Kids ride on motorbikes and quad bikes are more than just fun ways to play, they ramp up the adventure levels and teach our children valuable lessons in coordination, balance, and independence. However, as parent's, our top priority is always our child's safety and happiness. So, choosing the most suitable bike for them is a big decision!

From understanding battery sizes to must-know safety tips, take a pit stop on your journey into the world of kid's ride on motorbikes with this guide. Whether you're pondering the perfect birthday gift, a Christmas surprise or want to introduce your child to the great outdoors, we want to help you make the best choice. Rev up your engines, and let's hit the road!

What's the Difference Between Kids Ride On Motorbikes & Ride On Quad Bikes?

The primary difference between kids ride on motorbikes and ride on quad bikes is their design and intended use. Motorbikes have two wheels (although these mini battery-powered versions are often fitted with stabilisers to prevent toddlers from toppling over!), offering a more traditional biking experience that can help kids develop balance and coordination.

On the other side of the ride on toy garage, we have quad bikes, also known as ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles). As the name suggests, these bikes have a four-wheel design, which makes them more stable than their two-wheeler counterparts.

They also have wider tyres, allowing them to handle a broader range of terrains, from the smooth surface of a driveway to the more challenging lumps and bumps of a back garden.

• Enhances balance and coordination As your child learns to ride their motorbike, they also hone their motor skills. Through steering, accelerating, and braking, the toy introduces them to the basics of controlling a vehicle, laying the groundwork for riding a bicycle, and even driving a car as an adult.
• Fosters independence and confidence There's something inherently thrilling about riding around on a ride on motorbike, even if it's just in the garden or at the park! This newfound freedom gives kids a taste of independence and increases their confidence. This boost in self-esteem often spills over into other areas of their life, encouraging them to take on new challenges with a can-do attitude.
• Promotes outdoor play In an era where screens often dominate playtime, ride on motorbikes provide a compelling reason for children to venture outdoors. Riding encourages them to engage with their environment and promotes physical activity, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
• Teaches road safety basics While the speeds are significantly lower and the settings much safer, ride on motorbikes offer an early introduction to road safety. Parents can use the toy to familiarise kids with stopping at traffic lights, looking both ways before crossing a path, and even signalling to turn.
• Encourages family fun Whether it's mum or dad teaching their child to operate a ride on motorbike, building riding courses in the lounge or siblings taking turns, these magic moments of shared activity strengthen bonds and provide a fun way for families to spend quality time together.
• Sparks creativity and imagination The adventure doesn't stop at riding! For a child, a ride on motorbike can transform into a mighty two-wheeled steed, a racer's dream bike, or even a vehicle for superhero escapades. This creative play is crucial for cognitive development, allowing children to explore different roles, scenarios, and solutions in an innovative and open-ended manner.

• Ride on motorbike for a 2 year old: at this tender age, children are beginning to master walking. But, while they might be keen to explore the world on their own two feet, they're still developing balance and coordination. So, when choosing a ride on for a toddler, prioritise stability — with their wide wheels, low speeds, and simple controls, 6-volt battery quad bikes are ideal!
• Ride on motorbike for a 3 year old: as your child's mobility grows, so does their confidence. Although three-year-olds might be ready for more interactive features, such as buttons for sounds and lights, for safety, we recommend sticking with either a 6v ride-on trike or motorbike with stabilisers.
• Electric motorbike for a 4 year old: at four, children are rapidly developing their physical abilities and cognition. Most can now handle more complex controls, and the higher speeds of a 12-volt battery ride on vehicle. Consider more realistic models such as a Vespa scooter or a Honda CBR motorbike with additional features like MP3 player input so they can blast their favourite tunes as they rocket around.
• Electric motorbike for a 5 year old: older kids will be raring to put the pedal to the metal and hit those higher speeds. Under careful supervision, introduce them to different terrains, such as park trails and back gardens, and if they're confident enough, remove the training wheels.

• 6v ride on motorbikes: best for one to three-year-olds; bikes with a 6v battery provide a gentle thrill while slowly introducing little ones to riding. These vehicles reach maximum speeds of 3-4km/h, making them ideal for indoor use or driving in enclosed outdoor areas where you can monitor your child.
• 12v ride on motorbikes: suitable for youngsters aged four to eight, 12v bikes offer more oomph and can reach top speeds of 5-6km/h. This extra power makes them better suited for outdoor adventures, providing an exhilarating experience while keeping safety at the forefront.

• Charge your ride on toy regularly: a monthly recharge, even during periods of little use, is a great way to maintain the motorbike or quad's battery health.
• Safely store the toy: if storing the motorbike for an extended period, remove the battery and keep it in a cool, dry place, as extreme temperatures can negatively affect its performance.

Like all rechargeable batteries, those in kids ride on motorbikes will eventually wear out and need replacing. Signs the battery is close to expiring include reduced riding time despite a full charge, slower speeds and inconsistent charging.

• Begin with the basics: before they rev the engine (or, to be more accurate, press the ignition button!), show your child how to operate their ride-on motorbike. Hold the toy as they sit on it and teach them to start and stop, accelerate gently, and turn left and right.
• Supervision: establish clear boundaries for where your child can ride and explain why. And please always keep an eye on their ride on adventures, even in the safety of your home.
• Choose a suitable setting: stick with flat terrain, free of gravel and potholes, and away from traffic, crowds and open water.
• Educate about road rules: it's never too early to teach little ones about road safety. Ride on motorbikes and quads provide an excellent opportunity to acquaint them with road signs and traffic lights.

Lastly, thoroughly dry the vehicle with an old towel to keep rust and mildew at bay, and cover it with breathable fabric to prevent scratch marks and dust buildup.