Whether you’re a biker yourself or you’d rather watch from the sidelines, the day your child comes to you and asks for their very first motorcycle will be both exciting and a little bit nerve-wracking. Parents have the difficult task of both keeping kids safe and helping them spread their wings. Picking out their first motorcycle with them is a way for you to do both.
How To Find The Perfect Kid’s Motorcycle
What kind of motorcycle you buy for your child will depend on their age, experience, and what they want out of a motorcycle. Kids may want the coolest-looking set of wheels, but you’ll have your eye on safety and quality.
There are three major kinds of youth motorcycles to choose from:
- Battery-Powered Intro Bikes
- Gas-Powered Intro Bikes
- Pre-Professional Bikes
In general, battery powered bikes tend to be a bit less powerful than gas-powered bikes, and they’ll need to be charged more frequently than you’ll need to fill up a gas-powered bike, but they’re also far cheaper in the long run when you take fuel costs into account.
Battery-powered and gas-powered intro bikes are both available from online retailers, but pre-professional bikes should generally be purchased in-person. They tend to be far more expensive and should be fitted to your child by a professional. You kid’s first motorcycle isn’t usually the one they’ll be competing on or driving as an adult, so an intro bike is a great option for your young biker.
Pre-Professional Bikes
Pre-professional bikes for kids are a challenge to purchase online. If your child wants to participate in youth racing or is preparing for a full-size motorcycle, name-brands like Yamaha, KTM, and Honda are your best bet. These bikes tend to reach higher speeds with lower capacity engines and can be double, even triple the speed of an intro bike. They are more dangerous and require a lot more work and training to use safely.
What to Consider in a Kid’s Motorcycle
When picking out a kid’s motorcycle, you’ll want to consider what your child wants to use it for, the age of your child, their level of interest, and available safety features. For a more thorough look at how to decide which is right for your child, dive into our tips on choosing a style. However, the most significant factors are:
Intended Use
Kids may want a motorcycle to zip around the block every once in a while, or to play around in the backyard. Other kids might want to go on trails with their friends, ride to school, or start to compete in motorcycle racing. For kids just looking for a fun outdoor activity, a battery-powered option is affordable and easier to care for, making it a better choice for casual riders. Consider charge times, distance, and speed. For more extensive use or heavy-duty riding, a gas-powered engine offers a more advanced ride.
Max Speed
Perhaps the most important differentiating factor among motorcycles made for kids is just how fast they can get. With toddler-friendly bikes that max out below 2 mph to speedy bikes that approach the speeds of 50 cc bikes made for adults, we’ve included a range of options that should suit everyone.
Age
Which bike you feel safe with depends on how mature you feel your child is. Some parents might feel comfortable teaching their three-year-old to use a 50cc minibike, while other parents feel this is unsafe. For the very youngest children, a low-speed motorcycle like the Lil Patrol motorized trike offers the stability of several wheels and low speeds.
Regardless of their age, you’ll want to make sure to pick one that’s the proper size. Be mindful of the weight limits of the bike, and keep in mind that your child will grow. Also, their toes should touch the ground while straddling the bike. For more detailed info, take a look at our sizing tips.
Safety
We won’t recommend a motorcycle that hasn’t passed the proper certifications, but there are extra safety questions to consider for every motorcycle, including parental speed limits, materials, heat guards, and ease of use. Kids’ motorcycles can cause injuries, with femur fractures being some of the most common. You’ll want to make sure the model you choose is in line with your kiddo’s responsibility as a rider.
Style
For kids with dreams of hitting the road on their motorcycle, style is an important thing to keep in mind. Encourage this new hobby with a pick that inspires them to ride. Matching your gear with your bike will also encourage them to suit up each end every time they hit the road.
With these and other features in mind, here are our top ten motorcycles for kids.
The 10 Best Motorcycles for Kids 2020
1. Best Overall Motorcycle: Razor MX350
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 140 lbs
Max Speed: 14 mph
Intended Use
With a 350-watt motor, the MX350 is more of an introduction to electric motorcycles. It’s suitable for both dirt paths and pavement and has a max speed of 14 mph. It offers a shorter battery-life of about 30 minutes per charge. 30 minutes is still plenty of time to ride about, but it keeps wandering adventurers closer to home.
This is a great option for new riders looking to try out motorcycles and dirt bikes, as well as for young riders graduating to a slightly faster model.
