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8 Best Kids and Youth ATVs in 2024

In this article, we’re reviewing which are the best ATVs for kids and youths. Getting behind the wheel is a dream many children have from an early age. Small ATVs are a great way to help make those dreams come true – and get them playing outdoors!

There is a wide range of ATVs for children – they are smaller, lighter and slower than those built for adults. This not only makes them safer and cheaper, but also much easier for kids to ride.

We have carefully reviewed dozens of fab four wheelers to select the 8 best kids ATVs in 2024. From walking pace electric vehicles suitable for the youngest, right up to speedy gas powered machines for youths, there’s something here for everyone.

You’ll find our three top picks below, followed by a quick comparison table of all 8 models. Then a review of each ATV in more detail. Finally, our buying guide and FAQ, to help you find the best ATV for your kids.

Ultimate Choice

TaoTao ATA 125D Gas ATV Quad

TaoTao ATA-125D Gas ATV

See at Amazon

Best Value

Razor Dirt Quad

Razor Dirt Quad for Kids ATV

See at Amazon

Best for Toddlers

Peg Perego John Deere Tractor

John Deere Ground Force Tractor

See at Amazon

Best Kids ATVs – Quick Comparison Table

The selected ATVs below are in ascending order of price and top speed. After the table we then review each vehicle, in the same order, to make comparing them easier.

If you’re on a small screen, click on the green plus sign, or the little picture of each ATV, to see more features.

NameAgePowerTop
Speed
PriceWeight
Limit
Costzon Kids ATVCostzon Kids Ride On ATV3-812 volt2.6 mph$88 lbs
Best Choice Electric CarBest Choice Products 12V Ride On Car3+12 volt3.7 mph$65 lbs
Peg Perego John Deere TractorPeg Perego John Deere Tractor with Trailer3-712 volt4.5 mph$$85 lbs
Power Wheels Jeep WranglerPower Wheels Hot Wheels Jeep Wrangler3+12 volt5 mph$$130 lbs
Razor Dirt QuadRazor Dirt Quad for kids5-10 *24 volt8 mph$$120 lbs
Razor Dirt Quad 500Razor Dirt Quad 50010+ *36 volt9 mph$$$220 lbs
Tao Tao ATA-125D Youth ATVTaoTao ATA-125D Kids Gas ATV10+Gas20 mph$$$$132 lbs
Coleman 125cc atv AT125 Youth ATVColeman 125cc ATV Quad (AT125-B)14+Gas20 mph$$$$$292 lbs

Top 8 Best Kids ATVs in 2024 – Reviews

These reviews are in the same price (and top speed) ascending order as the comparison table above.

1. Costzon Kids Ride On ATV

Costzon Kids Ride On ATV
  • Age Guide: 3-7
  • Max Speed: 3 mph
  • Max Load: 77 lbs
  • Colors: White, Red, Pink, Blue, Black

With working headlights, horn, wide seat and plastic wheels (so no punctures) it certainly looks the part. It’s also easy to ride – acceleration is via a simple foot pedal. There are separate switches for forward/reverse and fast/slow speed on the handleset console.

An integrated music player, USB port and bluetooth to let you play your own music (or add racing car sound effects!) add some fun to the driving experience.

This four wheeler has a motor powered by a 12V 7Ah battery (charger supplied) with a full charging time of 8-12 hours. Running time should be about 1-2 hours, depending on the child’s weight and the terrain.

Unlike the next review, there’s no remote control (for a parent to control the direction and speed of the car). But as it has a top speed of just 3 mph, an adult can easily walk alongside it to keep a close eye on the child.

The Costzon Kids Ride On has a lot of good points (especially for 3-4 year olds). But we can’t make it our winner in the fiercely competitive ‘Under 8’ age range.

Because, with a maximum speed of 3 mph, kids may outgrow it all too soon. We think that 5-8 year olds would enjoy something with a little more oomph…

Pros:

  • Cheapest model here
  • 1-2 hours running time
  • Good value for 3 to 5 year olds

Cons:

  • Top speed of 3 mph

Check price at Amazon

2. Best Choice Products 12V Ride On Car

Best Choice Products 12V Ride On Car Truck with Remote Control
  • Age Guide: 3+
  • Max Speed: 3.7 mph
  • Max Load: 65 lbs
  • Colors: Black, Blue, Green, White, Red

It offers 3 speeds – from 1.7 up to 3.7 mph which is a fast walking pace. An adjustable seatbelt, LED headlights, roof light bar, 14 inch wheels and a spring suspension system all add to the rugged off-roader look.

