What Is A Mini Moto Quad?
A mini moto quad allows your child to experience the joy of offroading. But before we get into the nitty-gritty of our review of the best Mini Moto Quads in the market, we must first unpack what Mini Moto Quads are. There are two terms we must consider; Mini Moto and Quads.
Mini motos are smaller and step-down versions of sports motorcycles. Generally, used by children, they feature 43cc to 50cc engines that put out a respectable 20km/h to 40km/h. These speeds will provide enough entertainment and thrill to young riders without the risk of high-speed accidents.
We have reviewed some of the best mini motos in the market if you and your child prefer two wheels instead of four. Check them out here.
Quads on the other hand simply refer to the number of wheels on a mini-vehicle. Full-sized quads are all-terrain vehicles that are generally for work or transportation in rough terrain environments such as farms or mountains.
Therefore, a Mini Moto Quad is essentially a 4-wheeled all-terrain vehicle that is smaller than a typical quad. Its intended uses are for children’s recreational activities such as off-roading and or regulated racing.
Petrol Vs Electric Mini Moto Quads
For this review, we will be looking at two types of mini moto quads; Petrol mini moto quads and Electric mini moto quads. There are not a lot of differences between electric and petrol mini moto quads in terms of use and purpose. However, the engine type that either of these mini moto quads employs work using fundamentally different principles.
Petrol mini moto quads run on, you guessed it, petrol engines. They require fuel to power a combustion engine that creates controlled explosions. The power of these explosions drives the pistons which in turn produce transfer power to the wheels, driving the mini moto quad forward.
Electric mini moto quads on the other hand use electric motors that feature magnetic-driven mechanics. These magnetic fields drive an armature that transfers energy into the mechanic parts of the mini moto quad thereby, driving the mini moto quad forward.
Because these two types of mini moto quads run using different principles, there are differences in how they operate.
Power:
Generally speaking, electric motors used in vehicles employ cutting edge technology. Our state of engineering and manufacturing has not yet caught up to make electric engines for vehicles ubiquitous. Therefore, for practical use vehicles such as cars and trucks, electric motor generally is regarded as less powerful than petrol engines.
However, power is not an important consideration with regards to recreational vehicles such as mini moto quads. In fact, electric motors run on par with petrol engines in terms of performance in mini moto quads.
Noise:
Due to the nature of differences in electric and petrol motors, electric mini moto quads will run a lot quieter than petrol mini moto quads. This may present both advantages and disadvantages. An electric mini moto quad will not be bothersome to neighbours who may be particularly sensitive to noise.
It would also avoid startling the livestock for those who live n rural areas. Given this, however, a petrol mini moto quad will have the hum and sound that only a petrol-powered vehicle provides. This is part of the joy that some older ATV users and consequently young mini moto quad users derive from owning quad-type vehicles.
Usability/Range:
Petrol mini moto quads and electric mini moto quads operate differently from each other. Because of the differences in how either of these run, usability and handling differs between them.
Mini moto quads, whether petrol or electric, will run as long as there is fuel. However, the differences between the two become apparent when running out of fuel. Petrol cans may sometimes be brought with a petrol mini moto quad providing a quick refuel. After being topped off, petrol mini moto quads are ready to run again.
Electric mini moto quads on the other hand need recharging to continue operation. Recharging may take up to a few hours depending on the manufacturer’s recommended charging time.
Handling:
A petrol mini moto quad and an electric mini moto quad will handle differently. Due to the motor types used by each, acceleration between the two will differ. A petrol-powered mini moto quad will have to rev up and change gears in order to handle the accelerating speeds.
Therefore, reaching top speeds with a petrol mini moto quad will take longer than with an electric mini moto quad. This is because an electric motor provides the maximum torque at the onset powering up. If faster accelerations are an important consideration, electric mini moto quads are the best choice.