Age Range
The MX350 can carry riders up to 140 pounds, but it is best suited to younger riders, in their pre-teens or below. Razor recommends it for age 13 and up, but the bike frame is on the small side for children older than 12. For teenagers, you may want to consider the Massimo Warrior200 instead.
Safety
The MX350 is a slower, lighter model, but it is more durable than many of its 350-watt fellows, with a frame made of steel. Its dual suspension has proven to be less supportive than that of its sibling bike, the MX650.
Style and Features
The MX350 only comes in the color blue, as Razor uses color to denote motor power. It offers adjustable handlebars for a personalized fit.
Pros
- Solid intro bike
- Decent speeds
- Durable steel frame
- Accessible for younger riders
- Can handle both dirt paths and pavement
Cons
- Few premium features
- Very small frame
2. Sleekest Street Bike: Razor RSF650
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 170 lbs
Max speed: 17 mph
Intended Use
This model is a great option for bikers looking to cruise around the neighborhood. It’s a street bike rather than a dirt bike, so its tires aren’t suited for rough terrain or off-road riding, but its rear-suspension design smooths out the ride. It’s an attractive bike, as well, with a sleek look that’s sure to satisfy any kid’s need for street cred.
The RSF650 is equipped with a 36-volt battery system and a 650-watt motor for 50 minutes of continuous riding. Its rechargeable batteries make it a great choice for hobby riders.
With a top speed of 17 mph, this model hits a sweet spot of speed and safety, offering excitement to riders without getting too out of hand. For bikers looking for fun afternoons without the hassle and expense of a full-size motorcycle, this is an ideal pick.
Age Range
This bike touts itself as being for ages 16 and up, with a max weight of 170 pounds. For 16 and up, the bike is on the smaller side, so be sure to check out our sizing guide below. Like the X-Pro the Razor Street Bike has a seat at 23 inches. It’s sturdy, good for a wide range of riders, and its adjustable handlebars make it easy to scale up and down.
Safety
The RSF650 doesn’t have the safety features of the X-Pro, but it offers a sturdy, durable chassis with street tires graded for pavement riding. However, you’ll want to make sure the bearings in the front wheel are set properly upon arrival; otherwise, the wheel may wobble.
Style and Features
The RSF650 features a retractable kickstand, foot pegs, and a storage compartment, but only offers one style: black and red.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Excellent for casual users
- Convenient extra features
- Long-lasting battery time
- Street tires are ideal for city and neighborhood riding
Cons
- Not suitable for all terrains
- Bearings may not be set properly
3. Best Premium Motorcycle: Razor MX650 Dirt Bike
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 220 lbs
Max speed: 17 mph
Intended Use
This bike’s 650-watt electric motor makes it a great option for kids looking for a thrill-ride, and for parents who want a more eco-friendly option. With top speeds of 17 mph, this model will satisfy their need for speed without getting too dangerous. The MX650 is designed for dirt paths, making it ideal for kids who want to ride over a variety of terrain types. Whether they want to hit the trails or ride to school, the MX650 is a durable, effective option for independent riders looking to take their adventures off-road.
Age Range
It is rated for riders up to 220 pounds, with a seat height of 23 inches. This bike is recommended for age 16 and up, but a responsible younger child of the right size would be able to handle this model.
Safety
This model’s biggest struggle is in its lack of extra safety features. The MX650 is an excellent electric alternative to the X-Pro, but it lacks many of the built-in safety features that set the X-Pro apart as a good choice for parents. There is no speed governor or chain guard, despite this model falling in the more deluxe range of prices.
Style and Features
This bike is only offered in yellow, as Razor uses color to denote motor wattage. The bike itself features sporty black and red decals that will surely please future racers. Extra features include adjustable handlebars for a customized fit, folding foot pegs, and dual suspension for a smooth, cushioned ride.
Pros
- Good for a variety of ages
- Eco-friendly electric motor
- Recreational distance capacity
- Dual suspension offers cushioning for rough terrain
- Decals for a sporty racing vibe
Cons
- Fewer safety features than the X-Pro
- Expensive
4. Best Motorcycle for Little Girls: Razor Pocket Mod
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 170 lbs
Max speed: 15 mph
Intended Use
For children looking to get around at a nice clip but who aren’t interested in biking extensively, this is an ideal option. It’s easy to learn to ride on and low maintenance to care for. While a little on the small side, the pocket mod offers plenty of fun for kids just trying out the hobby or looking for some outdoor excitement.
