Here are a some pointers to help you decide:

1. What is the quad bike (ATV) to be used for, is it for purely pleasure, purely work or a combination of both.
2. If the quad bike is for work purposes check whether or not you need 4 wheel drive. A manual gearbox gives you better control over pulling power and traction control.
3. If it is purely for pleasure the size of the quad (not the engine size) must be suitable for all of the intended drivers, be it children of various ages or adults or both. Check the carrying capacity stated by the manufacturer, it can vary from 40 Kg ( 6 stone ) to 120 Kg (18 stone).
4. Test-drive the quad bike first if you can to make sure you or your child is comfortable with it.
5. Check parts availability and the full terms of your warranty.
6. The plastic components of a quad bike take quite a pounding, check that they are moulded in colour not painted, also check replacement parts price.
7. Noise levels vary from quad to quad, a 4 stroke quad is quieter than a 2 stroke quad so if you intend using it in a residential area opt for 4 stroke.
8. Remember, with the exception of one model (Arctic Cat) quad bikes are designed to carry one person only.
9. Useful options are:
   
   a) Adjustable suspension.
   b) Eelectric/Kick start.
   c) Safety Cord/Switch.
   d) Autolube (2 stroke only).
   
   
10. Finally, always insist on a fully enclosed foot-well if the quad bike is to be used by children.

1. Starter motor does not turn engine over:
   
   a) Check line fuse, which is normally adjacent to the battery.
   b) Is the battery fully charged?
   c) Is the engine cut off switch in the RUN position?
   d) Are you pulling in the brake lever to override the built in safety cut out?
   e) Is your ignition switch on?
   
   
2. Starter turns engine over but engine does not start:
   
   a) Remove spark plug and check for spark. If there is no spark check the following:
   
   i) Engine cut out switch is in RUN position.
   ii) The HT lead is free from cracks.
   iii) Change spark plug.
   iv) Call your dealer for further free advice.
   
   b) Is there fuel in the tank?
   c) Is the fuel switched on?
   d) Is fuel coming through carburettor? If not check fuel flow to carburettor by removing pipe from tank to carburettor, turning fuel on to see if there is flow. If not pressurise the tank by blowing into the tank breather pipe on the fuel cap.
   e) Remove carburettor and clean out jets as there maybe dirt in one or other of them.
   
   
3. Steering not responsive:
   
   a) Check the track rods for adjustment.
   b) Check the track rod ends for grease and or wear.
   c) Check tyre pressures.

Finally, quad bikes are built for use on rough terrain but it does not mean they require no maintenance. Check the tightness of all nuts and bolts regularly. By doing this you decrease the chance of having an accident.