Buying a Used ATV

Buying used ATVs can be an expensive proposition. some people are looking for that perfect almost showroom new ATV at a rock bottom price while others are looking for just something to head out to the trail with their buddies on. I have been on both ends of this spectrum and let me tell you if you don't know what to look for it can get expensive quickly. As an example one of the first used ATVS that I purchased was what was suppose to be a 1984 200x. This was a horrible ordeal. What I ended up with was a 1985 200x frame with a 1984 200m engine that was hobbled together and in a condition that I should not have been riding it. First off the motor was held in with 2 mounts the third was missing. The rear swing arm bearings or what once were the rear swinger bearings were well to say the least non existent. I learned a lot from this experience and I hope to share a little of it with you.
What mistakes did i make when buying this used atv. Well the first mistake I made was that I just bought it site unseen and I showed up at night to pick it up. This would prove to be A big mistake. Second I actually had no clue what I was buying. I had no idea what the ATV motor should look like or how it should be mounted in the frame. The key here is to get detailed pictures of what you are buying and to look it over with a fine tooth comb before you load it into the truck and hand over the cash. Please learn from my mistakes and research the used ATVS you are buying.