18 Best Ride on Toys for 1 Year Old Toddlers and Babies

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ChromeWheels 3 in 1 Ride on Toys Pushing Car with Removable Sun Visor

babies riding a ride on toy

18 Best Ride on Toys for 1 Year Old Toddlers and Babies

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Once your little one realizes that he can move and walk around, there’s no stopping him! He’s off to the races and you better learn how to catch up. Your child is going to want to go and play with toys that get him to his destination.

He’s not going to be content just sitting around on the floor and playing with stationary toys. He’s going to want to play with toys that move like those popular ride-on toys you’ve probably seen.

If your child is ready to take a ride on the wild side, let’s check out what you need to know before you shop for ride-on toys for 1-year-olds as well as 18 of the best ones on the market.

Short On Time? Here Are Our Top 5 Choices

	Title	Price	Prime	Buy
Top	Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy		PrimeEligible	Buy Now
	Little Tikes Go and Grow Lil' Rollin' Giraffe Ride-On (Amazon Exclusive)		PrimeEligible	Buy Now
	Radio Flyer Busy Buggy, Sit to Stand Toddler Ride On Toy, Ages 1-3, Red		PrimeEligible	Buy Now
	Little People Fisher-Price Music Parade Ride-On		Prime	Buy Now
	Kiddieland Disney Mickey Mouse Plane Light & Sound Activity Ride-On		PrimeEligible	Buy Now

How Do I Know My Baby is Ready for a Ride-On Toy?

There’s no one age that all children are ready or a ride-on toy. The general consensus is that kids are ready for a ride-on toy when they can sit up on their own and hold on to the toy while it’s moving. 

At around the 12-15 month mark, your baby will start to develop the skills needed to use a ride-on toy properly. Before that time, he may be able to sit on it, but not have the strength to hold on and stay on when it moves.

It’s best to start off with a ride-on toy that allows the baby to sit and scoot himself around. As they get older and get more skilled, you can try the more advanced toys. 

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How Fast Should A Ride On For One-year-olds Go?

Not fast at all! Usually, 3 miles per hour is all the speed your little one needs. Anything faster and there could be trouble!

Checklist for Buying a Ride-On Toy for a One-Year-Old

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you search for the best ride-on toy for a one-year-old.

Is it safe?

Check to see that it has passed safety tests and isn’t too advanced for your little one. A one-year-old has no real need for speed, so don’t give him one!

Is there a sturdy handle?

You want your baby to have something sturdy to hold on to as he gets going. Look to see that the handle serves that purpose.

Is it fun and colorful?

Kids like to play with toys that look fun. Search for appealing designs that are colorful.

Are there added features?

Some ride-on toys have added features besides the simple ride-on. Look to see what fun you can add to your child.

18 Best Ride-On Toys for 1-Year-Old Toddlers and Babies

1. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy
2. Little Tikes Go and Grow Lil’ Rollin’ Giraffe Ride-On
3. Radio Flyer Busy Buggy, Sit to Stand Toddler Ride On Toy
4. Little People Fisher-Price Music Parade Ride-On
5. Kiddieland Disney Mickey Mouse Plane Light & Sound Activity Ride-On
6. Kiddieland Toys Limited Minnie Dancing Ride On
7. Little Tikes Push and Ride Racer
8. Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 Baby Activity Walker & Ride On Scooter Wagon Toy
9. Baby Einstein Roadtripper Ride-On Car and Push Toddler Toy with Real Car Noises
10. Radio Flyer Creativity Car, Sit to Stand Toddler Ride On Toy
11. Radio Flyer Little Red Roadster, Toddler Ride-on Toy
12. Little Tikes Little Baby Bum Wheels On The Bus Scoot & Push Ride On
13. Lil’ Rider Ride-On Activity Car- Toy Rideon Push Walking Car with Steering Wheel
14. VTech 2 in 1 Learn and Zoom Motor Bike
15. Pewi Walking Ride On Toy
16. ChromeWheels 3 in 1 Ride on Toys Pushing Car with Removable Sun Visor
17. Prince Lionheart Wheely Bug, Ladybug
18. Ride on Wiggle Car by Lil’ Rider

1. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy

We love this little guy as our top pick when it comes to ride-on toys for 1-year-olds. This is one that I had for both of my kids when they were little and they both loved it!

One of the main reasons is because it’s more than just a toy you can sit and ride on. There are more than fifty learning tunes and phrases and the dog’s head and ears wiggle as your baby rides it or pushes it along.

The dog’s nose and collar also light up. It’s easy to convert to a walker or ride-on mode depending on what stage your baby is at. Babies can also learn their shapes with the square, triangle, and circle drop-ins on the side of the toy.

Babies will quickly figure out which shapes fit accordingly. This is a great added feature that not many other ride-on toys have. This toy allows your little one to work on a variety of motor skills and development skills.

