The Top 10 Kids Ride On Toys of the Year

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the top 10 kids ride-on toys of the year! From electric go-karts to classic wooden bikes, we've rounded up the best options that promise endless fun and developmental benefits for your little ones. Whether you're looking for something to boost motor skills, spark imagination, or simply provide hours of entertainment, our list has something for every young adventurer.

Key Takeaways

• The Radio Flyer Ultimate Electric Go-Kart offers thrilling speeds and adjustable settings for kids of different ages.
• The Razor A Kick Scooter is a budget-friendly option that combines durability with fun, making it perfect for outdoor play.
• Fisher-Price Bounce and Ride Pony Ride-On is ideal for toddlers, offering a safe and engaging way to develop balance and coordination.
• Power Wheels 12v Dune Racer is great for siblings or friends, with its spacious design and powerful motor for off-road adventures.
• Hape Scoot Around Ride On Wood Bike is perfect for indoor play, combining a classic design with modern safety features.

1. Radio Flyer Ultimate Electric Go-Kart

The Radio Flyer Ultimate Electric Go-Kart will give kids ages 3 to 8 a ride like no other. This fast ride-on toy was the 2021 Outdoor Toy of the Year, and Radio Flyer’s latest Extreme Drift version of the go-kart won the 2023 Ride-On Toy of the Year. One of our writers received a free sample of the Ultimate Electric Go-Kart from the brand and it’s been a hit with her almost 4-year-old son. To say the go-kart satisfies his need for speed would be an understatement.

2. Razor A Kick Scooter

The Razor A Kick Scooter is a lightweight, durable scooter that provides a smooth ride for kids. Recommended for children ages 5 and up, this classic scooter is a favorite among parents and kids alike. It features easy-adjust handlebars, a rear-fender brake, and a wheelie bar, making it both fun and safe to ride.

Key Features

• Lightweight and Durable: Made of high-quality aluminum and urethane wheels, this scooter can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions.
• Adjustable Handlebars: The handlebars can be easily adjusted to accommodate growing kids.
• Rear-Fender Brake: Provides reliable stopping power for added safety.
• Wheelie Bar: Adds an extra element of fun for kids who love to perform tricks.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Lightweight yet durable	On the smaller side
Foldable for easy transport
Adjustable handlebars

Why We Recommend It

Parents love that the Razor A Kick Scooter provides physical exercise and doesn't require any batteries. It's a great way for kids to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. The scooter's design is sturdy and made of top-shelf materials, ensuring it can take a beating and last for years.

This scooter is a great choice for kids who have graduated to two wheels. Its larger wheels and front vibration-dampening suspension system make for a smooth ride, and the scooter folds up for easy transport.

3. Fisher-Price Bounce and Ride Pony Ride-On

The Fisher-Price Bounce and Ride Pony Ride-On is an adorable and interactive toy that will delight any young child. Giddy up, partner! Little horse wranglers can walk, bounce, and ride off into the sunset with this sweet pony friend, singing a song and sharing an apple or two.

Key Features

• Fun songs, sounds, and phrases that teach the alphabet, introduce colors, and help kids count from one to 10.
• Squishy seat that allows kids to bounce or gallop to their heart’s content.
• Interactive toys on the front of the pony that promote fine motor skills.
• Mane features a rolling toy that lights up and activates catchy music and phrases.
• Handle on the back for babies and toddlers to grab and master their balance.
• Handle folds underneath for easy storage.

Specifications

Feature	Description
Product Weight	4.62 pounds
Age Recommendation	5 years old and up
Weight Limit	143 pounds

The Fisher-Price Bounce and Ride Pony Ride-On is best for toddlers who love interactive play and learning while having fun.

4. Power Wheels 12v Dune Racer

The Power Wheels 12V Dune Racer is built to handle rough terrain, like zooming around imaginary lava or chasing dinosaurs across the sand dunes of Mars. Featuring extra-wide tires and a low-profile design, this mean machine is ready for tons of fun. It has two seats with a max weight capacity of 130 pounds, so siblings or friends can ride together over hard surfaces, wet grass, or anywhere else.

Key Features

• Sturdy steel frame
• Drives 2.5 and 5 mph forward and 2.5 mph in reverse
• Parent-controlled high-speed lockout
• Hidden storage compartment under the hood

Pros

• Extra-wide tires
• Low-profile design
• Easy to operate
• Provides a sense of independence for kids

Cons

• Bulky

According to the parents and staff we surveyed, this dune racer is easy to operate and gives kids a little independence (even if they're nowhere near ready to get their license).

5. Hape Scoot Around Ride On Wood Bike

The Hape Scoot Around is the perfect first-push-bike toddler scooter. Toddlers aged 12 months and older can enjoy this four-wheel foot-powered, wooden rider. Young riders will gain muscle strength and improved balance as they carefully scoot around on this classic wooden bike.

6. Little Tikes Princess Cozy Coupe Ride-On Toy

The Little Tikes Princess Cozy Coupe Ride-On Toy is a timeless classic that has been a favorite for generations. This foot-powered ride-on is perfect for toddlers aged 18 months to 5 years. Parents will appreciate the durable design and the interactive features, such as the moving and clicking ignition. The high back seat and 360-degree wheels make it easy for little ones to cruise around.

