New to ATV's

[TexasRex]

I am interested in buying an 1985 200x for sale in my area for $500. Looks like its in good condition but I dont know much about ATV's. Any tips on what I should look for and I figure this is a killer deal but I may be wrong?

[Wickedfinger]

First off welcome to the board ...... The 1985 ATC200X is one of the most popular ATV's of all time and the ATC200X was made in greater numbers than any other full suspension 3 wheeled ATV. That being said they are a super reliable, sporty handling, quick and fun ride with many parts still available from Honda as well as aftermarket performance companies. Also, the salvage yards are full of them so used parts are easy to come by. Some things to look out for on this model are: a rusty gas tank, rusted/frozen swingarm adjusters, head shake due to worn bearings, bent forks creased at the lower triple clamp (the ATV will pull fairly hard to one side when you let go of the bars), non functioning rear brake, and blown fork seals (forks wont hold air). $500 is a pretty good price for an '85 - go get her.

[plkmonster2]

Well, first off, make sure that it runs. LOL, wouldn't want a trike that didn't run. :-D Also, make sure that the suspension isn't bouncy in the front or rear. If they are, you need a shock recharge, or possibly a new shock, and/or new fork seals and oil. If it runs, does it smoke when it's cold? If so, it needs a rebuild. Is it easy to kick over, or does it have plenty of resistance? (Compression) Take a close look at the small parts too for signs of massive wear, or parts that need to be replaced. Good Luck!

[TexasRex]

So what is the diagnosis if it is real easy to kick over? Too low of compression and top end rebuild? Is that the same case for if it smokes when cold?
What does a shock recharge cost?

Thanks for the little tidbits. I will check them out.
If the bike is a good deal, then you'll see more of me on this board.
Rex out

[compaqkoci]

also check out the air cleaner! how dirty it is if its fairly clean can tell a long story short in how it was taken care of lol. cause its the last thing people remember to replace :rolleyes:

[Wickedfinger]

So what is the diagnosis if it is real easy to kick over? Too low of compression and top end rebuild? Is that the same case for if it smokes when cold?
What does a shock recharge cost?

Thanks for the little tidbits. I will check them out.
If the bike is a good deal, then you'll see more of me on this board.
Rex out

I'm pretty sure you can't rebuild the rear shock on the early X's - at least there isnt a rebuild kit listed from Honda. New shock is $434 though (yikes!!!) ... so its definitely a good salvaged one time .... if its bad at all (probably will be ok). As far as kicking it over to check compression ... if its so easy that its noticeable, it probably wouldnt start anyway so don't worry about it. Smoking when cold isn't always a definite sign an engine needs rings or a bore out ... could be valve seats, a leaky head/jug gasket, contaminated gas .... could be alot of things .... thats why these ATV contraptions are so rewarding and frustrating at the same time. Again though, if its in good shape and hes asking only $500 and you can talk him down any, its worth it to buy.

[TexasRex]

So it smokes a little bit on the initial start up. Back shock is a little bouncy but seems to be a-ok. Everything else looks sound. Guys got a folder of receipts and has takes good care of his stuff. Ill go and make a cash offer tomorrow. This is gonna be bad ass.