As parents, we all want our children to get off those screens and get outside. Our children need to experience the great outdoors and enjoy activities that promote physical fitness, confidence, and fun. One of the best ways to achieve this is through ATV biking! These all-terrain vehicles offer a thrilling adventure that can be safe and enjoyable for both kids and parents. In this blog post, we’ll explore why ATV bikes for kids are the perfect choice for your child’s next outdoor adventure and how to buy the best ATV for their age.
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- Our Kids' ATV Story
- Safety First
- Kids ATV Riding Benefits
- Why Kids Love ATV Bikes
- ATV Kids Adventure Experiences
- How To Buy Your Child's First ATV Bike
- How Much Does an ATV Cost in Canada?
- What Age Can a Child Ride a Quad Bike?
- How Can I Ensure My Child Rides Their ATV Safely?
- DON'T FORGET THE SAFETY GEAR!
- What Size ATV Can a Child Ride?
- How Fast Do ATV Bikes for Kids Go?
- Can Kids Ride Adult-sized ATVs?
- Final Thoughts on ATV Bikes for Kids
Our Kids’ ATV Story
When our son was a toddler, he loved driving his Peg Perego John Deere and the Polaris Outlaw Ride-On ATV. He would ride it until the battery drained. While visiting an ATV dealer, they happen to have a youth ATV in stock. Let’s just say that it took forever to peel this boy off this machine. After this, every visit to a dealer looked the same. As did the price tag. One day, the dealership had an event special, which made the price more attractive and helped put a smile on everyone’s face, including the wallet. The lucky little boy was six years old when he got his first real kids quad bike.
Do we regret buying him an ATV at this age? NO! Did we get those under-the-nose comments for letting a child so young ride? YES! Did it bother us? No, and I’ll tell you the same thing my husband told our neighbours and everyone else. We would rather teach him how to ride under our watch and get the thrills and giggles out of the way than when he is 16, and we can’t be there to control those teenage impulses, like speeding and losing control. No parent wants to be on the receiving end of those calls. Teenage impulses are the worst, and they can lead to serious harm. Can I guarantee our son won’t show off when he gets his car? NO! But we can teach responsibility, appreciation and safety from a young age.
Safety First
ATVs have a few safety features that make modern ATV bikes safe and suitable for young riders. These features include:
We purchased the Yamaha Raptor 90 for our son, as it had a keyed ignition, which is perfect for when those little ears were not listening. The heat shield on the exhaust is not the same as in a car – all it means is that the ATV fenders cover the exhaust to prevent your little one from touching it. The adjustable speed limiter is for you. It lets you control the speed of the ATV. Just don’t adjust it in front of your child. They have sharp little minds and will quickly decipher what you’re up to.
Kids ATV Riding Benefits
1. Physical Activity
Every child loves the thrill of riding, whether a bike, ATV, battery-powered ride-ons, horse or mom and dad’s back. Riding an ATV is a fantastic way to get the kids off their behinds and outside. It helps improve their coordination, balance, strength and motor skills, all while having a blast outdoors.
2. Building Confidence
This one is a big one! Your child’s ability, instinct and skillset develop gradually as they overcome challenges and navigate different terrains. As they master these skills needed to ride an ATV, their self-esteem grows, and they become empowered.
3. Family Bonding
Personally, being able to off-road with my whole family is one of the most heartfelt moments. Seeing the smiles and giggles is all it takes to make everyone’s day more special and memorable. ATV biking strengthens that all-important family bond! Family ATVing = Outdoor Fun!
4. Exploring Nature
ATV biking opens the doors to discovering the great outdoors in a very different way through uncovering new trails, enjoying scenic views, spotting wildlife, and developing a love for nature, the outdoors and outdoor play.
Why Kids Love ATV Bikes
Ask any child, and they pretty much have the same response: FREEDOM! For little ones, ATVing is an exhilarating ride. From the wind in their face to the feeling of control and achievement, kids are on cloud 9 when riding an ATV. They think they’re driving fast and taking on challenging terrains, even though they are speed-limited, and the rough terrain is small bumps in a field or backyard. But don’t kid yourself – after a month or two of the same speed and scenery, your child will beg you to let them go faster, further, on rough terrain and steep hills.
ATV Kids Adventure Experiences
In Ontario, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly ATV adventure tours. My son’s first guided tour was at the Deerhurst Resort when he was 6. Through the Deerhurst Yamaha Riding Adventures program, they offer snowmobiling and ATV adventures. He wasn’t allowed to ride on the trails, but they did allow him to drive a Yamaha mini quad, where he had an introductory lesson, followed by a couple of laps with a guide. Afterward, he rode several laps on his own in a safe environment.
My husband booked their 2-hour SxS guided tour with my son through a challenging terrain in Northern Ontario. Just a heads up, your baby will come home exhausted from any guided ATV adventure!
