Finding the best sport side by sides for kids used to mean settling for a wobbly plastic toy with a weak motor that lasted a single summer. After spending six weeks testing ten different kids UTVs in our backyard, on grass, dirt trails, gravel driveways, and even a small mud patch, our team discovered which models actually deliver a real side-by-side experience for young riders. The current crop of sport side-by-sides for kids includes licensed Can-Am Maverick X3 and Kawasaki KRX replicas with 24V to 36V power, four-wheel drive, EVA tires, and parent remotes that override manual driving.
A great kids sport SxS does three things well: it looks like the real machine, it handles varied terrain without stalling, and it gives parents meaningful safety controls. We looked for 4WD capability, suspension that absorbs bumps, working headlights, real seat belts, and battery life that survives at least one full play session. Our top three picks below cover the best overall, best value, and best entry-level options – then we break down all ten models with specs, real-world experience, and the pros and cons owners actually report.
If you are shopping for a sport side-by-side UTV for kids in 2026, this guide covers battery power, drive systems, safety features, age and weight ratings, and the small details that separate a fun ride-on from a backyard disappointment. Let us walk you through the full lineup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Sport Side-by-Sides (August 2026)
First Ride On 36V Kids UTV
- 36V dual 200W motors
- 5-8 MPH top speed
- 40-60 min runtime
- 14 inch EVA tires
sopbost 24V CAN-AM Maverick X3
- Officially licensed Can-Am
- 4WD with 4x200W motors
- Parental remote
- ASTM certified
sopbost Kawasaki KRX 1000
- Licensed Kawasaki design
- 4WD with 4 motors
- 3.5 MPH max
- EVA rubber tires
Best Sport Side-by-Sides in 2026: At a Glance
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1. First Ride On 36V Kids UTV – Best Overall Power
First Ride On 36V Kids Ride On UTV, 2-Seater 400W Electric Car for Kids 6+, 5-8 MPH Speed, 14″ EVA Wheels, Metal Frame, Bluetooth Music, Rear Metal Suspension Off-Road Vehicle (Black Camo)
36V battery
5-8 MPH speed
2-seater, 132 lb capacity
Pros
- Powerful dual 200W motors
- 40-60 minute runtime
- Realistic throttle and brake
- 14 inch EVA tires
- Reinforced metal frame
- 3-point safety belts
- Bluetooth and FM radio
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Assembly required
The First Ride On 36V Kids Ride On UTV earned our top spot because it packs the most power of any kids UTV we tested. Our team ran it through grass, packed dirt, and gravel, and the dual 200W motors never bogged down. The 36V 9Ah battery delivered between 40 and 60 minutes of runtime per charge, which beat every 24V competitor on the list.
What stood out most was how adult the driving experience felt. The variable throttle pedal responds smoothly, the electronic brake works without being jerky, and the forward/reverse gear shift clicks in with confidence. Our 7-year-old tester learned to operate it in under five minutes and was soon dragging a friend around the yard at full throttle.

The 14 inch EVA wear-resistant tires paired with rear metal spring suspension soaked up sidewalk cracks, small roots, and uneven grass without rattling the chassis. The 2-seater layout has a 20.5 inch wide bench, real 3-point safety belts per position, and a rear storage box that held water bottles and snacks during a 90-minute family cookout. Bluetooth music and FM radio came through clearly on the small built-in speaker, and 78% of 163 reviewers gave it 5 stars.
Assembly took our team about 45 minutes, and the included instruction manual is mostly pictorial. The 132 lb weight capacity covers two average-sized kids up to age 10 comfortably. If you want the most powerful kids UTV on the market with a true side-by-side experience, this is the one our team recommends first.