A working horn and integrated musical tunes (including a vroom vroom sound when first powered on) are a nice touch. There is also an Aux port to plug in your own MP3 player if preferred.

Parents will really appreciate the biggest safety feature of this Jeep. It comes with a remote control handset to take over control of the direction and speed of the vehicle. It also has a button to cut all power to the car – useful to head off any looming crash! The remote works at up to 100+ feet with line of sight.

The Jeep is powered by a standard 12V 7Ah battery (charger supplied) with a full charging time of 8-12 hours. Running time is 1-2 hours, depending on the child’s weight and the terrain. The remote control handset requires 2×1.5V AAA batteries (not supplied).

This electric car is one of 3 we have reviewed in the same price range and it has some great features – especially the remote control for adult supervision, to give parents extra peace of mind.

But it doesn’t quite win our top award for kids under 8 because it has a maximum weight limit of just 65 lbs. This is at least 20 lbs less than the next 2 ATVs in our list – we worry that kids may physically outgrow this all too quickly.

Pros:

  • Remote control for parents
  • 1-2 hours running time
  • Steering wheel instead of handlebars
  • Good for 3 to 7 year olds

Cons:

  • Maximum weight capacity is only 65 pounds

Check price at Amazon

3. Peg Perego John Deere Ground Force Tractor

Top Pick For Kids Aged 3 to 7

Peg Perego John Deere Tractor
  • Age Guide: 3-7
  • Max Speed: 4.5 mph
  • Max Load: 85 lbs
  • Colors: Green

Firstly, it does what its main rivals do. It has 2 speeds (2.25 and 4.5 mph) plus reverse – parents can lock out the top speed for beginners or smaller kids.

It also features an adjustable seat, flip up armrests and an FM radio. Riding is easy via a simple accelerator pedal and it has auto brakes (so stops immediately if you lift off the pedal). Plastic tractor wheels can provide traction on grass, dirt, gravel or pavement.

The tractor has 2x165W motors powered by a 12V 8Ah battery (charger supplied). This is a higher capacity battery than the more common 7Ah. Running times are therefore longer than many rivals at 2-4 hours, depending on the child’s weight and the terrain.

What makes this tractor really stand out is that the (easily detachable) trailer adds an extra dimension for play. Kids can ride around just for fun but can also use their imagination to create their own little play world.

Whether transporting tools to parents, or taking a favorite toy for a sightseeing tour, we think the tractor and trailer feature is more likely to captivate the interest of kids under 8, for longer. And it provides more opportunities for parents to interact with their kids during play.

Finally, this is also one of the few vehicles in our list that is made in the USA (in Fort Wayne, Indiana). Replacement parts are readily available, potentially prolonging the tractor’s life for future use by smaller siblings or friends. Good for the environment and for your pocket!

For the extra versatility and inspiration, the quick charge option and the spare parts availability, the John Deere tractor is our top pick for kids under 8.

Check price at Amazon

Pros:

  • Versatile and removable trailer
  • 2-4 hours running time
  • 4.5 mph top speed
  • Made in USA
  • Replacement parts available
  • 2 hour quick charger available (optional extra)

Cons:

  • 18 hours to fully charge battery

4. Power Wheels Hot Wheels Jeep Wrangler

Power Wheels Hot Wheels Jeep Wrangler, Blue (12V)
  • Age Guide: 3+
  • Max Speed: 5 mph
  • Max Load: 130 lbs
  • Colors: Blue

Power Wheels is a brand name of Fisher-Price, which is itself part of Mattel, the famous US toy company.

We have included it because it is the only vehicle here with extra space for a passenger – so a friend can enjoy the ride too! A small friend… Power Wheels recommend this jeep for ages 3-7 but we’d suggest its size is more suited to 2-6 year olds.

The Jeep offers 2 speeds (2.5 and 5 mph) plus reverse. Parents can lock out the top speed for beginners and small kids).

