13 Best 4 Wheeler for 12 Year Old Boys and Girls: Top Picks

How old should a child be to ride an ATV? What is the best 4 wheeler for 12 year old? What size four wheeler does a 12 year old need? Do you need a license to drive a four wheeler? If you are an ATV lover and one of those parents who encourage their children to do outdoor activities more often, then you must have thought about these things. Isn’t it?

It is great to see your little one on a four wheeler having the time of his or her life, isn’t it? All-Terrain-Vehicles or ATVs are the new sources of fun as they look sporty, cute and give everyone some adventurous experience. Be it adults or kids, everyone likes an ATV of his or her own.

It is quite common to see adults showing off their cool ATVs in the dirt, snow, or in the large estate of their country house; kids love to imitate parents. It is not an uncommon sight to see kids trying their luck with an ATV.

If you want them to have some fun, buying them the right size of ATV is important. After all, your kid also deserves the best four wheeler for kids that is available in the market right now. Right?

4 wheeler for 12 year old
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With kid’s fun in mind, several manufacturers are making different-sized ATVs to fulfill the self-travel needs of kids. When you are planning on surprising your loved one with an ATV, it is important to look in deeply and find out the best size four wheeler for 12 year old as per their height, weight, safety measures, design, etc.

In a hurry? Here are our top choices:

Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

To ease up your burden, we are here today with the list of 13 best 4 wheeler for 12 year old boys and girls, which are chosen for your perusal. You can check them out, weigh their pros and cons and choose the best ATV for 12 year old kids.

But before checking out the list of best 4 wheelers for kids, let’s learn first what is the legal age to drive an ATV and what is the best size four wheeler for 12 year old.

Can a 12 Year Old Drive an ATV?

Of course, they can, but you need to look into the state laws as there is no federal age limit set as the minimum age limit for driving an ATV. Since they are popular and young kids too want to cash in some enjoyment, there are several ATVs available in the market right now which are perfect for kids ranging from 8 to 16 years of age.

If you are looking into one of the best 4 wheelers for your 12 year old, first check your state laws. They don’t restrict the kids from driving an ATV on your private land, but if you plan to go to the highway, you need a license, even for an ATV.

In addition, some states require kids to be at least 16 year old, while some states allow even 10 year old kids to ride an ATV if accompanied by a parent holding a valid driver’s license.

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Before you give the control of an ATV in the hands of your 12 year old kid, learn about the ATVs. They are motorized vehicles. They have handlebars and large tires, which allows the kids to maintain their balance on rough terrains. However, they can be hard to control, and the kid must be old enough to understand their ways.

At 12 years, kids usually know how to ride a bicycle. So, if he or she follow all the precautions and use all the essential ATV safety gear, your 12 year old kid can easily ride an ATV. But make sure that you get him or her the best ATV for a 12 year old, with all the safety precautions and limited CC engine.

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What Size Four Wheeler Does a 12 Year Old Need?

Each age group needs a different-sized ATV as children grow faster. Buying an ATV is like buying clothes. If they are not the right size, it doesn’t work out. So, if you are also wondering, “what is a good size ATV for a 12 year old”, you must look at this 4 wheeler size chart, which distinguishes ATV sizes by age.

four wheeler for 12 year old

When it comes to selecting a safest and best four wheelers for kids, going through this will help you choose exactly what size and type of ATV to get for kids 8 to 12 years old. So, just carefully read these below-listed age and size recommendations for ATV in order to choose the best-sized four wheeler for a 12 year old kid. Here we go:

  • Mini-Sized ATV: The smallest size ATV you can get in the market is a mini-sized. A mini ATV is suitable for kids under 6 year old, but it will not last long. The reason is that kids grow fast, and they soon outgrow the mini-sized ATV.
  • Mid-Sized ATV: This one is for kids aged between 5 to 8 year old. Though older kids can also ride them, they won’t fit in properly.
  • Intermediate-Sized ATV: These are slightly bigger than the mid-sized frame. These are also heavier and more powerful so that they can fit a 12 year old kid quite perfectly. In short, the intermediate sized ATV is the best ATV for a 12 year old.
  • Intermediate Plus Sized ATV: It is the right four wheeler size for kids between 12 to 15 year old. They also have hydraulic brakes and a heavy-duty frame.
  • Full-Sized ATV: It is a perfect size for young adults. Though, kids above 12 years can also ride it.

