Riding ATV&#;s can be a family affair. However, if you purchase the wrong ATV size, your children may have to wait quite some time before they can safely use the vehicle.
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Children as young as 6 years old can learn to operate an ATV, but you&#;ll need to be mindful of the right size for their age group. In addition to choosing the right size ATV, you also must consider gas/electric as well as the terrain that your little ones will traverse.
Here&#;s a breakdown of everything you should need to choose the right ATV size for your child&#;s age.
The engine size is one of the most critical factors when choosing an ATV for your child. The operator ATV engine size can significantly impact the ATV&#;s power and, by extension, its safety and suitability for your child.
ATVs with an engine size under 70cc are considered suitable for young riders aged 6 to 11. They offer an optimal balance of safety and power for this age group, which helps to minimize ATV-related injuries. Obtaining an ATV safety training certificate can further ensure the safety and awareness of these young riders.
Top models like the Renegade 70 EFI and the Polaris Outlaw are specifically designed for children aged 6-11. They are equipped with speed limiters that constrain the vehicle&#;s speed, encouraging young riders to adopt slower and safer riding speeds.
Image Credit: Can-Am (Model Pictured: Renegade 70 EFI)
As your child grows into their preteen years, they may be ready to handle a bit more power. For preteens aged 12 to 15, experts typically recommend youth-sized ATVs with engine sizes between 70cc and 90cc. These ATVs offer an ideal blend of power and control, accommodating the developing skills and physique of preteens.
Some of the best ATV models in this category include Arctic Cat&#;s Alterra 90, Can-Am DS 70, and Honda TRX90X.
It&#;s hard to keep a young teen from having fun on an ATV, yet adult-size ATVs may not be something they are ready for. These models strike a balance between safety and get-up-and-go.
Image Credit: Alterra 90 (Model Pictured Arctic Cat&#;s Alterra 90)
Once your child reaches the age of 16 and above, they might be ready to handle an adult-sized ATV with engine sizes ranging from 150cc to 300cc. These ATVs provide the power and capability needed for more serious off-road pursuits.
It&#;s important to note that even kids&#; ATVs are only recommended after proper safety training. Training is essential even with a new rider 16+ years of age.
Notable models in this range include the Vitacci Pentora 150cc, suitable for proficient teenagers and individuals of smaller stature.
Image Credit: Vitacci Pentora (Model Pictured: Vitacci Pentora 150cc)
Alongside ATV engine sizes, understanding the dimensions of the ATV, including seat height, footrest position, and weight capacity, is essential as they significantly influence the rider&#;s comfort and safety.
The seat height should be measured from the ground to the lowest point of the seat when the bike is upright and not loaded down with gear and equipment.
Rider Height (inches)Recommended Seat Height (inches)Footrest to Seat Distance (inches)Under &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; &#; and above33 and above22 and aboveUnderstanding the weight capacity of an ATV is also crucial. An ATV&#;s weight capacity is the maximum weight it can safely support. This includes the rider&#;s weight and any additional cargo.
Typically, sport or racing quads have a weight limit of around 200 pounds, whereas utility ATVs can have weight limits ranging from 400 to 550 pounds.
Surpassing the specified limit can significantly impact the ATV&#;s stability and maneuverability, consequently elevating the likelihood of accidents.
ATV suspension systems and tires also play a significant role in rider control and comfort. They ensure a smooth ride and maintain traction on various terrains.
Balloon tires provide the following benefits:
These features make balloon tires an excellent choice for beginners and kids just getting into ATV riding.
Conversely, racing ATV tires are designed for sport and deliver enhanced traction and performance across different terrains. They optimize traction and grip at elevated speeds, something only more advanced riders will need.
Adjusting the suspension of an ATV can significantly improve the rider&#;s control and comfort. ATV suspension systems vary, but they generally incorporate springs to absorb uneven terrain and shock absorbers to mitigate the movement of the springs.
Rider weight affects the need for ATV suspension adjustments. For example, modifications to compression damping and shock length may be necessary to prevent excessive bottoming out and to optimize ride height.
Gas-powered and electric type ATVs come with their unique advantages, and your choice will primarily hinge on your child&#;s age, experience, and the type of terrain they will be navigating.
Electric-powered ATVs are particularly well-suited for novice ATV riders because of their user-friendly features.
These include single-speed, automatic transmissions, and safety attributes such as parental controls and adjustable speed limits.
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Additionally, seeking guidance from a certified ATV or four-wheeler safety instructor can further enhance the learning experience.
The reduced noise level of electric-powered ATVs might be preferable to those under 10 years of age who may be overwhelmed by louder gas ATVs.
Older or more experienced riders typically choose gas-powered ATVs. They have a range of speeds and have more power. Gas-powered ATVs are a better fit for rough terrain. Electric-battery ATVs cruising across the same exact terrain will wear down faster.
The correct ATV size is crucial for both safety and maneuverability. However, there&#;s another reason to keep ATV size in mind: storage. Where are you going to store your child&#;s ATV?
If you lack space in your own garage for your new four-wheelers, consider Neighbor. Neighbor is a self storage marketplace that provides safe, nearby, and budget-friendly storage units right in your neighborhood. Since most youth ATVs are not much longer than 60 inches, a 5&#;x10&#; storage unit will be the perfect solution to store the new four-wheeler.
A 250cc ATV is suitable for older teens and adults who have experience operating smaller ATVs and understand safety and operating instructions. This typically includes riders aged 14 and up.
A 125cc ATV is suitable for children who need an ATV they can grow into (that is also equipped with the necessary parental controls).
