How to Choose a Kids Ride-On

Four questions decide the right ride-on: how old the driver is, how many kids ride together, where they will drive, and where you will store it. Here is how to answer each one.

1. Match the ride-on to the age

• Ages 1 to 3: push cars, balance bikes and gentle 6V ride-ons that top out around 1 to 2 mph. A parent remote matters most here. Shop ages 1-3
• Ages 3 to 8: 12V and 24V ride-ons with a parent remote, around 3 to 5 mph. This is the range where 2-seaters shine. Shop ages 3-8
• Ages 8 and up: 36V dirt bikes, brushless buggies and 48V UTVs with air tires and real suspension. Most do not include a parent remote. Shop ages 8+

Tip: if your child is near the top of an age range, size up. A ride-on that fits at 4 still fits at 6; one that fits at 6 is outgrown by 7.

2. 12V, 24V or 48V?

• 12V: fine on pavement and short, flat grass. Best for one rider under about 65 lb.
• 24V: the sweet spot. Enough power for grass, gravel and gentle slopes, and for two kids at once.
• 2×24V and 48V: four motors or brushless drive for heavier loads, longer rides and rougher ground.

Voltage tells you power, not top speed. Most 24V ride-ons for ages 3 to 8 are limited to around 5 mph, and the parent remote can slow them further.

3. One seat or two?

If there are siblings or cousins, buy the 2-seater. Taking turns is where most ride-on fights start. Check the max rider weight: it is the total for everyone on board. Shop 2-seaters

4. Tires and suspension

• EVA tires: solid foam-rubber, no flats, no pumping. Good grip on grass.
• Air-filled rubber tires: real tread and the smoothest ride on rough ground, found on bigger ride-ons.
• Suspension: rear or full suspension makes a real difference on lawns with roots and bumps.

5. Battery, charging and ride time

Ride time is a manufacturer rating on flat ground: expect less on grass or with two riders. The first charge takes 8 to 12 hours, so plug it in the night before Christmas. A spare battery doubles the ride time, which is why it comes in our Christmas Bundles.

6. Check your space

Every product page lists the assembled size (length x width x height). Measure the garage or shed and the door you will roll it through before you order.

Still not sure?

Answer 3 questions in our ride-on finder, or ask a ride-on tech. Every ride-on ships free and comes with a 1-year warranty, battery included.