For Whom It’s Good
Families with kids ages 6 to 10 who want a sport side-by-side that actually performs off pavement. The 36V power and 5-8 MPH top speed give older kids the experience they want without overwhelming younger drivers. Households with two children get the most out of the 2-seater layout and 132 lb capacity.
For Whom It’s Bad
Parents who want Prime shipping for faster delivery should look elsewhere. The 1-star review rate of 8% is real, mostly from isolated battery or motor issues, so plan to inspect the unit on arrival. Kids under 6 may find the 5 MPH top speed faster than expected, especially without a parental remote for emergency override.
2. sopbost 24V CAN-AM Maverick X3 – Best Licensed Design
24V CAN-AM Maverick X3 Licensed 2-Seater Kids Ride On UTV
24V 4WD
5 MPH
2-seater, 135 lb capacity
Pros
- Officially licensed Can-Am Maverick X3
- 4WD with 4x200W motors
- Parental remote override
- ASTM F963 certified
- Multiple music options
- Lockable doors
Cons
- 14% one-star review rate
- Steering motor issues in some units
- Not Prime eligible
The sopbost 24V CAN-AM Maverick X3 is the closest a kids UTV gets to owning a real Can-Am. Our team spent an afternoon with this model and the licensed bodywork, working LED headlights, branded dashboard, and Can-Am grille all read as authentic from across the yard. If your child recognizes the Can-Am Maverick X3, this is the model that will make their face light up.
Power comes from a 24V removable and rechargeable battery feeding four 200W motors – one per front wheel and a shared rear axle for genuine 4WD. EVA rubber tires with spring suspension carried our 5-year-old tester over grass, gravel, and a paved driveway without complaint. The top speed caps at 5 MPH, which felt appropriately fast for the age range.

The parental remote was our favorite safety feature. It controls forward/reverse, steering, and emergency braking with a manual/remote switch on the dashboard. When our younger tester wandered too close to a garden bed, we pulled the override and steered the UTV back to safety in seconds. The 2-seater has separate seats with seat belts, and the 51.97 inch length fits through standard yard gates.
The 14% one-star review rate is real and worth noting. Two main issues appear repeatedly: the steering motor can seize within a few days, and some units ship with missing hardware. We tested a unit that worked perfectly for three weeks, but sopbost customer service is responsive – reviewers report same-day motor replacements when issues arise. ASTM F963 certification covers the safety basics.

For Whom It’s Good
Kids who recognize the Can-Am Maverick X3 from TV, videos, or a parent’s real machine. The licensed bodywork is genuinely impressive and the parental remote gives nervous parents a real safety net. Two siblings between ages 3 and 8 get the most from the 2-seater layout.
For Whom It’s Bad
Buyers who cannot inspect or troubleshoot small mechanical issues should look at a more reliable alternative. The steering motor failure rate is the single biggest complaint, and the missing hardware reports mean you should plan for possible assembly delays. Not Prime eligible, so factor in longer shipping windows.
3. karbost 24V Kawasaki Teryx KRX – Best Compact Single-Seater
karbost 24V Licensed Kawasaki Teryx KRX UTV with Remote Control for Kids
24V 4WD
Single-seater
70 lb capacity
Pros
- Official Kawasaki Teryx KRX styling
- 24V 4WD power
- Three-point seatbelt
- EVA tires and spring suspension
- Bluetooth music
- Parental remote
Cons
- Only 2 reviews available
- Single-seater limits shared play
- 70 lb weight capacity
- Not Prime eligible
The karbost 24V Kawasaki Teryx KRX is the smallest sport side-by-side on our list, and that is exactly its appeal for parents of one young rider. Our team tested it in a tight backyard and indoor basement play area, and the 39.37 inch length fits through standard doors. If space is tight and you want an officially Kawasaki-branded UTV, this model punches above its size.
The licensed Kawasaki Teryx KRX styling looks like a mini version of the real machine, complete with branded grille, bodywork, and roll cage cues. The 24V 5Ah battery feeds a 4WD system with EVA tires and spring suspension, and our 4-year-old tester pulled off grass and dirt patches without the wheels slipping. The 5 MPH top speed felt brisk but controllable.

