Quads are heavier and the drivetrain has more drag, so you need more cc's to pull them.

I teach rookie kids and adults to ride all the time. Something like a 250 would suit him well, but if he aggressive he may get bored with it quickly. If you think he can handle a clutch, the 300 would give him a little more "growing room".

My son is about that age, height, and weight, and he is happy riding casually on the 250. He's not agressive at all, yet he is a very skilled rider. It's a relief, becasue I never have to worry about him getting into trouble. I would gladly move him up to the 400 is he ever wanted to.

On the other hand, my g/f's kid is the same age, shorter, but maybe a little heavier, and he really rips around (safely) on his uncle's highly moded 450R.

 

at that size I would definetly suggest atleast a 250 if not a 350 or 400 depending on his personnality. If he is a responsible kid I would probably say get him a little bigger quad like a 350 or 400. If he likes to show out get him a slower quad like a 250 utility, something that would go a little slower to try to keep him from getting out on the edge to far and getting hurt.

 

Guys thank you very much for the great advice. I'll be looking at a 250 or 300 he's usually a pretty good kid but sometimes he gets daring and decides to try a couple of jack **s stunts. I guess playing ice hockey is not enough sometimes.

Thank you again.

Rick

 

Is he likely to grow a lot more??? He is on the tall side for his age, but he is still light. Might want to consider something he can grow into like a 400EX, but only if you are sure he won't kill himslef on it. Otherwise, you will be buying another quad in a couple of years.

 

My dad got me a zilla when I was 15, want his advice? LOL!

But seriously I say you could get away with a 400ex if he has a head on his shoulders and respects his limits.

 

We have a Suzuki Ozark 250 that my 17 year old son has been riding for a year. He is about the same build as yours and he likes it. Mainly because I bought it[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img], but it is a good machine. Stout little motor and rides more with a sport feel. Nice ATV for trails and does well in the sand too. Very good ratings from the ATV magazines. Best thing is to go sit and get a feel for the ATV or try to ride one somewhere and see what suits you. Get something you are comfortable with. Bigger doesn't make it a better ride, just more expensive.