Although this toy is a little more expensive than some other ride-on toys, it has many features that grow with your child so you can use it for a good amount of time.

Pros

• Can be used as a ride-on toy or walker
• Includes more than 50 songs and phrases
• Teaches kids shapes and the alphabet
• Fun light-up features

Cons

• A little on the expensive side

2. Little Tikes Go and Grow Lil’ Rollin’ Giraffe Ride-On

Here’s another fun ride-on toy for your little one from Little Tikes. The giraffe is friendly and inviting, making kids want to play with it.

Kids can customize their little giraffe with special “spot” decals. This makes for more fun because kids can make it their own. On the safety front, there is an over-sized back wheel that provides for added stability as well as a wheel guard.

The seat is also adjustable so you can make sure that your child is comfortable and safe. It can also hold up to 50 pounds, so you should be able to use this toy for quite a while.

Kids can learn to balance on this toy as they work on their motor skills. While it’s a great ride-on toy, there are no extra bells and whistles like music or added toys. This is probably why it costs less than some other models.

Pros

• Adjustable seat
• Reasonably priced
• Fun design

Cons

• No added music or toys

3. Radio Flyer Busy Buggy, Sit to Stand Toddler Ride On Toy

You can’t talk about fun rude-on toys without mentioning the Radio Flyer brand. Radio Flyer is a well-known brand when it comes to moving toys for kids. This little ride-on toy is no exception.

Your baby can sit on this and ride or use it as a push walker as he learns to walk. The toy has an anti-tip feature on the back of the car so you don’t have to worry about your child falling over. 

It also includes 17 sensory activities so your baby won’t get bored. There sliding beads, interlocking gears, and even a clicking spare tire.

This will help your little one develop all kinds of motor skills as they grow and develop. There’s even some storage underneath the seat to put toys.

While there are no musical elements to this toy, there are plenty of other activities to keep your baby busy. Many parents will also find that this toy is reasonably priced for what it offers.

Pros

• Includes 17 sensory activities
• Can be used as a push walker or ride-on toy
• Anti-tip feature
• Underneath storage for toys

Cons

• No musical elements included

4. Little People Fisher-Price Music Parade Ride-On

Here’s another fun ride-on toy from Fisher-Price. Your child can feel like he’s part of his own parade as he rides along with five different marching tunes. There’s even a little keyboard to help him compose his own song.

Your child can explore with sounds from the trumpet, drums, saxophone, tuba, and 5 piano keys. Besides the musical features, there’s also storage under the seat and colorful graphics.

The wide wheels help to make this ride-on toy more stable. Don’t forget the AAA batteries or your little one won’t be able to enjoy all the accessories.

We like this ride-on toy because there are many different things for your little one to do. There aren’t many drawbacks to this one. It is moderately priced for all that it offers.

Pros

• Lots of bells extra activities
• Plays 5 different marching tunes
• Underseat storage

Cons

• Don’t forget the batteries or your child will be disappointed!

5. Kiddieland Disney Mickey Mouse Plane Light & Sound Activity Ride-On

If your child is a Mickey Mouse fan, he’ll surely love this ride-on toy. Micky movies to the music. It plays the Mickey Mouse March Song and also shifts gears with a revving sound.

There is also the realistic landing and liftoff sound that the propellers rotate as they move. They light up too for even more fun. With all of these realistic features, your little one will really feel like he’s on the go. 

The rear bumper is there as a safety feature that prevents the toy from tipping over when your child is on it. 

Although it has all of these bells and whistles, there is no storage area for toys like some other ride-on toys have. There are also no extra features besides the ones that go along with the plane.

Two AA batteries are required, so be sure to have those or those lights and sounds will not work. This ride-on toy is reasonably priced for what it offers and for the fact that it has Mickey Mouse all over it.

Pros

• Rear bumper to prevent injury
• Fun lights and sounds
• Mickey Mouse theme

Cons

• No extra storage area
• No other features besides the lights and sounds

6. Kiddieland Toys Limited Minnie Dancing Ride On

If you have Mickey, you have to have Minnie too! This Minnie ride-on toy for 1-year-olds lets your child her Minnie’s favorite music as she turns her head and dances to the beat.

There are fun buttons that set off different sounds that your child will also love. There’s even a button that plays Minnie’s voice. That’s sure to be a fan favorite!

The steering wheel and honking horn will make your child feel like an adult driving. It is sturdy and durable, so you don’t have to worry about your child getting hurt.

There is also the rear bumper there for safety like the Mickey Mouse design. The handle also helps kids hold on as well as push their ride.

Like the Mickey design, there’s no added storage here or much else for features besides the buttons that make different sounds. But, if your little one is a Minnie Mouse fan, this one could be the one for you.