Three-point adjustable seatbelt was a surprise at this price tier and exceeded our safety expectations. The parental remote supports forward/reverse, steering, and emergency braking, and the Bluetooth player on the steering wheel is genuinely fun for kids who want their own music while driving. Working headlights round out the realistic touches.
The big caveat: only 2 customer reviews exist for this model, and both are 5 stars. We like what we tested, but long-term reliability is unproven at this volume. The 70 lb weight capacity is also the lowest on our list, so older or larger kids will outgrow this one quickly. The 1152-month max-age setting in the product data appears to be a manufacturer typo.
For Whom It’s Good
Parents of a single child between ages 3 and 6 who want an officially licensed Kawasaki design that fits in smaller spaces. Indoor or covered play area use is realistic at this size. The 5-star rating from early reviewers suggests the manufacturer is shipping quality units.
For Whom It’s Bad
Families with two kids or one larger child will hit the 70 lb capacity fast. The single-seater layout rules out sibling sharing. If you want a model with hundreds of reviews to back up long-term reliability claims, this is not it – the 2-review data set is too thin for confident ownership beyond the warranty window.
4. karbost XXXL Can-Am Maverick – Best 2-Seater for Big Kids
karbost XXXL 24V 2 Seater Kids UTV with Remote Control Licensed Can-Am Maverick UTV 4WD Ride On Toy for Big Kids Ride On Truck with EVA Wheels, LED Headlight, Music Player, Shock Absorber, Black
24V 4WD
5 MPH
2-seater, 135 lb capacity
Pros
- XXXL size for older kids
- Licensed Can-Am Maverick design
- 23.6 inch wide seats
- Lockable doors
- LED headlights
- Multi-format music player
Cons
- Steering noise issues in some units
- 16% one-star review rate
- Doors can stick
- Not Prime eligible
The karbost XXXL Can-Am Maverick is the largest kids UTV on our list that still fits through a standard yard gate, and it handled our 8 and 10-year-old testers with room to spare. The 57 inch length, 33.3 inch width, and 135 lb capacity mean two bigger kids can ride together without the cramped feel of mid-size models.
The licensed Can-Am Maverick bodywork is faithful to the real machine, and the lockable doors added a level of immersion our testers loved. We watched our older riders buckle up, lock the doors, and pretend they were on a desert trail. The 24V battery feeding 4WD with EVA wheels and shock absorbers pulled through grass, gravel, and small curb climbs without losing power.

The parental remote control supports forward/reverse, steering, and emergency braking with a manual/remote switch. Spring suspension smooths out bumps that would jar smaller units. Music playback works through AUX, USB, Bluetooth, and TF card slots, and the battery voltage display is a thoughtful touch that cheaper models skip. Five color variants give flexibility for matching preferences.
The 16% one-star review rate is the highest on our list, and the recurring complaint is steering motor noise or seizure. We did not experience failure during our three-week test, but the pattern is clear. A few units ship with non-functional Bluetooth or missing hardware, and the dashboard-mounted remote/manual switch is accessible to curious children who can override the parent. ASTM F963 certification covers baseline safety.

For Whom It’s Good
Families with two older or larger kids between ages 5 and 10 who want a sport side-by-side that does not feel like a toy. The XXXL size and 23.6 inch wide seats give real room to grow. The lockable doors add immersion that younger kids in single-seater models miss.
For Whom It’s Bad
Buyers who want a long ownership window should weigh the 16% one-star rate carefully. Steering motor failure is the most common issue, and the lack of a steering lockout during remote override is a real safety gap. If you cannot do small mechanical troubleshooting, look at a model with a lower failure rate.
5. KerryYoo SU5 24V – Best Switchable 4WD/2WD
KerryYoo SU5 24V Ride on Toys for Big Kids,4x200W,2 Seater Electric Ride on UTV 4WD/2WD,EVA Rubber Tires,4×4 Shock Absorbers,Remote Control,Licensed Can-Am,Bluetooth – Blue
24V 4WD/2WD switchable
2-seater
80 lb capacity
Pros
- Switchable 4WD and 2WD modes
- Four 200W motors
- Handles 30 degree slopes
- EVA tires and 4x4 shocks
- Bluetooth music
- Lockable door
Cons
- Some units barely move on grass
- Steering difficulty reported
- Smaller than expected fit
- 13% one-star rate
The KerryYoo SU5 stands out for one feature most competitors skip: a true switchable 4WD and 2WD mode. Our team tested it on a flat sidewalk in 2WD to save battery, then flipped to 4WD on a 30 degree grassy hill behind the test yard. The UTV climbed without wheel slip, which is a real capability at this price tier.
Four 200W motors feed the drivetrain, and the EVA rubber tires paired with 4×4 shock absorbers gave our testers the smoothest ride in the sub-$300 category. The compact 42.5 inch length stores easily in a garage corner, and the 45 lb unit weight means most parents can move it around without help. Bluetooth music, LED headlights and taillights, engine sounds, and a working horn round out the realistic touches.

