SAFETY FEATURES
Open to children from the tender age of 6 years old and up, a ride-a-quad activity might be your son or daughter’s first experience of “driving” something, so it’s natural you might be a little uneasy. Rest assured, your primary schooler isn’t going to be climbing onto the back of a farmer’s working quad, but a specially designed machine for young drivers.
On top of having reduced capacity and power, the smallest models coming with 50cc engines, there are innovative safety features that allow parents or instructors to keep their hand on the tiller while the little ones are in the driving seat. Throttle screws and rev limiters mean the engine’s power can be capped and then increased as the child gets the hang of things. Remote kill switches allow an adult to cut the power of the engine from a distance. You’ll find quads with these features, and an excellent track to ride around (for children and adults) at a quad bike centre in Pembrokeshire.
BABY TREKKING
One of the best things about quad bikes is their utility on rough, wet and/or uneven terrain. Quad trekking means taking on the landscape with one of these All Terrain Vehicles (ATV), as they’re also known. But this can be tricky for children, even when they’re using the latest in kids’ quads technology.
As ever, the best way to learn is one step at a time. If you go quad biking in Devon, you can find an off-roading centre that has a specially set up inflatable quad track where kids of 6 years old can get the hang of controlling the bikes. Then, if and when they’re ready, they can progress onto a tire track. From the age of 8 , they’ll be competent and confident enough to go trekking across open farmland!
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Trying something new as a family is a sure-fire way to bring everyone together and create lasting memories. Riding a quad bike is our recommendation, as everyone will tackle it on their own terms. Will impetuous youngsters or wise parents prove to be more successful? Whatever the case may be, you’ll have a guide with you to make sure that everyone stays safe and tackles the obstacles around the course as best they can.
Why not turn it into a full day of adventure in the great outdoors? We know a quad biking provider in North Yorkshire who can combine quad trekking with activities such as climbing, abseiling and an assault course run - ideal for getting mum, dad and the kids active like never before!
NATURAL BEAUTY
Rough terrain, open landscapes and sparsely populated areas are the territory of quads. They’re also likely to be the most beautiful parts of the British Isles. We’ve mentioned Pembrokeshire, North Devon and the Yorkshire Dales - let’s add the Scottish Highlands to the list! Quad biking opportunities in Perth and Kinross are available for groups of junior riders and mixed or family groups that take you through stunning scenery on the west bank of the River Tay.
With a powerful quad bike to carry you through woods, up hillsides and straight through the mud, you’re able to cover much more ground than you can by hiking. And, when you get to a viewpoint and switch the engine off, the quiet of nature and the expansive views will fill you with awe. How’s that for a family day out?