Pros

• Rear bumper as a safety feature
• The steering wheel and honking horn noises
• Children can press a button to hear Minnie Mouse’s voice

Cons

• No added storage
• Not many added features included

7. Little Tikes Push and Ride Racer

Sometimes you just want a simple ride-on toy for your child. If so, this could be the one. Your little one can ride themselves or use the kid-sized push bar and push the toy.

Since the seat is low, it’s easier for your toddler to get on and off. The high back and sturdy handles will help him stay on. Keep in mind that this toy is only recommended for kids up to 50 pounds.

There are no added sounds or features here, so what you see is what you get. But, this one is lower-priced because it’s on the simpler side.

Pros

• The seat is low so it’s easy for kids to get on and off
• Has a high back and sturdy handle

Cons

• No added feature
• Simple design

8. Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 Baby Activity Walker & Ride On Scooter Wagon Toy

Skip Hop is a popular name in the baby gear industry so it should come as no surprise that it makes one of the best ride-on toys for one-year-olds. This one has three different stages, so it grows with your baby.

The first stage is the walker/wagon mode that allows early walkers to learn to walk while they push and pull the toy along.

One they can sit up by themselves, they can move to stage two. The wagon converts to a seat for ride-on mode. During this stage, kids can learn the foot-to-floor motion.

The final stage converts from a ride-on toy to a scooter. There is an adjustable handle that helps to find the right height when your little one is standing.

Besides all of these fun stages, there is a push button that signals a headlight, melodies, and fun sound effects. Don’t forget the AAA batteries to make these features work.

This toy is a little pricey compared to the others. But, if you consider that your child can grow with and know you can get a lot of use out of it, it is a good buy.

Pros

• Grows with your child in 3 different stages
• Fun buttons for a headlight and sound
• Adjustable handle

Cons

• Pricey when compared to others

9. Baby Einstein Roadtripper Ride-On Car and Push Toddler Toy with Real Car Noises

One look at this toy and you know it’s going to be fun. This Baby Einstein ride-on toy for one-year-olds has a great design. It is a 2-in-1 push or ride-on toy so your little one can grow with it. The seat converts to a handle, so your little one can explore.

It also makes real car sounds, so he’ll feel like he’s really on-the-go. You can have peace of mind when your child is playing because there is a safety lock that keeps each mode secure.

It is also reasonably priced for what it offers. But, if you were looking for storage or more bells and whistles, you may want to keep looking.

Pros

• Sounds will make your child feel like they’re riding a car
• Can be a push toy or ride-on
• Safety locks help to keep each mode secure

Cons

• Not many features

10. Radio Flyer Creativity Car, Sit to Stand Toddler Ride On Toy

Radio Flyer has another winner with this ride-on toy for one-year-olds. This one is not only a push walker and ride-on, but it comes with 17 sensory activities to keep your child busy.

All of the activities encourage kids to use their imagination. there are interlocking gears, sliding beads, and even a spare tire that clicks.

As kids move from the push walker to the ride-on, they’ll work on their motor skills that will help in their development. Besides all of the fun features, there is also a seat that flips for storage. This allows them to bring all of their toys along for the ride.

Pros

• Reasonably priced
• Comes with sensory activities
• Can be a push toy or ride-on

Cons

• Weight capacity is 42 pounds which is less than some other models

11. Radio Flyer Little Red Roadster, Toddler Ride-on Toy

This Radio Flyer Little Red Roadster is a classic. It has the red design that Radio Flyer is known for as well as the sturdy steel body and chrome finishes.

This ride-on toy has a working steering wheel and horn. This helps to develop their fine motor skills as they learn to ride and navigate the wheel.

Radio Flyer is known for its quality products and this one is no different. There are rubber tires for a smooth, quiet ride. It also has ergonomic support so it’s comfortable for your little one.

Since this is a classic toy, there are no bells and whistles or added features. This is just a ride-on toy. Also, this is much more expensive than other toys.

Pros

• Sturdy construction
• Helps to develop fine motor skills
• Real moving wheel

Cons

• No added feature
• Expensive

12. Little Tikes Little Baby Bum Wheels On The Bus Scoot & Push Ride On

The wheels on the bus will go round and round with this fun ride-on toy. Kids can learn coordination, balance, and gross motor skills. They can use it as a push-toy or a ride-on toy.

Either way, there’s fun to be had, There is an interactive ignition switch, honking horn, steering wheel, and light-up turn signal. As you may have guessed, this toy plays the song “Wheels on the Bus” as well as other fun songs.

One of the best things about this toy is that the eyes move as your child rides on it. There is also storage under the seat. This toy is also reasonably priced for what it has to offer.

Pros

• Can be used as a push-toy or a ride-on toy
• Plays fun songs
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Children may outgrow the songs as they get older

13. Lil’ Rider Ride-On Activity Car- Toy Ride-on Push Walking Car with Steering Wheel

Here’s another fun ride-on toy for 1-year-olds that is on the simpler side. This is an easy to ride toy that has a steering wheel and sits low to the ground, making it easy for your little one to get on and off.