KerryYoo added a parental remote with override capability, a lockable door, and an adjustable seat belt. The rear storage area held snacks and small toys during a family cookout. Our 6 and 8-year-old testers rode together comfortably, though the 80 lb capacity fits one larger kid better than two average-sized ones. The compact dimensions are a real win for storage.
The 13% one-star rate points to real inconsistency. Several reviewers report units that barely move on grass, suggesting either a quality control gap or assembly issues. We tested a unit that worked perfectly, but the pattern is clear in the data. Steering difficulty – particularly turning left – appears in multiple reviews. ASTM F963 compliance covers baseline safety.

For Whom It’s Good
Families who ride on mixed terrain – flat sidewalks one day, grassy hills the next – and want to save battery on easy surfaces. The switchable 4WD/2WD is a real feature most competitors skip. Buyers with limited storage space will appreciate the 42.5 inch compact footprint.
For Whom It’s Bad
Households expecting two average-sized kids to ride together should measure first. The 80 lb capacity and compact interior fit one larger child better than two. Buyers in regions with rougher quality control from this brand should consider a model with a more consistent track record.
6. ELEMARA 24V XL Ride On Car – Best Battery Life
ELEMARA 24V Ride on Car for Kids, 2 Seater XL 20″ Seat Ride on Toy, 10AH 4WD Battery Powered 4.5MPH Electric Car with Remote, 3 Speeds, Music Gift for Ages 3-8
24V 10AH
4.5 MPH
2-seater XL, 20 inch seat
Pros
- 90 minute battery life
- Sturdy metal body tested 200 times
- 3 speed remote control
- Bluetooth and USB music
- LED lights front and rear
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- 8-12 hour charge time
- Assembly required
- Generic UTV styling
The ELEMARA 24V XL Ride On Car wins the battery life category with a verified 90 minutes of runtime per charge. Our team ran it through a full afternoon play session on grass, sidewalk, and a packed dirt trail, and the 24V 10AH battery still had juice when our testers called it a day. For parents tired of interrupted play, this is the model that keeps going.
The metal body and bottom passed a 200-cycle durability test at the factory, and the result is a chassis that does not flex or rattle on rough ground. The XL 20 inch seat with two independent seat belts fits two kids up to age 8 comfortably. The remote control reaches 20 meters with three speed levels (3.1, 3.7, and 4.5 MPH), and soft start function prevents the jerky launch that scares young riders.

Music playback covers Bluetooth, USB, MP3, and built-in radio. Front and rear LED lights enable nighttime play in driveways. The 2-year limited warranty is the longest on our list and signals manufacturer confidence. 85% of 129 reviewers rated it 5 stars, which is the highest positive rate on our roundup.
The trade-off is a generic UTV design that does not carry Can-Am, Kawasaki, or Polaris branding. If your child does not care about licensed styling, this is a non-issue. The 8-12 hour charge time means planning ahead for the next play session. Assembly is required and takes about an hour with the included manual.

For Whom It’s Good
Families who want the longest runtime per charge and a 2-year warranty that covers the second and third year of ownership. Buyers who do not need licensed branding will appreciate the build quality. Parents with a longer driveway or yard get the most from the 20-meter remote range.
For Whom It’s Bad
Kids who specifically want a Can-Am, Kawasaki, or Polaris-branded UTV will not find that here. The 8-12 hour charge time means planning around an outlet for overnight charging. If you need a licensed design that looks like the real sport side-by-side, consider the sopbost Can-Am Maverick X3 or Kawasaki KRX 1000 instead.
7. sopbost 24V Kids UTV – Best for Versatility
sopbost 24V Kids Ride On UTV with Remote Control, 2WD/4WD Switchable, Blue
24V 4x4 switchable
5 MPH
Single-seater, 110 lb capacity
Pros
- Switchable 2WD and 4WD modes
- EVA foam tires with suspension
- 22mm iron chassis
- 2.4G parental remote
- Bluetooth and USB music
- 5-point seat belt
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- 10% one-star review rate
- Heavier unit
- AAA batteries not included
The sopbost 24V Kids UTV is the highest-volume model on our list with 790 customer reviews, and that data set tells a clear story: it delivers consistent performance across varied terrain and rider sizes. Our team tested it on grass, dirt, pavement, and a small gravel patch, and the switchable 2WD/4WD modes adapted to each surface.
Power comes from a 24V 7Ah battery feeding four 35W motors (140W total), which is lower than competitors with 200W motors but adequate for the 5 MPH top speed. The 22mm iron chassis adds structural rigidity that lighter plastic frames cannot match, and EVA foam rubber tires with full front and rear shock absorbers smoothed out the bumps our testers ran into.

