There is no denying that ATVs are getting better and smarter each year. With more storage capacity, more power, and better-towing capacities, modern-day ATVs make the tough job look easy. At the same time, the price of popular models is skyrocketing as well.
Luckily, you can find budget-friendly ATVs under $5000. Besides, they are from reputable manufacturers such as Yamaha, Can-Am, Honda, and Kawasaki. Also, they have powerful engines along with intuitive features that are now a necessity for four-wheelers.
So, whether it is about managing your farm or just getting around with short trips on rough terrains, you can find a quad of your choice. This post lists some of the top ATVs that you can buy for under $5000. Read on to find out more.
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What you should consider before buying an ATV under $5000
Before you make up your mind to buy an ATV under $5000, here are some factors that you need to consider.
What’s your need?
People use ATVs for several reasons: fishing or hunting, agricultural work or farming, snow removal, landscaping, towing, recreational rides, and many more. So, you may use the four-wheeler for any of these reasons or a few of them.
When you are clear about your needs, it helps you find the right type of ATV. Hence, make sure that you find out the real purpose of buying the quad.
Choosing between different types of ATVs
It is wise to research the right type of ATV for your needs. That’s because it helps you narrow down your choices when it comes to styles and brands. While you may like a specific style, the model might not serve your purpose well.
So, when you compare between the models, it gives you the necessary information to make an informed decision when it comes to buying the four-wheeler.
Where do you intend to ride?
The place where you live is another important factor that you should consider. Do you live in a remote location where you need the quad on your property and ride in different areas? Or, you live in an urban setup where you need the quad to store and carry things.
Besides, the kind of terrain you want to ride is important. Is there rocky or steep hills to climb that require a lot of horsepowers? Or, if the area has a lot of water bodies around and is muddy? These are crucial when you are planning to buy an ATV.
What’s the budget like?
Whenever it is about buying a major item, budget is an important consideration. It is good to decide on an amount beforehand before making the purchase. If you have a tight budget, you may buy cheaper models.
Or else, you can buy a used ATV. Moreover, a budget helps you determine the size and model of your four-wheeler.
What about power?
Engine type, transmission, and suspension system are some of the basic things that make your ATV perform at its best. An ATV with over 300cc is considered fine when your budget is under $5000.
Manual, semi-automatic, and automatic are three types of transmission that are available in different models. Regarding the suspension system, every four-wheeler is designed to handle rough terrains effectively.
What’s your skill level?
Experience and skill level is other major factor that helps a lot when you are buying an ATV. If you have just started, it is safe to buy a small quad and learn how to maneuver it effectively.
They will be less powerful and you don’t have to worry much about handling them. If you have a bit of experience riding quads, maybe you should get a good one.
Best four-wheelers under $5000 compared
| Name | Transmission type | Gas tank capacity | Enginge size | Approx. price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Brute Force 300 | CVT | 3.2 gallon | 271 cc | $4300 |
| Polaris Outlaw 70EFI | CVT | 1.5 gallon | 70 cc | $2300 |
| Yamaha Raptor 90 | CVT | 1.7 gallon | 90 cc | $3100 |
| Polaris Phoenix 200 | CVT | 2.5 gallon | 196 cc | $4200 |
| Honda Four Trax Recon | Manual/Auto clutch | 2.4 gallon | 229 cc | $4300 |
| Can-Am DS 250 | CVT | 3.3 gallon | 250 cc | $4600 |
| Arctic Cat Alterra 300 | CVT | 3.2 gallon | 270 cc | $4400 |
| Honda TRX250X | Manual/Auto clutch | 2.5 gallon | 229 cc | $4950 |
Kawasaki Brute Force 300 – Best overall
If you are looking for a performance four-wheeler yet cheap in price, the Kawasaki Brute Force 300 should be the right choice for you. Despite the price tag of around $4300, the Brute Force 300 comes with premium materials such as a comfortable leather seat and steel racks.
The Brute Force 300 is equipped with a 271 cc 4-stroke single-cylinder along with a CVT transmission system to deliver sheer performance when you need it most. Kawasaki produces excellent quads and is considered a reputable brand. And, the Brute Force 300 is not an exception.
Pros –
- Stylish design
- Great ergonomics
- Premium materials used in making
- A-arm front suspension
Cons –
- A bit expensive in its class
Summary: Whether you are going on forest trails or simply carrying things, the Kawasaki Brute Force 300 can deliver great performance. Another significant benefit that I feel about this quad is the engine size.
Keep in mind that a four-wheeler with a small engine results in improved fuel consumption. Also, you will love its suspension system which provides you with amazing comfort while riding.
Polaris Outlaw 70EFI – Cheapest youth ATV
As the name suggests, the Polaris Outlaw 70EFI is a 70cc single-cylinder, air-cooled youth ATV that has been popular among many riders. The electric fuel injection or EFI system in this quad helps to start the vehicle effortlessly in cold weather conditions.
Other features include hydraulic disk brakes both in the front and rear wheels, a 1.5-gallon fuel tank, an automatic transmission, and a two-wheel drive. Also, the ATV has 4-inches of travel from the rear and front shocks.
Pros –
- Cheapest ATV for kids
- Hydraulic disc brakes for extra protection
- Ergonomic design for more comfort
- Steel front bumper
Cons –
- Some users have issues with the EFI system
Summary: What I liked most about the Outlaw 70EFI is that it comes with a speed limiter that guardians can control. Also, it has a safety flag, a tether, and an informational video.