The Pocket Mod gets ten miles of riding per charge, making it perfect for a quick trip to a friend’s house or the corner-store. Its speed maxes out at about 14 mph. This model is zippy but fairly safe. Its 24V battery system charges in roughly 4 to 6 hours, giving it a solid use-to-charge ratio.
Age Range
This model is small and easy to use, making it ideal for ages 7 to 13. Most kids should be mature enough to handle the speed, but older children may feel silly due to the bike’s small size. It can hold children up to 170 pounds, but the handlebars are fairly low and non-adjustable.
Safety
This model has no extra safety features, but it stands on its own and should not offer any balancing issues for young riders.
Style and Features
This bike is modeled after European bikes, with more of a scooter-style to it, but it is undeniably cute. The pink and purple models may not catch the eye of more rough and tumble kids, but there are limited stock offerings in black and red. The pink option comes with streamers on the handlebars, and all models boast a vintage-inspired look.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Great distance per battery charge
- Low maintenance
- Moderate speed
- Retro look
Cons
- Limited gender-neutral options
- Scooter-style may not appeal to all children
- Low, non-adjustable handlebars
5. Best Motorcycle for Toddlers: BCP Kid’s 6V
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 44 lbs
Max speed: 2 mph
Intended Use
This bike by Best Choice Products is ideal for the littlest kids who’ve been inspired to burn some rubber on the backyard track. Its 6-volt rechargeable battery only offers speeds of 2 mph, making this a safe and fun option for the youngest of bikers. The price point reflects this, as the BCP bike is easily one of the cheapest options on our list.
This bike is easy to use for even little kiddos, with an on/off switch and a single button to set the bike in motion. It does require some assembly, so be prepared to put the bike together when it arrives.
Age Range
Ages three to six will find this itty-bitty bike a great diversion. It is only rated for weights up to 44 pounds, however, so the age range on this model is pretty strict.
Safety
This model also features removable training wheels for added safety, placed slightly in front of the back wheel for a more stable base. With very limited speeds, young riders should feel safe and secure on this bike.
Style and Features
The BCP 6V is offered in both acid green and bright red, with a very limited run of orange models. Where this option shines for tykes is in its extra features. The model is designed to look like a real dirt bike, with an engine, exhaust pipe, treaded tires, and headlights. Little kids will enjoy playing the “radio” as they drive and will look forward to graduating from their training wheels. The decals and designs on the bike will make any young biker feel like a pro-racer.
Pros
- Good junior option
- Very safe for anxious parents
- Fun style options and extras
- Ideal for the very youngest future bikers
- Great budget choice
Cons
- Only for ages three to six
- More daring children may be dissatisfied with the speed
- Requires assembly
6. Best Budget Motorcycle: Razor RSF350 Street Bike
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 140 lbs
Max speed: 17 mph
Intended Use
This bike is on the smaller side, making it better for younger riders in their preteens and below. It’s a great budget option for parents looking to avoid big-ticket spending on a youth motorcycle. As a street bike, it should not be taken off-road. It is meant for pavement riding only.
The 24V bike has a much shorter battery life of only 30 minutes before needing to be re-charged, but the decrease in speed is relatively minor, from around 17 mph to 14 mph. The 350-watt motor is sturdy yet lighter-weight than 650-watt motors for easier handling.
Age Range
This bike is smaller with a less powerful motor, making it a better choice for younger riders, ranging from 7 to 13, depending on your child’s maturity and sense of responsibility. It is rated for weights up to 140 pounds.
Safety
The RSF350 is a durable and lower speed than many other options. Its simple controls, thick tires, and lighter weight make it easier for young riders to maneuver and manage it.
Style and Features
Like its higher-powered sibling the RSF650 this street bike is a scaled down version of a full-size street-bike. It’s basic but bold, with a sleek profile. It only offers one style, but the classic red and black should please young bikers of all kinds.
Its hidden compartment is smaller than that of the RSF650, but it features a kickstand, foot pegs, and adjustable handlebars.
Pros
- Great budget option
- Light-weight and more compact
- Decent speed
- Classic street bike style
Cons
- Shorter battery life
- Only suitable for riding on paved areas
- Too small for larger or older children
7. Safest Motorcycle for Kids: X-Pro Bolt 50cc Dirt Bike
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Gas-powered
Weight limit: 132 lbs (180 lbs outside recommendations)
Max speed: 14 mph
Intended Use
The X-Pro is a versatile option for young bikers who plan to ride on concrete and trails alike. With a 50cc, gas-powered engine, it can reach speeds of 25 mph and is perfect for off-roading. Kids looking for the excitement of a gas engine and a racing-ready feel will find this model both exhilarating and easy to handle.