The difference between all these different-sized machines is the engine power. Starting from the 100cc, the full-sized machines have 200cc engines, which makes them perfect for young riders. Children under age 10 should have an ATV no more than 70cc, but kids quickly get bored.

For a 12 years old kid, an ATV up to 125cc is perfect. Apart from age, you must look at the physical aspects of your kid, the height and weight, for example, and then choose the best size four wheeler for a 12 year old.

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13 Best 4 Wheeler for 12 Year Old Boys and Girls

Although in most of the states, the legal minimum age to drive an off-road vehicle is 16, but the ATV laws and regulations vary for teenagers of different ages. Anyone under 16 has to have passed a safety certificate and be supervised by a parent or guardian. No one under age 10 is allowed to ride a quad with four wheels or more. Under 12 can ride four-wheelers as long as they are on private land owned by their parents.

And since now you know all the necessary information about driving an off-road vehicle at a young age, such as; how old do you have to be to drive a four wheeler, and what size ATV for 12 year old is the most appropriate, it’s time to find out what is the best four wheeler for 12 year old.

There is no need to browse multiple online shopping sites and waste your precious time when here’s a comprehensive list of the 13 best 4 wheelers for 12 year old boys and girls. These are handpicked and top-rated four wheelers for kids from some of the most popular ATV brands in the world.

So, there’s nothing to worry about, just go ahead and choose the best ATV for 12 year old based on your kid’s requirement and according to your wish. Here we go:

Razor Dirt Quad

This is the best ATV for a 12 year old as both boys and girls like it. Its red and black design attracts kids. This ATV is designed for rough terrains, and its exceptional design quality is something to talk about. The alloy steel body allows it to float perfectly in the rough terrain. Its maximum speed is 8mph which is perfect for a 12 year old.

razor dirt quad

It has an adjustable handlebar, and it can carry up to 120lbs. So, kids from 8-14 can easily ride the Razor Dirt Quad (24V Electric 4-Wheeler ATV). This ATV can run up to 40 minutes and gets fully charged in just 15 hours. It has two 12-volt batteries, which let your kid enjoy it as long as they like.

Its rear suspension and rear braking system are reliable, and you can trust your kids with this one. The 13-inch pneumatic tires make it workable on all terrains like snow, sand, grass, gravel, etc.

Pros:

  • Its rear suspension is very good and allows the kids a smooth ride.
  • The adjustable handlebar is great as it can be adjusted as your kid grows.
  • The alloy body and shatter-resistant plastic fairings will save it in any weather.
  • It can be stored in a small space.

Cons:

  • It takes a long time to get charged.
  • Has a longer assembly time.

Pulse Performance Products ATV Quad

This is the perfect bike for a kid aged between 8 and 12; though, a 12 year old will be able to handle it quite perfectly. With a cushioned seat and footrest, kids find themselves perfectly comfortable and relaxed riding this ATV.

The color is classy. It looks chic, and kids like it. There is twist-grip throttle and a 250W chain-driven motor that is right for your kid if it’s their first experience riding an ATV. Its heavy-duty steel frame is powerful, and with the help of its pneumatic knobby tires, it runs smoothly on the roughest terrain.

pulse atv quad

Talking about the safety, the footrest, and the padded seat allows the kids to sit in an upright position and control the 4 wheeler quite perfectly, making it a safe choice. This childrens electric 4 wheeler is one of the best 4 wheelers for 12 year old kids to let them have some fun on the off-roads, snow, and gravel.

Pros:

  • It has a hand-actuated rear disc brake.
  • It comes with a bash guard, heavy-duty steel frame, padded seat, and footrest.
  • The speed is limited to 7 mph, and it lasts for 40 minutes after charging fully.
  • It can bear a weight of up to 120 lbs.

