Choosing the first or next ATV for your young rider is a massive decision. You’re balancing their excitement with your need for safety, reliability, and a machine they can grow with but not outgrow too quickly. It’s a classic head-scratcher for any off-road family.
We promise this guide will clear the fog. Here at FatBoysOffroad, we’ve seen countless families weigh this exact choice. We’re going to break down the polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 debate piece by piece, giving you the expert insight needed to make a confident decision.
In this complete guide, you’ll get a side-by-side look at engine performance, critical safety features, rider fit, long-term maintenance, and the key questions to ask yourself. By the end, you’ll know exactly which ATV is the perfect starting block for your kid’s off-road adventures.
At a Glance: Quick Comparison of the Outlaw 70 and 110
Before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s lay it all out. Sometimes a simple table is the best way to see the core differences between these two fantastic youth ATVs.
- Polaris Outlaw 70 EFI:
- Engine: 70cc 4-Stroke, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
- Recommended Age: 6+
- Top Speed: Adjustable, limited to 15 MPH from the factory
- Key Feature: Perfect for first-time riders, highly controllable power.
- Polaris Outlaw 110 EFI:
- Engine: 112cc 4-Stroke, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
- Recommended Age: 10+
- Top Speed: Adjustable, limited to 29 MPH from the factory
- Key Feature: A true step-up in power and size for growing, more experienced riders.
A Deep Dive on the Polaris Outlaw 70 vs 110 Engine and Performance
The numbers on the side of the plastic—70 and 110—tell the biggest story. This isn’t just about speed; it’s about how that power is delivered and how manageable it is for a young rider.
The Outlaw 70’s Gentle Power: 70cc EFI
The Outlaw 70 is purpose-built for beginners. Its 70cc engine is smooth and predictable. It’s not designed to be a rocket ship; it’s designed to build confidence.
The power delivery is gentle, preventing the jerky starts that can spook a new rider. It has enough grunt to tackle small hills and trails in the backyard but not so much that it feels intimidating.
The Outlaw 110’s Confident Step-Up: 112cc EFI
The jump to the Outlaw 110 is significant. The 112cc engine provides a noticeable increase in torque and acceleration. It feels much more like a “real” ATV and can handle more challenging terrain with ease.
This is the machine for a kid who has mastered the basics and is ready for more speed and capability on family trail rides. It keeps up better with larger machines without being overwhelming.
Why EFI is a Game-Changer for Both
Both models feature Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), a massive upgrade from the carbureted youth ATVs of the past. Forget fiddling with a choke on cold mornings or dealing with clogged jets.
EFI provides reliable, push-button starting, consistent performance at different elevations, and better fuel efficiency. For parents, this means less time wrenching and more time riding. It’s a huge benefit and a key part of this polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 guide.
Sizing It Up: Rider Fit, Ergonomics, and Age Recommendations
An ATV that doesn’t fit properly is an unsafe ATV. A rider needs to be able to reach all the controls comfortably and shift their body weight effectively without stretching or feeling cramped.
Who is the Outlaw 70 Built For? (Ages 6+)
Polaris recommends the Outlaw 70 for riders aged 6 and up. The chassis is smaller, the seat height is lower, and the handlebars are positioned for smaller arms.
A young rider should be able to sit on the seat and place both feet comfortably on the footwells. They should be able to reach the handlebars with a slight bend in their elbows and operate the throttle and brake levers without straining their hands.
When to Step Up to the Outlaw 110 (Ages 10+)
The Outlaw 110 is recommended for riders aged 10 and up. It’s physically larger in every dimension—longer, wider, and taller. This provides more stability at higher speeds and a more comfortable ride for a growing kid.
If your child looks like a giant on a 50cc or 70cc machine, or if their knees are bent excessively while riding, it’s time to move up. The 110 gives them the room they need to move around and control the ATV properly.
The “Try-On” Test: A Critical Best Practice
The best advice we can give is to take your child to a dealership. Age recommendations are just guidelines. Have them sit on both models. Watch them reach for the controls. Ask them which one feels more comfortable. This simple test is one of the most important polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 tips you’ll get.
Safety First: A Head-to-Head on Crucial Features
Polaris has baked some fantastic safety features into both models, giving parents ultimate peace of mind. These features are non-negotiable for any youth ATV.
Adjustable Speed Limiters: Your Control Panel
Both the 70 and 110 come with an adjustable speed limiter. This is an absolute must-have. You, the parent, can set the maximum speed to match your child’s skill level.