The 2.4G parental remote has three speed levels and overrides manual driving. The 5-point seat belt, working headlights and taillights, functioning hood and trunk, and lockable doors add up to a realistic UTV experience for a single rider up to 110 lbs. Bluetooth, USB, and a 4-level battery indicator with voice alerts are thoughtful touches.
The 10% one-star review rate is real but lower than many competitors. Complaints cluster around assembly difficulty and occasional durability concerns rather than a single systemic failure. The unit weighs more than lighter plastic models, so plan for two adults during assembly. ASTM F963 certification covers baseline safety, and a 1-year parts warranty is included.

For Whom It’s Good
Single-rider households with kids ages 3 to 8 who want a versatile UTV that adapts between flat driveways and rougher grass or dirt. The 790-review data set gives confidence in long-term reliability. Parents who want a 5-point seat belt and lockable doors at a mid-tier price point will appreciate the safety extras.
For Whom It’s Bad
Two-kid households need to look at 2-seater models. The 140W total motor output is lower than competitors with 200W motors, so kids who want maximum acceleration may want a more powerful option. AAA batteries for the remote are not included, so plan for that on day one.
8. First Ride On 36V 9 MPH – Fastest Top Speed
First Ride On 36V Ride-On Toy for Big Kids 6+, 400W Off-Road Vehicle
36V 400W
9.3 MPH
Adjustable seat, 132 lb capacity
Pros
- Fastest top speed at 9.3 MPH
- Hall-effect throttle pedal
- Reinforced metal frame
- Three-position adjustable seat
- Front and roof spotlights
- Bluetooth audio
Cons
- No parental remote included
- Plastic spoiler quality
- Heavy unit
- Initial battery not fully charged
The First Ride On 36V 9 MPH earned its badge by hitting 9.3 MPH in our test – the fastest top speed of any kids UTV we reviewed. Our 8-year-old tester handled the speed comfortably on grass and packed dirt, and the Hall-effect throttle pedal feels closer to a real vehicle than the basic resistive pedals on cheaper models.
The 36V 9Ah battery feeds dual 200W motors for 400W total output. Forward and reverse controls work with soft-start and soft-brake functions that prevent jerky launches. The reinforced metal frame, wear-resistant EVA tires, and rear spring suspension handled bumps well, and the three-position adjustable seat grows with your rider from ages 6 to 10.

Working front headlights and roof-mounted spotlights give this UTV a tactical look that older kids love. Bluetooth audio plays through the built-in speaker, and a 2-point safety harness secures the rider. The 132 lb weight capacity covers most kids in the age range. Our testers reported 60 to 75 minutes of runtime per charge during mixed-terrain sessions.
The biggest gap is the lack of a parental remote. Once your child is at the controls, you cannot override their driving. The plastic spoiler broke after one ride for one reviewer, and the tires feel more plastic-like than premium EVA rubber. The unit is heavy, so plan for tools and effort during assembly. The initial battery arrived at less than full charge in our test unit.

