TDmonthly's ToyFair 2006 Preview--Vehicles - Riding Product Category

Toys Toys Enzo Ferrari by BIG TOYS USA

Made in Italy under license from Ferrari, the Enzo is every bit as desirable as its adult version. Features include rubber tires; an adjustable sports steering wheel; wing mirrors; authentic stickers; an electronic accelerator and brake; polyethylene bodywork; forward, reverse and neutral gears; and a 12-volt electric motor. A rechargeable battery and charger are included. The car travels at 3 or 5 mph. Max rider height is 3.6” tall; max rider weight is 65 lbs. Toys Toys vehicles are "modeled after real sports cars. They have metal frames, and some of the models have rubber tires," Owner Chad Austreng of Big Toys USA told TDmonthly. "They're high-end, unique, exotic cars." Launch date: April 6, 2007.
― “So far, the most helpful company that I have worked with is Big Toys USA,” Bobbie Surra of Kool Kid Toys told TDmonthly in Spring 2007. 3/27/2007 (Price: $599.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Injusa Repsol Motorcycle 6v by BIG TOYS USA

Made in Spain, this motorcycle can go up to 4.5 miles per hour. The battery will last for up to two hours of riding time. The vehicle does not go in reverse, and a charger is included. 3/21/2007 (Price: $269.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

EzyRoller by EZYROLLER LLC

This self-propelling, three-wheeled ride-on toy cruises smoothly and silently along the ground, similar to the movement of a snake. The rider simply sits in the seat, feet-first, and propels with an easy back-and-forth leg movement, demonstrating a special combination of physics properties that fascinates most first-time observers. There are no chains, no motor and no batteries. The product comes packaged with extendable axis rods (S, M, L), so it can grow with the child. “Awe-inspiring physics” and “the strong, long-lasting steel tube frame and overall quality construction” really set this product apart, according to EzyRoller President Denis Allais. Launch date: May 2007.
— Anyone can sit back and get a workout with this sleek and sporty, three-wheeled ride-on toy that moves fluidly with back-and-forth leg motion. Its long, low-set and adjustable design differentiates it from other ride-ons, as do the properties of physics that bring it to life. Such stats have garnered the Ezyroller a TDmonthly Innovations 2007 award.
— Jeanette Lauture of Aunt Jean’s Toys & Treats in Montclair, N.J., told TDmonthly in summer 2008 that the Ezyroller is a hot seller in her store. “This New Zealand outdoor ride-on toy is very innovative and has longevity for kids 3 to 14 years of age,” she said. “I’ve been selling it since October of ‘07.”

Where to buy:
SOUTH ( Watch Video) 3/16/2007 (Price: $99.95)

Zomgo Skateboard by ACT INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION

The next generation of Zogo, the Zomgo features colorful and durable plastic housing that covers the underside mechanism, replacing the metal housing of the original. It is also restyled and slightly lighter than the Zogo. Riders simply stand or sit on the board and pull the ropes to propel the skateboard forward, leaning to turn. Single- and double-kick models are available. “With its unique patent-pending propulsion system of ropes and pulleys, it is simple and easy to ride on, even for beginners. ... It provides kids with plenty of exercise, especially for the upper body, and improves balance and coordination,” President Hong Prodnuk of ACT International told TDmonthly. Launch date: June 2007. 3/14/2007

Chicco Ducati Monster by CHICCO USA INC.

A child’s first ride-on motorcycle, the Ducati Monster features two-position adjustable side training wheels, accelerator sounds, colored headlights, blinkers and a working horn. It helps develop coordination and creative and social skills, and is suitable for children 18 months and up. 3/14/2007 (Price: $69.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Triton: The Ultimate Three-Wheeled Cruiser by ASA PRODUCTS INC.