If you’re looking for a guided ATV tour near you, check out Destinations Ontario Guided ATV Tours. They have a short list broken down by region. If you ask around, most off-roaders will point you toward Mukwa Adventures and the Mattawa ATV Guide Service in Northern Ontario. Both are family-friendly and cater to beginners. Don’t worry about a bike – most guides provide safety gear and ATV bikes for family activities.
How To Buy Your Child’s First ATV Bike
Getting your children outdoors is vital to their well-being, and ATV biking is one way to get them outside. While riding their bike or on a ride-on, assess your child’s maturity and ability to follow instructions. Your child is ready when they follow through on your instruction – then and only then can they graduate to a real ATV.
A few of the top ATV brands sell youth ATV bikes, but before you jump at the opportunity to buy one, make sure your child is ready. Supervision is critical, especially for younger riders, no matter their skill level.
How Much Does an ATV Cost in Canada?
To buy a brand new Kids’ ATV from CF Moto, Yamaha, Polaris or even Can-Am, you’re looking at a starting price of $3,100 and up. This starting point is for a smaller ATV for ages 6+. For ATV riders 10+, this price point starts at $4,000 and up.
Cheaper alternatives, like Tao Motors, start around $1,200. Unfortunately, it is not a brand we have heard of or know. We always suggest to anybody looking to buy any vehicle – buy what you can get parts from locally and is reputable. The last thing you want to do is travel to the unknown to get a part or service.
What Age Can a Child Ride a Quad Bike?
The best age to start riding ATVs for kids is 6 to 12. A 6-year-old can ride a starter ATV bike, providing they can comfortably grip the handles to pull the throttle.
Children with smaller hands will have trouble grasping the throttle to keep the ATV going. It leads to hand fatigue and a not-so-fun experience. Children with proper hand grip also tire easily and will take frequent breaks.
How Can I Ensure My Child Rides Their ATV Safely?
To promote safe ATV riding for kids, start by teaching your child the basic rules of ATV operation and safety. Some other ATV bike riding tips for kids are:
DON’T FORGET THE SAFETY GEAR!
Your child needs a DOT-approved ATV helmet, even if it’s just a quick ride in front of the house. Get them into the habit of putting their helmet on AND having them properly fasten it. My rule is, ‘No Helmet, No Keys!’
We know helmets are annoying and uncomfortable, but it’s a safety requirement. There will come a time when your child will hit a tree because they miscalculated their turn or accidentally ditch the quad. It may even throw them off the ATV bike, which does happen even at low speeds.
Our kids loved their Gmax Helmets, only because they featured a cool graphic and came in various bright colours. It is a full-faced helmet. If you opt for an open-face helmet, ensure your child wears ATV goggles.
Other safety gear you can invest in are ATV gloves to prevent blisters and sweaty hands, and if you want to go the extra mile, you can opt for a chest protector.
What Size ATV Can a Child Ride?
How Fast Do ATV Bikes for Kids Go?
The speed of ATVs for kids varies by model, but most are designed to operate at lower speeds, typically between 10 to 30 mph. It ensures a safer experience for younger riders. Always check the specifications of the specific ATV to understand its speed capabilities.
Can Kids Ride Adult-sized ATVs?
No, kids should not ride adult-sized ATVs. These vehicles are too powerful and heavy for young riders, making them difficult to control and increasing the risk of accidents. It’s important to choose age-appropriate ATVs for kids designed for their size and skill level.
Final Thoughts on ATV Bikes for Kids
In conclusion, ATV biking is not just the best outdoor activity for kids; it’s a fantastic way to learn, grow, and bond with family. By choosing ATV bikes for your child’s outdoor adventures, you’ll gift them the gift of exploration, confidence, and unforgettable experiences. So gear up, hit the trails, and watch your kids thrive in the great outdoors!
What are your thoughs about ATV bikes for kids? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
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ATVs are a great way to get the kids outside doing a fun physical activity instead of inside on the screens! I can also see how it’s good to teach them responsible driving from a young age. My husband grew up with ATVs in the woods and has so many fun memories with them!
Yes, I couldn’t agree more! I doubt any kid remembers what they watched on screens, but the adventures and memories of outdoor play or interaction with others is priceless. Thanks so much for your comment!
Who doesn’t love ATV biking? It’s a great outdoor activity, and it’s a lot safer than one might think thanks to the speed limit. Thanks for sharing!
Absolutely! And the joy one bike can bring out of a person is incredible. Thanks for your comment!
I would have been into this for sure if we lived outside the city. My boys would have loved it.
The city has it’s perks, but unfortunately there’s no room for the fun toys!
I have a feeling this post will come in handy when my toddler is older. This is great for parents like me that don’t know/understand the specifics about atv’s. Great post!
Awe, I am so happy to hear this!! We try so hard to help put the minds of parents and beginners at ease. The outdoors is only scary if you are ill prepared. I’m sure your LO will love atving once they come of age. Thanks for your comment!
ATVs are the best! 😎
100% 👍
My boys would love this ! A bit young now but when they’re older they’ll love this.
They absolutely would!! So, much so, that you’ll have a hard time getting them off the ATV.