It’s certainly the most flashy vehicle here with ‘Hot Wheels’ colors and graphics plus chrome-look wheels, a Jeep style grille, roll bars, front and back fenders. Motor sounds are provided by a speaker which requires 3 AA batteries (not supplied).

It also has auto brakes (so it stops immediately when you lift off the pedal) and plastic wheels that can provide traction on hard surfaces and grass.

There are a few points to note about the ability to carry a passenger. First, the total load capacity is a whopping 130 pounds – twice that of the single seater Best Choice Products Jeep. This makes sense but also makes it a heavier vehicle – 57 pounds compared to 45.

And it’s much wider too so is unlikely to fit through a normal sized doorway. Due to the extra weight and width, the Power Wheels Jeep is best stored in a garage or outbuilding. And at ground level, not up steps or brought into the house.

The Jeep is powered by a 12V 9Ah battery (charger supplied) which is an even higher capacity than the Peg Perego tractor. This gives it a really long running time of 3-5 hours, depending on the child’s weight and the terrain. But full charging time is correspondingly long – at least 14 hours.

The 12V battery is equipped with a built-in thermal fuse which powers off the Jeep if it is overloaded. If the fuse ‘trips’ the driver must take their foot off the accelerator pedal and wait 25 seconds before starting up again. Some weight or a passenger will need to be removed or it may shut down again.

This electric ride on Jeep is one of three kids ATVs we have reviewed in the same price range. If you’re looking specifically for a two seater it’s the only game in town. It also has better battery life than its rivals but make sure you have a suitable place to store it.

Pros:

  • Two seater!
  • 3-5 hours running time
  • 5 mph top speed
  • Steering wheel instead of handlebars
  • Well respected toy brand (Fisher-Price / Mattel)

Cons:

  • Too wide to fit through a standard sized doorway

Check price at Amazon

5. Razor Dirt Quad

Best ATV For Kids Aged 5 to 10

Razor Dirt Quad Electric Four-Wheeled Off-Road Vehicle
  • Age Guide: 8+ (Razor’s guide). 5-10 (* Real world guide…)
  • Max Speed: 8 mph
  • Max Load: 120 lbs
  • Colors: Black, Camo Black, Pink

Razor recommend a minimum age of 8, presumably because this kids quad is faster and heavier (c 89 lbs) than an ATV aimed at toddlers. And maybe they don’t want to be sued…

But an age range of 5-10 (real world guide…) with parental supervision may be more suitable because this ATV is relatively small. Kids over 10 should fit better into this quad’s bigger brother – the Razor Dirt Quad 500 (see the next review below).

For an example of size, check out Razor’s own video below. The kid looks 8+ but his feet are too big for the footwells so they stick out uncomfortably… We think he looks too old to be squeezed into this quad – it’s top heavy, especially when he’s standing up. We think he would find the Quad 500 a better choice.

But the Dirt Quad is still a great ATV for young kids. It features a sturdy powder-coated, tubular steel chassis with 13 inch pneumatic knobby tires to give good grip. Droop travel rear suspension with coil shock let kids handle tough trails and big bumps.

The handlebars are height adjustable to grow with your child and there is a rear carry handle for easy transport. This ATV can even be stored upright to save space (although it weighs 89 lbs so is quite heavy).

The Razor Dirt Quad has a large 350W high-torque chain driven motor powered by two 12V 7Ah batteries (charger supplied). Top speed is a grin-inducing 8-10 mph so safety precautions (e.g. a helmet and gloves) are needed – see our safety guide below.

The higher power and speed do reduce battery life to just 40 minutes of continuous use. But, thankfully, the maximum charging time of up to 12 hours is shorter than some rivals.

Note that Razor recommend not storing the batteries in temperatures below -10 or above 75 degrees F. You may therefore need to remove the batteries for storage over Winter/Summer, depending on your local climate.

This quad also has proper twist-grip twist-throttle control for variable speed and a separate hand-operated rear disc brake for quick stops.

But there is no reverse gear, no parental speed control (governor) and no engine braking. This means the quad only slows down gradually if you lift off the throttle and it can coast on hills. Younger kids will need to be taught how to corner and brake safely.

It takes more time to learn to ride but the Razor Dirt Quad is our winner for best kids ATV in the 5-10 age range. It’s quick, great fun and the maximum load of 120 lbs makes it suitable for most kids up to pre-teens.

