Being a responsible parent, you cannot buy any 4-wheeler ATV. You have to do proper research before jumping to a final decision.

Most of these rides come with various safety features. After you shortlist ATVs based on safety features, you should consider the fuel type.

But not every parent has too much time to do the research. Therefore, we have done the hard part for you. We have scoured through the internet for days and tested each of the 4 wheelers to save you time.

Here you’ll get to know everything you need to know before buying an ATV and a list of the best kids 4-wheeler reviews so you can make an informed decision.

What is a Kids 4-Wheeler?

4-wheelers are also called all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). They are known as quads or quadricycles. ATVs feature motorcycle engine designs and can pick up some serious speeds. The low-pressure tires and hand brakes make them easy to ride on different terrains with better control.

Most of the quad models have single seats. But you can also go for a double seat model if you want.

ATVs are street-legal vehicles in many countries, but they are still illegal to ride in most US, Australia, and Canada territories. Therefore, you need to rethink your decision and assess where your kids will ride their ATVs.

You’ll typically find gas and electric ATVs. Of course, electric ATVs are great because you can recharge them like any other electronic gadget. However, gas ATVs are better for thrill-seekers who are more experienced riders because they pack more power.

If your kids have more experience riding on these 4-wheelers, you should go with the gas ATVs because they perform just like regular vehicles. For beginners, electric ATVs are suitable because they come with more safety features and don’t have much power.

Let’s discuss this matter further in the following section.

Which ATV is Better for Kids Gas or Electric?

The first question that comes after you have decided to give your kid an ATV is whether to go for an electric model or a gas one. This is very similar to what you think when you are going for any vehicle for yourself.

When looking for a 4-wheeler for your child, the decision can become a tough one. For some, gas-powered is the only option as they are often cheaper in price than electric. However, both of them have their benefits and drawbacks.

The biggest advantage of a gas or electric 4 wheeler over one powered by electricity is just the amount of time you can spend riding it around without having to worry about charging batteries or being limited on time that you can ride.

Gas-powered 4 wheelers also make more realistic noise, which is a great feature for the parents or older siblings that ride along with them too.

While as-powered toys are usually very affordable, but the main disadvantage to this type of 4 wheeler is that they require an engine and gas tank maintenance. These tools can be costly if you don’t know how to use them and if none of your neighbors have them either. In addition, some of the parts can be expensive to replace if they break down.

What is the Perfect Age to Get Your Kid A Kids a 4-Wheeler (ATV)?

It’s not just about the ATV size that you need to consider or its fuel type. You need to make sure that your kid is at the right age to give him his first ATV.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (SPSC), kids under 16 should not ride a 4-wheeler with a bigger engine than 70cc.

So, what are the different engine sizes for different aged kids, and why do they exist? It all goes down to the overall maturity and sense of a kid and your responsibility as a parent.

Kids grow in size with their age, but his/her mental ability, judgment, and confidence cannot be attributed to his/her perimeter in height. Some 7-year-olds can comfortably handle 125cc, but not all of them can. This is precisely why the manufacturers put speed limiters on these youth ATVs to keep the speed under control.

It would be better to go for an ATV that your kid can comfortably handle both physically and mentally in a responsible manner. But make sure you don’t give adult ATVs to your kids and don’t go for an ATV for your kids that allows them to grow into.

Keep in mind the ATV’s overall weight that you wonder if your kid is only around 3 to 4 times his/her weight. If possible, you can also go for a test track for the right size of ATV according to your kid’s age.

What CC ATV Should You Get for Your Child?

When starting your child out on a gas-powered ATV, some guidelines may be advised.

• Age 6-8, a 50cc ATV should be manageable to start on.
• Age 8-11, a 90cc ATV should be manageable to start on.
• Age 12-15, a 125cc ATV should be manageable to start on.
• Age 16+, a 250cc ATV should be manageable to start on.

*Subject to child skill and readiness.

Best Gas ATVs & 4- Wheelers for Kids

1. Tao Tao ATA125D – Best on flatter surfaces

The Tao Tao ATA125D kids 4-wheeler is suitable for all ages 12 and over. This ATV comes with a 125cc air-cooled 4-stroke engine and also comes with a reverse gear. It’s a top choice entry-level kids 4-wheeler with an affordable price tag.

Features

• It’s a sleek design ATV with moderate performance made for kids who are beginning to enjoy their outdoors. It comes with a 125cc oil-powered engine for teenagers as well.
• The ride is safe for all kinds of recreational activities and has a powerful automatic clutch system. Therefore, your kid will feel comfortable riding on because s/he doesn’t need to use a clutch for shifting. This system also supports reverse.
• The chain drive transmission delivers a powerful torque that ranges between 5000 to 5500 rounds per minute.
• This ride also comes with a 4.2-litre fuel tank which is more than enough for recreational purposes.
• It can achieve a top speed of 32 miles an hour, but it’s capped at 10 miles an hour for safety reasons.

Pros

• Safe and reliable for recreational purposes.
• Well-styles and looks pretty sleek.
• Features a 4.2L fuel tank.
• It also supports reverse.
• Automatic chain drive transmission.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a handguard.
• Low ground clearance.

Verdict

This quad bike is a top choice for riding all-terrain, but it would be better to use it for flatter terrain because it has small ground clearance. But overall, it’s a powerful yet safe machine for your kid to ride.

2. Mountopz ATV-3050C – Best for taller kids

This ATV is a top choice for fun riding and trailing. It comes with a 125cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with automatic transmission. This ride is suitable for taller kids; therefore, it works well for teenagers or even preteens.

Features

• It comes with a single rear suspension, whereas double suspension on the front end. Therefore, your kid will experience a very comfortable ride no matter how uneven the terrain is.
• This machine comes with a speed limiter on it, so its actual top speed is 32 miles an hour, but it won’t cross 10 miles an hour to keep the ride safe for your kid.
• It comes with a load capacity of 132 pounds and comes with a decent ground clearance so that your kid can ride on different terrains without any issues.
• There is a storage rack on the rear end made of a tubular metal frame, and your kid can use it to help you with various chores.
• This machine also comes with a powerful drum brake, while the rear braking system features a hydraulic disc. Therefore, it comes with a powerful braking system to stop your kid on a dime.
• The ATV features a 12V lead-acid battery that is 4mAh in size, and you have to charge it externally, and it will keep the engine working even in cold weather.

Pros

• Comes with a speed limiter.
• Features powerful brakes.
• Boasts a storage rack on the rear end.
• Excellent in quick acceleration.
• Pretty safe and reliable machine.

Cons

• No hand-guard.
• Small fuel tank.

Verdict

This kids’ 4-wheeler is for smaller rides and is much more geared towards doing some chores while enjoying the ride on the go. It can accelerate pretty fast and has a good stopping power to back it up.

3. Yamaha Raptor 700R

This ATV has dominated its segment since 2001. Powered by a 686cc liquid-cooled, SOHC, four-stroke, fuel injected engine, the Yamaha Raptor 700R produces 45hp, resulting in a top speed of 75mph. With this in mind, the vehicle is best suited to experienced riders. The Yamaha 700R is inspired by the YFZ racing quad, and this shows in the overall performance.

With a 5-speed multi-plate clutch, and reverse gear, as well as a 2WD X-ring chain, this ATV delivers a smooth ride. The consistency from the transmission is key when combined with the big-bore 700cc engine, allowing for a smooth and constant power delivery. Yamaha positioned the front suspension in an independent double-wishbone configuration with 5-way piggy-back pre-loaded adjustments, allowing 9.1 inches of travel.

In the rear a cast aluminium swingarm with one pre-loaded adjustable shock makes up the suspension. The rear shock is capable of an impressive 10.1 inches of travel. The Yamaha Raptor 700R was designed to be easy riding for anyone to get onto. The seat height of 32.7 inches and the ergonomic design allows for a comfortable riding experience. The stability comes from the vehicle’s dimensions, at 72.6 inches long, 45.5 inches wide and a wheelbase of 50.4 inches.

Weighing 422 pounds this is ATV will have you feeling in complete control. The seat shares more design cues from the YZ-style quad with the longer seat, allowing more aggressive and technical riding. The tires on the Yamaha Raptor 700R are Maxxis high-performance 22×7-10 ATs on the front, and 20×10-19 ATs at the rear. The unique tread allows for a very versatile tyre in most conditions. The Yamaha Raptor 700R comes with a headlight that is built into the aggressive design of this ATV. If flexibility, reliability and performance are what you are looking for then this is the quad for you.

4. Polaris ACE 150

If fun and adventure are in your child’s nature, then the Polaris ACE 150 might just be for you. This ATV is a safe way to encourage responsible behaviour in both teen and pre-teen kids. The vehicle is only slightly smaller than the full-sized adult version, and for this reason the ATV is super stable. The Polaris ACE 150 is 48 inches wide. This is the same width as some side by side ATVs and makes the Polaris ACE 159 very sturdy which allows your child to have better control.

The vehicle has a single-cylinder, four-stroke, 149cc, oil cooled engine that is electronically fuel injected, and capable of 29mph. Like some of the other ATVs on this list, the Polaris Ace 150 has four adjustable speed settings. This allows the top speed to be regulated to 10, 15, 22 or 29 mph. The Polaris ACE 150 can be set to your child’s individual experience level. The Polaris ACE 150 has a very good ground clearance (9 inches in fact) and that is all thanks to the suspension and tires.

The Polaris ACE 150 has dual A-arms with 5.1 inches of travel, in the front. The Rear has dual shocks on a swingarm with 6 inches of travel. The rear axel is also in a solid configuration. The tires are 22-inches at both the front and rear. Maintenance is fairly simple, as the filters are easily accessible. The single LED taillight and running lights are very visible. The Polaris ACE 150 comes with a youth-sized helmet, a whip and a flag and rounds off this list as a fantastic ATV/UTV hybrid.

5. Polaris Ranger 150

The Polaris Ranger 150 ticks all of the boxes in the utility department. Offering a safer option to the standard quad, this vehicle is large enough for an adult to drive it as well. The large digital control panel, comes with GPS and allows parents to track the ATV via an app. A “geofence” can be set up, meaning that the engine will cut if the ATV ventures outside of a specific zone.

Included in the display are the following features:

• Speedometer
• Engine RPM display
• Odometer
• Trip meter
• Voltmeter
• Engine temperature
• Geofence status
• Service intervals
• Engine timer

The Polaris Ranger 150 is fully adjustable, with sliding seats and an adjustable steering wheel. The large wheels (22-inch front and rear) improve the handling and allows riders to scale larger humps and bumps. The 8 inches of ground clearance and dual A-arm suspension in the front allows for 5.1 inches of travel. The rear has a swingarm and dual shocks with 6 inches of travel. There is also a dedicated loading area with a 50-pound capacity, to show off more of the utility on display here.

The Polaris Ranger 150 also has running day lights and a single LED brake light. With a total weight of 672 pounds, the Polaris Ranger 150 comes with a roll cage for added safety. That being said, the safety features don’t stop there. The Polaris Ranger 150 can be limited remotely in terms of speed, so parents can sit back and relax without worrying about high speed racing.

This 2WD electronically fuel injected, four-stroke ATV has hydraulic disc brakes, and is designed for children from the age of ten upwards. The Polaris Ranger 150 is only available in red, but it looks at home on any ranch. This side by side ATV should be a prime addition should you need a utility vehicle for your ranch or farm. This ATV is safe, reliable and is fully functional no matter the task.

6. Honda TRX90X

The Honda TRX90X is still thought of as the grandfather of ATVs for kids. This ergonomically roomy, smooth ATV was originally brought out in 1994, and has remained largely the same. The old saying of “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” is apt in this situation, and the ATV is still largely unchallenged in its category. The simplicity of the design makes this vehicle the perfect introduction to the gas-powered world of ATVs.

The superb handling comes from the excellent power-to-weight ratio, as well as the 4×4 drivetrain. Combined with the race-like aesthetics and performance, with this ATV you have the makings of a fantastic pit bike. Designed for function over fancy, this ATV is proof that simplicity and high-quality standards are key. With this in mind, Honda has dominated this segment of the ATV market and have truly raised the bar.

Any competing manufacturer has a very high standard to meet in order to dominate this category. Sure, it could do with a bigger carb, upgraded suspension, but that takes away from what makes this ATV brilliant. The Honda TRX90X has a manual transmission with a semi-automatic clutch. Combined with its aggressive looks and epic handling, it only takes one ride to make a fan out of anyone. The vehicle is aimed at children from ten years old and upwards.

This ATV boasts a longitudinally mounted, air-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder, OHC engine, with a wet-sump. The tires are knobbly and the wheelbase is 38.8 inches. The brakes are dual-sealed 110mm hydraulic drum brakes in the front. The rear brakes are single-sealed 140mm mechanical drums, with a parking brake. The Honda TRX90X features a double-cradle frame enclosed with a swing-axle independent front suspension and a swingarm rear suspension. The rear shock allows 2.56 inches of travel and the ATV is available in red and black, while coming standard with foot pegs, handlebars, skid plates and unique floorboards.

7. Tao Tao Boulder 110cc Kids ATV

Here we have the Tao Tao Boulder 110cc Kids ATV, and it is quite possibly the best starter for older children. If a 50cc engine just isn’t big enough anymore and your child is still learning, then this is the ATV for you. The Tao Tao Boulder 110cc Kids ATV has a single cylinder 4 stroke engine, a fully automatic transmission, and an electric starter – which means no worries about gears or manual starts.

This Air-cooled little engine comes with a 12 Volt battery and sits on a steel frame. The front suspension is a double A-arm, and the rear has a single swing arm setup. The Tao Tao Boulder 110cc Kids ATV comes with a remote kill-switch. This allows you to kill the engine at the push of a button if the kids start to get carried away.

There is also a governor built in with three different speed settings. This means that you can monitor the speed allowed (at least until your little star can handle faster rides). The ATV also comes with working headlights and a built-in rear rack – in case your kids find an interesting relic whilst adventuring.

At 53 inches long and 30 inches wide, many kids will enjoy this ATV for years to come. The seat is 22 inches off the ground and the overall height is 34 inches. Assembling this ATV is easy and there are online videos to help as well. Coming 85% assembled, it is also a great relief that the parts are easy to install and readily available. Whether on mud, snow, dunes, or a dirt track, this little ATV can handle it all, and will keep your children wanting more.

What Factors Should You Consider BEFORE Getting an ATV for Your Kid

An ATV is a durable vehicle, and it is going to last for a long time to come; therefore, you need to make this decision very carefully. Before you choose between an electric or gas model, here are some essential factors to contemplate.

Power

You cannot compare these 4-wheelers with kids cars when it comes to performance because these ATVs are lightweight and speedy. Your kids can use them on roads as well as in off-road conditions. If you like to take your kids on hunting or other outdoor excursions, this is the best vehicle.

Gas version ATVs come with standard single or double cylinder engines. More cylinder capacity is also available. With a high cylinder power, the ATV will be more powerful and fast. On the other hand, electric ATVs don’t have these conventional engines.

You only have to press the pedal, and the battery will start producing the torque so that you will take off a lot faster than a gas model. For faster acceleration, electric ATVs are better, but for reliable performance with durability, gas ATVs are better.

Noise

This is quite understandable as gas engines make a lot more noise than electric batteries. Gas ATVs are just like a car, and when fuels get pumped into the cylinders for burning, exhaust gasses are produced and eliminated from the exhaust system. This process can be very noisy, especially at higher speeds.

However, electric ATVs are very quiet because there are no moving parts, and of course, they also don’t burn any gas. You will have to press the pedal, and your ride will take off, and it won’t even make a noise at all, and you might even think that the engine is not running. The only part you will hear a lot more is the tires rolling on the surface, and that’s it.

If you don’t want to get bothered by your kids riding the ATVs or don’t want to disturb your neighbors, go for these electric ATVs. On the other hand, if you like some engine noise, choose the gas version.

Care and maintenance

Gas models come with different moving parts; therefore, you should take a lot of care of it, resulting in more expenses over time. Plus, you will have to fuel the tank to keep it running. This will add more cost based on how many times your kids will ride the ATV daily.

When you go with an electric ATV, you will notice that you won’t have to deal with these expenses a lot. First of all, you won’t have to refuel it at all. You will only have to recharge it, and electricity is much cheaper than gasoline.

Moreover, electric ATVs don’t have many moving parts in them, so you won’t have to maintain them regularly. If your electric ATV runs on lithium-ion batteries, you can replace them as well, so it will significantly reduce your battery cost when you buy new ones.

Usability

You only have to refuel your gas ATV tank when it is empty and start riding it immediately. But that is not the case with its electric counterpart because it requires plenty of time to fully recharge like a regular electronic device.

A gas tank lasts a lot longer than an electric battery that discharges quickly at higher speeds. For recreational purposes, an electric ATV might be better, but if you take your kids on a hunt or some other outdoor endeavor rather than just recreation, a gas version will work better.

Eco Friendliness

This one goes to the electric models because they don’t produce any greenhouse gases or emissions. On the other hand, gas models do that at a high rate. For a more sustainable and greener way, you should consider an electric model.

How Much Does a Kids ATV or 4-Wheeler Cost?

Kids 4-wheelers can cost anywhere from $200 up to $7000. There is a huge price margin here, and the lower bracket only features basic stuff and can be merely used as toys rather than anything else. Some ATVs are even cheaper than that, but they are geared more towards toddlers and babies.

The expensive models come with all the bells and whistles. They have comfortable seats, high power motors or batteries, powerful brakes, LED lights, turn lamps, and various other safety features.

Some of them even come with radio and walkie-talkie features. They are geared towards more riding severe kids with some riding experience under their belt. You can go for even higher than that, but those models are more geared towards adults.

Is It Possible to Get a an Affordable Kids 4-Wheeler?

Yes, it is possible to get a kids 4-wheeler at a cheap cost. The most important thing you need to do here is to do some serious research around your area and find the least prices available for a particular kid’s ATV model.

But keep the price under check at all times. You can do that by doing your research over the internet. Different websites have these ads for kids’ ATVs, and they have their prices as well.

You can print an ad out and then call their sales team and ask about a new ATV and its out-the-door price. Just write down the name of the salesperson with whom you had a conversation for a later reference.

This way, there will be no hidden charges or special offers included in this price. It’s just the price of the ATV without any add-ons. You won’t have to listen to the smoke-and-mirrors conversation of the sales team. You also won’t have to enter into any contract as well.

Criteria for Getting the Best Kids 4-Wheeler

You need to keep in mind various points when buying a kids 4-wheeler that suits your child’s ability and confidence. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to give them safe and enjoyable opportunities.

It will allow them to learn new skills and explore the world differently. Allowing your kid with his/her ATV allows them to be more responsible in doing different chores and doing recreational activities.

With these machines, you make them learn some essential skills before using their adult ATVs. Being a parent, you know your kids the best in terms of their physical and emotional abilities.

Going for a full-size ATV can be dangerous if your kid doesn’t understand what safety requirements mean when riding an ATV.

The right engine size for the right age

Engine size plays a significant role in the speed, and it needs to be right according to your kid’s age. A 6-year-old should go for an ATV that comes with an engine size ranging between 48cc and 70cc. This way, they will get the best riding experience that is safe for them to handle.

An engine size that stays between 70cc and 110cc while being better suited for 10-year-olds or older. These ATVs allow the older youth to have more fun with a slightly more powerful engine and won’t allow them to get powered on those slow under 70cc quads.

The engine sizes that range between 125cc to 250cc are better suited for older teens and adults. These kids have some experience of riding an ATV under their belt, and they understand all the safety requirements and standard operating procedures of using a 4-wheeler.

Any ATV larger than 250cc is suitable for intermediate and advanced riders because they are good for recreational purposes and handle some workload.

Specs and mentality

If you are looking to match your kid with a model of an ATV, make sure at least 3-inch clearance between an ATV seat and a kid’s pants when standing. The ATV Safety Institute sets this rule.

Your kids must be able to grab the handlebars easily and can comfortably move them right and left without any problems. They must be able to operate the brakes and throttle comfortably with one hand.

At an emotional level, your kid needs to understand the consequences of his/her actions and understand what can go wrong with safety rules if not met. Therefore, s/he must demonstrate self-control when riding an ATV. If your kid can comfortably control a bicycle and s/he can control a 4-wheeler as well.

Safety

Safety is above all, and you need to go for a ride that comes with all the safety features to keep the speeds under check. Different kids have different abilities in terms of handling such a vehicle.