Environmental Considerations:
It is quite apparent that an electric mini moto quad is the more environmentally friendly option between the two types. Electric vehicles produce considerably fewer C02 petrol counterparts as stated by the EDF. Depending on the type of power provided by your local power company, electric mini moto quads may also have smaller carbon footprints compared to petrol mini moto quads.
Top 3 Best Petrol Mini Moto Quads
FunBikes Ranger 50cc Mini Moto Quad Bike
Quality Ratings
Features:
- Three-Disc Brakes
- Longer Wearing Tyres
- High-Quality Suspension
FunBikes Ranger 50cc Mini Moto Quad Bike Specs
Type: Petrol Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 6+ years
Weight: 25 Kg
Engine: 2 Stroke – Single Cylinder
Gears: Forward Gear
Fuel: Petrol, Unleaded with Pre Mix Oil
Motor Size: 50cc
Fuel Capacity: 1.0 Litres
Speed: 29 kp/h
Tyres: Gentle Off road
Rim Size: 12-inch Wheels
Start Type: Pull Start
Load: 60 kg
Brakes: Front and Rear Disc Brake
FunBikes Ranger 50cc Mini Moto Quad Bike Review
The FunBikes Ranger is a petrol-powered mini moto quad designed to be used by children of the ages 6 and up for outdoor off-roading recreational activities. It is powered by a 50cc 2 stroke – single cylinder engine which gives out an ample 29 kp/h top speed. Furthermore, it features a single forward gear and a fuel capacity of 1.0 litres.
In terms of safety, the FunBikes Ranger has a throttle restrictor to manage the speeds it gives out. It also has front and rear disc brakes which grant the user adequate braking power.
Handling the FunBikes Ranger is a breeze because it sports front and rear shock absorbers. This is great for off-roading because it gives the mini moto quad superior handling when tackling rough terrain.
One thing we like about the FunBikes Ranger is that it features a rear carry rack that allows the user to store all manners of baggage. It also has that utilitarian look that regular farm ATV’s have. With the FunBikes Ranger, your little is guaranteed to have tons of fun.
PROS
- Rear Brake for Safety
- Lightweight
- Adult Restricted Speed Control
- Rear Carry Rack
CONS
- Low Load Limit
Ranger 50cc Mini Moto Quad Review
- Three-Disc Brakes
- Longer Wearing Tyres
- High-Quality Suspension
SMC Cub 50cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad
SMC Cub 50cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad Specs
Type: Petrol Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 3+ years
Engine: 2 Stroke Single Cylinder
Engine Type: Petrol Engine
Clutch: Automatic Transmission
Drive Type: 2-wheel Drive
Fuel System: Carburettor
Final Drive: Chain
Motor Size: 50cc
Cooling: Air-cooled
Wheel Type: Steel
Tires: Full off-road tires
Rim Size: 6” front and 6” rear
Start Type: Kick Start and Electric
Brakes: Rear Drum Brakes
Suspension: Rear single shock,
Front A-Arm
Warranty: 2 years.
SMC Cub 50cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad Review
The SMC manufacturers hail from Taiwan. Because they are one of the longest established ATV manufacturers, SMC produces great mini moto quads. The SMC Cub is a mini moto quad that runs with a 50cc 2 stroke – single-cylinder engine. It also features an easy-to-use automatic transmission system that your kids will enjoy due to its ease. Due to having fully enclosed safety footwells and a lanyard engine cut-off, the SMC Cub ensures that your child will be riding safe provided that you teach your child proper and safe driving. Further, the throttle restrictor also adds to the safety of the SMC Cub.
When it comes to handling, the SMC Cub mini moto quad sports rear single shocks and a front A-arm suspension system providing smooth handling. It also has powerful rear drum brakes that increase the braking stability of the SMC Cub.
What we like about the SMC mini moto quads is that they have a standard 2-year warranty. Another thing that we particularly like about the SMC Cub is its sleek and sporty design.