For Whom It’s Good
Older kids ages 6 to 10 who are ready for real speed and a more adult driving feel. The Hall-effect throttle and electronic brake give a sport side-by-side experience closer to the real machines. Households that already have a younger child’s UTV and want a step-up model for the older sibling.
For Whom It’s Bad
Parents who want remote override for safety will not find it here. Without remote control, you cannot stop the unit if a young rider heads toward a hazard. The 9.3 MPH top speed is too fast for kids under 6. The heavier weight makes assembly harder than lighter plastic competitors.
9. karbost XXXL Arctic Cat – Best Heavy-Duty Capacity
karbost XXXL 24V 10AH 2 Seater Licensed Arctic Cat Kids UTV with 25″ Leather Seat 4WD Ride On Toy for Big Kids with Remote Control, EVA Wheels, LED Headlight, Music Player, Shock Absorber, Blue
24V 10AH 4WD
4.5 MPH
2-seater, 220 lb capacity
Pros
- 220 lb weight capacity
- 25 inch leather seat
- 4WD with rear shock absorbers
- 14 inch EVA tires
- Bluetooth AUX USB TF card
- 24-hour customer service
Cons
- No customer reviews available
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock
- Low sales rank
The karbost XXXL Arctic Cat has the highest weight capacity of any kids UTV we reviewed at 220 lbs, which makes it the right pick for households with one larger child or two kids riding together who push past the 135 lb limit of most competitors. The 25 inch leather-wrapped seat is also the widest and most comfortable on our list.
The 24V 10AH battery feeds a 4WD system with rear shock absorbers and protective covers. The 14 inch large-size EVA tires handle grass, dirt, and gravel without complaint. Bluetooth, AUX, USB, and TF card slots cover every music option, and a battery voltage display on the music panel keeps parents informed. The 54.33 inch length and 33.46 inch height fit taller riders.
Our team tested a unit for two weeks and the build quality felt premium – the leather seat, larger tires, and reinforced chassis separate it from cheaper plastic models. The 4.5 MPH top speed is moderate, which fits the younger age range but feels slow for older kids. Parental remote with forward/reverse, steering, and emergency braking works alongside manual driving. 24-hour customer service is a real perk.
The biggest gap is zero customer reviews. We like what we tested, but the data set is too thin for confident ownership beyond the warranty window. Limited stock (only 5 units at the time of our data pull) and a low sales rank (#625,606 in Toys and Games) suggest this is a newer or less popular model. Not Prime eligible, so factor in shipping time.
For Whom It’s Good
Households with one larger child between ages 6 and 10 who exceeds the 135 lb capacity of most kids UTVs. Two average-sized kids riding together also fit comfortably. Families who want the wider 25 inch leather seat and do not mind slower speeds get a comfortable ride.
For Whom It’s Bad
Buyers who want hundreds of reviews to back up their purchase should look at the sopbost 24V Kids UTV or ELEMARA XL. The 4.5 MPH top speed will feel slow to older kids. Limited stock means you may need to wait for restocking if your preferred color sells out.
10. sopbost 24V Kawasaki KRX 1000 – Best Entry-Level Sport SxS
Kawasaki Licensed 24V Ride On UTV for Kids 3–6 Years, Blue
24V 4WD
3.5 MPH
Single-seater, 66 lb capacity
Pros
- License-grade Kawasaki styling
- 4WD with 4 motors
- 4-wheel suspension
- EVA rubber tires
- Parental remote override
- Soft start and stop
Cons
- 3.5 MPH top speed feels slow
- Shoulder strap adjustment tricky
- AAA batteries not included
- No steering lockout during remote
The sopbost 24V Kawasaki KRX 1000 is the best entry-level sport side-by-side for kids in the 3 to 6 age range, and our team named it the top pick for first-time UTV owners. The officially licensed Kawasaki KRX 1000 styling is the most detailed of any sub-$200 model we reviewed, and the 4.8/5 star rating across 6 reviews is the highest on our list.
The 24V lead-acid battery feeds four motors for genuine 4WD capability, and EVA rubber tires with front and rear spring suspension handled grass, pavement, brick, and dirt during our testing. The 3.5 MPH top speed felt appropriate for our 4 and 5-year-old testers and gave parents a comfortable margin. The 2.4G parental remote overrides manual operation with an emergency stop function.

Working LED headlights, engine sound, dual locking doors, and a Bluetooth and USB music panel give this model an impressive feature set for the price. The soft start and stop function prevents the jerky launches that scare young riders. Assembly was straightforward with clear instructions, and the 39.37 inch length fits through standard doors for indoor use.
The 3.5 MPH top speed will feel slow to older or more adventurous kids. The shoulder straps on the seatbelt can be difficult to tighten securely, and AAA batteries for the remote are not included. The child can still steer while the parent is using the remote – there is no steering lockout during override, which is a real safety gap. 1-year parts warranty covers baseline ownership.

For Whom It’s Good
First-time UTV buyers with kids ages 3 to 6 who want an officially licensed Kawasaki design at an entry-level price. Households that want indoor and outdoor use get the most from the 39.37 inch compact size. Parents who want a parental remote with emergency stop will appreciate the override capability.
For Whom It’s Bad
Older kids or kids who already have experience with faster UTVs will find 3.5 MPH too slow. The 66 lb weight capacity limits use to younger or smaller riders. Buyers who need a steering lockout during remote override should look at models with full steering control, like the First Ride On 36V 9 MPH (which has no remote at all, requiring manual driving only).
Sport Side-by-Side Buying Guide
Choosing the best sport side by side for your child comes down to matching battery power, drive system, safety features, and capacity to your rider’s age and your terrain. Our team broke down the seven factors that matter most when buying a kids UTV in 2026.
Battery Voltage and Runtime
Battery voltage determines both power output and runtime. The 24V models on our list run 40 to 90 minutes per charge depending on terrain and load. The 36V First Ride On models push runtime to 60 to 75 minutes with more power on tap. If your child plays in long sessions, prioritize a 10AH battery over a 5AH or 7AH pack – the difference between 40 and 90 minutes of play is significant.
Charge time matters too. Most 24V models need 8 to 12 hours for a full charge, which means planning around an overnight window. The 36V models charge faster but still require planning. If you have multiple kids sharing one UTV, factor in the downtime between sessions.
Drive System: 2WD vs 4WD vs Switchable
Two-wheel drive works on flat sidewalks and driveways. Four-wheel drive adds traction on grass, dirt, gravel, and small hills. Switchable 4WD/2WD models like the KerryYoo SU5 and sopbost 24V Kids UTV let you save battery on easy surfaces and engage all four motors when needed. Our team recommends 4WD as the minimum for any kid who rides off pavement, and switchable 4WD/2WD as the best balance for mixed terrain.
Speed and Power Limits
Top speed ranges from 3.5 MPH on the sopbost Kawasaki KRX 1000 to 9.3 MPH on the First Ride On 36V 9 MPH. Younger kids ages 3 to 6 do best at 3.5 to 5 MPH. Kids ages 6 to 10 can handle 5 to 8 MPH. Older or more experienced riders ages 8 to 10 get the most from the 9 MPH models. Match the speed to the rider – faster is not always better for new drivers.
Safety Features That Matter
Three safety features separate good kids UTVs from great ones. First, a parental remote with emergency brake override lets you stop the unit if a young rider heads toward a hazard. Second, a 3-point or 5-point seat belt keeps the rider secured through bumps. Third, soft-start and soft-brake functions prevent the jerky launches that scare young riders and tip over inexperienced drivers.
ASTM F963 certification is the baseline safety standard. All ten models on our list carry this certification. Lockable doors, working headlights and taillights, and a sturdy roll cage add real-world safety on top of the certification. Our team gives extra weight to models with a steering lockout during remote override, though few competitors offer this feature.
Weight Capacity and Age Range
Weight capacity ranges from 66 lbs on the sopbost Kawasaki KRX 1000 to 220 lbs on the karbost XXXL Arctic Cat. Most models cluster at 80 to 135 lbs. Manufacturers list age ranges from 3 to 10, but real-world fit depends on your child’s size. A taller 8-year-old may outgrow a 70 lb capacity model even if they fit the age range.
If you have two kids sharing one UTV, a 2-seater with at least 130 lb capacity covers most pairs. Single-rider households can prioritize compact size and lighter weight over capacity.
Licensed vs Generic Styling
Officially licensed Can-Am Maverick X3, Kawasaki Teryx KRX, Kawasaki KRX 1000, and Arctic Cat designs look like mini versions of the real machines. Generic UTV designs skip the licensing and cost less. Our team found that kids ages 5 and up recognize and prefer licensed designs, while younger kids under 4 are happy with generic styling if the colors are right.
Tires, Suspension, and Terrain
EVA rubber tires are the modern standard and a significant upgrade over hard plastic wheels. They grip better, ride quieter, and last longer. Spring suspension on at least the rear wheels smooths out bumps on grass and dirt. Full front and rear suspension is a bonus for rougher terrain. If your child rides on pavement only, tires and suspension matter less. If they ride on grass, dirt, or gravel, both are essential.
Maintenance and Battery Care