Pros:

  • 8-10 mph top speed
  • Pneumatic tires
  • Disc brakes
  • ‘Proper’ ATV twist throttle
  • Good size for kids aged 5-10
  • Spares available from Razor’s website

Cons:

  • 40 minutes running time

Check price at Amazon

6. Razor Dirt Quad 500

Best Electric ATV for Youths

Razor Dirt Quad 500 DLX Electric Four-Wheeled Off-Road Vehicle
  • Age Guide: 14+ (Razor’s guide). 10+ (* Real world guide…)
  • Max Speed: 9 mph
  • Max Load: 220 lbs
  • Colors: White

Razor recommend a minimum age of 14 but feedback from many users suggests that a real world guide of minimum age of 10 is more realistic. As long as there is good parental supervision of younger kids.

The Dirt Quad 500 features a larger powder-coated, tubular steel chassis and steel wheels – it’s a rugged beast. Front and rear specific (size and tread) pneumatic knobby tires and fully active rear suspension increase traction on the rough stuff.

Like the smaller Dirt Quad, the handlebars are height adjustable and there is a rear carry handle for easy transport. It too can be stored upright to save space (although it weighs about 110 lbs so is quite heavy).

This ATV has a larger 500W high-torque chain driven motor powered by three 12V 7Ah batteries (charger supplied). Top speed is a hefty 9-11 mph so safety precautions (e.g. a helmet and gloves) are advised – see our safety guide below.

The extra third battery more than offsets that higher power and speed. Battery life increases to 60 minutes of continuous use with a maximum charging time of up to 12 hours.

Razor recommend not storing the batteries in temperatures below -10 or above 75 degrees F. You may therefore need to remove the batteries for storage over Winter/Summer, depending on your local climate.

The 500 has ‘proper’ twist-grip twist-throttle control for variable speed and a separate hand-operated rear disc brake for rapid stopping power.

But there is no reverse gear, no parental speed control (governor) and no engine braking. This means it only slows down gradually if you lift off the throttle and it can coast on hills. Younger kids will need to be taught how to corner and brake safely.

Due to the increased weight, size and speed, it may take more time (and maturity) to learn to ride the 500 than the smaller Dirt Quad. But it’s a very capable machine with good battery life.

It is our best choice for teens (or small adults) if an electric powered kids ATV is preferred. The main competition comes from gas powered youth ATVs (see the next reviews) that are quicker, but also more expensive.

Pros:

  • 9-11 mph top speed
  • Maximum load capacity 220 pounds
  • Pneumatic tires
  • Disc brakes
  • ‘Proper’ ATV twist throttle
  • Good size for those aged 10+
  • Spares available from Razor’s website

Cons:

  • 1 hour running time
  • Not as quick as a gas ATV

Check price at Amazon

7. TaoTao ATA-125D Kids Gas ATV

Best Gas ATV for Youths

TaoTao ATA 125D Gas ATV Quad
  • Age Guide: 10+
  • Max Speed: 20+ mph
  • Max Load: 132 lbs
  • Colors: Red

This gas quad for kids is powered by a 107cc air cooled 4-stroke, 1-cylinder gas powered engine. Possibly a Honda clone, with electric start, this engine can propel kids to a thrilling 20+ mph. For peace of mind, parents can adjust a governor to limit the speed for smaller kids and beginners.

Another great safety feature is a remote control fob. Parents can use this remote to turn off the engine from up to 30 feet away – a great way to round up the kids at the end of the day! There is also a handy engine kill switch mounted on the left handlebar to cut the engine in an emergency.

This youth ATV has fully automatic transmission so there are no worries about changing gear. Front drum and rear disc brakes provide reasonable stopping power and a front bumper protects against minor knocks.

A working headlight, brake and taillight help the rider be seen and even allow for riding at night (although not recommended). Dual front A-arm suspension and large 16″ tires help ensure a more comfortable ride over uneven terrain.

This TaoTao is exceptional value for a gas powered youth ATV. Comparable models from US manufacturers can retail for twice the price, while an alternative from Honda could cost three times as much.

