I recently decided that a UTV side by side would be the perfect way for our family to spend more time together. Side-by-sides are a little new to me so I had some questions.
What are the best youth side-by-sides? There are a number of side-by-sides made for youth, and each has its pros and cons. The top six recommended for families and young drivers are the Polaris Ranger 150, Polaris RZR 170, Blade 170, Massimo GKM 200, SSR 170 UTV, and the Yamaha YXZ1000R SS.
| Side-by-Side | Unique Feature | Price |
| Polaris Ranger 150 | Youth Ride Command | $6,299 |
| Polaris RZR 170 | Training DVD Guide | $5,299 |
| Blade 150 | Budget-Friendly | $3,295 |
| Massimo GKM 200 | Lighting Kit | $2,999 |
| SSR 170 UTV | Good to Drive at Night | $4,459 |
| Yamaha YXZ1000R SS | Top Tier Performance | $19,000 |
To learn more about each of these side-by-sides and find out which one is right for you, I’ve added quite a bit of info for you below.
Top Youth Side by Sides
Polaris Ranger 150 UTV (My personal Favorite)
There are so many incredible safety features with this specific side by side. Mom and dad can truly feel safe letting their children take the joy ride of their lives. The Polaris Ranger 150 is equipped with “youth ride command” features. These include geofencing capabilities, digital speed limit setting, and passcode-protected, safe start.
Geofencing is the ability to set your own parameters. This helps you pick and control where the side by side is able to drive. You can also set speed limit caps in different areas within and outside of the geofence.
The digital speed limit setting helps you makes sure that your children are driving safe speeds. Whether your concern is their age, experience or the terrain, you are in control. This is all done from your Ride Command App.
Passcode-protected safe start tops this all off! This allows you to control who and when the vehicle is being used. When using this feature, the passcode must be placed into the app before the engine will even start.
The passcode-protected safe start allows you to control who is using the vehicle and when.
Other safety features include a seatbelt interlocking system, a protective cage, safety flags, nets, and two helmets.
It is also an awesome investment because it will last as your children grow! The steering wheel and driver’s seat are adjustable. This way when they keep growing you don’t have to feel as if you lost money on this investment.
There are also a few accessory options that you can choose from as well. You can get a full or a half poly windshield, a front and rear brush guard set, and a poly sports roof.
The Polaris Ranger 150 has 150 cc engine, 8″ of ground clearance and can also haul 50lbs in box compacity. These side by sides have a starting price of $6,299.
Polaris RZR 170 UTV
The Polaris RZR 170 is another awesome option for families looking for a side by side for their kids. Just like the Polaris 150, there are a lot of great safety features. Here is what I found.
It comes with front and rear breaks, and these are four-wheel hydraulic disc. This is nice because you will not have to be worried about sliding everywhere. Four-wheel drive will make it more fun, safe, and easier to take your vehicle anywhere you want and have the off-roading day of your dreams.
It will also help your youngins feel in control as they learn to drive this fun thing around!
Along with two helmets, this UTV comes with a training DVD guide. Sit down with your young ones and go through the proper use of the new family toy!
There are seat belts and a safety net as well as a cage. You will be strapped in tight making the chance of getting hurt extremely small compared to what they could have been.
Some other nice features are the tilt steering. This is an awesome feature to have when you have more or one frequent drive of different sizes. Now the vehicle is not a purchase the resembles “built for one type of person” but a “one vehicle really does fit all”.
The ground clearance comes at 6″, there is 5″ suspension travel (front and rear), LED daylights, and parent-adjustable speed. The starting price is $5,299.
Blade 150 Youth UTV
This specific side by side is less “brand name” than the first two listed. But from all accounts, it still checks in as a really great option. So take a look into it. The price starts around $3,295 which is substantially cheaper than the first two options, but can go up to around $5,000. So if you are on a bit of a tighter budget this could be a great place to start looking!
Its 150 cc engine has been known for decades as extremely reliable and dependable. It is a good investment. This specific vehicle is chain driven and has forward and reverse so you more than likely will not get stuck somewhere. Mix that up with the 6″ ground clearance and you are set to go!
As for lights, it comes with all the bells and whistles. The headlights have high and low beams. There are noticeable break light and right and left signaling light.
If you are counting on your side by side to get you somewhere hidden away and you have a few things you need to bring with you this is an option! The rear rack has ample storage room for you to fill up it up with whatever you need to have an awesome time!
