechanically inclined friend or an ATV repair shop.
Key Takeaways:
- As winter is not typically considered ATV riding season, you're more likely to find better deals whether it be through an ATV dealer selling of last year's model or a private seller wanting to move their rig before having to store it. Generally, the winter is seen as the time when dealerships offer their best prices.
- During the off-season, ATV financing options may pop up that aren't available during the high season. This can include competitive rates, terms or financing plans that are better suited to your needs as lending companies are more aggressive to sign contracts.
- Several factors may be at play when a seller chooses to move their ATV in the winter. While it is not a season-specific tip: it is important to inspect the maintenance records of the previous owner to ensure that the four-wheeler is being sold for the right reasons before making a significant investment.
The Winter Selection Spectrum of ATV Models
One of the most significant advantages of shopping for a used quad or side by side in the winter is the broad spectrum of ATV models available. As the riding season draws to a close, many ATV owners may prefer not to store their rigs, leading to a surplus of choices in the market. This increased selection is undoubtedly a pro, as buyers have a higher chance of finding the perfect ride that suits their needs. The con is that the lower demand during this time may result in less motivated private sellers, making negotiations and purchase incentives less common. In addition, sellers may not be as flexible for viewings as weather will play an impact and many will have their units in storage. Thus, it is best to explore options in the early winter while the weather is still playing nice.
If you’re looking for a more stable option, a trusted ATV dealer might be the direction to consider. They will likely have a large selection of sport ATVs and utility ATVs ready to go at a whim. They may have a better picture of maintenance on their rigs and will also likely be motivated to sell as the following season will bring in new models. You might even be able to snag a brand new all-terrain vehicle at a clearout price, if you’re lucky. For the best value, buying an ATV at "end of year events" at dealerships may offer a good deal as they move on from an older ATV model. The downside of going with a dealer is, while the prices are reduced on older models, they will still likely be inflated compared to the private market. This extra cost does come with some added peace of mind, however, in that a reputable dealer is less likely to sell you a known lemon.
Winter Season Storage and Maintenance
If you’re moving ahead on a purchase, it is important to maintain your ATV throughout the winter with proper storage and equipment at the ready. Investing in a dedicated storage solution or heated enclosure can protect your new ATV from the harsh elements and will ultimately extend its lifespan. You’ll definitely want to ensure that your battery is properly maintained during this time as well. If you’re planning on exploring the winter landscapes, you’ll want to consider having to perform cold-weather oil changes and additional seasonal expenses such as purchasing snow-specific tires or a set of snow tracks. Operating your machine in the winter can lead to unexpected costs which should be well planned for, especially in the harshest of conditions.
Tips & Tricks to Picking the Best Deal on a Rig for Yo
While we have gone over the pros and cons in detail, we want to provide some bulletpoint tips and tricks to ensure you get the best deal and find the best fit for you. Here are some hacks to consider:
- Don’t just inspect the rig, inspect the owner. One of our favorite things about buying a quality ATV in the winter is that you get a keen idea on how the current owner cares for it. If you show up for a viewing during the snow season and it is being stored outside, with a layer of snow that has been just swept off - you have grounds for concern. On the other end, if you show up and the battery is on a tender and the rig is kept in a heated shed or garage, you’re probably on the right track.
- Don't trust anybody. Okay, that might be a bit extreme - but it's important to use visual cues over what a seller is verbally indicating. For example, many will claim that units are "single rider", stored in heated garages, or used "mainly" for trail riding. This does not necessarily indicate anything as one bad off road riding experience might significantly impact the bones of an ATV.
- Look for signs of winter maintenance. Most owners who care for their machines will ensure that it gets its end-of-season treatment before being stored. While not necessarily the tell-all, the easiest indicator of this is the oil. If the oil is still dirty from a season of use, the seller may be trying to cheap out on costs with a sale which may indicate the owners care for overall maintenance. The best sellers will always look to show their machine in the best light and have documented maintenance history ready to rock.
- Take it for a test ride. Before making a purchase, especially when shopping the private market, it's crucial to take the ATV for a test ride. This allows you to gauge the performance, handling, and identify any potential issues with the engine or transmission. Don't let the cold weather hamper your opportunity to test the trail performance of a used ATV.
- Consider used ATVs. Buying used ATVs can offer great deals, especially during the summer when other riders upgrade to better vehicles. Benefits include affordability, less depreciation, and a wider variety. However, be cautious of potential risks and thoroughly inspect the ATV before purchasing. Consider extra costs involved with things such as tires, air filter, fluids and brakes. Repair services can add up quickly for most ATVs; however the cost savings can be significant over purchasing a brand new ATV.
- Don’t be afraid to make an offer. As noted above, sellers who have their machines listed are motivated to move them or they wouldn’t waste their time. As also indicated, there is low demand during the off-season without as many other shoppers looking to jump on rigs. Therefore, as an interested buyer, you have the power to make an offer on the off road vehicle to see how motivated the seller truly is. Don’t be afraid to start low and meet in the middle to where you actually are hoping to end up. This rule applies to buying an ATV at a dealership as well. Most sales during the off-season at a dealership happen on last year's models which provide leverage for a buyer to make an offer.
As you are now fully aware, buying a quad or side by side in Canada during the winter presents upside over buying during any other season. The seasonal pricing and increased selection can make the winter season an excellent time to make a purchase. However, potential cons, including hidden maintenance issues and the costs of storage and upgrades, should not be overlooked. By considering both the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision on whether shopping for a machine during the snow season is right for you. Remember: A good price can be found year-round but season specific sales present distinct advantages to getting a lower price when compared to the entire year. In the end, the best time to buy is when it is most affordable to you.
For further reading from our ATV blog, consider checking out the following articles: