As summer draws ever nearer and things start to warm up outside, a number of parents will be looking to get their kids outdoors. In the digital age children are exposed to a slew of technology, but science has proven that this is not the healthiest lifestyle.

With this in mind, ATVs might just be the solution some parents have been searching for. Whether for novices or experienced riders, this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need, and set your mind at ease.

For those of you new to the world of smaller vehicles, an ATV stands for an “all-terrain vehicle”. ATVs are also referred to as light utility vehicles or a quad bike, and can be used off road recreationally. Whether you have a garden big enough for the vehicle or not, ATVs provide a whole lot of fun for kids and adults alike.

In this article, we will be covering all of your burning questions – including what ATVs are, what types are out there and how old a child should be to start riding. We will also take a look at gas-powered bikes versus electrical bikes, and the benefits of these different types of ATVs.

Of course, none of these questions matter if you can’t get your kid to start riding, so we will be covering that as well. To top it all off, we will be reviewing the top ten ATVs for children, so by the time you’re through reading, you can make an informed choice.

At What Age Can You Ride an ATV?

As mentioned, ATVs are not just for adults, and that being said, it could just be the right time to get your child onto a quad. With modern advancements geared towards safety, and more kid-friendly options out there, there is a four-wheeler for nearly every age.

The ideal age to start a child on an ATV is up for debate among parents and producers alike. While some believe that children as young as three years of age can ride, others believe six to be the golden number. The long and short of it all, is that the ideal age varies from child to child. Your kid’s motor skills are crucial and advanced motor functions in children as young as four or five is not uncommon.

So one can say that ATVs are generally recommended for kids aged 6 and above. Among the many options of ATVs, you can choose an ATVs suited to not only age, but weight and height as well.

The majority of children develop an interest in four-wheelers between the age of three and ten. While three is perhaps too young, there are a number of quality and affordable options for more appropriate age groups. With numerous developmental benefits including improved motor function, reflexes and decision-making skills, it is almost never too early to start safely.

What Should You Keep in Mind BEFORE Getting an ATV for Your Child?

When looking for an ATV for a child there are many factors to consider. The child’s age, skill level, weight, height and not to mention experience and activity level all need to be considered. Let us take a closer look at some factors to consider, when deciding to get an ATV for your child. That being said, the following information is merely a guideline and you should always use your own judgement when deciding on your child’s safety.

Age

The prospect of handling your child something motorized, may sound daunting to many a parent or guardian. As each child develops differently, aside from biological age, a child’s developmental age should also be considered. In other words, some children might only be ready for certain products at a different age to other children.

Most children are ready to get onto their first ATV when they have a grasp of their basic motor skills. Being able to follow directions and observe caution is also of the highest importance. All manufacturers have strict guidelines for the required age groups recommended to use their products, so please, adhere to these guidelines per particular model.

For children under the age of six, no more than a 12-volt single battery should be considered. That being said, for children aged four to six (and even above) a 24-volt ATV might be an option worth pursuing. From the age of seven, there are gas-powered variants ranging from 50cc-70cc for the more experienced riders.

If the ATV is too powerful, this could well create a negative association with the vehicle, so remember to start small.

Skill Level

The old adage that practice makes perfect is perfect is appropriate to mention. Just like any other activity or sport, riding is a skill that needs to be developed over time. When purchasing an ATV for your kid, it is important to ensure that your child will be practiced and experienced enough to ride it. Children under the age of three years old will need to show a great awareness when riding.

In addition to awareness, the ability to control speed and direction are also of the utmost importance. From four to six years old (and once the basics are entrenched) most children can handle more power. This will allow your kid access to more power behind the throttle, which can serve to develop their reactions and decisions.

Like any skill it takes time to fully master it, so never rush a child onto a larger ATV before they are ready. With practice your child will develop their skills and should be able to control an ATV better.

Weight

A common mistake to make is when purchasing an ATV to simply look at the manufacturers age requirements. Age is secondary to weight on an ATV, so be sure to look at the weight requirements before purchasing based on age requirements. Not adhering to the weight parameters may lead to your child getting frustrated because they cannot manoeuvre the vehicle successfully.

This could in turn ruin the whole experience for your child, so it’s a good idea to allow your child to test drive the vehicle beforehand. Children between the age of three and seven can use an ATV that carries up to 40 pounds, meaning that the vehicle is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. From eight years old and up, children might well be able to use an ATV that carries up to 65 pounds. These ATVs are also easy to manoeuvre.

Best Cheap Electric ATVs for Younger Kids (Under 5 Year Olds)

These small ATVs are fantastic for learning the basics and are definitely among the safer options. As a general rule of thumb, most kid-sized ATVs will come with a throttle limiter.

Usually located on the handle bars, next to the throttle lever, a throttle limiter does exactly as the name suggests and limits the amount of throttle. A screw should be visible with a nut holding it in place. If screwed in completely, then the throttle is fully limited. Screwed out, the limiter is ineffective.

1. Yamaha Kids YFZ450R

For those who believe that starting kids off young is starting them right, then this ATV might be just what you are looking for. This ATV is one of the few that could indeed be classified as a toy, but it is also so much more than that. The Yamaha Kids YFZ450R is a scaled down electric quad, designed for children from 18-36 months.

This is ideal for parents that want to get their children used to an ATV from a very early age. This little quad will have your kids feeling like they just graduated to professional riding. The quad is very easy to use and can be started by a simple push button. It is great for both indoors and outdoors, so the fun never has to stop.

With fun comes learning, and this battery powered ATV provides four hours of riding on a single charge. This little ATV was designed specifically for toddlers who want to be riding around constantly. The Yamaha Kids YFZ450R transitions between most terrains with a luxurious ease that allows most not to even notice.

The ATV is also slow enough for adults to easily keep up on foot. The authentic Yamaha styling is enough to make your little one feel like they have the best ATV on the block. What’s more is that it runs smoothly, so your little one should be safe and sound aboard. As any avid ATV fan will tell you, there is no substitute for time in the seat.

The Yamaha Kids YFZ450R is the perfect way to hone your child’s riding skills at a young age. Who knew that developing physical and mental skills at such a young age could be so much fun?

2. Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw

When you think of Italian quality, a few qualities that come to mind are exceptional workmanship, fantastic build quality and beautiful styling. In light of this, the Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw delivers all this and more. Designed for kids aged three to eight, this ATV will give your child the sensation of riding a full-sized quad without the added safety issues. If adventure is in your child’s nature, then this is the ATV for them.

The Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw is built to handle rugged terrain, and made to last. With an incredible build quality, this ATV is also highly trendy. The durable body parts are given a glossy paint job to enhance the aesthetics, and the ATV is available in pink or red. The sturdy and capable wheels can handle varying terrains with ease. The realistic fenders and shocks add to the overall look of a full-sized ATV.

The Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw has two speed features, and using a two-speed gear this ATV can reach speeds of up to 5 mph (when in high-speed mode). As the ATV is weather resistant, this motor will work well in both summer and winter. The Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw has a 12V rechargeable battery and a smart pedal engine. This foot pedal, decreases the amount of jerking whilst riding, thus preserving the battery.

This along with its high-powered motor ensures that this ATV will work well in any terrain. The rear wheels are powered by independent motors ensuring better performance and there is also a handy reverse mode. Performance and safety comes standard with the Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw. The knobby wheels give very good traction and transitions well to most surfaces. For any novice riders, there is a “lockout” feature, which enables an automatic brake. There is also a wireless parental control function. This allows the Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw to be stopped remotely with the touch of a button.

3. Power Wheels Jurassic World Dino Racer

Any fan of the Jurassic Park franchise and especially the Jurassic World movie will immediately recognise the character on this ATV. Blue is one of the characters in the Jurassic World film, and one of the most popular at that. The ATV is designed to be enjoyed by every adventure-loving child and is just like riding on Blue’s back when journeying on the trails. The Power Wheels Jurassic World Dino Racer can take your child’s imaginary games to the next level.

One feature that makes this ATV stand out from the crowd is the mouth on the vehicle that can open and close manually on demand. The steel frame features a Power-lock brake pedal that was specifically designed to stop the ATV if it isn’t applied. This avoids the Power Wheels Jurassic World Dine Racer from running amok, in the event that your child falls off. For parents, the Power Wheels Jurassic World Dino Racer also offers peace of mind with a high-speed lockout.

With a maximum speed of 6 mph, parents can lower the speed as they see fit. This can be adjusted to respond to your child’s level of experience. This single seater can accommodate up to 65 pounds and the vehicle has a 12-volt battery that comes standard with a battery charger. With large, wide tires this ATV can handle whatever terrain you throw at it, and still be safe. Whether outdoors or indoors, the Power Wheels Jurassic World Dine Racer can handle it all. This sturdy and reliable little ATV is not only a treat the kids, but for adults as well.

What Type of ATV to Pick for a Kid Between the Age of 6 and 12 years?

Between the ages six and twelve, every child develops differently. Therefore, a child within this age group should be gaged based on their readiness and riding experience. As mentioned previously, when looking at an ATV for children, there are more important factors than age alone. Factors such as the child’s age, skill level, weight, height and experience need to be considered.

If you are confident that your child is skilled enough to handle a 50cc or 70cc gas powered ATV?, just be sure it is not too heavy or large for them to operate properly and confidently. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that children under eleven years old, be limited to 70cc engines.

Ensuring that your child is ready to ride in terms of physical and mental attributes will determine the type of ATV best suited for your child.

Best Electric ATVs for Younger Kids (Under 10 Year Olds)

1. Yamaha YFz50 – Best for Beginner-friendly Design

If your kid is going for an ATV ride for the first time and looking for an easy-to-learn ride, you better go with the Yamaha YFz50. This ATV is simple to use and still has a lot of build quality to handle any impacts earlier on while your kid learns on it.

Features

• This quad bike for kids features an effortless 4-step performance designed to fire the users around 6 and over. Its 49cc engine has a highly responsive engine with a speed limiter to cut the power once the speed limit is exceeded.
• It also features a design that doesn’t need much maintenance and care. Serving it up is not tricky primarily because of the easy-accessible air filter, and it doesn’t feature a chest cap. This is the only thing you need to care about with this kids’ quad bike.
• With its fully automatic CVT transmission, your kid doesn’t need to worry about the clutch. There is an electric start present on this bike, and a kickstart system well backs it up.
• The ATV features a full 1.5-gal fuel tank, and it also comes with very luxurious seats that will allow your kid to stay seated for hours without any fatigue. The floorboards are fully integrated as well as they are pretty spacious.
• This model also has a speed drivetrain that travels along a swing arm at such an angle that it is highly optimized for better rear shock delivery and performance.

Pros

• The quad bike comes with a sporty drivetrain.
• Highly optimized tires for better terrain handling.
• Seating is pretty comfortable.
• Secure stopping power.
• Shallow maintenance design.

Cons

• Not for the experienced riders.

Verdict

This model comes with highly reliable modern mechanics to ensure top-quality performance. It is effortless to operate and doesn’t require much maintenance making it ideally suitable for beginners.

2. Razor Dirt Quad- Best for Long Battery Life

Topping the list of the best ATVs for children is the Razor Dirt Quad. For kids aged eight years and above, this is the ideal vehicle to begin riding an ATV. This ATV has a list of features such as:

• Acceleration control
• Adjustable handlebars
• Coil shock technology
• Fantastic battery life
• Droop-travel rear suspension
• Shatter-resistant plastic fairings
• Pneumatic knobby tires

For parents looking to get their kids outside and away from modern gadgets, this is a fantastic option for the whole family can have fun safely together. Although this ATV might have a menacing name, the vehicle is far from dangerous. This ATV is specifically designed for kids and its list of features shows that as well.

The Razor Dirt Quad has two 12V batteries (battery charger included) and will take 12 hours to charge fully. Once fully charged, your kids can enjoy up to an hour of riding time. This quad is designed for kids eight years and older. The Razor Dirt Quad is very fast and requires good strength and reflexes, so make sure that your child is used to the ATV before powering it up fully.

Before using this particular ATV it’s a good idea to look through the instruction manual. This will give you a good idea of the features, and key safety details of the ATV. One example is that it has no reverse feature, which could prove problematic.

Kids from six to twelve years old will enjoy this ATV, although some parents have reported that kids as young as four are riding this ATV successfully. If your child is supervised adequately then user discretion is advised. This quad can carry up to 120 pounds when fully powered up, so it should last for many years.

Best Electric ATVs for Early Teenagers (10-12 Year Olds)

1. Honda TRX 90 – Best for Electric Ignition

The Honda TRX 90 is the best kids 4-wheeler on the market today. This is a small machine but does a fine job keeping your kids safe while providing them with enough cheers for having fun during the ride. The controls are straightforward for a kid to master.

Features

• Honda has equipped it with a single-cylinder air-cooled 90cc OHC engine suitable for all kids over 11. You can give it to them if they’re learning to ride an ATV or have some experience riding such a vehicle.
• This machine has its chassis design directly tied with Honda’s Sports series vehicles, and it looks pretty similar to Honda 450R.
• The quad bike has ergonomic designs, including its brake levers and handlebars, while the floorboards have raised foot pegs, which is an improvement in design from the previous model.
• Honda has also added new mudguards that prevent any mud-pillage on the floorboards. Plus, its bumpers are now buttoned out as well for better impact resistance.
• Its fuel tank has a 6.43-litre capacity that will give your kids a complete ride experience whenever they decide to take it out.

Pros

• Fully electric ignitions system.
• Better ride control.
• Large gas tank capacity.
• Restricted top speed.
• Powerful hydraulic drum braking system.

Cons

• Starting issues during cold weather.

Verdict

The Honda TRX 90 is the best Kids 4-wheeler because it comes with speed restrictors and is safe to ride for your kids without being too slow.

2. Polaris Ranger 150 – Best Side-by-Side Design

If you are looking for side-by-side options for your kids, you need to go for the Polaris Ranger 150. This ATV features a large digital panel and comes with GPS controls and various other safety features. You can conveniently set up a geofence that will prevent your kids from going into restricted areas.

Features

• It’s essentially a mini-car for your kids that comes with an inbuilt GPS. This will allow your kids to navigate accurately, and you can also keep an eye on their current location at all times.
• This ATV comes with larger tires to accommodate more weight, and it can conveniently handle different terrains with ease. The tires handle different terrains well, ensuring better ding comfort.
• It comes with a double A-arm suspension system on the front which means that the ride will be extremely comfortable no matter what the terrain is.
• This machine features actual instruments, including an odometer, a pedometer, a voltage meter, a trip meter, a temperature gauge, an hour meter, an RPM meter, a geofence status, and a service interval.
• A roll cage prevents it from rolling over and keeping your kids safe at all times.

Pros

• Better speeds control with a speed limiter for safety.
• It comes with actual instruments on it.
• Features a GPS and allows geofencing.
• Tracking your kids’ exact location is pretty simple.
• Excellent ground clearance.

Cons

• The roll cage could have a beefier design.

Verdict

This side-on-side ATV works very well if you are looking to kill two birds with one stone here. Both your kids can enjoy the ride simultaneously, and it comes with geofencing features that will allow you to prevent the kids from going to certain places.

3. Can-Am DS 90X Best for Early Teenagers

Closely following the Razor Dirt Quad, this four-wheeler is one of the best children’s quads on the list. The vehicle is aimed at kids ten years and older. As with other OEM’s, the kids’ quad in this feature is Can-Am’s DS 90X. This may not be the same as the real racing two-stroke minis, but it is still packed with features nonetheless.

The Can-Am DS 90X is all about safety features including:

• Genuine foot pegs attached to full-coverage nerf bars
• Guards on both the heel and toe bars
• Speed limiter for thumb throttle
• Hand operated hydraulic disc brakes all around

The controls are well placed and suit kids of all sizes very well. The racing look is complete with a large aluminium front bumper, racing seat cover, and Can-Am X-Team graphics. The Can-Am DS 90X weighs 250 pounds and is 59.8 inches long, and 43.7 inches wide. The seat is 27 inches off the ground and the total height is 38.2 inches. This allows for 4.5 inches of extra ground clearance.