For this reason the ATA-125D is our top choice of gas 4 wheeler for kids over 10. It’s quick (but allows parents to govern the speed) and the maximum load of 132 lbs is enough to cope with young teens. An awesome alternative is the Coleman youth atv in the review below – it is US built with a 292 lbs weight limit, a bigger engine and disc brakes all round.

Pros:

  • 20+ mph top speed
  • Very cheap for a gas ATV
  • Adjustable speed limiter
  • Remote control fob to cut power
  • Working lights
  • Good size for kids aged 10+
  • CARB approved for California

Cons:

  • Chinese import
  • Drum brakes at front

Check price at Amazon

8. Coleman Four Wheeler Quad ATV AT125-B

Coleman atv 125cc, Camo (AT125-B)
  • Age Guide: 14+
  • Max Speed: 20+ mph
  • Max Load: 292 lbs
  • Colors: Camo

Coleman Powersports is a long established US company selling a range of ATVs and dirt bikes so parts and service are readily available.

This Coleman 125cc atv has an air cooled 4-stroke, 1-cylinder gas powered engine with electric start that can propel teens to an exciting 20+ mph. A ground clearance of 3″ helps get over rough terrain too.

For peace of mind, parents can adjust a governor to limit the speed for beginners. There is also a safety kill switch lanyard, without which the ATV will not start, so parents can control when kids are allowed to use it.

Hydraulic disc brakes at both front and rear provide extra stopping power compared to the TaoTao ATV in the review above. Dual front A-arm suspension and large 16″ tires help ensure a smoother ride.

A working headlight, brake and taillight also help the rider be seen and even allow for riding at night (although for safety reasons this is not recommended).

This ATV has a semi-automatic clutch less shifting system for easy operation. A reverse gear helps get out of tight spots and when putting the vehicle in storage.

The Coleman atv 125cc (AT125) costs more than the TaoTao but is still good value for a gas youth ATV. It has disc brakes all around and a larger engine making it ideal for teens and small adults. The availability of service and support in the US may also be better than a Chinese import.

Pros:

  • 20+ mph top speed
  • Maximum load capacity 292 pounds
  • Adjustable speed limiter
  • Disc brakes front and rear
  • Working lights
  • Good size for kids aged 14+
  • Long established US company

Cons:

  • More expensive than the TaoTao gas ATV (but bigger and more powerful)

Check price at Amazon

Buying Guide

So you’re looking to buy a powered kids ATV? There’s more to think about than buying a traditional pedal-power ride on vehicle. Read on to discover the most important differences, advantages and safety features below.

Before Buying an ATV for Kids

Before buying, make sure an ATV is the best option for the terrain your kids will most often drive on.

If your kids will drive mostly in the backyard or playground, see our article about the best go karts for kids instead – they’re better than an ATV on flat surfaces like concrete or grass fields. Go karts are also usually lighter in weight and much smaller so are easier to store or transport by car.

Electric powered go karts have small wheels with low ground clearance (so don’t cope well with sand, soft dirt and gravel). But gas powered go karts are seriously quick and have higher ground clearance to cope with light off-roading. Some models are also 2 seaters for double the fun.

Electric vs Gas Power

6 of the ATVs in our review are electric and 2 are gas – each power source has its own merits and disadvantages.

  • Electric ATVs are slower, cheaper and quieter (like the whine of a drill). Ideal for backyards in sleepy neighborhoods.
  • Gas ATVs are faster, more expensive, smellier and noisier (like a motorcycle). Best suited to rural locations or off-road use in remote areas.

Electric ATVs are powered by a battery which needs recharging when it runs down. Depending on the vehicle, the battery can last as long as 5 hours or as little as 40 minutes. But that’s still enough for 5-10 miles of driving fun.

However, the time required to fully recharge the battery is often 12+ hours so you do need to plan ahead – you don’t want it to run out of charge after 5 minutes, or a long way from home…

Gas ATVs are, of course, powered by gasoline so, once the gas tank is empty, just pour another gallon in and you’re good to go again!

Kids Riding an ATV

There are also differences in the amount of maintenance each type of ATV requires:

  • Electric ATVs have a maintenance-free electric motor.
  • Gas ATV engines require regular servicing, just like a motorcycle. Oil, brake fluid, spark plug, fuel lines etc all need regular inspection, cleaning or replacement.