Cons:

  • The battery life is short.
  • More safety measures are required as it is designed for kids above 8.

X-PRO 110cc Youth ATV Quad

If you are looking for the best 4 wheeler for 12 year old beginners, your search ends here. Another product from X-Pro has made it to the list of 13 best 4 wheelers for 12 year old boys and girls because of its numerous features.

This ATV comes equipped with a powerful 110 cc engine, and its design is very attractive. Colored in spider black, this ATV has an electric start and automatic transmission, making it smooth and easy for kids to operate who are going to ride an ATV for the first time.

x-pro 110cc atv

The sturdy knobby tires provide traction and make ground clearance easy. It also has the speed governor and remote cut-off switch, which allows you to cut the speed from a distance or set a limit on it. With safety in mind, the X-PRO 110cc ATV is equipped with front drum brakes and rear hydraulic brakes.

Pros:

  • Built with quality materials and perfect for beginners.
  • It can carry a weight of up to 132 lbs.
  • Sturdy tires make the ground clearance easier and allow the kids to roam freely.
  • The remote cut-off switch and speed limiter are great controls.
  • It has an electric start, dual arm suspension, automatic clutch transmission, etc.

Cons:

  • It does not have the same cooling system as X-Pro Bolt.

X-PRO Bolt 110cc ATV Quad

It is one of the best four wheelers for 12 year old kids designed to keep the parent’s concern in mind. It comes in beautiful colors, and whether it is a boy or girl, your kid is going to love it. Starting with the design, it looks rough and tough, which is perfect for the rough terrains.

If you are worried about overeating the ATV, it has a 4-stroke engine that takes care of it. It is a 110 cc four wheeler which has a flexible turning radius of 2.25 meter. It makes the turns flexible and comfortable.

x-pro bolt 110cc atv

The biggest concern of the parents is the speed. Thus, this gas powered ATV comes with remote control and speed governor. You can stop your kid from a distance as long as 20 meters. You can limit their speed and increase it as they grow. Safety is paramount for X-Pro, and thus they send it in a careful wooden package so that you receive a perfect, non-damaged four wheeler for kids.

Pros:

  • The remote cut-off and speed governor are a great relief for parents.
  • It has a steel casting which makes it more durable.
  • The package also contains X-Pro gloves, a face mask, and goggles for your kid’s safety.

Cons:

  • The engine overheats quickly, but the air cooling system keeps a check on it.

110cc ATV Four Wheelers Fully Automatic

Do you want to get your kid out of the house and have some fun? Are you looking for the best gas powered 4 wheeler for 12 year old kids? The ICEBear 110cc ATV four wheeler is your best trait.

The design is attractive, you will agree to that. Any Spiderman fan will jump up with happiness. Then comes its sleek design, tires, and the feature that it has a reverse mechanism which some of the best four wheelers for kids lack.

black spider atv

It has a fully automatic four-stroke engine and drums front brakes with rear disc brakes. Safety is paramount, and thus it comes with a remote cut-off so that you can kill the speed remotely if needed.

This Black Spider ATV has a beefy front and a rear rack, which adds to the ATV’s look and accounts for safety. It has 6-inch thick tires for a powerful grip. It can bear a weight of up to 130lbs.

Pros:

  • Suitable for kids above 7.
  • Easy for beginners to ride.
  • It comes mostly assembled, so it only takes a few minutes to put it together.
  • The safety features are good.

Cons:

  • Only suitable for small kids.

TaoTao Kids Gas 110cc Sport ATV

Kids like a bike that looks sporty and flashy. This ATV is designed keeping that in mind. TaoTao is a name that is quite popular in the Powersports game. They make all the high-quality products and some amazing TVs.

If you are looking forward to getting the best four wheeler for a 12 year old kid, you can trust TaoTao and their commitment towards delivering a high-quality product.

110cc sport atv

The ATV comes equipped with an electric start. It is one of the best gas-powered 4 wheelers you can buy for a 12 year old kid of yours. It is a fully automatic ATV with a back rack. It is a strong 110 cc 4-stroke engine equipped with ATV, which is perfect for a kid. It also has a speed limiter and remote shut down to control the speed.