PROS
- Standard 2 Year Warranty
- Automatic CVT Transmission
- Adult Restricted Throttle Restrictor
- Lanyard Engine Cut-Off
CONS
- Pricey
- Low Speed
SMC Cub 50cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad
- 2 Years Warranty
- Restrictable Throttle
- Rear & Rider Safety Lanyard
SMC Cub 90cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad
SMC Cub 90cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad Specs
Type: Petrol Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 6+ years
Engine: 2 Stroke Single Cylinder
Engine Type: Petrol Engine
Clutch: Automatic Transmission
Drive Type: 2-wheel Drive
Fuel System: Carburettor
Final Drive: Chain
Motor Size: 90cc
Cooling: Air-cooled
Wheel Type: Steel
Tires: Full off-road tires
Rim Size: 6” front and 7” rear
Start Type: Kick Start and Electric
Brakes: Rear and Front Drum Brakes
Suspension: Rear single shock, Front A-Arm
Warranty: 2 years
SMC Cub 90cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad Review
Yet another great mini moto quad from SMC, the SMC Scout is a more powerful version of the SMC Cub. It runs on a 90cc 2 stroke single-cylinder petrol engine that gives an ample amount of power in such a small package. It also features an automatic transmission system similar to the SMC Cub which also provides the same ease of use for your young adventurers. Further, in terms of safety, the SMC Scout also features the fully enclosed safety footwells present in the SMC Cub. However, one key difference this has over the SMC Cub is that it features a kickstart when turning on the power.
The SMC Scout sports the same suspension system found in the SMC Cub albeit calibrated to fit this powerful yet small package. Thus, your young one can expect the same smooth handling experience the SMC Cub provides with the SMC Scout. Further, the brakes used by the SMC Scout give ample braking power.
We like that the SMC Scout retains the plethora of features the SMC Cub has. It improves upon the power of the SMC Cub making it a great choice for young riders who are in the last step before transitioning into junior-sized off-road ATVs.
PROS
- Standard 2 Year Warranty
- Automatic CVT Transmission
- Adult Restricted Throttle Restrictor
- Front and Rear Drum Brakes
CONS
- Pricey
SMC Cub 90cc Petrol Pink Moto Quad
- Powerful Engine
- 2 Years Warranty
- Fully Enclosed Footwells
Top 4 Electric Mini Moto Quads
Funbikes Bambino 250w Electric Moto Quad
Funbikes Bambino 250w Electric Moto Quad Specs
Type: Electric Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 3-5 years
Weight: 40 Kg
Engine: Electric Motor
Gears: Forward Gear
Fuel: Battery
Motor Size: 250w
Runtime: 40 mins, 5-8 hr. Charge Time
Speed: 11.2 kph
Tyres: Pneumatic Knobby Tyres
Rim Size: 6-inch Front, 6-inch Rear
Start Type: Electric Start
Load: 50 kg
Brakes: Disc Brakes
Funbikes Bambino 250w Electric Moto Quad Review
The Funbikes Bambino are electric mini moto quads that are powered by a 250w electric motor that drives them with speeds of up to 11.2 kp/h. It also features a 40-minute range and 5-8 hours of charging time. The Funbikes Bambino is suited for younger who want to experience the thrill and enjoyment of offroading. Given this, the 6-inch front and rear wheels and knobbly tyres outfitted into the Funbikes Bambino allow your little one to experience offroading to their heart’s content.
As is standard with electric mini moto quads, the Funbikes Bambino features an electric start. Gone are the pull start assemblies which are a staple in petrol-powered mini moto quads. With the Funbikes Bambino, starting up only takes a simple flick.
Although the Funbikes Bambino runs at slow speeds, this could actually be a potential safety feature given that fast speeds are conducive to accidents. We feel that the ample 11.2 kp/h of the Funbikes Bambino is more than enough for your young child to enjoy offroading.