The X-Pro is built specifically for kids. Starting the engine is easy but requires several steps to prevent accidents. To start the engine, users flick two switches, rev the accelerator, hold the brake, and pull the cord on the engine. To make things easier on its littler riders, the engine comes with starting assist, so the pullcord doesn’t require excessive force.
Kids can easily learn how to operate the bike, and the double brakes on the handlebars mimic those of regular bicycles, so kids can tap into that muscle memory.
It’s also ideal for young riders who intend to upgrade, as X-Pro has a line of increasingly powerful models for easy transition.
Age Range
The X-Pro is a youth model, recommended for ages six to ten, with a maximum weight-load of 132 pounds. So keep in mind, if your child sticks with riding, they may outgrow the frame’s weight limit. The seat is 23 inches off the ground, making it a decent option for most heights.
If you’re willing to go outside of the recommendations, it has the power to carry adults as well, even maintaining its torque for riders up to 180 pounds. It’s lightweight, making it easy for kids to handle, but that does impact its durability.
Safety
The X-Pro comes with a speed governor, so parents can set a limit on what speeds the bike will reach during rides. It also features a chain cover to prevent kids from getting their fingers caught and heat insulation around the engine to prevent riders from touching the hot surface. The engine is also designed to be air-cooled to prevent over-heating.
These features are great for parents who are ready to let their children ride on their own. It’s hard not to worry about a kid riding a fast bike alone, but the X-Pro has a lot of great features to soothe those fears, which is part of why it’s so high up on our list. The X-Pro is far and away the option with the most safety checks built in, despite being a relatively low-cost model. Other options are customizable, but the X-Pro comes with these features in the design, making it easier for you to hand control over to your young rider.
Style and Features
The X-Pro comes with gloves, goggles, and handgrips to add to your riding gear. You will need to purchase a variety of other safety accessories, but these additions will be useful for any driver. As far as style, the X-Pro has six color options for kids of every taste. Girls and boys alike will feel tough and sporty with this light-weight model.
Pros
- Easy to learn controls
- Powerful engine on a lightweight model
- Great safety features for parents
- Comes with extra accessories and in an array of colors
Cons
- Kids may outgrow the frame size
- Not very durable
- Multi-step starting process
8. Best Motorcycle for Older Children: Massimo Warrior200
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Gas-powered
Weight limit: 200 lbs
Max speed: 24 mph
Intended Use
Warrior is a solid off-road and on-road minibike. It’s not a dirt bike, so traverse hills and pits with caution, but this beast of a bike can handle rocky fields and sidewalks alike.
This bike can achieve roughly the same speed as a 50cc bike, 24 mph, but with its size increase, it requires a higher capacity engine. This is also the only bike on the list with a four-stroke engine. Unlike two-stroke engines, four-strokes don’t require you to mix oil in when refueling and are a little bit smoother to use.
Age Range
The Warrior is rated for both experienced young riders and adults. It can handle weights up to 200 pounds, making it ideal for daring preteens.
Safety
This model is a little more rough and ready. Heavier vehicles are riskier to work with, and despite not increasing speeds, the higher capacity engine means that this bike will run more intensely than other models. The Warrior features a chain guard, exhaust heat shields and an engine power switch to guard riders from injury and make it easier to shut off a malfunctioning engine.
Style and Features
Perhaps the biggest draw to this bike is its sense of style. Most young bikers will start on dirt-bike models, as they tend to be lighter and easier to control. This model has the size and the cool-ness factor of a real motorcycle, but its powerful engine makes it quite heavy. It features the traditional motorcycle profile, perfect for stickers and decals.
The Warrior features a storage compartment behind the seat, wide tires and a kickstand, and lights and reflectors for added safety. Motorcycle experts have tinkered with this model to increase speeds, getting up to 50 mph, but unless you’re a professional the default model will be just fine. The model only comes in one style, but the camo, black, and army green should please kids of all tastes.