The Can-Am DS 90X has magnificent suspension. The front suspension has dual A-arms instead of the regular single A-arm system, meaning reduced impact on bumps and great overall suspension. With the upgraded A-arms, the piggyback reservoir shocks also were upgraded to allow 7 inches of travel – almost double what their nearest competitor offer.

In addition to all this, the Can-Am DS 90X’s shocks are preloaded and adjustable and can hold more oil, thereby reducing any fading. The rear suspension has the same reservoir shocks, but with 9 inches of travel, including preloaded, adjustable suspension. The handling on this ATV can be traced back to its racing heritage seen in the racing-type Kenda Klaw tires.

These are the same as the tires used on their top 450 racers. The 90cc engine, along with all the other features listed here, makes this quad our top gas-powered choice.

Best Electric ATVs for Teenagers (12-16 Year Olds)

1. Tao Tao Youth ATV 110cc – Best for Thick Tires

This ATV features a 110cc Yamaha air-cooled engine that runs smoothly and provides a lot of comfort to the rider. If your kids love different colors, you can pick the right one from various colors based on their choice. You will always have control over this ATV’s top speed, thus keeping your kids safe at all times and preventing them from over-speeding.

Features

• This 4-wheeler comes with a hydraulic brake system that is pretty powerful and highly responsive when your kid presses the foot. But the overall riding experience remains pretty comfortable when the ATV is topping with no hiccups.
• The ATV comes with rear and front suspensions that ensure this 4-wheeler can handle a range of different terrain without any issues. The machine can comfortably handle uphill and downhill terrain at the same speed.
• It is heavier than most other models in a similar category. This model will stick to the ground, and there are lower chances if it is being rolled over for any reason.
• This youth 4-wheeler features an air-cooling system that doesn’t allow the machine to heat no matter how your kid handles it. Therefore, it is going to last for a long time to come.

Pros

• Its seat is pretty comfortable.
• Reverse and neutral is there,
• Lower seat for easy getting on/off.
• The cooling system features overheating.

Cons

• It takes some time to warm up.
• Parts are not readily available.

Verdict

This machine is a decent choice for older kids. With thick tires, this ride can provide them with a highly comfortable ride experience.

2. Motor HQ 125CC KIDS ATV – Best for Speed

This 4-wheeler is highly user-friendly and comes with a powerful lighting system that guarantees your kid’s safety in low-light conditions. Therefore, this can be driven in a crowded place with others around.

Features

• It comes with robust 6-inch wide tires. It means this quad bike for kids is meant for taking on all kinds of terrain fairly well.
• The ATV features a single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine that is air-cooled at all times to make sure that the ATV doesn’t heat up. Therefore, your ATV is going to last for a long time to come.
• It comes with a top speed of 34 miles an hour and does not feature a speed limit. Hence, the rider should understand the standards operating safety procedures to stay safe on the road if this ATV needs to understand the standards operating safety procedures.
• There are three gears on it with forwards, reverse, and neutral, keeping the ATV operation pretty simple for your kid.
• The machine has drums brakes on the front and hydraulic brakes on the rear section. It means that the machine comes with incredible stopping power to provide your kid with more control over his/her ride.

Pros

• Effortless to assemble.
• It comes with the reverse.
• The brake light and headlamps are there.
• There are two metals storage racks on it.

Cons

• It is not meant for little kids.

Verdict

This ATV for older kids packs quite the right punch for experienced riders who understand the standard safety guidelines. The operation is simple, and its braking system is quite powerful.

What Makes an ATV into ATV?

Characteristically, an ATV will have four wheels with off-road or dirt tyres, with a centre seat, and handlebars. Some weigh an excess of 600 pounds, with powerful engines allowing them to reach speeds in excess of 65 mph.

The Types of ATVs

As with other off-road vehicles, there is a type of ATV best suited for you and your unique needs. Whether for hunting, carrying, racing, or simply to have some fun with the kids, there is an ATV for everyone. So without further ado, let’s jump right in and take a look at the four main types in more detail.