PROS
- Silent
- Fully Enclosed Footwells
- Environmentally Friendly
CONS
- Slow Speed
- Short Range
Funbikes Bambino 250w Mini Moto Quad
- Silent Engine
- Longer Wearing Tyres
- CE approved
FunBikes Toxic 800w Mini Moto Quad
FunBikes Toxic 800w Mini Moto Quad Specs
Type: Electric Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 6-12 years
Weight: 45 Kg
Engine: Electric Motor
Gears: Forward, Neutral, Reverse | Automatic Transmission
Fuel: Battery
Motor Size: 800w
Runtime: 45-120 mins,
Charge Time:5-8 hr.
Speed: 20.9 kp/h
Tyres: Off-Road Tyres
Rim Size: 6-inch Front, 6-inch Rear
Start Type: Electric Start
Load: 60 kg
Brakes: Disc Brakes
FunBikes Toxic 800w Mini Moto Quad Specs
A stepped-up version of the Funbikes Bambino, the FunBikes Toxic are intended for older riders who are more confident in their skills in handling faster and more powerful mini moto quads. Featuring an 800w electric motor with speeds of up to 20.9 kp/h, the FunBikes Toxic will surely give your young rider the thrill and excitement of offroading. In this stepped-up mini moto quad, a few gear options are added to its transmission namely; forward, neutral, and reverse, giving it the feeling of being an actual full-sized ATV.
In terms of safety, the FunBikes Toxic can be restricted to run in either 8.05 kp/h, 12.8 kp/h, or the full 20.9 kp/h. This allows you to have the peace of mind that being sure your child won’t exceed speed limits gives.
The FunBikes Toxic features a front twin mono-shock and rear twin mono-shock suspension system that gives it smooth handling. It also features disc brakes that allow your child to break easily.
We like the nifty battery life gauge that the FunBikes Toxic has. It allows your child to see how much juice they have left in their battery. This helps them plan ahead regarding how long they will be riding before needing to recharge.
PROS
- 3-Gear Transmission
- Battery Life Gauge
- 3-Speed Restrictable
CONS
- Short Range
FunBikes Toxic 800w Mini Moto Quad
- Silent Engine
- Longer Wearing Tyres
- CE approved
FunBikes Ranger 800w Mini Moto Quad
Quality Ratings
Features:
- Working Headlights
- Direction Switch
- Twist Grip Throttle
FunBikes Ranger 800w Mini Moto Quad Specs
Type: Electric Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 6-12 years
Weight: 58 Kg
Engine: Electric Motor
Gears: Forward, Neutral, Reverse | Automatic Transmission
Fuel: Battery
Motor Size: 800w
Runtime: 45-120 mins
Charge Time: 5-8 hr.
Speed: 20.9 kp/h
Tyres: Off-Road Tyres
Rim Size: 6-inch Front, 6-inch Rear
Start Type: Electric Start
Load: 60 kg
Brakes: Disc Brakes
FunBikes Ranger 800w Mini Moto Quad Review
The FunBikes Ranger is essentially the same as the FunBikes Toxic albeit in a different form factor. Instead of having a sporty look, the FunBikes Ranger opted for a more utilitarian look which is very similar to the petrol version of the FunBikes Ranger. It runs using an 800w electric motor that can take it up to speeds of 20.9 kp/h. It also has a range of 45 minutes to 120 minutes giving your little offroader a lot of riding time. Like the FunBikes Toxic, the FunBikes Ranger features a 3-gear transmission system and 3 restrictable throttle control options.
Handling is smooth with the FunBikes Ranger because, like the Funbikes Toxic, it sports a front twin shock and rear mono-shock suspension system. It also has the same disc brakes as well as the battery life gauge.
We like the FunBikes Ranger because of its utilitarian look. It gives the same feel as a farm ATV. The rear storage rack is also a great addition.