Pros
- Rough and tough motorcycle look
- Four-stroke engine doesn’t require oil and fuel mixing
- Higher potential speeds
- Great for kids and adults
Cons
- More expensive than other options
- Heavier build makes it a bit harder to handle
- May have trouble with hills
9. Best Motorcycle for Little Boys: Kid Motorz Lil Patrol
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 33 lbs
Max speed: 1.2 mph
Intended Use
The Lil Patrol is a toddler bike, great for indoor and outdoor use alike. Like the BCP, this option is more of a toy than a bike, but it’s a great introduction to the world of motorcycles. Its 6-volt motor lasts for roughly an hour. This model can go both forward and backwards and features a top speed of 1.2 mph.
Age Range
This bike is for very young riders, 18 months and up. The maximum weight is 33 pounds, and it’s a fairly strict upper limit. Too close to 33 pounds and the motor may not be powerful enough to move the bike, leading to disappointment for young riders.
Safety
Its three-wheel design makes it easy to balance and the lightweight material means that taking a spill won’t be the end of the world. This model is somewhat flimsier than other options, but for a younger kid’s toy at a relatively low price point, this is to be expected.
Style and Features
The Lil Patrol is one of the more fun designs. It is covered in police stickers and bright blue and white. It has a rear storage compartment, siren sounds, flashing lights, and a working headlight for realistic police pretend. Your kiddo will feel like an official crime fighter with these extras.
Pros
- Lots of fun features
- Great indoor toy for aspiring bikers and officers of the law
- Toddler-safe
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Cheaper quality
- Maximum weight limit is very inflexible
- More of a toy than an actual bike
10. Best Pedal-Driven Motorcycle: Costzon Ride-On Motorcycle
Editor’s Rating:
At A Glance
Type: Battery-powered
Weight limit: 44 lbs
Max speed: 1.2 mph
Intended Use
This bike is a toddler’s first motorbike. It has a maximum speed of 1.2 mph, perfect for young children. It is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use and offers both forward and reverse movement. This bike is a great way for your kiddo to practice balance and play pretend in the living room, yard, or driveway.
Age Range
This bike is ideal for toddlers aged 1 to 3. It has a maximum weight limit of 44 pounds.
Safety
The Costzon Ride-On Motorcycle uses a three-wheel design to prevent balance issues. It features wear-resistant and explosion-proof wheels, as well as suspension for a smoother ride over bumpy ground. This model isn’t available in California due to restrictions on battery-types, but it is accepted in all other states. The charging wires are somewhat fragile, so be sure to carefully tuck them away to prevent kiddos from damaging the port.
Style and Features
The Costzon model comes in three bright color options: black, red, and blue. It offers kids a music playlist, LED headlights, and a horn for interactive playing. Kids will get a kick out of the programmed playlist and feel like they really are listening to the radio.
Pros
- Great inside and outside
- High quality wheels
- Suspension for bumpy rides
- Lots of fun extras and bright colors
Cons
- Not available in California
- Strict age limit
- Fragile charging wires
A Guide to the World of Youth Motorcycles
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or you’d rather keep your feet off the track, buying a kids’ motorcycle can be tricky. There are so many options, and not every model is right for every kid. You’ll need to navigate different styles, sizing, set up, and safety to ensure that your child gets to have fun and feel secure.
Choosing a Motorcycle
Choosing your child’s first motorcycle is a big deal. You want them to have a positive experience with this new hobby while being safe and responsible. Depending on how committed your child is, you may not feel ready to spend a lot of money on a bike. Here are our tips for choosing which model is right for you and your child.
A good way to gauge what model you should purchase is to ask yourself these key questions:
- Where will my child be riding?
- How fast is too fast?
- How serious is my child?
- What is my budget?
Battery-Powered Bikes
This bike may be your child’s very first set of wheels. Battery-powered bikes range in strength and speed, but there are options from 1 mph to 17 mph for toddlers and teens alike.
For an adventurous tyke displaying their first interest in automobiles, a 6-volt battery bike like the BCP 6V is a great choice for a 1 to 3-year-old just discovering the fun of tooling around the driveway.
For older children interested in neighborhood adventures, bikes like the RSF650 Street Bike or the Dirt Rocket MX650 offer higher speeds and the freedom to travel farther between charge times.
Gas-Powered Bikes
Gas-engine intro bikes are a next step up from battery-powered models. Models range from 40cc to 200cc engine capacity. The higher the engine capacity, the more powerful the engine. Kids with visions of leather jackets and mirrored goggles may have eyes on this type, but there will be a lot more upkeep and expense associated with gas-powered bikes.
