There are countless children’s vehicles in the trade Bobby carto WartcarTherefore, choosing a suitable means of transport for the next generation is not easy for many parents. One of the most popular models is the pedal tractor which is driven by pedal force and can be controlled by means of a steering wheel. Often, the protected chain drive can be adjusted manually if necessary. Most of the small tractors have a simple gearbox, some manufacturers now even offer variants with two-speed gearbox. Even with the tires there are differences – in addition to the frequently used plastic tires are also pedal tractors with rubber tires or even pneumatic tires. There are also big differences with regard to the equipment. The selection ranges from simple models without additional functions to pedal tractors with loading shovel and / or additional trailer. The appearance of the various pedal tractors varies significantly, ranging from simple variants to popular replicas of well-known tractor brands. In addition, there are different sizes, ranging from the small tractor for infants from two years to the impressive pedal tractor for older children.

Advantages of a pedal tractor & tips for buying

On pedal tractor supports the natural urge to move of a child and stimulates imaginative role-playing games. At the same time, by playing with the pedal tractor playfully promote the development of dexterity, motor skills and coordination. First and foremost, the size of the child should be taken into account when choosing the right pedal tractor. The ages of manufacturers are based on average body sizes of the respective child’s age and not every child belongs according to his age in one of these rigid standards. Two-year-old children have an average body height of 92 cm, at three years this value is 98 cm. In addition to size and age, the physical conditions should be considered. It is also important, therefore, whether the child has the necessary power to operate the pedal function. If this is not the case, frustration quickly sets in and the pedal tractor is after a short time only unnoticed in the corner. Recommended are models with adjustable seat. A particularly important aspect when buying a pedal tractor is safety. At renowned manufacturers such as BIG, Rolly Toys or Smoby, excellent workmanship and tests by TÜV ensure the good quality. When buying a pedal tractor should therefore always be checked whether appropriate TÜV seal are available.

Different variants for every requirement

The widely used plastic tires are robust and durable. Depending on the surface, however, they are much louder and also heavier than solid rubber or pneumatic tires. The latter allow easier steering but are more prone to damage. The third alternative is solid rubber tires, which are more resistant and at the same time produce less noise. Some pedal tractors are equipped with a front loader that can be operated by means of a lever. These allow lifting and lowering as well as picking up and dumping „load“. However, these models are more likely to be recommended for children over the age of six, as they usually have the necessary coordination skills. Some manufacturers of real agricultural machinery such as Fendt or Claas offer detailed copies of their large models that delight parents and children alike. Frequently, licenses are also granted to manufacturers of children’s vehicles, as evidenced by the John Deere models by Rolly Toys. Trailers are available together with pedal tractors as sets, with some manufacturers, they can also be purchased in different versions. A special variant are the pedal tractors with electric motor, which often have multiple gears and are equipped with a rechargeable battery. They reach speeds up to 7 km / h and are equipped with significantly more game features, which is usually noticeable in the pricing.