PROS
- 3-Gear Transmission
- Battery Life Gauge
- 3-Speed Restrictable
- Rear Carry Rack
CONS
- Short Range
FunBikes Ranger 800w Mini Moto Quad
- Working Headlights
- Direction Switch
- Twist Grip Throttle
FunBikes T-Max Roughrider 1000w Quad
FunBikes T-Max Roughrider 1000w Mini Moto Quad
Type: Electric Mini Moto Quad
Age level: 6-12 years
Weight: 61 Kg
Engine: Electric Motor
Gears: Forward, Neutral, Reverse | Automatic Transmission
Fuel: Battery
Motor Size: 1000w
Runtime: 40 mins Optimal Range
Speed: 27 kp/h
Tyres: Front 14*4 10-6″ / Rear 14*5 0-6″ Tubeless
Rim Size: 6-inch Front, 6-inch Rear
Start Type: Electric Start With Key
Load: 60 kg
Brakes: Front and Rear Hydraulic Disc Brakes
FunBikes T-Max Roughrider 1000w Mini Moto Quad
The FunBikes T-Max Roughrider is the king of electric mini moto quads. Boasting a 1000w electric engine that can go up to speeds of 27 kp/h, the FunBikes T-Max Roughrider is intended for young riders who will be transitioning into junior-sized ATVs.
This mini moto quad prepares them for the more powerful ATVs that they may encounter in the future. Given the speeds that the FunBikes T-Max Roughrider can reach, the 3-speed restriction allows you to be sure that your child will not go too fast and potentially hurt themselves. It also has the 3-gear transmission options that the previous electric mini moto quads offer.
Front twin shock and rear mono-shock suspension systems are utilized in the FunBikes T-Max Roughrider as well as front and rear hydraulic disc brakes. This makes handling and braking even in rough terrains a breeze.
What we like about the FunBikes T-Max Roughrider is that unlike the other electric mini moto quads in the list, the FunBikes T-Max Roughrider is started by using a key. This adds to the feeling of responsibility that a young rider will feel because they are entrusted with an actual key to start their mini moto quad.
PROS
- 3-Gear Transmission
- Battery Life Gauge
- 3-Speed Restrictable
- Fast Top Speed
CONS
- Short Range
FunBikes T-Max Roughrider 1000w
- Electric Key Start
- Off-road Knobbly Tyres
- Forward and Reverse Gears
FAQs About Mini Moto Quads:
What age can a child ride a quad bike / mini moto quad?
Most manufacturers of quad bikes and mini moto quads specify that their vehicles are safe for children at ages 6 and up. However, some quadbikes are marketed for ages as young as 3. Generally, if your child displays responsibility and willingness to ride quads and go offroading, and as long as they meet the safety standards in place in your country, then it is safe for your child to ride a quad.
Are children’s quad bikes / mini moto quads safe?
Generally speaking, if you teach your child thoroughly the proper operation and rules of driving a quad, and provide them with the proper and complete safety equipment, then it is quite safe. Furthermore, mini moto quads and children’s quad bikes come with speed limiters that can only be accessed by adults. This further minimizes the risk of injury. It is important that you teach your child the responsibility of owning and riding a quad bike/mini moto quad and emphasize the fact that these are, indeed, not toys.
What are mini quads /mini moto quads for?
Mini quads /mini moto quads are intended to be used by children and younger teens only. Mini moto quads have a weight limit with regards to the load you can place on them. Exceeding this limit for example; when a grown adult attempts to ride a mini moto quad, may not only damage the mini moto quad but cause injuries to the person.
Are mini moto quads legal?
Mini moto quads are indeed legal albeit under certain circumstances only. Most countries do not allow the use of a mini moto quad on public roads by people under the legal driving age due to it being classed as a vehicle. Again, these are not toys but actual vehicles. Generally, designated parks and/or private land with the owner’s approval can be used for riding mini moto quads.
Conclusion:
Offroading is such an enjoyable activity. It lets you experience the thrill and excitement of being one with your vehicle and traversing rough land. It also allows you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Sharing this experience with our children is not only a great pastime but can be an opportunity to bond with them. Teach them responsibility and keep them safe in their journey towards discovering offroading!