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.
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.
Age-Appropriate ATV Engine Sizes
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.
| Age Group | Engine Size | Suitability | Average Costs | Top Models |
| Ages 6-11 | Under 70cc | Optimal balance of safety and power for young riders. Ideal for beginners with speed limiters for safety. | $2000-$2500 | Renegade 70 EFI, Polaris Outlaw |
| Ages 12-15 | 70cc to 90cc | The ideal blend of power and control for developing skills. Suitable for preteens with improving riding abilities. | $2500-$3500 | Arctic Cat Alterra 90, Can-Am DS 70, Honda TRX90X, Kawasaki KFX50, Polaris Sportsman 110 EFI, Yamaha Raptor 90 |
| Ages 16+ | 150cc to 300cc | Higher power for serious off-road pursuits. Suitable for teens with ATV safety training and developed riding habits. | $3000+ | Vitacci Pentora 150cc (suitable for proficient teenagers and smaller stature individuals) |
ATVs for Young Riders (Ages 6-11)
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)
Intermediate ATVs for Preteens (Ages 12-15)
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)
Adult-sized ATVs for Teens (16+)
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)
Understanding ATV Size Dimensions
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.
Measuring Seat Height and Footrest Position
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 40 | 14 – 17 | 10 – 12 |
| 40 – 47 | 18 – 22 | 13 – 15 |
| 48 – 55 | 23 – 27 | 16 – 18 |
| 56 – 63 | 28 – 32 | 19 – 21 |
| 64 and above | 33 and above | 22 and above |
Evaluating the ATV’s Weight Capacity
Understanding 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: Matching Rider to Ride
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 vs. Racing Tires
Balloon tires provide the following benefits:
- Improved control
- A smoother ride
- Superior shock absorption
- Reduced sidewall flex, which improves control during cornering and high-speed travel.
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.
Suspension Adjustments for Optimal Control
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.
Comparing Gas-Powered and Electric Youth ATVs
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.
Advantages of Electric-Powered ATVs for Beginners
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.
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.
When to Choose Gas-Powered 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.
Summary
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Is a 250CC ATV For?
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.
What Age Is a 125CC ATV For?
A 125cc ATV is suitable for children who need an ATV they can grow into (that is also equipped with the necessary parental controls).
What Is a Good Size ATV for a 12-Year-Old?
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.
Can a Beginner Ride a 250CC?
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.
