Introduction into kids 4-wheelers
Kids four-wheelers are also referred to as all-terrain-vehicles/ATVs for kids, four-wheeler buggies for amateurs, or gas four-wheelers for kids. They are exciting outdoor machines that introduce kids to driving gas-powered vehicles at an early age.
The best four-wheelers allow kids to enjoy the thrill that comes with controlling an off-road vehicle. They pack plenty of safety features to ensure that kids are safe throughout the activity.
ATV: All types of vehicles
ATVs are available in different sizes and shapes. They are also built for different purposes, such as recreation, racing, ranching, military, industrial, emergency services, pit-vehicles, and hunting. There’s an ATV for just about any outdoor activity you can think of.
The most common ATVs sold on the market today are four-wheeled. Some come with three, six, and even eight wheels. The advancement in technology has also brought about ATVs that are environmentally friendly. These are powered solely by batteries.
Below is a list of all the types of ATVs available on the market today:
- Side by Sides
Side by Side ATVs are also called Rhino’s or SxS. They pack powerful suspensions that are also used in sport quads and run on larger and more powerful motors. They have a short wheelbase and are lightweight enough to carry both cargo and passengers. SxS are popular among rural communities. In some areas, they are registered for highway use. They act as pit vehicles at race events and give users an alternative form of mobility and transportation. The military and Fire and Rescue departments use modified versions for tough outdoor activities. - Utility ATVs
These are the most popular ATVs. They are built for short travels and feature a large motor, travel suspension, and other accessories for hunting and working. They are commonly found in ranches and agricultural areas where feeding, repair, and other similar tasks take place. They can also be found in the hands of hunters who carry heavy cargo and traverse rough terrain. Their electric versions are gaining traction with hunters because of their ability to move quietly. - Sport ATVs
These are the second most popular all-terrain-vehicles in America. They run on engines ranging from 250cc to 700cc. They are lightweight and feature strong suspensions that can handle turns, jumps, and bumps. They offer great opportunities for modification and enhancements thanks to the availability of multiple accessories that can be used to alter their performance and style. - Sport ATVs are built to be quicker than other quads. They have responsive engines designed for races. Extra care is taken in designing them to ensure they have strong suspension and are safe enough for racing.
- Children’s ATVs
Children’s ATVs are available in smaller sizes. They run on smaller engines that range from 50cc to 125cc. They offer an automatic transmission, less power, and no gears or suspension at all. They are designed for kids and riders with little to no experience in riding all-terrain-vehicles. Their total weight rarely exceeds 150 pounds to ensure that they are light enough for kids to handle.
What really matters when choosing kids ATV
- Engine Size
The average kid ATV runs on an engine size of between 50cc and 110cc. Engine size requirements for young riders are governed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Youth riders should be at least 16 years old to ride an ATV that runs on an engine of about 90cc. Manufacturers also provide guidelines on different engine sizes for the youth. - Style
There are several color and size variations for kids ATVs. If your child would like a mixture of different colors on their ATV, manufacturers offer plenty of custom color options that you can choose from. You can also get matching colors for your adult ATV. - Speed
Kids ATVs come equipped with speed limiters that allow parents to choose how fast they want their kids to ride. The fastest ATVs are utility and sport ATVs. They can reach up to a speed of 80mph. A typical four-wheeler has a top speed of about 65 mph. - Safety features
Many ATVs feature plenty of safety features for riding. These includes a brake wear indicator that notifies you when your brakes need a replacement, a safety flag that helps to inform other riders where your ATV is located when riding in areas full of obstruction, an exhaust port restrictor that limits speed and engine power for kids, and an engine stop lanyard that lets adults turn off their child’s engine using a lanyard cord. - Battery
ATVs come equipped with a battery that has a nominal voltage of 12.6 Volts. These are designed to last up to 3 years, with some lasting as long as 5 years. This is, of course, with excellent maintenance and proper care. Some ATVs that can run without a battery. - Terrain
All ATVs are built for all types of terrains. They can accommodate only one passenger, with special models being able to accommodate two. Different types of ATVs serve different purposes. Generally, they are all built to withstand the toughest of road conditions.
Electric VS gas powered
Electric ATVs are quieter and cost less to maintain compared to gas-powered ATVs. Their only downside is that they tend to be less powerful and may run out of juice fast if not charged regularly.
Gas-powered ATVs are loud and cost more to maintain. They tend to be more powerful and may be intimidating for first-time riders. To find out which of the two types of ATVs suits you, visit your ATV retailer to carry out a test ride.
FAQ:
At what age are children allowed to drive ATV?
Only children above the age of 6 years are allowed to drive an ATV. Those between the age of 6 and 11 are advised to ride ATVs under 70cc. Those between 12 and 15 years can ride ATVs with engine capacities of between 70 and 90cc. Those of 16 years and above can ride ATVs running on more than 90cc.
Are ATVs safe for kids?
Children under the age of 16 are not advised to use ATVs. They can be too large for them to handle safely. Children are also assumed to lack the strength, maturity, judgment, and knowledge required to operate ATVs.
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