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21 Best Ride on Toys for 4-Year-Olds

Updated 6 July 2022

Teddy is a big kid at heart and a self-confessed geek who loves all things LEGO, Nintendo and RC (drones included). His mission is to find toys that kids will treasure, so that is why he spends A LOT of time curating the perfect list of toys and games that include options for everyone without putting kids inside boxes.

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Crash! Bang! Smash! These are just some of the exciting noises parents can expect when they let their four-year-olds loose on a ride-on toy in the house. Or even outside. Kids at this age love to move, as quickly as possible, and what’s the good of having a bumper car if you can’t bump in every bit of furniture as you go past it?

From wiggle cars to balance bikes and from tricycles to roller skates, we’ve picked out the 21 best ride-on toys for four year olds, with familiar faces from Frozen and Paw Patrol along for the ride. We’ve even thrown in a monster truck and a Mercedes Benz to make sure there’s something here for every kid’s tastes.

Any toy that sends a child hurtling around needs to be safe of course, so we’ve made sure that we only recommend toys that have been approved by real parents. That’s why we’ve ruled out any fake online reviews so you can trust that these ride-on toys will be safe for the kids riding them. We can’t say the same for your shins or toes sadly…

Preview
Kid Motorz Monster Quad in Black (12V) (Model: 1310)
Best Choice Products Kids Mini Kick Scooter Toy w/Light-Up Wheels, Height Adjustable T-Bar, Foot Break - Blue
Costzon Ride on Excavator, 12V Battery Powered Construction Vehicles for Kids, Front Loader with Horn, 2 Speeds, Forward/Backward, Safety Belt,Treaded Wheels, Digger, Ride on Car (Blue)
Pros
Comes with cool decals depicting a motor, valves, and meters
The scooter is outfitted with an easy-to-use foot brake
Can operate for up to 90 full minutes
Cons
Full charging time is 12 to 15 hours
The LED lights do not have a power switch
We wish it came with a matching hardhat helmet and/or reflective safety vest
Price
$109.39
$36.99
$239.99
Our Favourite
Preview
Kid Motorz Monster Quad in Black (12V) (Model: 1310)
Pros
Comes with cool decals depicting a motor, valves, and meters
Cons
Full charging time is 12 to 15 hours
Price
$109.39
More information
Best on a Budget
Preview
Best Choice Products Kids Mini Kick Scooter Toy w/Light-Up Wheels, Height Adjustable T-Bar, Foot Break - Blue
Pros
The scooter is outfitted with an easy-to-use foot brake
Cons
The LED lights do not have a power switch
Price
$36.99
More information
Best for Off-Road
Preview
Costzon Ride on Excavator, 12V Battery Powered Construction Vehicles for Kids, Front Loader with Horn, 2 Speeds, Forward/Backward, Safety Belt,Treaded Wheels, Digger, Ride on Car (Blue)
Pros
Can operate for up to 90 full minutes
Cons
We wish it came with a matching hardhat helmet and/or reflective safety vest
Price
$239.99
More information

1Firetruck Wiggle Car Ride On Toy (Best Budget Option)

This adorable ride-on toy is bright red and outfitted in fire decals such as a department shield, crossed axes, and ladder number. Low to the ground and situated on two rear wheels and a three-point front swivel wheel, this ride-on requires little more than the wiggle of your child’s bottom to set it in motion. This wiggle car is equipped with a twist-and-turn black wheel that they straddle when seated. 

Additionally, this ride-on toy has two black footrests, positioned in front of the steering wheel; the footrests have convenient gripping teeth that prevent your child’s feet from slipping. Best of all, this fun ride-on can be used anywhere, indoors or outdoors, with a smooth surface.

What we love

  • The ride-on toy’s decals and wheel stickers are fashioned in bright yellow that nicely offsets its red body
  • Your child will delight in roleplaying as a firefighter while they improve their gross motor skills with this ride-on toy

What We Don't Like That Much

  • It would be so clever if the firefighter ride-on toy came with a firefighter helmet to promote safety and improve the realism
Firetruck Wiggle Car Ride On Toy (Best Budget Option)

2TOBBI 12V Kids Ride On Land Rover (Best Quality Option)

This super chic Land Rover kids’ car will make your child the talk of the town. The bright red convertible with a black interior and tinted windshield is ultra-stylish. The two-seater convertible is equipped with safety seatbelts and double doors with safety locks. Moreover, the interior features a well-detailed dashboard with realistic dials and mechanisms. Additionally, the interior has a real working MP3 player with volume control, a working horn, a voltage display, and USB/AUX connectors. 