Before you try to order it, read the instructions carefully and whether they deliver in your state or not.

Pros:

  • It has an electric start which is good for beginner kids.
  • It has a built-in speed limiter and remote cut-off.
  • The design is attractive.

Cons:

  • You may need a professional to assemble it.
  • They do not ship it to California, Alaska, Hawaii, and Texas.
  • The CARB does not approve it.

SYX MOTO Tank Electric Four Wheeler

It is one of those four wheelers for kids which do not make you feel guilty as it is a very environmentally-friendly product. It is the best ATV you can give your kid for the first ride on one. The best thing is you won’t need to buy another one for a long time. It accommodates a kid older than 6 years while still being one of the best ATVs for 12 year old kids.

mini dirt atv quad

Talking about the design first, it is attractive, and your kid is going to love it. Talking about safety measures, it has front and rear mechanical disc brakes. It is environment-friendly because it operates on a 36V battery and no gas. It is one of the reasons why it is here in the list of 13 best 4 wheeler for 12 year old boys and girls.

This mini dirt ATV can reach a maximum speed of 12.5 mph, but you can switch it between 5-7.5-12.5 mph. You kids can enjoy all they want with the ATV for as long as 40 minutes.

Pros:

  • It can bear up to 176 lbs.
  • It can move either forward or backward, which is fun.
  • The comfortable seat and footrest allow smooth control.
  • It has three-speed adjustment control.

Cons:

  • It comes 85% assembled. You may need a professional for the rest.

X-PRO 110cc 4 Wheeler

This is another amazing ATV from X-Pro. You can get this best four wheeler for a 12 year old from Moto Pro, the authorized X-Pro dealer. It has made it to the list of 13 best 4 wheeler for 12 year old boys and girls because it is perfect or near perfect.

The spider black is cool, which is a favorite among both boys and girls. It has an automatic transmission and a strong and powerful 110 cc 4-stroke engine that does not let the ATV get heated.

x-pro 110cc atv black

It has a free upgraded flexible turning radius of 2.25 meters, far less than the competitors and one of its biggest KSP. It is specifically designed for young riders, and the smooth operation with convenient turning will convince you of that.

If you are thinking of gifting the best electric 4 wheeler for a 12 year old, this black 110cc ATV is the most appropriate choice.

Pros:

  • It has an electric start and automatic transmission to aid young riders.
  • It has a remote shut down and speed limiter to watch over your young kid.
  • The design is impressive.
  • It does not overheat.

Cons:

  • No reverse mechanism.

TaoTao 110cc ATV 4 Wheeler Fully Automatic for Kids

Appearance matters a lot for kids. They want something that looks different from others. Parents want something for their kids which they love, but it is very safe. To satisfy both kids and parents, TaoTao has introduced its brand new 110cc ATV 4 wheeler for kids, which is the best 4 wheeler for kids out there.

It has a distinct Tree CAMO that makes everyone turn their eyes as your kid rides it down the road. Isn’t it something kids love?

As a parent, it has a remote shut down for you, so if you see anything unwanted about to happen or you see that the kid is naughty and the speed needs to be controlled, you can stop the ATV. It also has a speed limiter which restricts it to 5mph. For smaller kids, it is enough.

It is a gas four wheeler, equipped with a 4-stroke engine which retrains it from overheating. It can bear up to 250 pounds, so if you want to take a ride with your kid, you can do so. It is also available in some bright colors like pink and red.

Pros:

  • It comes fully assembled.
  • It has different variants to choose from.
  • It has required safety measures.
  • It is powerful with a 100 cc engine, and it is fully automatic.

Cons:

  • No reverse mechanism.
  • It is not CARB-approved, so if you live in California, it is a piece of bad news.

