Christmas is upon us, and for many kids, an ATV is at the top of their wishlist. That being said, the market abounds with four-wheelers, but not all of them are created equal. If you’re looking for the perfect kids’ ATV that’s exciting yet safe, here’s a round-up of quads that fit the bill.

We’ve chosen the five best kids’ all-terrain vehicles from Experienced Mommy‘s list and updated some specs, safety features, and prices to give you the most accurate info. At the bottom, we’ll alert you to one ATV we think children should avoid.

Are ATVs safe for kids?

If you’ve never ridden an ATV, it might sound a bit scary. It doesn’t have to be, though. ATVs can be safe, especially when you use the right equipment and a vehicle appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and abilities.

There are a few steps you can take to prepare your child for a new ATV. Buy them the proper gear, such as helmets, eye protection, and clothing that covers their entire body. And though it’s not required, enrolling your little one in a safety certification course can teach them the dos and don’ts of riding. Then set some guidelines, such as where, when, and how long they can ride. 

Custom fit: Razor Dirt Quad

The Razor Dirt Quad is a battery-powered ATV designed for children 8 and up. It holds up to 120 pounds and travels only 8 mph, so you don’t have to worry about your little one going too fast. It also comes with adjustable handlebars for a custom fit.

However, some assembly is required. And the 40-minute battery life might turn you off, as might the $489.99 price tag.

Room for two: Power Wheels Dune Racer

The Power Wheels Dune Racer by Fisher-Price is perfect for young children just getting into ATVs. It’s recommended for kids aged 3 to 7 who weigh up to 130 pounds. Bonus: This battery-powered quad is a side-by-side two-seater for twice the off-roading fun. And the MSRP is an affordable $249.99.

It definitely isn’t the fastest ATV on this list — it goes only 2.5 or 5 mph forward and 2.5 mph backward — but given the age range, that’s not a bad thing. Metal sidebars give kids hand support as they travel over backyard terrain. Other safety features are Power-Lock brakes, a parent-controlled high-speed lock-out, and a low-profile design to prevent tipping.

Big name: Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw

Retailing for around $250 to $300, the Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw is another great starter ATV. It can reach speeds of 2.25 or 5 mph, and that’s perfect for kids aged 3 to 7.

With that said, the Outlaw can hold no more than 85 pounds, so it’s not suitable for older children. It doesn’t offer a parent remote control, but it allows you to lock the gear shifter to limit the max speed.

High-end features: X-PRO 110cc ATV Quad Youth

If your kid is ready to leave the yard to ride some trails, the battery-powered X-PRO 110cc ATV Quad Youth ATV is a great choice thanks to the speed limiter you can set as slow as 3 mph. The X-PRO isn’t the cheapest option, hovering between $700 and $950, but it comes with lots of perks.

It holds up to 132 pounds, so your child can enjoy it longer than the other ATVs on this list. Plus, it comes loaded with safety features, including an engine kill switch, wireless remote stop, foot brake, taillights, and that handy speed limiter.

Reasonable price: Pulse Performance Products ATV Quad

If your child is 8 or older and no more than 120 pounds, the Pulse Performance Products ATV Quad might be exactly what you’re looking for. It comes equipped with a twist-style grip, padded seat, and bash guard. Your kid can reach fun but safe speeds up to 7 mph. Plus, it retails for a relatively reasonable $299.99.

The bad news is that it has a short battery life of only 40 minutes, so you’ll have to recharge it often. Still, that might be a great way to get your kid to come in for dinner.

Avoid this: Tao Motor Boulder B1

The Tao Motor Boulder B1 isn’t exactly unsafe, but we don’t recommend gas-powered ATVs for children. This four-wheeler is the most powerful and fastest on the list thanks to its motor. It can reach a top speed of 22 mph and hold up to 132 pounds. There’s no recommended age listed, but the manufacturer warns that no one under 16 should operate it.

This mighty little ATV has a big price tag, with an MSRP of $809.95. Despite that, there’s no reverse gear, which might make it difficult for a young person to maneuver. However, it does come with a few safety features. A speed limiter, remote control, and engine kill switch — along with the manufacturer’s age disclaimer — show Tao considers safety along with fun.