Also included is the three-point seat belt system for the driver and the passenger. Lastly, to ensure no sunburns ruin your party there is a sunscreen canopy.
Massimo GKM 200
Experience the Thrill of Off-Road Adventure with the Massimo GKM 200 Go Kart
Take your off-road adventures to the next level with the mid-weight GKM 200 Go Kart from Massimo. Equipped with an 8.7hp engine and an easy-to-use Automatic Transmission, this go kart delivers impressive power and performance.
The knobby 18-inch tires in the rear, along with the larger 19-inch all-terrain tires in the front, provide exceptional control and stability over rough and challenging terrains.
Stay in command of your ride with the hydraulic disc brakes installed on all four corners, ensuring precise control and reliable stopping power. The Independent Suspension system absorbs bumps and uneven surfaces, allowing you to tackle obstacles with confidence. Adding to its capability, the Dual Shock Rear Swingarm enhances stability and efficiency, enabling you to cover more ground effortlessly.
Safety is paramount, and the GKM 200 ensures you are visible and protected. The Standard Equipment Lighting Kit includes headlights, a brake light, turn signals, and overhead Baja lights, ensuring optimal visibility in various conditions.
With a fuel capacity of 1.5+ gallons and 9 inches of ground clearance, you can embark on extended explorations with enhanced capability, knowing you have the range and maneuverability to push boundaries.
Unleash your adventurous spirit and conquer off-road terrain with the Massimo GKM 200 Go Kart. It offers a thrilling experience backed by reliable performance, advanced features, and the durability to withstand challenging environments.
Related Reading: Massimo Side-by-Side: Are they good quality?
SSR 170 Youth UTV
The SSR 170 is pretty similar to the Polaris RZR 170 previously mentioned.
Let’s start with the basics. This specific side by side has a 170 cc air-cooled OHC four-stroke single engine. The fuel system is carburated. The fuel capacity is 2.9 gallons. So although it has a lot of awesome features you will not be able to go
Its final drive is a chain and the starting system is electric. As for the wheels, the front is dual an arm. The rear is swingarm dual shock. The dimensions of the front tires are 21 x 7 -10 and the rear tires are 22 x 10 – 10. There are breaks in the front and the back.
The front breaks are dual hydrolic disc and well as the rear breaks being dual hydroolic disc. The wheelbase is 72″ and the ground clearence is 7″. That is a lot of room between you and the ground. You can take this out on heels and in rocky areas and not have to worry about getting stuck or caught in any specific area.
Cargo capacity is maxed at 330 lbs, this includes the driver and passenger. This leaves quite a flexible area of weight to bring whatever you need or whatever you find along the way that you may want to bring back with you. Over
In essence, this is a full package! It has all kinds of wonderful attributes that any parents should feel good about investing in. This vehicle can hold the weight that most other side-by-sides would crumble under.
There are a few fun things that come along with this option as well. The seats are monogrammed with SSR, which if your family has some southern influence, you will love. And if you aren’t southern you probably won’t get that reference so just toss it out.
Along with normal headlights there are three LED lights that are mounted on top of the roll cage. Which, side note, the roll cage is an icredible safety feature as well. There is a canvas soft top to keep you shaded from the hot sun or from the rain hitting your head as your rush home from playing.
You can add King air shocks for some extra VAVOOM but it will cost you an extra $1,500. But depending on your plans it might not be a terrible investment. Think of it more as just that, and investment so that you won’t have to pay for repairs later on!
It comes with five aluminum cast wheels and a spare tire just in case things get really wild. And honestly, with a fun toy like this, it’s possible that eventually, this will happen.
There is also a loud horn so you can alert others you are heading near them. And along with that there are tie down hooks and door nets in the bed.
To protect the younger drivers reverse is placed in a much lower gearing as to keep the driver from getting in an accident. With some practice they will be pros in no time.
This side by side UTV only includes forward, neutral and reverse. So a bit of power needs to be put behind some of the areas you drive in but overall it may be the best option depending on the child’s driving ability.
The brake is done by pulling a lever on the center console. This break makes it difficult to drive while the break is on, its a gated parking break. Your vehicle is staying put while it is one.
The speed is seen in kilometers with miles per hour in a smaller form. Some may notice it says they are going 50. This may make them excited as if the child is speeding away having a blast. But if you look a bit closer, you will
The seat belts are also very easy to operate but I did see on a few sites that some of the smaller passengers and drivers have trouble securing the nets.