SmartDealsNow Powersports Kids ATV Quad

This is another cool choice for your kid, which is going to be their next favorite toy and a great reason to go out and have some fun. This is one of the best four wheelers for 12 years old as it offers a wide range of designs and colors to choose from. It is a TaoTao product, so that you can trust it easily.

kids atv quad

It comes 70% assembled in a metal crate for safety, so you receive a fresh, undamaged ATV. It is a 110cc Gas Fully Automatic ATV which also has a remote start and kill switch, so you need not be worried about the increasing speed of the ATV. If you are a California resident, good news for you as it is CARB approved.

It can carry up to 132 lbs, so even teens and young adults can ride it. It has a 4 stroke cylinder with a cooling system, so you don’t worry about the vehicle being heated.

Pros:

  • The brake system is effective.
  • The design is cool and classy.
  • It has a remote start and a kill switch.

Cons:

  • You need a professional to assemble it.
  • It also requires technical personnel for every tech issue.

X-PRO 125cc ATV Quad with Remote Control

Who doesn’t love a rough rugged-looking monster bike? Everyone does, and when kids watch something like that on TV, they want to ride it. With this wish of kids in mind, X-Pro designed a unique 125 cc ATV Quad that looks monstrous and smoothly runs on the roughest terrains.

x-pro atv 4 wheelers

This is one of the best ATVs for 12 year old kids out there. It has a 12V battery and an electric start which is a nice aid if the kid gets stuck. The front bumpers are placed to avoid any injury in case of a mishap. The design is unique, and it also has front and rear luggage racks.

It has an automatic transmission, a powerful 125cc, 4-stroke engine, which sets it apart from others. The X-PRO ATV 4 wheelers has a foot brake, reverse mechanism, engine kill switch, and many more features.

Pros:

  • It is worth every penny as it is stocked with numerous features.
  • It can carry up to 142 lbs.
  • The unique feature is the LED headlights and taillights.
  • It has an electric start and does not overheat.

Cons:

  • The wheels are not so good.
  • Best four wheeler for 12 year old kids but not suitable for younger kids.

TAO TAO Brand 110cc Utility Model with Reverse

For a Spiderman kid, there is no better gift than TaoTao 110cc Utility Model ATV. Your search for the best four wheeler for a 12 year old kid can end here. It can be hard to choose an ATV, which will be a favorite of yours and the kids both.

What attracts you is the design alongside the sturdy tires which make the maneuvering on the rough terrains an easy ride. It has a powerful engine with 110cc power and is aided by an electric start which makes things easier for your kids. It has a chain-drive transmission with hand-shift gear. It has a single-cylinder with a fuel capacity of 1.1 gallons.

tao tao brand utility model

It can get as fast as 25-30 mph, but you have the speed governor to help you here so that you can limit it to as low as 5mph. The good news is that the TAO TAO brand utility model also has a reverse mechanism. Its safety feature is amazing, which involves a shut-off plug that is attached to your child’s clothing. So, if your kid happens to fall, the engine will stop, and no injury will be caused.

Pros:

  • Its large tires are very helpful to roam the terrain smoothly.
  • It has parental control, a shut-off safety plug, etc.
  • It is CARB-approved.
  • Reverse mechanism included.

Cons:

  • The battery does not last as long as it should. It must be improved.
  • It is a bit noisy.

X-PRO 125cc ATV Quad (Spider Red)

In the list of 13 best 4 wheeler for 12 year old boys and girls, X-Pro is ruling the list with the most number of ATVs. Such is its reputation among ATV users, and you can also trust it with the first ATV for your 12 year old kid. This one is a beautiful and bright spider red 125 cc ATV Quad which is as good as it looks.

spider red atv

Equipped with a 125cc powerful engine and hand shift gears, this ATV is known for the smooth shifting and reverse feature. The electric start is the icing on the cake. To ensure safety and stop overheating, it comes with an engine cooling design.

The 125 ATV brought by Moto Pro can carry a weight of up to 132 lbs, so your 12 year old kid can ride it smoothly. It comes with an automatic transmission and front drum brakes & rear hydraulic disc brakes to avoid any collision or accident.