Gas engines are quite a bit more powerful, however. A 50cc motorcycle like the X-Pro offers new riders speeds of up to 25 mph. Higher capacity engines range in speed upgrades depending on the weight of the rider and the bike itself.
Riding Surfaces
If your child plans to ride only on the pavement, almost any model is a good option. Dirt bikes aren’t quite as suited for cruising around town as street-bikes, but they’ll get the job done. For off-road riding, you’ll need to make sure your model has off-road tires, which are thick, highly textured, and pneumatic.
If your child plans to ride off-road, will they be riding on flat terrain or hilly terrain? Dirt bikes like the Razor MX650 are the best bet for adventures over rough terrain, as they are light enough to be maneuverable and designed for riding on dirt paths, rocky ground, and hills. For cruising on flat ground, any bike with textured, air-filled tires, like those on the Warrior200 should fit the bill.
Maximum Speed
Speed and size of the bike usually go hand in hand, so it may be difficult to find a low speed bike for older kids, but there are options. For the slowest ride, there are the kiddie options, the Lil Patrol, the Costzon, and the BCP Kid’s 6V, with high speeds of 2 mph.
The next step up is to a 350-watt motor with speeds of 14 mph, like the Razor MX350. A 650-watt motor offers speeds of 17 mph, with the potential for more if road conditions are particularly good. Gas-powered bikes for kids will generally be faster than battery-powered bikes. A 50cc bike often reaches speeds of 24 mph, and the higher the cc-rating, the faster a bike can potentially go.
Budget and Interest
The last two questions are tied together. Your child’s level of interest and your budget will help you decide how expensive to go for a bike and its accessories. Pre-professional bikes – which usually have to be purchased from a dealer, like Honda or Yamaha – are the most expensive, often ringing up at over a thousand dollars for even the most basic models.
If your child is seriously interested in motocross, is committed to the sport, and plans to compete, a pre-professional bike might be worth the price tag. The X-Pro is a good intro to this genre of biking. If your child is still testing the waters or only wants a fun way to get to school or a friend’s house, you may be better off buying something cheaper like the RSF350 Street Bike, particularly if your child grows rapidly.
Your budget should also include safety gear and accessories. Motorcycles are risky without proper care, and the faster and more advanced the bike, the larger your budget for safety gear and accessories will need to be.
There are also super cheap brands, like SYX and Apollo that offer lower-quality alternatives to the X-Pro. These make good burner bikes for testing out a hobby.
Sizing Tips
Many of the sizing tips out there are for pre-professional bike models. For an expensive model, it will be easier to customize the size for a perfect fit. For your child’s first motorcycle, this may be more difficult.
Most small motorcycles have a seat height around 19-23 inches. Measure your child’s legs to see if their feet would be able to touch the ground while straddling the bike. They should be able to stand on their on their own, with their toes just touching the ground.
Safety Gear
Safety is the most important part of choosing a bike, so be sure you’re prepared to buy the proper safety gear. You’ll generally need more safety gear for gas-powered bikes and faster bikes, but all future bikers should be outfitted with a helmet, rubber-soled shoes, and kneepads. They may feel like an armored tank, but with the speeds they may reach, no padding is too much.
Be warned, proper safety gear is a major cost for parents of biker kids, often totaling more than the bike itself.
Choosing a Kids’ Motorcycle Helmet
For the smaller bikes, 350-watt and below, you may feel comfortable outfitting your child in a bicycle helmet. Many active children already have one in the right size, and for lower speeds a bicycle helmet offers adequate protection.
Once your child starts riding a faster or heavier model, however, you will want to invest in a stronger helmet designed to withstand a high-speed impact. These helmets can be expensive, and for a comfortable, well-fitting helmet you may end up paying over $100. For a helmet that’s truly up to par, make sure it has a SNELL rating. Helmets are vital to protecting your child’s health and can make all the difference in case of an accident.
A good helmet is snug, but not tight and should not be uncomfortable. It should be well-ventilated and not too heavy. Helmets also have to be replaced regularly. Do not buy a second-hand helmet, as it may no longer be in good condition.
Kids’ Motorcycle Shoes and Boots
Those who don’t plan to off-road or who choose a lighter model may feel comfortable riding in a pair of sturdy everyday shoes. For heavier or faster motorcycles, however, a flimsy shoe can lead to broken toes, rolled ankles, or worse. Invest in a solid shoe, particularly for off-road bikers.