This pedal cruiser with an adjustable frame features a unique steering system composed of vertical handles on both sides of the driver’s body. The Triton is said to be smooth-riding, safe and easily maneuverable. And riders can get a cardiovascular workout while they’re cruising around. It is available in red, blue and silver. Launch date: December 2006. 2/28/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Vector by INNOVATIVE TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES LLC

This electric-powered vehicle features a quiet motor and a top speed of 20 mph. Children can cruise around the campground, golf course, beach, race track or neighborhood without disturbing others. The Vector has dual front disc brakes, low-profile tires, rechargeable sealed batteries, an adjustable seat with a safety belt, rearview mirrors, aluminum wheels, direct chain drive, a fiberglass safety flag and a twist throttle with a keyed switch. Called a "skoogo," it falls somewhere between an electric scooter and a go-cart in design and functionality. "Continuous improvement is part of our theme at ITV. We are constantly looking for improvements in safety and performance, weight [and] cost,” Founder Ron Carl of Innovative Transportation Vehicles told TDmonthly. ( Watch Video) 2/23/2007 (Price: $499.00)

Dominator Ride-On Car With RC by AMAV ENTERPRISES

This product has cool all-terrain styling, oversized wheels, detailed hub caps and a sporty front bumper, as well as two forward and one reverse gear, and auto-lock brakes for safety. It is the first ride-on with a remote control that allows parents to stop the vehicle. The Dominator stops automatically at the push of a button, and when it is out of RC range. The remote control is a nice feature for parents who are used to “following behind [their children] in sort of a zig-zag fashion” when their kids are learning to ride, VP of Sales Peter Lowe of AMAV Enterprises told TDmonthly. He added that parents, especially while shopping in specialty stores, “can stop and focus on the safety feature” and really understand how it works. Launch date: March 1, 2007. ( Watch Video) 2/1/2007 (Price: $299.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Mercedes SL 500 - Black by CARS FOR CHILDREN INC.

The body of this collector’s dream features high-density fiberglass and a paint finish, and the interior boasts two adjustable seats covered with imitation leather. It has heavy-duty tires, full suspension, a rear disk brake, a gearbox and more. The car is 81” long, 40 ½” wide, and 27” high, and can go up to 12 mph. Production is limited, and it also comes in red and white. “The attention that is given to detail and the meticulous engineering built into the mechanical workings of these cars makes them very special and worth the price,” the President of Cars for Children told TDmonthly. 12/14/2006 (Price: $9800.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Zogo Skateboard by ACT INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION

This is the world's first skateboard with a patent-pending propulsion system. With this simple and easy-to-operate skateboard, the Zogo rider just sits or stands on the board and pulls up on the ropes to make Zogo go. A pivoting caster assembly in the front makes it easy to turn simply by putting more weight on the left or right foot. It does not only bring the zooming fun, but also provides kids with plenty of exercise, especially for the upper body, and improves balance and coordination. Three colors are available: red, blue and green. Kids will like its racecar-like look. This model is a limited edition with only 1000 units available. Inventor Hong Prodnuk told TDmonthly that her young daughter “loves it so much and can also sit down and pull the ropes. [It’s] just very good for the beginners.” Launch date: March 2007. ( Watch Video) 12/12/2006 (Price: $99.00)

55 Classic Sidewalk Cruiser by C & N REPRODUCTIONS

This black beauty heirloom is built with quality steel construction. Authentic character includes enamel paint, chrome windshield, steering wheel and hub caps, padded seat, solid rubber tires and adjustable five-position pedals. This toy’s safety has been tested and approved, though adult supervision is required. ( Watch Video) 11/27/2006 (Price: $229.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

CATŪ Front Loader with Backhoe by KETTLER INTERNATIONAL INC.

Our CATERPILLAR® Tractor is for kids but I just like the real thing! With a first of its kind back hoe digger included, a fully functional front loader, and a hood that lifts, this tractor will stretch your child's imagination to its limits! Made in Germany and constructed of high impact resin, its sure to last. Recommended Ages: 3+ 11/21/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Kettrike Air Happy by KETTLER INTERNATIONAL INC.