Sport ATVs

If swift, lightweight and reactive are qualities you look for in an ATV, then a sport ATV might be for you. These nimble machines are certain to get your pulse up, complete with a wide smile on your dial.  Usually under 700cc and fully customizable, sport ATVs can be designed to accommodate your every need.

With performance being paramount, the sport ATV is so much more than a big engine on a steel frame. These ATVs have long travel suspension, excellent manoeuvrability, which coupled with a powerful engine, are perfect for off-road thrill-seekers. Bumps and jumps beware! This ATV will conquer without a moment’s hesitation.

Side by Side ATVs

Often mistaken for a golf cart due to its size, side by side ATVs are very similar to sport ATVs in performance. Side by side ATVs are just as agile as sport ATVs, and have a larger engine to carry cargo and passengers. The name side by side is given because of the two front seats, and often back seats on this ATV.

Unlike the Sport ATV however, the side by side ATV has seat belts, foot pedals, a roll bar and a steering wheel. Similar to a golf cart, the rider and passengers sit alongside each other. Side by side ATVs have been reinforced so that no terrain is insurmountable. Tundra, desert, or barren wasteland, this ATV can handle it all.

Utility ATVs

Robust, hardy, and astonishingly powerful, are just a few of the words that come to mind when describing the utility ATV. Designed for business or pleasure, any man or woman would find the utility ATV appealing. Often used by hunters because of the exceptional cargo and carrying capacity, the utility ATV is exceptionally versatile.

With some engines exceeding 1 000cc, these ATVs are powerful enough to conquer any terrain. In addition to the exceptional cargo and carrying capabilities, the utility ATV features brilliant towing abilities as well. Used mainly for hauling or ploughing, these ATVs are prime real-estate on any farm or ranch.

With superior ground clearance and the ability to comfortably carry two people, these features more than make up for the lack of agility. Unlike the sport ATVs the utility ATV requires less maintenance as they tend to be handled more moderately.

Youth ATVs

Unlike their big brothers (the sport and utility ATVs) the youth ATVs are far slower, and deliberately so – for obvious safety reasons. With an automatic transmission the youth ATV is more manageable, so kids can focus on riding without the worry of gears. The majority of youth ATVs have minimal suspension travel, so unless you weigh 100 pounds or less, then it’s a good idea to keep off!

That being said, riding is no longer solely for adults, and youth ATVs are a fun way to spend time with your kids outdoors. Youth ATVs allow parents to rest easy, knowing that these ATVs are tailored to their child’s experience level. From the age of four years old, there is an ATV for every age group. From electric, automatic variants to gas powered and geared ATVs – there is an ATV for every level of experience.

Are ATVs legal?

Throughout America, the majority of states allow for teens and older kids to ride an ATV without a driver’s permit. ATVs are not regulated federally and there is no age limit enforced, but each state has its own guidelines. Regulations vary dramatically from state to state – where some require riders to be as old as sixteen, while others set the limit at ten years of age. In some states, supervision by a licenced adult is mandatory. With all this in mind, it’s a good idea to check the laws in your region before allowing your kids to ride an ATV.

Are ATVs Safe for Kids?

Yes they are, if they’re properly supervised by an adult and ridden responsibly. Still, an ATV can be a challenge to control at speed, and it is well known that the vehicles are prone to rolling over.

In case you are wondering why that may be, an ATV has a high centre of gravity, meaning that it is a tipping hazard, so keep this in mind and only ride at low speeds. With no safety cage, roll bar or safety harness of any kind, ATVs can result in serious injury.  Common injuries include head injuries, cuts, scrapes and broken bones such as arms or legs.

Remember to wear riding protection at all times, and to make sure that a child knows how to use the ATV safely.

You should also be aware that some ATVs may be too large for smaller kids to use safely, so it is a good idea to look into this, even if a child is legally of age. For children under the age of 16, kids are less likely react in time should the riding environment change quickly.

At the end of the day, an ATV is not a toy, and collisions at higher speeds could well be fatal. To avoid trips to an emergency room, it’s best to keep speeds to the minimum.

