Motorcycling with kids

If you’re a rider with kids, it’s only natural to want to share the experience. Whether that means taking them on the secondary seat or putting them on their own small bike, there are rules, safety considerations and confidence-building steps to think about before you begin.

Introducing kids to motorcycles works best when it’s gradual, safe, and fun. Positive experiences set the tone for how they’ll view riding in the years to come. Some will move into road bikes, others might take to motocross or trail riding, and some may simply enjoy having the skill tucked away for later in life.

Every parent wants to see their child share their passion, but the law sets clear boundaries for when kids can hop on the back of a bike.

In New South Wales and several other states, the minimum pillion age is eight, unless the child is travelling in a sidecar. However, that doesn’t automatically mean a child is ready to ride on their eighth birthday. They must also be able to comfortably rest both feet on the passenger pegs for the entire ride.

While the rules are broadly similar across Australia, there can be differences in how they’re worded and enforced, so it’s essential to check with your local road authority before carrying a child.

Police can and will issue fines for breaches, and your insurance may also be affected if you’re found to have failed to comply.

The safest approach is to treat the legal age as a starting point and wait until your child is genuinely big enough and confident enough to sit securely.

The moment you introduce kids to motorcycles, gear becomes non-negotiable.

A helmet is the first piece to get right, and in Australia it must meet either AS/NZS 1698 or the more recent ECE 22.05 and 22.06 standards. Fit matters more than anything because a helmet that’s too big won’t protect properly and can shift or come off in a crash. 

Don’t be tempted to go down the ‘grow-into’ route, instead look for youth-specific helmets and have them fitted professionally to ensure they sit snug without being uncomfortable.

Beyond the helmet, kids need gloves, boots, and protective clothing. There are road-oriented options designed for pillions and more off-road focused gear for kids riding their own bikes. Either way, fit and comfort matter as much as the level of protection.

If a child feels hot, itchy, or restricted, they’ll be reluctant to keep the gear on. Aim for motorcycle-specific clothing rather than repurposed sports gear or hand-me-downs, as proper abrasion resistance and armour placement are essential.

For many families, the safer and often more enjoyable entry point is putting kids on their own motorcycles in a controlled environment. This is where minibikes come in. The two main options are petrol or electric, and both have their place. 

Petrol minibikes, such as Yamaha PW50 or Honda CRF50F, have been around for decades. They’re reliable, robust, easy to work on and backed by parts availability. Parents who grew up on these bikes often love the idea of putting their kids on the same models.

These minibikes hold their value well, making them a solid investment if your child outgrows the bike, and you want to sell it on.

Electric minibikes, like KTM SX-E 3 or CFMoto CX-2E, are becoming more common. They’re quiet, which is a big plus – especially if you live in a semi-urban area and don’t want to annoy the neighbours – and they require little maintenance.

Many now come with adjustable ride modes, allowing parents to limit speed and throttle response while kids are learning, then gradually unlock more performance as skills improve.

Some electric models also feature smartphone-linked apps that give parents direct control over settings. This can include speed capping, throttle sensitivity and even geofencing – the ability to restrict the bike’s operation to a defined area, so it won’t run outside the boundary.

The technology in electric minibikes adds a layer of safety that petrol models can’t match, giving parents extra peace of mind when kids are riding on larger properties or in club environments.

When you add in ever-improving battery technology, the lack of fumes, reduced noise and minimal maintenance, it’s easy to see why many parents are turning to electric as their child’s first step into motorcycling.

Petrol minibikes still have their strengths – durability, tradition and mechanical familiarity – but the new generation of electric options offers flexibility and safety features which can make learning both easier and safer.

Whichever way you go, the bike must fit your child. A good rule is that they should be able to put both feet on the ground and operate the throttle, brake and clutch (if fitted) without straining. If they can’t control the bike comfortably, it’s too early.

Public roads aren’t an option for kids on their own bike, so finding safe, legal spaces is the next step.

Private property is the easiest solution, but not everyone has access to acreage. Purpose-built off-road parks and motocross facilities across Australia often run junior programs where kids can ride under supervision.

State forests and crown land can also be suitable, provided you have the correct permits, and your child’s bike is registered appropriately for off-road use.

Clubs and riding schools can be invaluable. Many motocross clubs offer ‘come and try’ days, where kids can sample bikes and get basic tuition. Coaching programs not only teach throttle and brake control but also the kind of safety awareness that will stick with them if they later move onto road riding.

It’s tempting to throw a child straight into riding because you’re excited to share the experience, but confidence takes time.

Start with very short sessions, five or 10 minutes at a time, and focus on fun rather than drills. Encourage them, celebrate small wins, and avoid criticising mistakes. If they stall or drop the bike, treat it as part of the process.

For pillion rides, the same gradual approach applies. Start with short trips around quiet streets before heading out on longer rides. Teach them how to sit still, hold on, lean with the bike and communicate with you during the ride. Hand signals or simple taps on your side can make them feel more secure and give you feedback if they’re nervous or uncomfortable.

Whichever path you choose, the goal is the same: to share motorcycling in a way that’s safe, memorable and sets kids up for a lifetime of positive experiences.