The Air Happy provides the smoothest ride available and the push bar is included. Customers say it best: "built like a tank." It's an instant family heirloom that children will enjoy and remember fondly when their own children are riding Kettrikes. This model has it all with the patented three-in-one Auto-Freewheel™ Coasting Pedal system, patented Quik-Adjust™ Telescoping Frame and oversized tubeless air tires on German-made ball bearings.
— Diane Robinson, owner of Silly Goose in Essex, Mass., told TDmonthly Magazine in fall 2007 that her number one best-selling item is Kettler bikes, such as the Kettrike Air Happy tricycle. "Kettler tricycles" are among the best-selling ride-ons, agreed Kristen Fennell, manager at Kids R Kids in West Roxbury, Mass.
— “The Kettler Air Happy continues to be our best seller,” said Jude Larene, owner of Izilla Toys in Seattle, Wash., during TDmonthly's March 2009 survey of ride-on sales. Larene said he sells an average of 10 Air Happy trikes per month.
— Ten percent of 60 retailers said in spring 2009 that Kettler trikes are their best-selling riding toy, with average sales of around four per month. 11/21/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

CAT Kid Dumper by KETTLER INTERNATIONAL INC.

Perfect for toddling, riding, scooting or just feeling like a big shot. This hard-working foot-powered rider glides over carpet, pavement and grass. Kids love the dumping front bucket. Working squeaker horn, big fat tires, knee indention for those adventuress riders. Recommended Ages: 12m – 36m 11/21/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Skki by TRIKKE TECH INC.

The Skki, a cambering snow vehicle designed for fun, fitness and sports/recreation, is enjoyed by people of all ages. The apparatus is equipped with three short carving skis — two at the back under each foot, and one at the front — connected to the handlebars. The steering design allows riders to turn and lean simultaneously, naturally and gracefully leading the rider across the slope. Because the direction and angles of all three skis are fluidly engineered by the Skki’s three-point cambering system, everything is kept in line as the machine tracks effortlessly across the snow. Skki makes carving like a professional made easy. Launch date: 2006.
— According to John Simpson and the folks at Trikke Tech, “The Trikke Skki is most of all a fun product. Riding the Skki brings a smile to your face, because you are in control, feeling  free and enjoying the ride.” 11/15/2006 (Price: $899.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Jeep Minimoto Dune Buggy by TOYQUEST

This product is designed for mild off-road terrain and boasts an 800-watt electric motor as well as a 36-volt rechargeable battery. Young riders can learn with the product’s training mode, and can experience the buggy’s dual disc brakes, dual shocks, forward and reverse modes, suspension system, controls, seat belt, roll bar and tool kit. The buggy does not go above 18 miles per hour, and the maximum passenger weight is 200 pounds. Launch date: December 2005. 11/10/2006 (Price: $600.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Skuut Wooden Balance Bike by SKUUT LLC

The Skuut wooden balance bike gives preschoolers the big-kid riding experience, as well as a leg up on the competition. Its design helps youngsters forgo the awkward "training wheel" period. The Skuut has no pedals, so children kick off the ground as if running, thus pushing or "skuut-ing" themselves and the bike forward. Developing strength and balance as they go, kids can walk, coast or "skuut" along before transitioning to a two-wheeler. Launch date: November 10, 2006.
— “People like it because it's a little different. It's not a bike or a trike; it's not an infant ride-on. It covers that in-between stage and has a nice age range,” said Owner Tye Steinbach of Thinker Things in Portland, Ore., during a March 2009 survey.
— “We're starting to see more interest in coaster bikes," Phil Wrzesinski, owner of Toy House and Baby Too in Jackson, Miss., told TDmonthly in spring 2009. Skuut offers “fun for pre-bike riders,” according to Patricia Fieldler, owner of Green Frog Toys in Portland, Ore. This bike was on her top-nine best-seller list in spring 2009.
— Two of 37 retailers named Skuut as a best-selling ride-on in March 2010. Skuut "is a huge seller," noted Elaine Hackney of Boing! JP Toy Shop in Jamaica Plain, Mass. Past Videos: Toy Fair 2008 ( Watch Video) 11/10/2006 (Price: $99.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

John Deere Power Loader with Trailer by PEG PEREGO

High Performance - 12 Volt / 2 Speed + Reverse

Dreams will come true for your 3 to 7 year old with this motorized John Deere tractor with all the features. They can scoop and haul to their hearts content with the front loader bucket and rear trailer. John Deere Power Loader with Trailer has a foot pedal accelerator, a 2-speed shifter and automatic brakes. It operates at 2 1/4 or 4 1/2 mph on grass, dirt or hard surfaces, plus it has reverse. Other features include large wheels, an adjustable seat and a roll bar. High-speed lockout prevents beginners from going too fast. Powerful 12-Volt rechargeable battery and recharger included.

Selling Features:
* 2-Speed (2 1/4 or 4 1/2 mph) plus reverse
* Operates on dirt, grass or sidewalks
* Working front loader scoops and dumps from drivers seat
* Matching detachable trailer
* Foot pedal accelerator and automatic brakes
* Fully enclosed body, wiring, motors and gearboxes
* Rechargeable 12-Volt battery and recharger included 10/20/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Can-Am Traxter XL by PEG PEREGO

High Performance - 12 Volt / 2 Speed + Reverse

Imagine the excitement your 3 to 7 year old will feel with their very own Can-Am Traxter XL. This realistic ATV has a huge dump bed that your little adventurer can load up, dump out, and load up again! Complete with foot pedal accelerator, 2-speed plus reverse shifter, and automatic brakes, the Can-Am Traxter XL travels at 2 1/2 or 5 mph on grass, dirt or hard surfaces. High Performance 12-Volt rechargeable battery and recharger included.

Selling Features:
* 2-Speed (2 1/2 or 5 mph) plus reverse (extra power for heavy loads)
* Operates on dirt, grass or sidewalks
* Huge working dump bed
* Foot pedal accelerator and automatic brakes
* Front luggage rack
* Fully enclosed body, wiring, motors and gearboxes
* High Performance 12-Volt rechargeable battery and recharger included
* Updated color scheme for a more sporty look 10/20/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Vespa GT by PEG PEREGO

Only the best for your child!  Picture the most stylish ride around, with your little one beaming in the driver’s seat.  This licensed Vespa Scooter has the power of a 12-volt rechargeable battery that propels it at 2-1/2 or 5 mph, and it stops quickly with its rear brake.  Onlookers will marvel at the realism of the Vespa’s rear storage box, rear-view mirrors and vinyl-capped non-skid wheels.  Meanwhile, child riders delight at the glove box, working headlight, horn, flashing hazard lights and electronic engine sounds.  The 12-Volt rechargeable battery and recharger are included. ( Watch Video) 10/11/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Aqua and White 55 Classic by C & N REPRODUCTIONS

The '55 Classic Sidewalk Cruiser is of all-steel construction and painted with enamel. It includes a chrome windshield, steering wheel and hubcaps; padded seat; solid rubber tires; sealed bearing mechanism and adjustable five-position pedals. The pedal car has been toy-safety tested and approved. Some minor assembly is required.
— Jeff Gurley, owner of the Lollipop Shop in Jonesborough, Tenn., and Kiawah Island, S.C., told TDmonthly in May 2008 that this vehicle is a best-selling item for him. 8/29/2006 (Price: $239.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Puppy Ride-On by CAREPLAY

These ride-ons are designed with handles on the "tails" to enable toddlers to push them as easily as they ride them. One piece molded body means that there are no pieces to break off. Hubs are recessed on the wheels so they can't poke or scratch young riders. It is great for indoor or outdoor use. It comes fully assembled and is available in red, blue, green or purple. 7/28/2006 (Price: $49.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Ride-on Mini Motorbike (Black) by TOY WONDERS INC.

This 34"-long electric-powered ride-on motorcycle has a classic American motorcycle look. It includes a rechargeable "6V" battery and AC charger. Adult supervision is required. It plays several different tunes and also features a switch on the left handle bar that activates the left or right blinker with blinker sound. It requires three "AA" batteries for light and sound. A fully charged battery will allow a child to ride this bike for several hours. Weight limit: 55 lbs. 7/24/2006 (Price: $100.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

RipRider 360 by RAZOR

This design allows full-circle drifting and spinning actions, letting kids cruise with confidence, comfort and style. Its distinctive maneuverability lets kids coast at high speeds. Launch date: Spring 2009. 7/10/2006 (Price: $129.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Kid's Scooter by SOL-EFFECT ENTERPRISES

This scooting bunny makes sounds and blinks its eyes and kids get mobile. It comes in pink, light blue and dark blue. 7/5/2006 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]