The car also has built-in audio tracks including music, stories, and more. The exterior has bright working LED headlights and the wheels are designed with knobby treads and spring suspension. Best of all, children have the autonomy to drive the car by themselves using a built-in gas pedal, a forward/backward switch, and a one-button start function.

What we love

  • Also available in black, white, and red giving you the ability to choose your child’s favorite color
  • Outfitted with a hidden handle and two small wheels making it easy for parents to transport when not in use

What We Don't Like That Much

  • The ride-on’s weight capacity is only 88 pounds which could limit the use of both seats at the same time
TOBBI 12V Kids Ride On Land Rover (Best Quality Option)

3Little Tikes My First Balance-to-Pedal Training Bike

This Little Tikes balance bike will begin teaching your child to bike-ride without training wheels from an early age. Suitable for children aged two to five, the balance bike allows your child to learn to balance before pedaling, the key principle in riding without training wheels. Bikes with training wheels focus on pedaling and steering instead of balancing; this bike’s focus on balance is a superior concept, making it a great gift to develop your child’s learning, all while having fun! 

This is a single gear bike, with pedals that fold in and out. Once your child has established balance without the pedals, you can easily convert it to a regular bicycle by folding the pedals out. As a result, this ride-on adapts to your child’s ability as they learn to ride.

What we love

  • The Little Tikes balance bike transitions easily from balance to pedal mode without having to use tools
  • This bike is equipped with an adjustable seat and handlebars

What We Don't Like That Much

  • As a children’s bike, it would be nice if it was equipped with a basket, horn, bell, or streamers
Little Tikes My First Balance-to-Pedal Training Bike

4Kids Motorcycle Ride On Toy

This three-wheel, battery-powered motorcycle will thrill your child. If your little one aspires to be a police officer, this is just the toy for them. Bedecked in realistic police decals like a shield and “police” logo, this toy will allow your child to roleplay to his/her heart’s content. Desirably, this motorbike is suitable for both outdoor and indoor play as it can be used on any flat, hard surface. 

It’s both lightweight and has a slim profile for easy transportation and storage. The motorbike is equipped with forward and reverse functions, working headlights, and police sound effects. Best of all, the motorbike reaches a maximum speed of just under two miles per hour so children can independently travel at safe speeds.

What we love

  • This police motorbike is fashioned out of rugged plastic and steel components, able to withstand up to 55 pounds
  • The six-volt rechargeable battery and 15W motor will have your child zooming around the neighborhood for hours at a time

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish this ride-on came with an alternate remote control feature that allowed the parent to control the bike
Kids Motorcycle Ride On Toy

5Rollplay Steam Train 6-Volt Battery-Powered Ride-On

Your child will have so much fun roleplaying as a conductor on his/her very own steam train. This ride-on train is a lovely red color with accents of black and yellow. The train has two cars; your child can ride upon the front car while the second car is a cargo caboose that can be used to pull your child’s favorite doll or other toys. 

Best of all, the caboose car can be removed if your child prefers that. This set comes with a train track to ride upon but the train can also be used on flat, smooth surfaces too. One of this train’s most realistic features is that it releases real steam from its steam stack with the press of a single button.

What we love

  • Features an easy-to-operate button that activates a realistic chuffing sound effect
  • The Steam Train has two yellow footrests that allow your child to ride comfortably and safely

What We Don't Like That Much

  • Although the steam train is outfitted with coupling rods that give it an authentic aesthetic, we wish they rotated when in motion
Rollplay Steam Train 6-Volt Battery-Powered Ride-On

6 Kid Trax Disney Frozen Kids Scooter Ride On Toy

This Frozen-themed motorized scooter will delight your Princess Elsa fan. With a weight capacity of 55 pounds, the scooter’s frame is a lovely light blue color with lots of lovely Frozen decals like snowflakes and images of Princesses Elsa and Anna. The scooter also has a cute purple windscreen, interactive lights, and Frozen sound effects. 

The scooter sits upon three white, sturdy wheels making it easy for young children to balance upon. The white cushioned seat gives your child a comfortable place to sit while the standing platform provides a second fun way to ride. Lastly, the scooter is operated using an intuitive foot pedal that propels your child at top speeds of two miles per hour.

What we love

  • The scooter is outfitted with white comfort grip handlebars with a heart-shaped light between them
  • Conveniently, the tires have rubber traction grip wheels that improve the scooter’s safety

What We Don't Like That Much

  • The battery is housed beneath the seat; the seat has to be screwed and unscrewed each time you wish to charge the battery
 Kid Trax Disney Frozen Kids Scooter Ride On Toy

7Kid Motorz Monster Quad in Black (12V)

This Monster Quad will enable your child to cruise the neighborhood, looking super cool all the while. This 12V ride-on has a black shell with bright yellow and purple accents. Children will feel like they’re riding a real ATV on this safe and compact Monster Quad. They’ll love imagining off-road adventures as they propel both forward and backward with the touch of a button. Your kids will also have no trouble navigating in and out of tight spaces with this dual-direction feature. 

The Monster Quad can withstand weights of up to 66 pounds. The sealed, rechargeable battery will provide your child with up to 60 minutes of uninterrupted riding time and a maximum speed of up to three miles per hour.

What we love

  • The Monster Quad comes with cool decals depicting a motor, valves, and meters that add touches of realism
  • Perfect to utilize on family bike rides where smaller children may find it difficult to keep up

What We Don't Like That Much

  • Full charging time is 12 to 15 hours which may be a difficult wait for impatient children
Kid Motorz Monster Quad in Black (12V)

8Chicco Red Bullet Balance Training Bike

The Chicco Red Bullet Balance Bike will help your child to ride a two-wheel bike while skipping the training wheels! Focusing on learning to balance without pedals will allow your child to learn the key component of riding without training wheels; this is an excellent first bike for toddlers aged four and up. Of note, this balance training bike will grow with your child because it has an adjustable seat that adjusts from 13 to 15 inches in height. 

Additionally, the Chicco balance bike also has adjustable handlebars. The ergonomic, lightweight frame is both easy to transport and, more importantly, comfortable to ride. Finally, the wheels are constructed of a hard, durable foam that will both yield to your child’s weight and stand the test of time.

What we love

  • By engaging and activating your child’s core, their overall gross motor skills will improve
  • This bike can be safely used on any surface that your child can balance on; this includes flat roads, grass, and bumpy pavement

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish the bolts holding the back wheel in place were covered for aesthetic purposes
Chicco Red Bullet Balance Training Bike

9Best Choice Products Kids Mini Kick Scooter Toy

This mini kick scooter will get your kids outdoors and active all while looking like a rockstar. The electric blue scooter with multi-color LED light up-wheels will surely encourage your child to get his/her body moving. What’s more, the wheel lights automatically activate when the scooter is in motion. Because this scooter has three wheels that assist with balance, this toy is recommended for children as young as three years old. 

Best of all, the height-adjustable handlebars mean he/she can grow into it well beyond the three-year mark. Notably, the handlebars adjust from 22 inches up to 26.5 inches. For your child’s comfort and safety, the scooter has handlebar grips and a non-slip foot deck.

What we love

  • This toy requires your child to shift their weight to the left or right to change directions; this improves balance and coordination
  • The scooter is outfitted with an easy-to-use foot brake that’s positioned just above the rear wheel

What We Don't Like That Much

  • The LED lights do not have a power switch so they can’t be turned off
Best Choice Products Kids Mini Kick Scooter Toy

10sopbost 6V Bumper Car for Kids

This electric-powered bumper car is an absolute riot. Constructed of a fully surrounded exterior frame as well as a seatbelt, children can safely bump all over the place, both indoors and outdoors. A further safety feature is that the bumper car is operated by remote control so you can be sure your child avoids fragile items and rogue driving. The car is equipped with two universal wheels which provide for flexible steering, two-directional control levers, and a 360° turning radius. 

The bumper car is powered by a rechargeable 6V battery which can propel it at top speeds of roughly two miles per hour. The coolest feature of this bumper car is that it’s outfitted with MP3 and Bluetooth inputs so you can add your or your child’s favorite music.

What we love

  • The two control levers allow your child to operate the bumper car manually which can move the car forward and backward
  • This bumper car is available in four color options: blue, turquoise, green, and red

What We Don't Like That Much

  • The remote control employs dual joysticks to operate the bumper car; this may be conceptually difficult at the beginning
sopbost 6V Bumper Car for Kids

11Playskool Sit ‘n Spin Classic

This iconic Playskool toy is sure to delight your active toddler. The Classic Sit ‘n Spin is a ride-on that will surely set your child off into fits of giggles. Essentially, your child sits upon a round spinning platform and uses a stationary wheel to spin and stop themselves to their heart’s content. By pushing and pulling the wheel, children can exercise their core and upper body strength all while having a twirly, whirly blast. 

Perfect for expending their seemingly limitless energy, this toy makes a great gift for active toddlers. What’s more, the Sit ‘n Spin is constructed of safe, sturdy, and colorful plastic in bright yellow, green, and red. This toy is as visually appealing as it is fun.

What we love

  • All parts of the Playskool Sit ‘n Spin have smooth, rounded edges which provide improved toy safety
  • The surface of this toy’s plastic parts feature molded images of textured shapes like hearts, stars, and more

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish there was a feature to weigh the toy down, so it doesn’t accidentally tip over at very high speeds
Playskool Sit ‘n Spin Classic

12Happy Trails Plush Rocking Horse

The Happy Trails Rocking Horse is what little ones’ dreams are made of. Measuring roughly 34 by 10 by 24 inches and intended for inquisitive little ones, this beautiful rocking horse makes a lovely gift for a birthday or other special occasion. This lovely ride-on toy features a soft and plush brown horse with white and tan accents. 

The rocking horse also features realistic accents like a faux leather saddle and bridle, both of which enhance roleplaying fun. Your child will love pretending to be a cowboy or cowgirl all while rocking the day away. The horse is situated atop beautiful natural wood rockers that also double as footrests.

What we love

  • This gorgeous rocking horse is handcrafted with a solid wood core for optimal sturdiness
  • This rocking horse is so lovely and so well-made that it’s sure to become a family heirloom

What We Don't Like That Much

  • It would be cute if the horse was equipped with sound effects like a horse neighing
Happy Trails Plush Rocking Horse

13Berg Pedal Kart Buzzy Aero

The awesome pedal go-kart will provide your child with endless outdoor fun. Outfitted with four oversized wheels, this pedal cart has optimal stability. Speaking of the wheels, they’re made of high-tech foam and are just as durable as rubber tires but without the risk of a flat tire. The bright yellow and black frame helps parents to keep an eye on their child from a distance. 

Notably, the pedals and handlebars can be operated independently of each other. This desirable feature ensures that children’s feet remain firmly planted on the pedals while riding. As a result of this safety feature, pedaling and steering have no effect on each other, making this pedal kart easy for young children to operate independently.

What we love

  • Equipped with a swing axle, the pedal kart’s tires stay firmly on the ground while remaining whisper-quiet
  • This super cool pedal kart is available in a whopping six color combinations so you can choose one that perfectly suits your child

What We Don't Like That Much

  • With many moving parts, this ride-on will require you to inspect and maintain it from time to time
Berg Pedal Kart Buzzy Aero

14Radio Flyer Classic Pink Dual Deck Tricycle Ride On

This classic children’s toy will inspire your child to get outside and be active while bringing you back to your own childhood. Available in the iconic Radio Flyer red as well as a lovely light pink, this dual-deck tricycle has a 12-inch front wheel, an entirely steel frame, and rubber tires. Moreover, the wheels are outfitted with white spokes and the pedals will match your color selection. 

Concerning the pedals, they are made with a non-slip grip so you can be sure your child’s feet won’t slip off and sustain injury. Likewise, the handlebars are outfitted with non-slip grips with grooved finger impressions. Lastly, the Radio Flyer Classic Tricycle has a lower deck behind the adjustable seat. This deck can be used as a step ladder to the seat.

What we love

  • The Radio Flyer Classic Tricycle is fashioned with an adorable bell on the handlebars as well as colorful streamers
  • Recommended for children aged two to five years old, both the seat and handlebars adjust to grow with your child

What We Don't Like That Much

  • Although not difficult to assemble, putting the tricycle together does require a few common household tools
Radio Flyer Classic Pink Dual Deck Tricycle Ride On

15Step2 Unicorn Up & Down Roller Coaster

This amazing backyard roller coaster is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. The roller coaster track is constructed of strong and sturdy plastic in bright shades of red, blue, orange, and green. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor play, the rainbow-themed track perfectly complements the unicorn ride-on. 

Speaking of the unicorn, it sits atop four wheels that ride down the track and over mild speed bumps. The white unicorn has blue wheels with rainbow rim decals and comfort-grip handles for safety. Best of all, when in motion, the unicorn lights up and makes sweet sounds. Conveniently, the top of the rainbow track has a small step that helps children to mount the unicorn.

What we love

  • The unicorn ride-on is light enough that after each ride, children can independently wheel it back to the top of the track
  • Your child will delight in creating fun scenarios, naming the unicorn, and roleplaying as a rainbow prince or princess

What We Don't Like That Much

  • While the coaster ramp is easy enough to assemble, the unicorn also requires assembly which requires a little extra patience
Step2 Unicorn Up & Down Roller Coaster

16 Kid Trax Toddler Vespa Scooter Electric Ride On Toy

The Kid Trax Toddler Vespa Scooter is an electric ride-on toy that perfectly mimics a real Vespa. In fact, no detail was spared in this ride-on design and construction; its design will surely turn heads as your child cruises the neighborhood in style. With a maximum weight capacity of 60 pounds, the Vespa scooter is intended for a single rider. 

The scooter is fashioned with authentic Vespa features like a working horn, engine sound effects, a radio, and an MP3 player. Furthermore, this toy has ample under-seat storage for snacks, toys, and more. Operated by a working foot accelerator, the Vespa scooter reaches safe speeds of up to two miles per hour.

What we love

  • The Vespa scooter’s wheels are outfitted with rubber traction strips that ensure a smooth ride as well as your child’s safety
  • This toy has an easily accessible charging port so that your child’s fun is never interrupted for too long

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish the Vespa scooter had a safety seat belt to properly secure children to the seat
 Kid Trax Toddler Vespa Scooter Electric Ride On Toy

17Kid Trax Real Rigs Toddler Recycling Truck

If your child’s favorite day of the week is garbage day, then you have to check out this awesome Recycling Truck ride-on. This bright green truck with a white cabin is an electric-powered, 6-volt ride-on truck. Designed for a single rider, this toy truck has an easy-to-access black bench seat; a step on either side of the bench further assists children in independently mounting and dismounting the truck. 

Best of all, the recycle truck is pre-loaded with over 100 songs, sound effects, and one-liners. Additionally, the truck’s grill has a friendly face depicted in a big smile with wide eyes; both the mouth and eyes move furthering the ride-on experience. Lastly, the recycle truck employs a push-button driving system that’s easy for toddlers to use.

What we love

  • The recycle truck comes with lots of fun, recyclable accessories such as a milk carton, bottles, and cardboard
  • The truck’s trash bed employs a working lever that allows your child to realistically unload his/her haul

What We Don't Like That Much

  • It would be fun if the truck came with other roleplaying accessories like a sanitation worker’s uniform or ID badge
Kid Trax Real Rigs Toddler Recycling Truck

18Radio Flyer Scoot 2 Scooter

The Radio Flyer Scoot 2 Scooter is perfect for growing toddlers. Designed in the iconic Radio Flyer red aesthetic, this ride-on toy can be used in two different ways. The first way, best suited for younger riders, is a seated scooting position while the other way is an easily converted standing scooter; the bench seat quickly flips back providing your child access to a standing deck.

The Scoot 2 Scooter is equipped with four sturdy wheels that give your child optimal balance and safety; the four-wheel feature allows children to build confidence while learning to balance independently. Another cool feature is that when the scooter is in sit-mode, there is ample storage beneath the seat for snacks and toys.