On the Outlaw 70, you can dial it down to a walking pace for their very first ride. As they gain skill, you can gradually increase the speed. The Outlaw 110 offers a higher top-end but can also be restricted for less experienced riders.
Safety Tethers and Whip Flags
Another critical feature on both is the safety tether. This is a cord that attaches to the rider’s wrist or belt loop. If they fall off, the cord pulls a pin from the kill switch, shutting the engine off instantly. This prevents the ATV from continuing on its own.
Both models also come with a high-visibility whip flag, making it easier for you and other riders to see the small machine on trails or in dunes.
Included Gear: What Comes in the Box?
Polaris goes the extra mile by including a helmet and a training DVD with every purchase. This reinforces the safety-first mentality from day one. Proper gear is just as important as the machine itself.
A Polaris Outlaw 70 vs 110 Care Guide
Keeping your youth ATV running strong is key to safe, reliable fun. Thankfully, both the Outlaw 70 and 110 are straightforward to maintain, even for a weekend DIYer.
Routine Maintenance You Can’t Skip
A solid maintenance routine is one of the best polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 best practices. Here’s your basic checklist:
- Air Filter: Check and clean the air filter after every dusty ride. A clogged filter robs power and can damage the engine.
- Oil Change: Follow the owner’s manual for oil and filter change intervals. This is the single most important task for engine longevity. You’ll need a basic socket set and an oil drain pan.
- Chain Tension: Check the drive chain tension regularly. A loose chain can fall off, and a tight chain wears out sprockets.
- Tire Pressure: Proper tire pressure is crucial for handling and stability. Check it before every ride with a low-pressure tire gauge.
Common Problems with Polaris Outlaw 70 vs 110 Models
These machines are incredibly reliable, but no machine is perfect. The most common problems with polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 models usually stem from simple maintenance oversights.
Fouled spark plugs from excessive idling or a dead battery from sitting too long are the top two issues we see. A battery tender is a great investment if the ATV will be stored for more than a few weeks.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Maintenance Tips
Being an off-roader also means being a steward of the land. Practicing sustainable polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 care is easy.
Always dispose of used oil and other fluids at a designated recycling center. Use high-quality, long-lasting parts to reduce waste. Keeping the engine perfectly tuned with a clean air filter and fresh spark plug also ensures it runs as efficiently and cleanly as possible, which is an eco-friendly polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 practice.
The Verdict: How to Choose the Right ATV for Your Young Rider
So, after all that, how do you decide? Here’s a simple decision tree to guide you.
- Assess the Rider’s Experience: Is this their absolute first time on a motorized vehicle? Go with the Outlaw 70. Its gentle power is perfect for learning the fundamentals without fear. If they have experience on other machines and are confident, the Outlaw 110 is a viable option.
- Consider Their Physical Size: This is more important than age. A tall 8-year-old might be better suited for the 110, while a smaller 10-year-old might feel more comfortable on the 70. Use the “try-on” test.
- Think About the Riding Area: Will they mostly be riding in a flat, open yard? The 70 is more than enough. Will they be joining the family on actual trails with hills and varied terrain? The benefits of polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 lean toward the 110’s extra power and larger frame in this scenario.
- Be Honest About Growth: Kids grow fast. If your child is on the cusp of the age/size recommendation for the 110, it might be the better long-term investment to avoid them outgrowing the 70 in a single season.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Polaris Outlaw 70 vs 110
Can an adult ride the Polaris Outlaw 110?
No. These ATVs are designed and engineered specifically for the weight and size of a youth rider. An adult’s weight can damage the suspension and frame and makes the machine dangerously unstable.
Are there any performance mods for these ATVs?
While some aftermarket parts exist, we strongly advise against modifying a youth ATV’s engine for more power. The frame, brakes, and suspension are all designed to work with the stock power output. The best performance mod is rider training.
How fast does the Polaris Outlaw 70 go?
The Outlaw 70 is restricted from the factory to a maximum of 15 MPH. The speed can be limited to be even lower by an adult for training purposes.
Is the Outlaw 110 a 2-stroke or 4-stroke?
Both the Outlaw 70 and Outlaw 110 have modern, reliable, and clean-burning 4-stroke engines. You do not need to pre-mix gas and oil.
Ultimately, the choice between the polaris outlaw 70 vs 110 comes down to a responsible assessment of your child’s size, skill, and maturity. Both are exceptional machines that provide a safe, fun introduction to the world of off-roading. By choosing the right size and using the built-in safety features, you’re not just buying an ATV; you’re investing in years of family memories on the trail.
Get out there, make the right choice for your family, and ride safe!
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