At lower levels, you may only need the ankle support, but if your child plans to commit to the sport, you won’t want to sacrifice quality. High-quality boots are expensive, but there are more budget friendly options out there. With the high speeds involved in biking, they need to be very sturdy. There’s a reason that the Sidi brand of boot is made by Husqvarna, a company known for chainsaws and power tools!
Kids’ Motorcycle Padding
Padding serves two important purposes for bikers. It reduces cuts, bruises, and broken bones in the case of a crash, and it protects bikers from possibly scalding themselves on a hot engine. Padding includes kneepads, elbow pads, gloves, and a chest protector. Kneepads and elbow pads can be purchased inexpensively without sacrificing quality. Gloves are a must, as they protect the fingers from getting twisted or broken, and guard against cuts or burns when working with more advanced bikes. If your child will be driving at high speeds, you’ll want a sturdy chest protector to prevent bumps and scrapes and internal damage. Surprisingly, kidney damage is a common consequence of youth dirt bike and ATV crashes.
Kids’ Motorcycle Goggles
If we didn’t have windshields on our cars, driving would be quite the challenge. As your kid moves on to a faster bike, you’ll want to get them a comfortable pair of goggles so they can speed through the streets without the wind blurring their vision. Kids riding on dirt will particularly need goggles, as the chances of getting a grain of dirt or rock in their eye is high. This is not only painful but can lead to further damage.
There are plenty of videos available from fellow biker parents offering their own commentary on the best brands to buy, what to save money on, and what to shell out the big bucks for.
Getting Ready to Ride
Your child may be eager to hop on the motorcycle as soon as it is assembled, but make sure that you take some time to go over safety rules and instructions first.
Suiting Up
Never ride without a helmet. Whether your child plans to go around the block or ride a mountain path, riding without a helmet is like playing chicken with fate. Encourage your child to fully suit up any time they plan to ride. This builds good habits, and the safer your child is, the better their experience will be.
Traffic Safety
Before hitting the road, make sure your kid is comfortable with traffic safety laws and road conduct. Whether they are on the road, the sidewalk, or a trail, they should be familiar with the way cars and other vehicles will act. Before your young rider ever gets on the bike, review safety videos, training guides, and make sure they understand the controls.
Just because youth motorcycles don’t require a license doesn’t mean they aren’t dangerous.
Bike Maintenance
Everyday maintenance is an important part of owning a motorcycle. Electric motorcycles will need to be fully charged at least once a month to ensure that the battery will hold a charge. Check for corrosion on the charging port and be aware that you may need to purchase new wires or replacement batteries over time.
Gas-powered motorcycles require considerably more upkeep, making them a challenge for kids to work on alone, but a great learning opportunity. Most small bikes have 2-stroke engines, which require the mixing of oil and fuel together. A 4-stroke engine like that of the Warrior200 is much heavier but doesn’t require oil to run. Over-time, the gas bill for these engines can add up, and they aren’t nearly as environmentally friendly as electric bikes. You’ll need to make sure the engine is in good condition, and you may need to purchase spare parts.
Before each ride, check the bike to make sure it’s in good condition. Battery-powered motorcycles should be fully charged, and gas-powered motorcycles should have a full tank. Make sure the tires are fully inflated and there are no loose screws on the chassis. Check the brakes to prevent any nasty surprises.
Customization
The exciting thing about working on a bike is that it offers a great chance to bond with your kiddo. If you’re handy, you might enjoy making improvements together, adding reflectors, lights, and safety features, and even working on the motor.
While it’s important to make sure a professional checks over any modifications, caring for and customizing your motorcycle can be fun and educational for both you and your child. Owning a motorbike encourages kids to be responsible and curious and take care of their things. It’s a great learning opportunity for kids of all ages.
Explore the World with the Best Motorcycles for Kids
A kid’s motorcycle is a great way to get out and see the world. Junior bikes for toddlers and little kids are a great way to inspire your kids to explore and play, as well as to encourage them to be active. Larger models offer a range of speeds and sizes and the chance to get into an exhilarating sport. You don’t have to break the bank to try out the hobby, but there are also great premium options for riders who want more out of their motorcycle.
The bikes in our list are all great intro options for young riders and hobby bikers alike. They offer a range of features and difficulty levels. As a parent, you’ll want to make sure your child is safe and has a great time. Our list is a sample of some of the best options for kids of all ages, so you can feel secure in your choice.
Source: Tools - autoquarterly.com