Pros

• 360-degree wheels
• High back seat
• Moving and clicking ignition

Cons

• Foot-powered

Why We Recommend It

Parents may remember having their very own Cozy Coupe and will enjoy buying this well-loved classic ride-on for their own kids. Built to last, kids will love driving their very own car.

They say it's a great starter toy for baby or toddler. They also say it is sturdy and wonderful for their daughter. The removable floor board makes the car good for different stages of development.

7. Best Choice Products 12V Kids Ride On Truck

The Best Choice Products 12V Kids Ride On Truck offers a real driving experience for your child. With dual pedals to control the 12-volt motor and responsive steering, your kid can stop, speed, and swerve for up to an hour in the safety of your driveway or yard. The plastic tires have rugged treads for durability and grip in light offroad conditions, with a spring-based suspension system to give them a smooth ride. The adjustable safety harness and locking doors keep them contained even on the wildest rides.

8. Radio Flyer Busy Buggy

The Radio Flyer Busy Buggy is a fantastic transitional ride-on toy for younger, toddler-aged kids. Little tykes can sit and scoot back and forth with their own leg power, or they can walk along behind it with the toddler-height handle. The free-turning steering wheel gives them the illusion that they’re driving and turning themselves, complete with a squeaky horn in the middle.

Key Features

• Three modes of play: push walker, ride-on, and sensory play.
• Seat flips open for storage.
• 17 interactive activities including sliding beads, interlocking gears, and a clicking spare tire.

Pros

• Engaging design and interactive features.
• Versatile for promoting both play and developmental growth.
• Safety features.

Cons

• Some users report early failure.
• Wheels don't turn.

Why We Recommend It

No permit or license is necessary for this adorable and interactive ride-on car. The Radio Flyer Busy Buggy features three modes of play—push walker, ride-on, and sensory play—for children ages 12 months to 3 years old. The brand sent one of our writers a free sample of this Busy Buggy (in pink, specifically), and our writer says it’s even cuter in person.

One of our favorite parts of the Busy Buggy is the seat, which doubles as a storage space for goodies.

9. Tobbi 12V Kids Ride On Mercedes Benz

If you’re looking for style points in a two-seater ride-on kids vehicle, then Tobbi’s 12-volt Mercedes-Benz has you covered. This little car comes equipped with two driving modes. Kids can zoom around your driveway and neighborhood independently, with realistic foot pedals and steering control—or parents can take the reins with the included remote control option. For added fun, the car includes both aux and USB inputs, allowing your child to play their favorite tunes or listen to their favorite audiobooks.

Pros

• Two-seater
• Two driving modes
• Aux and USB inputs

Cons

• Some users report durability concerns
• Some users report battery problems

Additional Features

The durable plastic construction is great for rough-and-tumble kids, and strong enough to hold more than one child. The wheels are non-slip, water resistant, and shockproof, giving passengers a smooth ride over most terrain. And when the fun is over, the Tobbi Mercedes-Benz has a convenient carrying handle and two smaller wheels to make it easier to get back into the garage or shed.

Customers have mixed opinions about the remote control. Some find it perfect, cool, and fantastic, while others say it didn't work.

10. Kid Trax Spider-Man Large ATV

The Kid Trax Spider-Man Large ATV is a thrilling ride-on toy that brings the excitement of Spider-Man to life for kids aged three to seven. This 12-volt vehicle features a superhero aesthetic that kids love and parents appreciate. The foot-pedal drive system offers two speeds, with a maximum speed of five miles per hour, and it can move both forward and in reverse. Durable rubber wheels with traction strips ensure your child stays safe while chasing down the bad guys.

Pros

• Superhero aesthetic
• Simple foot controls
• Two driving speeds

Cons

• Some users report battery problems
• Some users report defective parts

This Spider-Man-themed ATV is perfect for a single child to chase bad guys in the backyard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the top 10 kids ride-on toys of the year offer a diverse range of options that cater to various interests and developmental needs of children aged 3-5. From classic rocking horses to modern electric cars, these toys not only provide endless hours of fun but also help in enhancing motor skills, imagination, and overall physical development. Whether your child is an adventurous explorer or a budding racer, there is a perfect ride-on toy waiting to bring joy and excitement to their playtime. As always, safety and quality are paramount, and the selected toys have been carefully evaluated to ensure they meet the highest standards. Happy riding!

Frequently Asked Questions

What age range are these ride-on toys suitable for?

The ride-on toys listed are generally suitable for children aged 3-5 years old. However, it's important to check the manufacturer's recommendations for each specific toy.

Are these ride-on toys safe for young children?

Yes, the ride-on toys mentioned in the list are designed with safety in mind. They include features such as adjustable seats, safety switches, and non-slip handles. Always supervise young children while they are using ride-on toys.

Do these ride-on toys require assembly?

Most of the ride-on toys will require some level of assembly. The complexity of assembly can vary, so it's advisable to read the instructions carefully or seek help if needed.

Can these ride-on toys be used indoors and outdoors?

Many of these ride-on toys are versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors. However, it's best to check the manufacturer's guidelines for each toy to ensure proper use.

What should I consider when choosing a ride-on toy for my child?

When choosing a ride-on toy, consider factors such as your child's age, weight, and height, as well as the toy's safety features, durability, and whether it suits indoor or outdoor use.

Where can I purchase these ride-on toys?

These ride-on toys can be purchased from various retailers, including online platforms like Amazon. Be sure to check for the best deals and read customer reviews before making a purchase.