Your supervision is always needed, especially if your kid is under 16. And make sure that you ever allow a full-size ATV to a kid under this age. Apart from that, you need to make sure that if an ATV is a single rider model, then it shouldn’t carry a passenger no matter what.

You also need to provide your kids with all the safety gear they need to ride an ATV long sleeves. Gloves, helmets, boots, and pants are a must when riding a 4-wheeler.

What are the Odds My Kid Will Have an Accident While Riding?

The odds are very high, especially if your kid doesn’t follow the safety procedures properly. When the thrill overpowers danger, it’s that time when your kid starts to think about doing something that shouldn’t be done outside their skill level and expertise. But at times, kids can be so naive and can completely forget about wearing their safety gear.

They might forget about wearing their helmet or might get into trouble because of their risk-taking or poor judgment behavior. They might be operating a larger-sized engine that is not recommended for their age. Some kids also lack the strength and size to coordinate with the controls of an ATV. They can also try out something new because of excessive driving exposure.

You have to guide them properly about these issues and how to be entirely safe while riding. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t allow them to ride an ATV altogether. S/he might get hurt while walking down the street or alongside you in your car as well. Just equip your child with common sense and instruct them properly. This is all you can do for them to be safe while riding.

How to Maintain Safety for Kids on a 4-Wheeler?

You have to guide your kids properly before you provide them with a chance to ride their ATV. Consider a variety of things associated with your kids’ safety. You need to provide them with the proper gear, and it needs to be the right for the 4-wheeler they are riding.

As a responsible parent, you must know all these safety measures and operating procedures. There is some danger associated with any experience, but thrill always overpowers danger. Therefore, you need to limit the risks that your kid might take during the ride.

What is the Right Safety Gear for Kids ATVs or 4-wheelers?

The basic gear your kid needs includes boots, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, helmets, and goggles for eye protection.

A helmet is the most important ATV safety gear, and you can’t go with any bike helmet here. It needs to be for the 4-wheelers, and it should snug fit and wobble around with the head movement. Its chin strap must fasten adequately and must fit comfortably.

The helmet should be safety approved by the Department of Transportation, Snell Memorial Foundation, and American National Standards Institute. Such a helmet can comfortably take a blow from a sharp object and must be able to absorb the energy from an impact. It should also allow you to see on all sides and should stay in place as well.

How to Run Safety Check on Your Kids ATV ?

You don’t need an entire pit crew for ATV safety checks for your kid. You can follow the T-CLOC technique to run the basic safety check for your kid.

• Check the tires & wheels before your kid starts the ride. You will only have to check the tire pressures with a gauge and ensure no leaks of any kind.
• Controls & cables should be inspected to make sure they are all working as they should be. The throttle and the brakes should be your top priority because they are essential for controlling the ride. checking
• Lights & electrics must be checked by just turning the ignition on and ensuring that all the switches and bulbs are working.
• Oil & fuel must also be checked, and the tank should be full; whenever your kid is going out, you can also stock up before you go out. And similar is the case with an electric ATV, and you need to check its battery.
• Chassis should be examined to make sure it is fitter and adequate for the ride. The chain should be checked for appropriate lubrication. The nuts and bolts should be tight, and there shouldn’t be any rattling sound as well.

Finally, Make Sure Your Kid Understands Speed

You have to make sure your kid understands everything associated with riding safely on a 4-wheeler when talking about speed. They needs to understand the dangers of riding too fast because rolling over is pretty easy on an ATV, which is the most imminent danger present.

Your kid needs to understand that going at a steady speed is important for staying in control. Most kids’ ATVs also come with speed restrictors, so your kid can’t exceed a certain speed limit. This is another safe way to keep them under control during their ride.

Conclusion:

There you have it. The Safest Kids 4-Wheeler for your Kid is the Honda TRX 90. This ATV is pretty easy to maintain and provides reliable performance. It has a sleek design that resembles the Sports line-up by Honda and looks sweet. This machine features a powerful braking system and features a speed limiter to keep your kids safe while allowing them some fun on the ride.

You might have to deal with a few start issues in the cold weather, or it might be troubling to take fuel in the midrange. Just make sure your bike comes with an air filter in it, and you keep it replacing at regular intervals whether your kid is regularly using the quad or not.

Overall, this unit is a tough one, and your kid will love riding it for a long time to come.