Pedal Tractors vs Battery Rides

Should you buy a pedal or battery powered kiddie ride?

Pedal Tractors

The question of "pedal" power vs "battery" power gets raised once in a while. There are merits to each type of ride on toy, and that's not forgetting that "foot to floor" is another category of ride-ons for kids.

The attraction of pedal tractors are their added utility features, like scoops, and lifting forks (like BIG Linde Forklift). Power is how the child moves the vehicle. As long as the pedal is well made, the child can move the vehicle comfortably, that is every bit of fun already.

Here are some personal views for parents to consider. When a child is really small; between 18 months till 2  years old, the concept of start-stop and steering is rudimentary. It really takes a carefully designed battery ride to be used well by these children. Some battery rides have oddly positioned start-stop switches and the children might face some challenge during operation. So, one option is radio controlled kiddie rides. Of course, that does mean it's more of a joy ride, and less of developmental engagement.

Between 2 to 3.5 years old, kids seem to understand steering and direction. They are probably more confident in start-stop. Again, a well designed battery ride will help. On the other hand, if the child is introduced to a pedal car/ tractor, she will have a chance to develop coordination of eye, hand and foot because all these must work together to control the pedal ride.


In terms of tractors, this is even more beneficial, because a fine control is required if the child wants to "scoop" up something. A good pedal tractor has a good chain and moves elegantly. The rider will be able to perform "work" confidently. Conversely, ordinary motorised kiddie rides tend to have jerky starts because the "transmission" is quite coarse. It is more challenging to play.

As a child grows, weight increases. The power required increases. This is when the low powered kiddie cars (about 6 volts) become inadequate. A 24V kiddie ride might be good enough, but this range is normally much more costly. Pedal cars/ tractors become more attractive because the rider has more developed muscles and actually pedal even better. Also, the older children like playing as a group. Pedal tractors are better in steering and with their smooth movement, they are easier to avoid collision.

Finally, whether pedal or battery powered, the key is that children benefit and have fun. Each type has its own unique proposition, and indeed, at the right stage of growth, introduce the one that suits the children.


[Above article does not represent the views of our suppliers.]

Find and buy Pedal tractors at www.partyandplay.com.sg - the first name in pedal tractor for kids in Singapore