For a 12-year-old, ATVs in the 70cc to 110cc range are typically suitable, focusing on the child&#;s size and riding experience for safety.
A 250cc ATV is generally too powerful for a complete beginner. It&#;s best to start with a smaller ATV in the 50cc to 125cc range.
Riding is a longstanding tradition in many families, and most can&#;t wait to get their kids involved. Luckily, they don&#;t have to! Today&#;s market offers more ATVs and UTVs for kids than ever before.
Youth four wheelers and UTVs are great because they&#;re designed with young, new riders in mind. Safety features and parental controls offer independence for kids and peace of mind for their parents. There&#;s no better way to empower young riders.
If you&#;re ready to invest in a youth machine but aren&#;t sure where to begin, you can relax! We&#;ve done all the research for you. Here are some of the best ATVs and UTVs for kids.
NOTE: The information in this article is not intended to replace manufacturer guidance. Always pay attention to the age recommendations for your specific model and adhere to local laws when riding.
Youth four wheelers are smaller, slower, and safer than standard models. Features like built-in throttle limiters and safety tethers let kids explore the trail or racetrack safely and confidently.
Check out five of the best quads for kids on the market today.
Recommended for ages 10 and up, the DS 70 is the perfect starter quad for little ones who are interested in off-roading. A built-in throttle limiter keeps them from getting too crazy behind the handlebars. Can-Am also has DS 90 and DS 250 models available, in case you have kids who are ready for a little more power.
Engine Type70cc 4-stroke single cylinderSuspensionFront: Independent A-arm with 3.4&#; travelThe TRX90X features a no-clutch transmission that&#;s exclusive to Honda four wheelers. It lets kids focus on having fun while teaching them to shift gears. This youth ATV is recommended for kids ages 10 and older.
Engine Type86cc 4-stroke single cylinder SOHCSuspensionFront: Independent with 2.6&#; travelThe KFX50 is geared toward kids ages 6 and older. It features an electric start for simple operation and full floorboards to protect little feet. An adjustable throttle limiter lets parents set the speed and performance to match each kid&#;s experience level. Kawasaki also makes the KFX90, which is designed for slightly older riders.
Engine Type49.5cc 4 stroke single cylinderSuspensionFront: Single A-arm with 2.8&#; travelThe Sportsman 110 EFI is the kid-focused version of the classic Polaris ATV. It&#;s recommended for ages 10 and up. This quad comes with a youth helmet, a safety tether, working lights, and a whip flag. Parents can use the speed limiting adjuster to choose the appropriate top speed for their child.
Engine Type112cc 4-stroke single cylinderSuspensionFront: Single A-arm with 5&#; travelThe Raptor 90 features a gated shifter and electric start with backup kickstart. A compact front suspension and long, secure wheelbase make it easy to handle&#;perfect for young riders. This four wheeler is designed for kids ages 10 and up. Want a little more power for your kiddo? They make a 125cc model, too.
Engine Type90cc 4-stroke SOHCSuspensionFront: Single A-arm with 5&#; travelThere&#;s nothing better than exploring the trails in a side-by-side, but those machines wield a little too much power for young kids. That&#;s where UTVs for kids come into play. These scaled-down models have safety features like full doors, secure roll cages, and high-tech parental controls that keep little ones safe behind the wheel.
Here are some of the best and safest side-by-sides for kids.
The Strike 250 is recommended for ages 12 and older. It comes with a roof, windshield, brake lights, headlights, turn signals, and horn. There are five trim options to choose from, and all standard models come with a lb. winch.
Engine Type229cc 4-stroke single cylinder OHCDrive System2WDSuspensionFront: Dual A-armStraight from the factory, the Avenger 150 comes with front and rear bumpers, nerf bars, a race cage, half windshield, headlights, taillights, and a soft top. To make it even safer, parents are able to adjust the throttle control from beginner to expert level. The Avenger is one of the most affordable youth UTVs on the market, making it a great choice for beginners.
Engine Type150cc 4-stroke single cylinderDrive System2WDSuspensionFront: Double A-arm with coil over, spring pre-load adjustableThe youth Ranger is recommended for ages 10 and up. It comes with a safety flag, two helmets, and an adjustable steering wheel and driver&#;s seat. Extensive parental controls include geofencing and digital speed limiting. Newer models also utilize Polaris&#; new Helmet Aware Technology, which shuts the engine off if the helmet gets too far away from the vehicle.
Engine Type150cc 4-stroke single cylinderDrive System2WDSuspensionFront: Single A-arm with 5.1&#; travelWith 10&#; of ground clearance and 24&#; tires, the RZR 200 EFI is one of the sportiest youth UTVs on the market. It comes with the same Youth Ride Control features as the youth Ranger, so parents can monitor speed and performance even when out of sight.
Engine Type180cc 4-stroke single cylinderDrive System2WDSuspensionFront: Dual A-arm with 7&#; travelBright LED headlights and taillights, an LED light bar, and mesh doors make the SRU170 a perfect starter machine. It&#;s sporty looking with a simple design, allowing only for forward, neutral, and reverse. At 98&#; long, it&#;s one of the longest youth UTVs out there&#;that extra stability is great for new riders.
Engine Type168.9cc 4-stroke single cylinderDrive SystemRWDSuspensionFront: Dual A-armYouth ATVs and side-by-sides are great for several reasons. For kids, they offer independence, safety, and confidence. For parents, they deliver control and peace of mind. And for the off-road community, they&#;re helping to foster a new generation of riders.
If you have kids who are dying to get behind the wheel (or the handlebars), but aren&#;t quite old enough for these machines, check out these battery-operated ATVs and UTVs! There really is something out there for every rider, regardless of age or ability level.
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