what size atv for 10 year old

I'd go with a 90cc. They're lighter and easier for a kid that size to handle. A 110cc might be a little tall and heavy for him to learn on. My nephew started on a 90 at 9 and moved up at 12.

Actually, a 110cc is fine if you get one with a throttle limiter. My daughter started on a 110 at 10 and we just kept the screw turned down until she got confident. They grow fast and the 110 gives more room to grow.

Check the seat height. Many 90s have a seat around 26 inches, 110s around 28. At 4'8", he might be on tiptoes on a 110. Flat-footing is important for confidence and safety. I'd measure his inseam before deciding.

Don't forget about weight. A 90cc is usually 250-300 lbs, a 110 around 350. If he drops it, he needs to be able to pick it up or at least get out from under it. Go with the lighter option for a beginner.

I'd look for a used Honda or Yamaha 90. They're bulletproof and easy to work on. Parts are everywhere. You can always sell it in a couple years and step up. Don't sink too much money into a first ATV.

Make sure you teach him to use the brakes before the throttle. My buddy's kid whiskey throttled a 110 and ended up in the bushes. Start in a big open field with no obstacles. Safety gear is non-negotiable.

If he's never ridden before, consider a 50cc or 70cc even. They're slower and have a tether kill switch. My son learned on a 70 at 8 and moved to a 90 at 11. Better to start small and build skills.

At 80 lbs, a 90cc will still pull him around fine. The 110 might be too much torque for a first timer. I'd get a used 90 with good tires and a fresh carburetor. Expect to do some maintenance on a used machine.

What kind of terrain? If it's just flat trails and fields, a 90 is plenty. If you have hills, the 110's extra power helps. My son's 90 struggled on steep inclines with him on it. Something to consider.

I disagree with the 50cc suggestion. A 10-year-old will outgrow that in a month. A 90 is the minimum for that age unless he's tiny. You want something that challenges him but doesn't scare him off.

Check local laws. Some states have age and engine size restrictions for kids. Where I am, a 10-year-old can't ride anything over 90cc without a special permit. Better to know before you buy.

I'd look for a quad with electric start. Kickstarting a cold 90 can be frustrating for a kid. My son hated it. Also, make sure the brakes are in good shape. Drum brakes on some 90s are weak.

Don't overlook Chinese brands like TaoTao or Coolster. They're cheap but you get what you pay for. Parts availability can be an issue. For a first ATV, a used Japanese brand is usually more reliable.

If you're handy with tools, a 90 is easy to work on. They have simple engines and clutches. I rebuilt my son's 90 top end in an afternoon. Great way to teach him mechanics too.

Consider a CVT belt model instead of a manual clutch. Kids have a hard time with shifting and clutching at first. The automatic CVT lets them focus on steering and braking. Much safer for learning.

At 10, he might prefer a sportier look. My son wanted something that looked fast even if it wasn't. But don't let cosmetics drive the choice. Function and fit are more important than graphics.

I'd budget for good gear too. Helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, chest protector. That stuff adds up. A cheap helmet is a bad investment. Get him a proper youth-sized one that fits snugly.

One more thing: check the tires. Old dry rotted tires on a used ATV are dangerous. Replace them if needed. A 90 with good tread handles way better than one with bald tires, especially on loose dirt.

You could also look at a 125cc youth model if you plan to keep it for a few years. They have adjustable throttle stops and lower seats. But at 80 lbs, he might find it a handful initially.

Test ride if possible. Let him sit on a few different models at a dealer or friend's place. The feel of the controls, reach to the bars, and foot placement matter a lot. Trust his feedback over specs.