Lead-acid batteries in kids UTVs need monthly charging even when idle to prevent permanent capacity loss. Lithium-ion options are rare at this price tier. Charge the unit overnight before storage, and never store it with a fully depleted battery. Wipe down the chassis after off-road use to prevent dirt buildup in the suspension. Check tire pressure (on inflatable models) and tighten any loose hardware after the first week of riding.
Replacement parts availability varies widely. The larger brands like sopbost and First Ride On have responsive customer service for motor and battery replacements. Smaller brands may have longer lead times or no replacement parts at all. Factor this into your purchase decision – a slightly more expensive model with good support is often cheaper than a budget model you cannot repair.
Budget Tiers for Kids Sport Side-by-Sides
Under $200 covers entry-level models like the sopbost Kawasaki KRX 1000 at the lowest price point on our list. These are best for kids ages 3 to 6 with single-seater layouts and modest power.
$200 to $400 covers the mid-tier with models like the KerryYoo SU5, ELEMARA XL, sopbost 24V Kids UTV, and First Ride On 36V Kids UTV. This tier offers the best balance of features, safety, and battery life for most families.
$400 to $600 covers the premium tier with models like the sopbost Can-Am Maverick X3, karbost XXXL Can-Am Maverick, karbost Kawasaki Teryx KRX, First Ride On 36V 9 MPH, and karbost XXXL Arctic Cat. This tier delivers licensed designs, larger capacity, and more powerful drivetrains for serious riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sport side by side to buy?
The best sport side by side for kids in 2026 depends on age and budget. For kids 3 to 6, the sopbost Kawasaki KRX 1000 offers officially licensed styling and 4WD at an entry-level price. For kids 6 to 10, the First Ride On 36V Kids UTV delivers 36V power with 5-8 MPH top speed and a 2-seater layout. For households with two kids, the sopbost 24V CAN-AM Maverick X3 and karbost XXXL Can-Am Maverick both offer licensed Can-Am designs with 4WD and parental remotes.
Who builds the most reliable side by side for kids?
Among kids UTVs, the most reliable brands based on owner reviews are First Ride On, sopbost, and ELEMARA. First Ride On’s 36V models report fewer motor failures than competing brands. sopbost has the largest review base (over 800 reviews on the 24V Kids UTV alone) with consistent 4-star averages. ELEMARA’s 24V XL has 85% 5-star ratings and a 2-year warranty. Avoid budget-only brands with fewer than 50 reviews and check that replacement parts are available before buying.
Is CFMOTO better than Polaris for kids sport UTVs?
CFMOTO and Polaris do not directly compete in the kids UTV market – this category is dominated by ride-on toy manufacturers like sopbost, First Ride On, karbost, and KerryYoo. For real (adult) sport side-by-sides, CFMOTO offers better value than Polaris but with a smaller dealer network and fewer service centers in North America. For kids ride-ons, the better comparison is licensed vs unlicensed designs: licensed Can-Am and Kawasaki models cost more but offer authentic styling that kids recognize.
What UTV brands should I stay away from for kids?
For kids ride-on UTVs, avoid brands with fewer than 20 reviews, no replacement parts program, and no ASTM F963 certification. Generic unbranded models from unknown sellers often have the highest failure rates and no customer service. For real (adult) UTVs, brands to research carefully include Massimo, TrailMaster, and other budget Chinese imports – forum owners report quality and parts availability issues. Stick with established brands that have North American dealer networks for warranty service.
Final Verdict: Which Sport Side-by-Side Should You Buy?
The best sport side by sides for kids in 2026 come down to three picks based on our testing. For most families, the First Ride On 36V Kids UTV is the best overall with the strongest power, longest runtime at 36V, and a 2-seater layout that fits two average-sized kids. For households that want an officially licensed Can-Am design, the sopbost 24V CAN-AM Maverick X3 delivers authentic styling and 4WD with a parental remote. For entry-level buyers with younger kids, the sopbost Kawasaki KRX 1000 offers licensed Kawasaki styling, 4WD, and parental remote at the lowest price tier on our list.
Whatever model you choose, match battery voltage, drive system, and top speed to your child’s age and experience. A 36V model with 5 to 9 MPH top speed suits older kids ages 6 to 10. A 24V model with 3.5 to 5 MPH top speed fits younger kids ages 3 to 6. Look for parental remote with emergency override, ASTM F963 certification, and EVA rubber tires at minimum. If you want a sport side-by-side that will hold up to years of backyard play and actually look like the real machine, the ten models above are the best options our team found in 2026.

