Pros:

  • It is equipped with a remote switch off and speed limiter.
  • It is an attractive-looking ATV.
  • It does not require any special maintenance.

Cons:

  • Heats up quickly but is equipped with an air-cooling design.
  • Not suitable for small kids.

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Best 4 Wheeler for 12 Year Old (FAQs):

Before you buy an ATV for a 12 year old kid, it is common to have some doubts. Parents often ask what is the best 4 wheeler for a 12 year old, what is the legal age to drive an ATV, how many different ATV sizes by age are available in the market, and so on.

best atv for 12 year old

If you are also searching for some answers while buying the best 4 wheelers for 12 year olds, then here we’ve addressed some of the most common but interesting questions. Have a look:

Do You Need a License to Drive a Four Wheeler?

There is no simple answer to this question, as no federal laws have been enacted in this regard. You need to check the state laws of your state before you take your ATV on the road, for kids as well.

If you are using it for recreational purposes on personal grounds, you may not need a license but if you are using it as a part of your work, you may need a certification.

If you are going out on the road or public parks, you must check the state laws and ask, “Do you have to have a license to drive an ATV?”

Can You Use Regular Motor Oil in a 4 Wheeler?

No. An ATV runs in rough terrain, unlike your car that runs on smooth roads. Thus, an ATV requires special care. This special care comes in the form of its premium oil. Using regular motor oil can damage your ATV.

If you are thinking, what is the difference between ATV oil and regular oil, there is a difference. The properties of the two oils are somewhat similar, but they are rated differently.

An ATV oil is rated JASO MA, while a regular oil is rated JASO MA2. You are advised to read your ATV manual before putting “any oil” in it.

Is It Legal to Drive an ATV on the Road?

If you have questions like “Is it illegal to ride a four wheeler in a neighborhood?” or “Is it legal to drive an ATV on the road?,” then sorry, there is no clear answer to the question. You must check the state laws to find one.

As an ATV is a recreational vehicle, some states allow it to be used in the terrains only, while some allow it on the highway or shoulders of the highway with a limited seat and a driver’s license in your pocket. It is important to save you from the hefty penalties.

What is the Best 4 Wheeler for 12 Year Old?

ATVs are a great way to make your kid leave the laptop and phone and go out for some adventure. These motorized vehicles are a great tool for outdoor play. Whether it is snow outside or the weather is quite nice, and you want your kid to have some fun, ATVs are great.

As their birthday nears or the Christmas tree finds a place in your drawing room, you start searching for the best presents. Well, what can be better than an ATV? Yes, you can buy a four wheeler for your kids and surprise them.

But it is no cakewalk to get a powerful, fully automatic, and best ATV for 12 year old. You must check out multiple well performing all terrain vehicles before buying the best four wheelers for kids. Thankfully, the above mentioned list of the best 4 wheeler for 12 year old boys and girls must have made it easier for you to choose a top-rated and best ATV for a 12 year old. Right?

The kind of ATV you should purchase solely depends on a number of factors like age, and height, color preference of your kid, etc. The features also matter, of course.

In our opinion, the X-PRO 110cc Youth ATV Quad by Moto Pro and ICEBear 110cc ATV Four Wheelers Fully Automatic are the perfect choices for beginners. The electric start and automatic transmission provide quite easier control, quick handling, and smooth shifting.

In addition to these popular ATVs, the X-PRO ATV 4 wheelers 125cc ATV Quad is also a great choice if your kid wants something powerful.

It is highly recommended to first learn about the laws of the land alongside what does the state govt. Laws have to say about ATV riding for kids, and then go over this list of 13 best 4 wheeler for 12 year old boys and girls and pick the best ATV for your 12 year old kid.

If you found this ATV buying guide helpful for you then share with your friends on social media so that they can also get benefited from it. Also if you have any questions or suggestions regarding the best four wheeler for 12 year old then feel free to write in the comment section below.

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About Jace Cuban

I am an automotive enthusiast who loves to be around cars and pickup trucks. Applying innovative car care products and installing different latest car accessories are my hobbies. Also, I love sharing my adventurous experience with car lovers.

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