All-terrain vehicles, in general, have enjoyed continued success due to their durability, reliability, versatility and maneuverability.
Three wheelers were banned from production in the 80s when it become apparent that they were dangerous and potentially deadly. The precarious three wheeler’s demise lead to an insurgence in the four wheeler’s popularity and increased ridership.
Manufacturers
Many motorcycle manufacturers offer all-terrain vehicles as a part of their annual product line-ups. Suzuki, Polaris, Arctic Cat, Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki are some of the more well-known brands.
For younger kids, battery-powered four wheelers are available from various toy manufacturers in a variety of styles and themes. The four wheelers can be purchased through major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Toys-R-Us and Kmart.
Legal Restrictions
Many states are beginning to enact legislature requiring ATV riders to take and pass a safety course before operating ATVs. Oregon requires all riders, regardless of age or state of residency, to possess an ATV Safety Education Card by January 1, 2014. Check with your local authorities or dealership in your area for your states requirements.
Suggested Guidelines
Many legislative bodies are enacting legislation requiring ATV riders to take and pass a safety course before operating ATVs.
Oregon will require all riders, regardless of age or state of residency, to possess an ATV Safety Education Card by January 1, 2014. Check with your local authorities or dealership in your area for your state’s requirements.
Regular, motorized four wheelers are not recommended for toddlers below 6 years of age; however, there are battery-powered options for the adventurous kids. Choices range from sports cars to hummers and motorcycles with extra side wheels used as stabilizers.
Ages 6 to 11
The options for riders within this age group are limited. Safety is the key and Extreme Motor Sales offers a Mini 50cc and 70cc Quad with a remote control for parental guidance, reassurance and control. This four wheeler is an excellent option for beginners and concerned parents.
Ages 12 to 15
Seminole Power Sports’ Chuck McDonald suggests the 2011 KFX90 for riders 12 and older, stating: “parents will appreciate the KFX90’s smooth, stable handling and the protection offered by full floorboards.
Another option is the 2011 Yamaha Raptor 125 for teenagers with a higher skill level.
Ages 16 and Older
The Honda TRX250x is an option for riders with above-average experience and skill that are seeking fun without the cumbersome cargo racks. The four-stroke Kawasaki KFX450R would be a great fit for more advanced riders. The Honda TRX is has a two-stroke engine and is designed to assist young riders hone their skills.
The KFX450R is much faster and equipped with a stiffer suspension and is better suited for more adventurous teenagers with a greater sense of safety and riding consciousness.
Safety Facts
Four Wheelers ATVs are much safer than their predecessors, three wheel all terrain cycles, but there still are risks involved. Speed and experience level are the major factors.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) released a report, “All Terrain Vehicle Fatalities — West Virginia, 1999 — 2006.”, on March 28, 2008, stating, “During 1999–2006, ATV fatalities increased by an average of 14% per year.” Persons aged 10 to 17 years had the highest ATV-related death rate: 2.70 per 100,000 residents.
Sources:
CDC.gov: “All-Terrain Vehicle Fatalities — West Virginia, 1999 — 2006.”; March 28, 2008
RacewayATV.com: “Kids of All Ages Can Enjoy an ATV.”
Steve Casper; ATV.com: “Kids and ATVs”; 2007
Oregon.gov; Oregon Parks and Recreation Department: “ATV Riding Requirements
Chuck McDonald, Business Manager, Seminole Power Sports, Sanford, Florida
Extrememotorsales.com: “Kids Mini 50cc, 70cc ATV Quad 4 Wheelers with Remote Control.”