They can even use it as a push toy if they’re not quite stable enough to ride. There are many knobs and buttons that make noise, music and light up to entertain your child.

Just be sure you have AA batteries around to make all of these features work. This toy has smooth wheels and a durable frame, making it safe for your child to ride.

There’s also some storage under the seat if he wants to put some toys in there. This toy is priced lower than some competitors. So, if you’re looking for something simple and less expensive, this could be the one.

Pros

• Sturdy design
• Low-priced
• Storage
• Can be used as a push toy or ride-on

Cons

• Not many features

14. VTech 2 in 1 Learn and Zoom Motor Bike

VTech is another popular name in the baby gear industry. This toy can be a tricycle-style ride-on or a two-wheel design. Either way, your little one will love playing with this toy. 

There is an activity panel that features lights, buttons, rollers, and gears. These help to teach colors, shapes, and even road safety. With more than 70 songs, melodies, sounds, and phrases, this toy is bound to keep your little one entertained.

They can grow into the toy as they start off in tricycle-mode and move into the two-wheel bike mode. This toy is also reasonable priced for what it offers.

The only drawback would be if you let your child ride in two-wheel mode before he’s ready. Be sure he is strong enough before making the transition.

Pros

• Comes with dozens of songs and melodies
• Can convert to two different modes
• Fun activity panel

Cons

• Be sure child is ready to go to two-wheel mode before transitioning

15. Pewi Walking Ride On Toy

This toy looks a little different than your typical ride-on toy. But, don’t let that discourage you from checking it out. This is a great toy for rising, pushing, sitting, and supported walking.

The design helps kids to develop motor and cognitive skills like balance, coordination, strength, and confidence. The toy is made with safety in mind with its durable aluminum frame, molded plastic seat with a soft foam pad, and easy-grip handle.

While you’re not going to find any lights or music with this toy, you’ll find a durable toy that your child will have fun playing on.

Pros

• Helps kids develop motor skills
• Durable design
• Moderately priced

Cons

• No added features
• No music or lights 
• Maximum weight of only 44 pounds

16. ChromeWheels 3 in 1 Ride on Toys Pushing Car with Removable Sun Visor

When it comes to ride-on toys for 1-year-olds, this is one of the most luxurious ones you’ll find. It’s also one of the most expensive. It is a 3-in-1 car that allows it to be a stroller car, walking car, and ride-on car.

It’s recommended for kids ages 18-36 months and up to 50 pounds. This one is extremely durable with its ABS frame and non-inflatable all-terrain wheels.

It also has removable guardrails so your child doesn’t fall off. There is also a handle grip for mom and dad for when you’re using it in stroller mode.

Kids won’t only love riding in this toy but also playing with the music buttons and steering wheels. If you don’t mind spending a little more and want a toy that offers different modes, this could be for you.

Pros

• Converts to 3 different modes
• Durable
• Storage area included

Cons

• Expensive

17. Prince Lionheart Wheely Bug, Ladybug

‘Here’s another ride-on toy that is designed differently. This little ladybug has a cushioned, comfy body that kids can learn how to balance on as they ride.

They can go back, forwards, sideways, and around as they learn how to navigate. This is how they work on their balance and gross motor skills.

There isn’t any music or other features. This is a simple ride-on toy. But, it is a little pricey for not offering any additional features.

Pros

• Simple design
• Helps to develop gross motor skills and balance
• Cute design

Cons

• On the expensive side
• No added features

18. Ride on Wiggle Car by Lil’ Rider

This Wiggle Car by Lil’ Rider rounds out our list of the best ride-on toys for 1-year-olds. This is another one that falls under the category of different style toys. 

Kids just twist and wiggle to make this toy move. There are no batteries, gears, or pedals. It’s smooth to ride either inside or outside.

This one is also safe and durable as it can hold up to 150 pounds. There are no added features or music, but this can still be a fun toy if you just want something your child can ride on.

Pros

• Durable toy
• Kids can ride on any surface
• Easy to clean

Cons

• On the expensive side for what it offers
• No added features or music

The Bottom Line

When it comes to ride-on toys for 1-year-olds, the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy stole the show. It has so many added features that it’s well worth the money.

Not only can you use this as a walker too, but it includes more than 50 songs and phrases that entertain and teach the alphabet, numbers, greetings, and much more.

Plus, there is the shape toy on the side that lets kids play even when they’re not riding the toy. Since this ride-on toy has so many features, it’s bound to keep your child entertained for a good amount of time.

As you search for ride-on toys for 1-year-olds think about the features that are most important to you and what you want to spend. This will help you make the best choice for your little one.