What we love

  • The Scoot 2 Scooter is bedecked in white Radio Flyer decals on either side of the deck, the handlebars, and the front fender
  • This lightweight ride-on toy only weighs five pounds so it’s easy to transport when your child gets tired of scooting

What We Don't Like That Much

  • Although the Scoot 2 Scooter will ride smoothly on low-pile surfaces, the smaller wheels make it difficult to scoot on grass
Radio Flyer Scoot 2 Scooter

19Costzon 12V Battery Powered Kids Ride On Excavator

If your little one is into all things construction, they will adore this awesome powered excavator. The four-wheeled ATV-style ride-on is constructed of heavy-duty plastic and outfitted in bright blue and other lovely colors. Designed to mimic a real excavator, this ride-on toy has a working arm that extends and retracts to emulate construction site operations. It has easy-to-use controls that propel the excavator forward and backward at two safe speeds. 

The four tires are made of tough PE that can even withstand minor collisions. Waterproof and easy to wipe clean, this dirt-digging ride-on will even impress parents. If your little one loves to stop to watch construction vehicles, they will surely delight in this awesome ride-on excavator.

What we love

  • Children can employ the easy-to-use lever to raise and lower the backhoe digger all while improving hand-eye coordination
  • On a fully charged battery, this electric ride-on can operate for up to 90 full minutes

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish this excavator came with a matching hardhat helmet and/or reflective safety vest just like a real construction worker would wear
Costzon 12V Battery Powered Kids Ride On Excavator

20Radio Flyer Ziggle, Red Kids Wiggle Car

This super unique and ultra-fun wiggle car will give your child great exercise and lots of giggles. The Radio Flyer Ziggle is a red ride-on with four balanced wheels supporting a lightweight, low-profile frame. The four caster wheels have a 360° turning radius for epic twirly fun. Outfitted with steel handlebars, white comfort grips, and a gray bucket seat, the Ziggle is wonderful for bringing out smiles – they’ll never want to get off!

To ride the Ziggle, children simply wiggle their bottoms whilst twisting the handlebars to propel forward and rotate. The easy-glide caster wheels provide riders with a smooth experience on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Lastly, the seat easily adjusts to grow with your child.

What we love

  • The front-end of the Ziggle has a bench-style foot deck that’s outfitted with grip tape that ensures your child’s safety
  • With a maximum weight capacity of 81 pounds, this is a toy that will last your child for years to come

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish the Ziggle was equipped with a hand or foot brake; as it is, the only way to stop its movement is with the rider’s feet
Radio Flyer Ziggle, Red Kids Wiggle Car

21PlayWheels PAW Patrol Roller Skates with Knee Pads

These Paw Patrol roller skates shake things up a bit with a whole different kind of ride-on! These strap-on skates go on right over your child’s shoes and can be conveniently adjusted to fit a wide range of shoe sizes. The skates are made of heavy-duty plastic and are bedecked in recognizable Paw Patrol graphics. 

Notably, the body of the skate is bright blue, the wheels are red, and the toe-brake is bright yellow. They’re also equipped with easy-to-use Velcro hook and loop straps that will secure the skates to your child’s feet; they’re so easy that your child can even fasten them independently. Your little one will have loads of top-speed, high-cardio, safe fun using these epic Paw Patrol skates.

What we love

  • The Paw Patrol roller skate set comes with a matching set of safety knee pads
  • Vented skate frames allow air to flow freely around your child’s feet; this is especially nice in hot weather months

What We Don't Like That Much

  • We wish these skates were equipped with a reverse-lock like they were in the old days; that would make forward movement easier for beginners
PlayWheels PAW Patrol Roller Skates with Knee Pads

In Conclusion

Every child is different even at the tender age of four. One will be happy gently rocking away on a rocking horse, while another will want to be crashing around on an electric Vespa or a battery-powered excavator. Luckily there’s something here for everyone, whatever their level of confidence or daredevil tendencies.

But why should four-year-olds get all the fun? If you’ve been inspired to get yourself a ride-on toy, why not go all out and have a look at this ultracool Teamgee H20 39″ Electric Skateboard

And if you’re looking for some more ride-on options, there are some great choices available in our 10 Best John Deere Toys.