i have twin 10 year old boys that i want to get atv's for. is there horse powerer restiction set by the state on what kids can ride. i would be riding with them on state trails in OHio and PA.do these states have specific rules on what is legal for kids.i was hoping i could get them something like a honda 90. but i dont know if that is ok. thanks, john

 

Mac,
Due to some brainiac in the legal field, kids are restricted by age and cc's. They don't recommend kids under 12 on anything bigger than 70 cc, and to be 16 for anything over 90cc. This, in my opinion, is a total crock, too many variables, like body size, skill, and ability. My son started riding an LT80 at 4 1/2, by controlling the throttle stop, I was able to let him learn control and technique. Now, at age 10, he rides a 250 Recon, and handles it better than some adults I have seen. I know this was off the subject, but just letting you know what I, and most other parents, think. If your boys are big enough, the 90 honda is great,and rarely will you find any officials who will hassle you if you are riding in a responsible manner.Also, don't tell the dealer you are buying the 90's for the kids, by law they can't sell to you if you state it is for an under age kid. I know this all sounds like a lot of hooey, and I don't like it either. Just another thing about our sport that needs changing.
Just my 2 cents.

 

We had no problems buying a Sportsman 90 for my 8 year old. When a set of bikes came in (a 50cc Scrambler and a 90cc Sportsman) they invited us down to size him up. They agreed the 90cc was more suited to his size, he's a bit small for his age also. Age was never an issue.

Shannon
99 Sportsman 500
01 Sportsman 90

 

thanks for the responce. at least now i know the law wont be out there looking for there ID's. or checking what size machine they have. as long as they are with me and don't get crazy. i dont want to get them some thing so small they grow out of it fast. but i dont want to get something to big. better with a automatic i think though. thanks, John

 

My 8yearold daughter rides a honda 4-trax 90 & she does graet with it.She also rides trails & races in the powder puff class.The 90 is avery good machine & is easily maintained.
She has never had any accidents..only advise I have is buy all protective gear & install a "killswitch " tether to ignition just in case.

 

John, speaking only for Pa, all state parks such as Marieville and other forestry areas require an atv training certificate for kids 12 and under. Not sure about the buckeye state. The real problem is that the instructors require an atv 70cc's or less, which is rediculous! Ask your local shop for info on the courses available to your kids. Most places aren't that strict on age enforcement but we were stopped in Pa and had to "pull the wool over".

 

I have a little 11 year old boy that I mentor that rides a 300ex better than I do. But, here in Michigan he is not allowed to ride on the state trails. He will not be able to until he is 12. Now, isn't that dumbest thing you have ever heard?
He has been riding since he was knee high to a grasshopper! I can't even imagine him on anything as small as a 50 or a 90. We need to try and change the laws around here.

 

I bought my 5yr a e-ton 50 to learn on, I adjust the throttle down to about 5mph and she's doing great. I brother just bought 2 suzuki 80 quadsports for christmas. They both can handle the e-ton ez, so with a little throttle adjustment they'll do just fine on the 80's.