A 49cc childs quad bike, designed from 5 years to around 10, this is a 2 stroke, petrol driven 2 wheel drive, all terrain vehicle. Supplied with removable restrictors, this bike costs around £1000 new or around £500 second-hand.
My daughter had her quad bike for Christmas 4 years ago. We had tried for a long period before Christmas to buy an LT 50 second-hand without success, as soon as they were advertised they were sold. As Christmas drew nearer, we were able to locate a Tractor supplier in Cornwall who was prepared to sell us new one at well below normal price. We had priced them up in local motorcycle shops and could not believe that they were asking nearly £1300. We inspected the bike, and could see why they were so expensive; it was a motorbike in miniature. They are often seen for rent at attractions and theme parks, and are usually well restricted, as to be as safe as possible. As my daughter donated all of her savings to buy the bike, she was overjoyed to receive it on Christmas day.
Started with a flywheel pull cord, the bikes has four extremely squidgy tyres that are only lightly inflated and a push and go throttle. The gearbox is automatic, and is ideal for the most novice rider. The brake on the handlebars is easy reach, and easy to use and effective in practice. The engine automatically mixes the 2-stroke oil in with the fuel, so there is no damage to the engine from incorrect mixes. There are 3 restrictors, which can be adjusted by an adult, one is on the handlebars, one is on the carburettor, and the other is the safety engine shut off cord which is attached to the rider and will shut the engine off in the event of any accident. Unrestricted this machine is capable of reaching speeds of up to 30mph, so is not for the unsupervised use of, however, when restricted it can travel at below walking pace They are extremely cheap to run, and a tank of fuel can last for a month of weekend use. There is a reserve switch to allow warning of impending fuel starvation, which can cause problems in starting the engine.
It is essential that the correct safety gear is worn, as this is a dangerous piece of equipment. I would suggest a BS helmet that fits correctly, body armour, good gloves, and sturdy boots. Due to the size of this bike it can only be used in designated areas. We have a 12 acre farm, so there is no traffic regulation problems, however, this is not the ride on toy for the middle of a town
It can be stored on its end, to save space, and they are very difficult to insure.
We were fortunate to purchase a second bike in a rural garage sale for £400, it needed a little work, but is quite safe, and is used by the 8 and 9 year old currently, but will be held onto until the toddler and baby are old enough to use them.
My hubby and me often have a burn on them, and I can highly recomend them for all of the family. Great fun, but very very expensive to buy and maintain.
Tyres can cost £30 each and services around £40, not cheap, but worth the fun. The safety gear can be extremely expensive and a crash helmet is vital, I like my kids to wear body aromour and gloves too.
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