Just like cars and motorcycles, ATVs lose value over time — but the good news is, you can control when and how much value you lose. Whether you ride your quad for fun on the weekends or put it to work every day, knowing when to sell can help you get the most from your investment. At Appraise My Bike, we offer free ATV appraisals across Florida to help riders know exactly what their machine is worth before they trade in or sell.
How ATV Depreciation Works
Depreciation simply means the natural decrease in value that happens as your ATV ages and accumulates hours. On average, new ATVs lose 20–25% of their value in the first year and another 10–15% per year after that.
That rate can vary depending on the make and model. Honda, Yamaha, and Can-Am are known for holding value better than most because of their reliability, dealer support, and long-term demand in the resale market. Meanwhile, off-brand models or those with limited parts availability tend to drop faster in value.
If you’re riding a high-performance or limited-edition model, depreciation might be slower — but only if it’s well maintained.
Key Factors That Affect ATV Value
- Mileage and Engine Hours
ATVs track both miles and engine hours, and both matter. A lower-hour ATV that’s been used for light trail riding typically appraises higher than one used daily for work or mudding. - Maintenance History
A clean maintenance record can add hundreds to your trade-in value. Proof of regular oil changes, belt inspections, and fluid flushes show buyers and dealers that your machine has been cared for. - Modifications and Accessories
Not all upgrades are equal. Quality parts like Warn winches, ITP tires, or LED lighting kits can improve value — but poorly installed lift kits or oversized tires may reduce it. - Cosmetic and Mechanical Condition
Cracked plastics, rusted frames, or worn suspension components all eat into your offer. Investing in minor fixes before appraisal can pay off.
When to Sell or Trade Your ATV
Timing your sale can make a big difference. The 3–5 year mark is often the sweet spot where depreciation begins to level off but your ATV still commands strong value.
Selling before major wear items (like CV joints, tires, or brake systems) need replacement also helps maximize return.
And don’t forget about seasonal trends: In Florida, ATV sales spike during spring and early summer, when riders are gearing up for the off-road season. Listing or appraising your ATV in those months can add a few hundred dollars to your offer.
How to Maximize ATV Resale Value
Before you sell, take a few simple steps to make sure you’re not leaving money on the table:
- Detail your ATV — clean plastics, degrease the engine bay, and remove any mud buildup.
- Replace worn parts — tires, grips, and seats are inexpensive fixes that improve first impressions.
- Gather paperwork — service records, titles, and receipts all build buyer confidence.
- Get an appraisal quote from Appraise My Bike to know your machine’s true market value before posting it online or heading to a dealer.
Why Appraise with Appraise My Bike
Appraise My Bike takes the guesswork out of selling your ATV.
- Free, no-obligation appraisals for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles.
- Fair market offers based on live Florida resale data.
- Mobile appraisal service — we come to you anywhere in the state.
- Instant cash offers or trade-in options through our trusted dealer partners.
Whether you’re upgrading to a newer ride or simply ready to cash out, we’ll help you get top dollar for your current ATV.
Start Your Free ATV Appraisal Today
Don’t let depreciation catch up to you — see what your ATV is really worth today.
Visit AppraiseMyBike.com and get a fast, transparent quote in minutes.