If you own an adult ATV chances are your child is bugging you daily for one of his own. It is an unsafe practice to allow your child to ride an adult ATV. When you feel like your child is ready to handle the responsibility, you can buy him a child ATV which is made for his age and size. If the child is under the age of sixteen, he should never be allowed to operate a machine which has an engine larger than 90ccs.

Child ATVs have safety features built into them to provide greater safety for your child. Controls allow you to limit the speed until your child fully learns to operate the machine properly. Kill switches which usually connect to the child’s wrist allow the engine to disengage if the child’s arm leaves the handlebar area.

Child ATVs should also have good steering since this will allow your child to maintain better control of the ATV. The safest child ATV will have rear disc brakes along with drum brakes on the front.

The most sensible child ATV requires no mixing of gas and oil. Many have a 4-stroke engine and centrally located shock absorbers. A fully automatic transmission and electric starter allow for ease of use. Headlights and brake lights are also important safety features, especially when riding at night.

Safety should always be the number one consideration when shopping for a child ATV. You should be sure your child is mature enough to handle the responsibility of ATV ownership. You should also be sure the ATV is the suitable size for your child. Buying an ATV that is too large could be a dangerous mistake. It is a good idea to allow your child to take a safety class taught by certified instructors. This should be done before you allow your child to begin riding. Certified instructors possess the knowledge to teach your child the safe habits he needs in order to responsibly operate his child ATV.