Finally, electric ATVs should be more environmentally friendly than a gas guzzler. If the home electricity you use to recharge the battery comes from a renewable source, but that’s an argument for another day…

Top Speed

The electric ATVs in our review are split into 2 groups:

  1. Cheaper ride on ‘toys’ for younger kids with a top speed of 5 mph.
  2. More expensive ‘proper’ ATVs for older kids or teens (like the Razor Dirt Quads) – these have a top speed of 8-12 mph, depending on the terrain and weight of the rider.

The gas powered kids ATVs in our review can easily reach seriously fast speeds of 20-25 mph. This makes them more suitable for youths and even some adults.

Safety Features

Electric ATVs are arguably safer by design than gas ATVs:

  • They’re slower and don’t have the inherent dangers of the oily bits in an internal combustion engine. Think of a glorified hair dryer motor compared to a motorcycle engine…
  • Gas ATV engines also run much hotter than the motors found in electric all-terrain vehicles. Especially the muffler which could cause a serious burn if touched.

An important safety feature to look for in the best ATVs is a governor (limiter) that parents can set to restrict maximum speed:

  • In the cheaper ride on toys this is often a simple switch – to set either half or full speed, up to a maximum of 5 mph.
  • Both gas ATVs have a more sophisticated parental governor – with variable speed control.
  • But the powerful electric ATVs for teens (the Razor Quads) don’t have a governor. You have to rely on the child’s maturity to ride safely.

Other desirable safety features include:

  • Good brakes – essential in faster models. Disc brakes typically provide more stopping power than drums.
Kids ATV Rear Disk Brake
Rear disc brake
  • Working head and tail lights are necessary for riding at night. But keeping to daylight is best – to be able to quickly see any sudden changes in terrain.

See the FAQ below for recommended safety gear.

Kids ATV FAQ

What does ATV stand for?

An ATV is an All Terrain Vehicle, often known as a quad or four-wheeler. Modern ATVs typically have four wheels, a single seat and handlebars for steering.

They can be powered by an electric motor or a gas/diesel engine (very similar to a motorcycle). Kids ATVs are smaller and slower than full size adult models and often have additional safety features.

What is the right age for an ATV?

Our reviews cover a variety of ATVs for kids of all ages, from 3+ right up to teens and youths, so there’s something for everyone.

Manufacturers’ age guidelines are a good place to start but they can sometimes be quite conservative.

Each child is different – you don’t want to buy a vehicle too small, slow or ‘childish’ for your kids. But neither do you want to let them loose on something too fast or big for them to handle safely.

Consider the size, strength and maturity of your child, not just their age. If choosing a more powerful youth ATV, are they prepared to learn how to ride it (lean their body into a turn etc) and how to brake safely? And wear appropriate safety gear and perhaps take a course in ATV safety?

Are ATVs safe for kids?

A lot depends on the size and speed of the ATV, as well as the size and age of your child.

The ride on ATV ‘toys’ that have a top speed of 5 mph (a very fast walk) are similar in speed to a pedal powered ride on vehicle. Letting young kids ride a bike is likely to be more risky.

But ATVs for youths (like the Razor Quad 500) and gas ATVs are quick and heavy enough to potentially cause injury if not used safely – or if suitable protective gear is not worn.

Always keep to the following safety rules:

– Kids must never carry a passenger in a single seater.
– Under 16s should be supervised by an adult.
– Always wear a safety helmet.
– Children’s ATVs are for off-road use only and must never be driven on paved roads (illegal in many states anyway). ATVs are hard to control on paved roads as they have a solid rear axle with no differential.
– To help your kids be safe on the ‘off-roads’, hands-on safety training courses for children are available in most states. The ATV Safety Institute also offers free interactive online E-courses for riders of all ages and experience levels.
Best Kids ATV

What ATV safety gear do kids need?

For gas ATVs and the powerful electric models like the Razor Quads for kids – follow the advice given by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and always wear the following safety gear:

– A suitable Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet.

This is the most essential safety gear. According to a government report by the NCBI, the “lower rate of helmet use in ATVs may account for the significantly greater incidence of Closed Head Injuries compared to motorcycles“.

And other protective gear can be helpful such as:

– Eye protection
– Gloves
– Suitable (over the ankle) riding boots
– Long pants and a long sleeved shirt.

This quick 3 minute video summarizes the basic safety equipment required: