10 Best Ride On Toys of 2024

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The Best Ride On Toys

The Best Ride On Toys for Kids
  1. Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster for Kids

  2. Hillington New My First Ride On and Push Along Buggy Car

  3. XIAPIA Baby Balance Bike

  4. Kids Ride On Mercedes Benz Car With Sound Effects

  5. Ricco® 2-in-1 Kids Digger Excavator

  6. HOMCOM Pink Ride on Car

  7. Wheelybug Toddler Wooden Ride-On

  8. Scuttlebug 3-Wheel Foldable Ride-On Tricycle

  9. Mega Bloks Ride n' Chomp Crocodile Ride-On

  10. HOMCOM Pedal Go Kart Ride On Excavator

Ride On Toy Reviews

Editors Choice
  • Easy to assemble
  • Predominantly plastic construction means it can be left out in all weathers and it’s very lightweight
  • Appeals to a wide age range, from 2 year olds up to children of around 5 years old
  • Design of steps and car means even very young children should be able to get on and off it safely
  • Colours don’t fade even after prolonged period in bright sunlight

  • Needs to be used on an even surface otherwise it can tip
  • A lot of space is required if you wish to use this toy inside
Age Range
10-36 months
Assembly?
Yes
Weight
‎14.9 kg
Dimensions
‎54.8 x 24.9 x 40.1 cm
Overall Score 4.8
Design
5
Fun Factor
5
Safety
5
Value for Money
4

The Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster for Kids is my top recommendation for the best ride on toy for kids. When looking for a ride on toy, you need the perfect balance of fun and safety – and this toy certainly delivers. 

It’s essentially a child-friendly ‘roller coaster’, and I feel very comfortable when my two year old daughter rides it on her own.

Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster for Kids

It comes with a large track and coaster car. The track and recessed wheels hold the car in place until your kid is ready to go, while the lip on the sides prevent the car from coming off the track. 

I also like how the backrest on the car comes up quite high. This makes sure your kid doesn’t tip backwards when riding it.

The track divides into 3 pieces, so it’s very easy to separate and store away. This also means that there’s a lot less assembly required than other toys. In fact, I put it together in about 5 minutes flat!

Children as young as two will enjoy this roller coaster, but it’s suitable for children up to the age of around 7. The maximum weight capacity is 22 kg. 

A couple of small flaws to note. The first is that it’s quite a large toy. You do need a fair amount of space if you want to use it inside. In fact, it’s over 3 m long once assembled. 

Another issue is that it does need to be used on an even surface, as unless it’s completely flat then it can tip. 

All in all, this roller coaster tops the list as the best ride on toy for kids. It’s incredibly engaging, a lot of fun and very easy to put together. 

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Runner Up
  • Simple safety features ensure it’s suitable for very young children to use
  • Engaging steering wheel keeps children entertained for longer
  • Helps to develop leg strength and coordination
  • Available in 4 different colours

  • Instructions for putting the wheels together are not particularly clear
Age Range
12 months+
Assembly?
Yes
Weight
1.8 kg
Dimensions
51 x 24 x 22 cm
Overall Score 4.6
Design
4.5
Fun Factor
5
Safety
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

Everyone remembers their first car, and this memorable model will have your child wishing they’d stay small enough for this car forever! It’s a gorgeous little car, featuring bright colours, ample engaging stickers and even under-seat storage for your child’s things!

It’s designed for children aged 1 year and above, and it’s packed full of features that not only provide your child with hours of fun, but also improve motor skills and coordination. 

A warning to parents, this toy is loud! There will never be a dull moment when your child uses this toy, so proceed with caution. There’s cheerful flowers adorning the front which can be spun, a colourful tombola that reveals spaceship illustrations and other motifs, and a mobile telephone, allowing toddlers to make any urgent phone calls. 

Underneath the seat there’s a secret compartment which can be used to store all your child’s essentials. 

The steering wheel is also engaging. There’s pretend indicators and a range of buttons that emulate lights and other functions. 

Parents will be relieved to know that this car is sturdy. It’s suitable for children aged 12 months and above, while it’s small enough to ensure that children’s feet can stay in contact with the ground at all times. They use their legs to propel themselves forward, helping to develop leg strength and coordination. 

All in all, this car is a top choice for kids who want maximum excitement and noise from their ride on vehicles! 

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Also Good
  • Adorable dog design with blinking eyes
  • Carbon steel body is more durable than plastic
  • Soft seat ensures children are comfortable for long periods
  • Powered by your child’s legs so helps to develop physical fitness and coordination
  • Comes with spare parts included

  • Lacks the exciting features of other competitors
Age Range
10-36 months
Assembly?
Yes
Weight
1.8 kg
Dimensions
54.8 x 24.9 x 40.1 cm
Overall Score 4.3
Design
4
Fun Factor
4
Safety
5
Value for Money
4

A simple toy that will still deliver hours of fun is the XIAPIA Baby Balance Bike. It’s suitable for toddlers aged 10 months to 36 months, and it has a maximum weight limit of 40 kg. 

Arguably the best thing about this little bike is that it’s incredibly safe. It’s certified by EN71 and ASTMF963, while there’s 135 degree steering that helps give your child control around corners. This makes it safer than regular balance bikes. It has a carbon steel body, which makes it far more durable than plastic. 

From a child’s point of view, the design of this balance bike is what makes it stand out. It has an adorable dog-themed design with beautiful features such as paw prints on the wheels, blinking eyes and even a sticking out tongue! There’s other designs available too, including a bee, panda, mouse and dinosaur. 

It can be used both inside and out, while it’s compact enough to pack away in your boot if you’re heading to the beach or park. The slip-resistant wheels ensure it can be used on any surface. 

While it lacks the music or flashing lights of other ride on toys I’ve tested, the charm is in its adorable design. If you’re looking for a simple yet safe balance bike for kids, this model is well worth considering.

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  • Realistic design is engaging for children and helps them to feel like grown ups!
  • Comes with sound effects that add to the driving experience
  • Made from durable materials that ensure safety and a long lifespan
  • Supports a maximum weight of 30 kg so it’s suitable for a wide age range of kids

  • Supports a maximum weight of 30 kg so it’s suitable for a wide age range of kids
Age Range
‎3 years+
Assembly?
Yes
Weight
3 kg
Dimensions
64 x 32 x 38 cm
Overall Score 4.4
Design
5
Fun Factor
4.5
Safety
4.5
Value for Money
3.5

There’s not much more exciting for a child than whizzing around in their own Mercedes Benz! The Kids Ride On Mercedes Benz Car With Sound Effects has a stylish design and it’s ultra-realistic, complete with the Mercedes logo! 

It’s been designed for children aged 2 and above, with a maximum weight capacity of 23 kg. All your child needs to do is perch on the seat and use their legs to move. The steering wheel is large and grippy, while there’s also sound effects including jingles. This steering wheel can be used to move around corners and objects. 

It’s safe and stable, with a removable back handle so kids can push the car along on foot too. This handle also prevents them from falling off once seated. The anti-topple device prevents it from tilting if they take on a corner too fast! Underneath the seat, there’s a secret storage compartment for snacks! 

The wheels are anti-slip which means this toy can be used on any level surface. It can be used indoors and out. 

Most users found this toy very easy to assemble, while it weighs just 3 kg so can easily be picked up and placed into storage. 

While this toy is slightly more expensive than competitors, you’re really paying for the Mercedes Benz brand! All in all, it is a great choice for style-conscious kids in search of their first car. 

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  • 2-in-1 function means children can use it as a digger or a ride on toy
  • Made from high quality materials that should last a very long time
  • Easy to fold and attach arms which makes it easy to store
  • Comes with a helmet which is a great extra accessory
  • Arrives fully assembled

  • Wheels do not have a lot of traction, making them difficult to manoeuvre on grassy surfaces
Age Range
18 - 36 months
Assembly?
No
Weight
4.5 kg
Dimensions
38 x 58 x 30 cm
Overall Score 4.4
Design
5
Fun Factor
4.5
Safety
4
Value for Money
4

For kids who love to get stuck in the mud, the Ricco® 2-in-1 Kids Digger Excavator is a great choice. This 2-in-1 ride-on can be used as an excavator and shovel, and it comes with a little helmet included to add to the realism! 

It arrives fully assembled, all you need to do is put the stickers on. It’s been designed for children between 18 months and 3 years old, while the 4 kg weight means it’s easy for parents to lift in and out of storage. 

It comes equipped with a number of cool features, including an interchangeable shovelling bucket and excavator claw. These are easy to swap over and can be removed for easy storage. There’s also a storage compartment underneath the seat, and working controls. Simply pull the lever to lift and lower the digger!

Extra features include a safety helmet, a working horn and digger-related sounds! The back supported seat will help to keep the little ones comfy. 

While this digger can be used inside and out, the wheels don’t have a huge amount of traction. This means they can slip a little on grassy surfaces. 

All in all, this is a fantastic ride on for wannabe builders! The realistic sounds, horn and interchangeable tools make it a firm favourite amongst younger kids. The fact that it arrives fully assembled will be music to the ears of parents.

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  • Bright and attractive design will appeal to a range of children
  • Comes with an adjustable seatbelt for safety
  • Comes with working lights which helps to make it much more engaging
  • Has a reasonable load capacity of 25 kg

  • Batteries for sound effects not included
Age Range
18 - 36 months
Assembly?
Yes
Weight
2.5 kg
Dimensions
63.5 x 28 x 36 cm
Overall Score 4.5
Design
4.5
Fun Factor
4.5
Safety
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

Designed for kids who want to stand out, the HOMCOM Pink Ride on Car is bright, bold and effortlessly stylish. It comes in bright pink, red or white, and the price is fairly reasonable given its features. It has been built for children aged between 18 and 36 months, with a maximum weight capacity of 25 kg.

It has a realistic design including a number plate and rims that resemble a real car. Interactive features include flashing headlights and even music! 

Kids can use their feet to move this car along, so it’s great for development. The high backed seat is comfortable for kids to sit on for long periods of time, while there’s storage underneath the seat too for extra toys or snacks! 

Parents will be relieved to know that this car also has a lot of safety features. The anti-overturning system at the bottom prevents the car from toppling over if your child takes on corners too fast, while the large steering wheel makes it easy for kids to control the direction. The music and horn can be controlled from the steering wheel. 

As an added bonus, this compact little car is fairly easy to put together!

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  • Unique and attractive design will appeal to young children
  • Made from wood which is eco-friendly and durable, plus it feels better quality than plastic
  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
  • Encourages coordination, balance and physical play

  • Expensive compared to ride on toys of a similar size - although this is due to the material
  • As it’s made from wood, care needs to be taken not to leave it outside in bad weather
Age Range
12 - 36 months
Assembly?
No
Weight
1.8 kg
Dimensions
39 x 23.5 x 31 cm
Overall Score 4
Design
4.5
Fun Factor
3.5
Safety
4
Value for Money
4

There’s something very charming about a wooden toy as opposed to plastic. The Wheelybug Toddler Wooden Ride-On is a gorgeous mouse-themed ride on toy, and it’s been handcrafted from wood. 

It’s been designed for children aged 1 to 3 years old, and the lack of features mean it may not appeal to children older than this. But for little ones wanting their first ride on toy, it’s a great choice. 

The base has been fitted with castors which allow your child to move in any direction. It’s powered by your child’s legs, so it helps to build physical fitness, coordination and development. There’s a padded handle which is comfortable to hold and helps keep your child secure. 

Made from wood, this is a great choice for eco-conscious parents looking to reduce their plastic. It weighs just 1.8 kg, so it’s easy to lift (or drag) in and out of storage, although you’ll need to be careful not to leave it outside. It can be wiped clean and can be used both indoors and out, although it should only be used on level surfaces. 

Beautifully crafted, this toy is both fun for children and adorable to look at! What it lacks in interactive features, it more than makes up for in design and craftsmanship. 

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  • Unique design offers a comfortable ride and easy manoeuvrability
  • Encourages coordination and physical play
  • Folds down for easy storage
  • Variety of designs available will appeal to a large number of children
  • Wheels won’t mark indoor surfaces meaning it can be used both indoors and out

  • May be too babyish for children over the age of 3
Age Range
12 - 36 months
Assembly?
No
Weight
0.57 kg
Dimensions
61 x 34 x 39 cm
Overall Score 4.1
Design
4
Fun Factor
4
Safety
4.5
Value for Money
4

Brightly coloured and beetle-themed, the Scuttlebug 3-Wheel Foldable Ride-On Tricycle is the perfect first ride on for kids. It’s been designed for children aged 1 to 3 years old and can help develop balance and motor skills. 

This tricycle has three wheels and T-shaped handlebars. The wheels are both durable and non-scratch, so can be used on any surface. Children can power the tricycle using their feet, while the handlebars can be used to steer. 

It’s safe, reliable and sturdy, with minimal assembly required. The bright red beetle design is instantly engaging, while other designs are available, including a bumblebee, butterfly and grasshopper. 

While this toy is very compact anyway, it can be folded down into an even smaller piece. This allows it to be packed away in a toy box or cupboard, or packed in the boot of your car if you’re heading out. 

While one of the more simple toys I’ve recommended, this tricycle should still appeal to a wide range of children. It has a good weight capacity of 20 kg, although the lack of features mean that children may grow out of it quickly. 

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  • Interactive design includes a detachable block cart
  • Made from high quality and durable materials
  • Can be used both inside and out
  • Seat lid opens for storing more toys
  • Encourages coordination and physical play

  • Fairly low to the ground so it’s tricky to use over thick carpets or rugs
Age Range
12 - 36 months
Assembly?
No
Weight
1.91 kg
Dimensions
30.5 x 45.7 x 30.5 cm
Overall Score 4.6
Design
5
Fun Factor
5
Safety
4.5
Value for Money
4

If you’re on a tighter budget, the Mega Bloks Ride n’ Chomp Crocodile Ride-On is a great choice. This toy has been built for kids aged 12 months to 3 years, and the durable construction ensures it can be passed down through siblings too!

This isn’t just a ride on toy. It comes with detachable building blocks that the crocodile can pick up! Kids simply need to use their legs to scoot over the toys to gather them up! Not only does it help develop physical fitness and coordination, it’ll also encourage your children to clean up after themselves! Once the blocks have been collected, they can be stored in the seat neatly. 

This ride on is great value for money, with 25 building blocks included and an engaging crocodile-themed toy. The blocks can be built onto the croc too, which adds another level of fun. 

This can be used both inside and out, while the plastic construction ensures it’ll survive the odd rainy day. The only limitation is that it’s very low to the ground, so kids may find it harder to use on thick carpets and rugs. 

If you’ve got a tighter budget but are still wanting to provide your child with a bright and engaging toy that’ll keep them occupied for hours, this little croc comes highly recommended! 

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  • Sturdy and durable, should last a long time
  • Suitable for a wide age range, up to children aged 8
  • Pedal-powered, promoting physical fitness and coordination
  • Has a built in hand brake and clutch for added safety

  • Instructions are very small and difficult to read
  • Tipper on the front can be heavy for small children to operate
Age Range
‎36 months - 6 years
Assembly?
Yes
Weight
7.5 kg
Dimensions
114 x 41 x 52 cm
Overall Score 4.1
Design
4.5
Fun Factor
4
Safety
4
Value for Money
4

Kids who love mud, digging and building will adore the HOMCOM Pedal Go Kart Ride On Excavator. This excavator is a heavy duty toy, built for older children aged 3 and above. It has a high weight capacity of 35 kg. 

Unlike a number of the others I’ve looked at, this ride on is powered by pedals. This makes it a great introduction to a real bike, and it’ll also help develop leg strength and physical fitness. The front digger is great for pretend play, while there’s a built in hand brake and clutch for full control. 

There’s also a large plastic steering wheel and grippy wheels that allow it to be used on any surface. The pedals can be used to move the digger both forward and backwards. 

Made with a strong metal frame, this toy is durable and sturdy. Although it shouldn’t be left outside for long periods, it can be used both inside and out, on level surfaces. 

The only real downside is the assembly process. This toy is difficult to put together, in part due to the very small instructions. 

Having said that, the difficult assembly is well worth the fun this ride on provides. Thanks to its metal frame, you should also find it lasts a long time. 

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Product Tester

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Garden Design Expert
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Clive's Smart Buying Tips

  1. The first thing to think about is the age of the child, coupled with the age the toy has been designed for. It is essential to buy a toy suitable for your child’s development level.
  2. Check for safety features – especially if your ride on toys are electric. Safety features include seat belts, an adjustable speed and brakes.
  3. Ride on toys need to be both stable and durable. Those made with sturdy materials will last longer. Plastic is lightweight, weather resistant and usually very affordable.
  4. Finally, ensure the toy is comfortable for your child. Grippy handlebars or an adjustable seat will ensure the toy is comfy for your child even as they grow.

Compare Product Features

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.

  • Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster for Kids
    best ride on toys for kids Step2 Up & Down Roller Coaster for Kids
    • 4.8
    • 10-36 months
    • Yes
    • ‎14.9 kg
    • ‎54.8 x 24.9 x 40.1 cm
  • Hillington New My First Ride On and Push Along Buggy Car
    best ride on toys for kids Hillington New My First Ride On and Push Along Buggy Car
    • 4.6
    • 12 months+
    • Yes
    • 1.8 kg
    • 51 x 24 x 22 cm
  • XIAPIA Baby Balance Bike
    best ride on toys for kids XIAPIA Baby Balance Bike
    • 4.3
    • 10-36 months
    • Yes
    • 1.8 kg
    • 54.8 x 24.9 x 40.1 cm
  • Kids Ride On Mercedes Benz Car With Sound Effects
    best ride on toys for kids Kids Ride On Mercedes Benz Car With Sound Effects
    • 4.4
    • ‎3 years+
    • Yes
    • 3 kg
    • 64 x 32 x 38 cm
  • Ricco® 2-in-1 Kids Digger Excavator
    best ride on toys for kids Ricco® 2 in 1 Kids Digger Excavator
    • 4.4
    • 18 - 36 months
    • No
    • 4.5 kg
    • 38 x 58 x 30 cm
  • HOMCOM Pink Ride on Car
    best ride on toys for kids HOMCOM Pink Ride on Car
    • 4.5
    • 18 - 36 months
    • Yes
    • 2.5 kg
    • 63.5 x 28 x 36 cm
  • Wheelybug Toddler Wooden Ride-On
    best ride on toys for kids Wheelybug Toddler Wooden Ride On
    • 4
    • 12 - 36 months
    • No
    • 1.8 kg
    • 39 x 23.5 x 31 cm
  • Scuttlebug 3-Wheel Foldable Ride-On Tricycle
    best ride on toys for kids Scuttlebug 3 Wheel Foldable Ride On Tricycle
    • 4.1
    • 12 - 36 months
    • No
    • 0.57 kg
    • 61 x 34 x 39 cm
  • Mega Bloks Ride n' Chomp Crocodile Ride-On
    best ride on toys for kids Mega Bloks Ride n' Chomp Crocodile Ride On
    • 4.6
    • 12 - 36 months
    • No
    • 1.91 kg
    • 30.5 x 45.7 x 30.5 cm
  • HOMCOM Pedal Go Kart Ride On Excavator
    best ride on toys for kids HOMCOM Pedal Go Kart Ride On Excavator
    • 4.1
    • ‎36 months - 6 years
    • Yes
    • 7.5 kg
    • 114 x 41 x 52 cm

How to Choose The Best Ride on Toys for Kids

Ride on toys offer a great way to keep your children entertained and active, while also helping them to develop their motor skills. 

But there’s a huge range of ride on toys on the market to suit an enormous range of ages, and finding the best one for your child can be tricky. 

To help you out, I’ve put together a guide for the best ride-on toys for kids. 

Age Range

The most important thing to consider is the age of the child. It’s essential that the toy is suitable for your child’s age and development level. 

Basic ride on toys can be suitable for children above the age of around 6 months, while larger toys with more features can usually accommodate children from the age 2 to 5 or 6. 

It’s important that your child doesn’t grow out of their new toy too quickly, or it may be a waste of money! You’re better off purchasing a toy that’ll entertain your child for a few years, even if it means they have to grow into it before they can fully enjoy it. 

Keep an eye on the weight capacity! Some toys have a weight capacity as low as 20 kg. Exceeding this will make the toy much less safe. 

Manoeuvrability

It’s important to consider how easy the toy is to manoeuvre, as well as which surfaces it can be used on. 

Toys that can be pushed along with your child’s legs will help develop leg strength and coordination. These tend to be very easy to manoeuvre, while those with a steering wheel will ensure your child can navigate obstacles. 

Other ride ons have pedals. This is a great introduction to a real bicycle, although these tend to be best for older children. 

Weight and Portability

Most ride on toys are made from plastic, which thankfully makes them very lightweight. However, it’s still worth thinking about where you will store your child’s new toy, and how easy it is to get it into storage. 

While ride on toys for younger children can weigh just a couple of kilograms, those designed for older kids can weigh up to 10 kg. If your toy is on the heavier side, ensure it’s still easy to transport. 

You could also think about whether you’ll want to take the toy anywhere with you. If you fancy taking it to the beach, park or on trips away, ensure it can fit in the boot of your car. 

Indoor and Outdoor Use Suitability

Most ride on toys can be used both indoor and out, but larger toys may only be suitable for your garden. 

Those that can be used both indoors and out can be used year-round, which makes them better value for money. 

If you’ve got a large indoor space, there’s no reason why your toys can’t be used inside. 

Ride on Toy FAQs

There is no hard and fast rule for when kids can start using ride on toys, especially because ride on toys are designed for a whole range of ages. 

Most children should be able to start using ride on toys from the age of 6 months providing they are closely supervised. At this age, toys such as small push along cars can help develop balance, coordination and motor skills. 

As children grow and develop, more advanced ride on toys can be purchased.

Ensure your children are supervised at all times, and encourage them to wear both helmets and other protective gear. 

Ride on toys can degrade if they are left out in very bad weather. The stickers may rub off, and the colours may fade. They are also very lightweight, so strong winds could cause them to blow into your neighbour’s garden! 

You should ideally store your toys undercover in winter. Either move them inside, or store them in a garage or shed. 

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