Yamaha Raptor 90 – Best low maintenance ATV
The next one on this list is another youth ATV that comes from a reputed company, Yamaha. With an air-cooled SOHC engine, the Yamaha Raptor 90 has an electric start mechanism that combines with CVT automatic transmission to deliver sheer power.
Pros –
- A CVT transmission type
- 90cc engine that produces enough power
- Impressive braking system
Cons –
- It has limited features
Summary: Despite the model having low features, what I liked most about this youth ATV is that Yamaha build it to emphasis more on reliability and make the ATV safe for kids.
Polaris Phoenix 200 – Best sport ATV for youths
The Polaris Phoenix 200 is perhaps one of the best Sport ATVs that you can gift your child with 14 years and above. It features a roaring 196cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that provides the ATV with the required power.
Pros –
- Hydraulic disc brakes for instant stopping of the ATV
- Great sports ATV for youths
- The 196cc engine delivers enough power
Cons –
- Throttle limiter problem
Summary: What’s great about this sports ATV is that it comes with a speed limiter that guardians or parents can set. Besides, you get a safety flag, a helmet, and an instructional DVD that might help you a lot.
Honda Four Trax Recon –Best performance ATV
Honda is another great company that produces almost every type of vehicle and they have made a good name in the ATV industry as well. Moreover, Honda quads are preferred by many riders worldwide because of their performance. The Honda Four Trax Recon is an affordable quad that comes at around $4300.
Performance-wise, the Four Trax Recon houses a 229cc engine and a 5-speed reverse transmission system to deliver you the ultimate pleasure of riding on both terrains and normal surfaces. Besides, the engine reaches about 45mph speed. However, you can stretch it out to 50mph if the road is good.
Pros –
- Automatic clutch for shifting gears with ease
- Impressive speed range
- Lightweight and small
Cons –
- The seat could have been better
Summary: There is no question that the Honda Four Trax Recon is one of the best ATVs for camping and hunting trips. If safety is the topmost priority, the braking system in the Recon is outstanding. The quad has dual-sealed hydraulic brakes that provide maximum control when you stop the ATV suddenly.
Can-Am DS 250 – Best design
Because Can-Am is one of the biggest manufacturers of ATVs in the world, it might surprise you that they have launched a mid-budget four-wheeler under $5000. The model is called DS 250 and it has a starting price range of $4600. The quad includes features such as 22-inch front wheels, a chain drive train, and an electric start.
Also, it is equipped with a single-cylinder 4-stroke 250cc engine and a CVT transmission system that makes it smoother for you to switch gears. With the double A-arm front suspension and swingarm on the rear, the Can-Am DS 250 can maneuver through rough trails without making you feel bumpy.
Pros –
- Sheer performance ATV
- Impressive suspension system
- Best for teenagers
Cons –
- The ignition switch has certain problems
Summary: In my opinion, the Can-AM DS 250 is one of the best quads under $5000 because it provides you with a lot of features that only a few four-wheelers have. Besides, the ground clearance of 10.2 inches is what makes the quad efficient. That way, you don’t have to worry much about the obstacles that you encounter on trails.
Arctic Cat Alterra 300 – Best easy-to-handle ATV
Arctic Cat is a reputed brand that produces great-looking ATVs on the market. One of their ATVs, Alterra 300 is a good example of that. Starting with a price range of $4400, the Alterra 300 is the preferred choice for many riders worldwide. The liquid-cooled 4-stroke 270 cc engine produces great power.
And, helps the ATV to reach a top speed of 50 miles per hour. The automatic CVT transmission provides you with smoother rides even on uneven roads where it is usually hard to control the quad. Also, the suspension system has a big role to play in it. The dual halogen taillights and headlamps look great while lighting up the trail to improve visibility.
Pros –
- Smooth maneuverability
- Impressive suspension system
- 5-inches front and rear wheel travel
- Sleek design
Cons –
- The seat isn’t much comfortable
Summary: There are so many good things about the Alterra 300 that I like most. I highly recommend this quad because it is super easy to ride and stays in control even when the roads are not smooth.
The swing-arm rear and two A-arm-styled suspensions on the front give you a smooth ride. Besides, it has two storage spaces that support up to 50 pounds at the front and 100 pounds at the back. Also, I would like you to know that the Alterra 300 can tow about 500 pounds.
Honda TRX250X – Best for beginners
The Honda TRX 250X is a great four-wheeler that helps you a lot when it is about learning how to maneuver the quad. In short, the TRX250X is the best ATV for beginners because it helps you to learn ride quads with ease. That way, it is a great vehicle for riders who primarily use the ATV for recreational purposes.
The Honda TRX250X is equipped with a single-cylinder air-cooled 229cc engine that is reliable and simple. It uses a dependable electric starter and provides decent power to the quad. One of the notable features in this quad is the SportClutch which allows beginner riders to learn to switch gears without the fear of making the ATV stop suddenly.
Pros –
- Independent front suspension
- Aluminum wheels
- An electric starter
- Intuitive clutch system
Cons –
- An issue with ground clearance
Summary: In my opinion, the Honda TRX250X is the best ATV for beginners because it is easy to handle and has an intuitive clutch system that helps newbie riders a lot. As such, it greatly helps develop their gear shifting abilities without being misguided by power.