If you are not
One of the downfalls is that there is no gas gage so keep some fuel on you so you do not end up getting stuck somewhere and can’t contact someone.
Because of the LED-lighting, it not only looks nice but can be driven safely at night. So if your youngins are not home as the sun is coming down you can feel confident that they will be able to have clear vision as they make their way back to you.
Also included are the adjustable mirrors on each side so the drive can be aware of all of their surroundings.
If the ride starts to get a little crazy the passenger will have the grab bar to hold on to, which seems to be a popular feature based off of what others have said.
The starting price for these bad boys is $4,459.
Yamaha YXZ1000R SS
To close out our list of top UTVs for youth, we had to include the Yamaha YXZ1000R SS. This particular side-by-side is going to cost quite a bit more than the others mentioned, but there’s a reason for the high price tag.
It is a high-performance UTV (Utility Terrain Vehicle) designed for off-road enthusiasts.
The YXZ1000R SS engine is equipped with a powerful 998cc, liquid-cooled, inline-three cylinder engine. This engine delivers impressive performance, generating high horsepower and torque for thrilling acceleration and top speed.
Transmission: One notable feature of the YXZ1000R SS is its Sport Shift transmission. This advanced automatic transmission provides the convenience of shifting gears without a clutch pedal. It offers lightning-fast gear changes for quick and precise shifting, allowing riders to focus on the trail ahead.
Suspension: The UTV features a robust suspension system designed to tackle rough terrain with ease. It has fully adjustable FOX 2.5 Podium RC2 shocks, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension settings to match their preferences and the trail conditions. The suspension system provides excellent control, stability, and a smooth ride over bumps and obstacles.
Chassis and Design: The YXZ1000R SS boasts a durable and lightweight frame construction. Its low center of gravity and wide stance contribute to enhanced stability and handling. The aggressive and sporty design of the UTV gives it a distinctive appearance, featuring sharp lines, bold colors, and aerodynamic bodywork.
Safety Features: Yamaha prioritizes safety, and the YXZ1000R SS is equipped with several safety features. These include four-point seatbelts, automotive-style doors, a reinforced frame, and protective cage structure. Additionally, the UTV comes with adjustable driver seat and steering column, providing a comfortable and ergonomic driving position.
Technology and Accessories: The YXZ1000R SS incorporates various technological features to enhance the riding experience. It includes a digital LCD instrument panel that provides essential information such as speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and more. The UTV also offers accessory options like integrated accessory lighting and audio systems for added convenience and entertainment.
Overall, the Yamaha YXZ1000R SS is designed to deliver exceptional performance, handling, and comfort for those seeking an exhilarating off-road experience. Its powerful engine, advanced transmission, and high-quality components make it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts looking for a thrilling ride.
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How Fast Do Youth UTV’s Go?
The highest speed of youth UTVs vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. Typically, youth UTVs are designed with safety in mind and have speed-limiting features to ensure a controlled and safe riding experience for younger riders. A plus for every parent.
Most youth UTVs have speed restrictors or adjustable speed limiters that allow parents or other adults to set a max speed suitable for the child’s age, skill, and maturity level.
Generally, youth UTVs can have a top speed ranging from around 10 mph for beginners models intended for younger children and up to approximately 30-40 mph for UTVs designed for older youth riders. It’s important to consult the specific manufacturer’s specifications for the youth UTV model in question, as the speed capabilities may vary.
Remember, safety should always be the first concern, so it’s critical to ensure that younger riders are supervised at all times and wearing appropriate safety gear when driving any motorized vehicle.
Related Reading: How Fast do Youth UTVs go?
Related Questions
Is splurging on a side-by-side UTV worth it? Go for it. There are some that are much more expensive then others. Something about the more expensive options is that there seem to be more safety features for parents to keep their children safe.
If your child is experienced enough for you to purchasing something with fewer safety features, it may save you money. However, safety should always come first. Invest in being cautious.
Related Reading: How much does a youth side-by-side cost?
Is a side-by-side safe for me to place my child in? That is totally up to you and your parenting sixth sense. Every child is different, so if you are worried about your child being alone in a motor vehicle, maybe consider getting a side-by-side with a passenger seat large enough for an adult.
What is the difference between a normal side-by-side and a youth side-by-side? A youth side by side is designed to fit smaller drivers. Youth side-by-sides were brought about to eliminate the danger of young people attempting to drive things that were a danger to them. They also are generally equipped with a long list of safety and parental features that normal side-by-sides are not.