Safety Guidelines for Children Riding ATVs

Some safety guidelines to follow before allowing your kids to ride an ATV:

• Only ride when it is safe to do so, preferably during daylight hours.
• Keep the speeds low and only ride in designated areas deemed safe.
• Only ride an ATV that is appropriate for your weight, size and age.
• Take a safety course, and learn the basics of first aid in case of an emergency.
• Always make sure to wear protective equipment, such as long pants, gloves, over-the-ankle boots, long sleeve shirts etc. It is required by law that an approved helmet and eye protection is always worn on an ATV.

Definitely stay well away from three-wheeled ATVs. While there are still some around, due to stability issues no more have been produced since 1988. Although it may seem obvious, be sure never to ride when under the influence of alcohol. Keep off paved surfaces unless crossing them, and never allow kids or teens to ride with a passenger. For licensed riders, do not exceed the number of passengers allowed by the manufacturer.

The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) advises that no one under that age of 16 should ride an ATV.

Which is Safer for a Kid – Electric or Gas ATVs?

This is a question that more and more people are asking these days. Whether because of emissions or lower maintenance costs, the majority of buyers are moving towards electric ATVs. In recent years, ATVs have become increasingly popular across the United States with more than 10 million currently in use.

Buying an ATV is a long-term commitment, and choosing the right one can make a huge difference to your pocket. At the end of the day, the choice boils down to your unique needs and desires. Keep in mind that while a gas-powered ATV will be much faster, you will need gas to ride. On the other hand, an electric ATV requires hours of charging time.

One benefit to electric ATVs is that they are much cheaper, however they are not as durable as gas-powered ATVs. An electric ATV is very limited by its range, usually lasting just over five miles, but accelerating much faster. Electric ATVs are much quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. This is because a gas-powered engine is an internal combustion engine, and so it naturally produces noise when running.

In comparison, an electric ATV is almost silent, so if you’re worried about noise pollution, this could be the option for you. With fewer moving parts an electric engine is easier to maintain, meaning that there is less chance of damage. A gas-powered ATV requires gas on a regular basis and may cost several hundred dollars a year.

Electric ATVs have rechargeable batteries, and electricity is much cheaper than gasoline. Recycling the old lithium-ion batteries will also allow a reduced rate on the new batteries. The main drawback in terms of electric ATVs is the range and the hours of charging time. When opting for an electric ATV or a gas-powered ATV, it depends how practical it is for you.

Ultimately, if you are looking for a recreational vehicle then an electric ATV may be for you. On the other hand, if you need an ATV for work purposes then gas is likely the best way forward.

Should You Supervise Your Child When They Ride an ATV?

For a number of families, four-wheeling is so much more than just a sport. Many families rely on ATVs for work and for others, it’s all about bonding with loved ones. In terms of what sized ATV you should choose for a kid (and at what age), the sooner your child gets out and starts enjoying the local trails, the better.

But when is too soon and what role do the parents or guardians play in this activity? Well, as mentioned previously, the age of the child is insignificant when compared to the child’s readiness.  As a parent or guardian your primary role that of a safety instructor. Your child will only adhere to safe riding techniques if you reinforce these guidelines thoroughly. The more consistently that this is successfully achieved, the more it will become second nature to your kid.

When a novice (of any age) is initially learning how to ride, they should never do it unsupervised. At first, they may require strict supervision, but soon any beginner will be showing off how quickly they have learned. So remember to stay close by, as most children learn better when a parent or guardian is around to keep watch.

This will also give you a chance to make sure that they are doing it correctly. With any vehicle (and especially with ATVs) the younger a child learns, the faster the riding techniques take root. The sooner the basics are taught, the better for the overall development of the child. This will also keep your child safer as well in the long run.

The Bottom Line

In this comprehensive guide, we have covered almost every aspect of ATVs for kids aged from 18-months to 16 years old and above. Remember to gauge your child’s readiness and experience over age when buying your kid’s first ATV. We reiterate once again, that children under the age of 6 years old are not advised to ride quad bikes, so please, be mindful and stay safe. Always make sure that your child is wearing the correct safety protection, and that there is a parent or guardian present. Federal law states that a child should always wear a helmet and protective equipment, so stay safe and have a good time with your kids as they ride a brand new ATV!