PlasmaCar
No pedals. No motor. Just move the wheel to propel forward. A few tries is all it takes to get racing!
<p><strong>Toy Description</strong></p>
<p>A sold body has rubberized sections on the seat and foot grips. The steering column is covered in foam to protect shins and ankles. With the wheels holding the toy only a matter of inches off the ground, falling from the toy isn’t a huge concern.</p>
<p>Weight limit: 220 lbs on even surfaces, or 120 lbs on uneven surfaces.</p>
<p>Assembly will require something to knock the wheels into place. A rubber mallet is perfect, but a block of wood and a hammer will do. A hex bolt is used to secure the wheel, and a screwdriver will be needed to tighten it down. We posted the assembly video above, which shows how incredibly simple it is, so long as the tools are at hand.</p>
<p><strong>Play</strong></p>
<p>Swivel the steering wheel left and right to get the wheels moving. Best on smooth surfaces, like driveways, garages, or gyms. Though it can be used on hardwood floors, we’ve gotten reports of it damaging them.</p>
<p><strong>Observations</strong></p>
<p>The majority of users are very happy with this toy. It’s simple, intuitive, and fun for a range of ages. Even adults can get in on the action. Users report children spending more than an hour at a time with the toy, particularly when multiple children race and play together.</p>
<p>The weight limit of 220 lbs is only valid for smooth surfaces. Rough areas, like really cracked up pavement or sidewalks with really deep crevices may make it easier for the toy to tip over. Additionally, uneven surfaces will make it hard to build speed, so riders heavier than 100 lbs may find it difficult to get going.</p>
<p>Of course, pushing off with feet for a head start is always an idea, but since the toy isn’t really designed for this, it won’t work as the sole means of propulsion. Really gotta work those arms.</p>
<p>We compared this toy to the Turtle Scooter in the Overview, but one key difference is that the Turtle can be moved by a combination of leg and arm power. Since the PlasmaCar is meant to be ridden without the use of feet or legs, it requires a bit more focus. The upper body tends to tire out quicker than the legs, so kids will have to expend more energy getting this toy to get up and go.</p>
<p>The timing of when to move the wheel is something that has to be learned, and different kids will pick it up at different speeds, though most get it within a few tries. This trial-and-error experiences helps teach patience and mental fortitude. The reward for sticking it through? Going faster than everyone else.</p>
<p>We noted reports of some toys not working properly. If the car does not steer smoothly, check to make sure the hex bolt has been tightened all the way. If it is at all loose, the wheel may not be correctly gripping the steering column. Make sure the back wheels have been knocked down into the wheel house firmly so they don’t pop off during a ride.</p>
<p>We want to point out a misprint on Amazon’s site. They list the toy as being made in Canada, when it is actually made in China. The manufacturer is based in Canada, yes, but they do not produce the toys there. Made in China. Not Canada.</p>
<p><strong>Care</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Wipe down with a damp cloth</li>
<li>Hose off outside</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Parts and Pieces</strong></p>
<p>A rubber mallet (or wooden block and hammer) and a screwdriver are needed for assembly. Please see the video above to see how to pop the toy together, quickly and easily.</p>
<p><strong>Concerns</strong></p>
<p>As with all toys, be mindful if playing in a driveway or otherwise near a street.</p>
<p>The toy keeps the rider pretty close to the ground, and we have not heard of any serious injury when used appropriately.</p>
Written by: The Guide For Toys
PlasmaCar
Date published: 2016-06-06
9.50 / 10 stars
Detailed ReviewToy Description
A sold body has rubberized sections on the seat and foot grips. The steering column is covered in foam to protect shins and ankles. With the wheels holding the toy only a matter of inches off the ground, falling from the toy isn’t a huge concern.
Weight limit: 220 lbs on even surfaces, or 120 lbs on uneven surfaces.
Assembly will require something to knock the wheels into place. A rubber mallet is perfect, but a block of wood and a hammer will do. A hex bolt is used to secure the wheel, and a screwdriver will be needed to tighten it down. We posted the assembly video above, which shows how incredibly simple it is, so long as the tools are at hand.
Play
Swivel the steering wheel left and right to get the wheels moving. Best on smooth surfaces, like driveways, garages, or gyms. Though it can be used on hardwood floors, we’ve gotten reports of it damaging them.
Observations
The majority of users are very happy with this toy. It’s simple, intuitive, and fun for a range of ages. Even adults can get in on the action. Users report children spending more than an hour at a time with the toy, particularly when multiple children race and play together.
The weight limit of 220 lbs is only valid for smooth surfaces. Rough areas, like really cracked up pavement or sidewalks with really deep crevices may make it easier for the toy to tip over. Additionally, uneven surfaces will make it hard to build speed, so riders heavier than 100 lbs may find it difficult to get going.
Of course, pushing off with feet for a head start is always an idea, but since the toy isn’t really designed for this, it won’t work as the sole means of propulsion. Really gotta work those arms.
We compared this toy to the Turtle Scooter in the Overview, but one key difference is that the Turtle can be moved by a combination of leg and arm power. Since the PlasmaCar is meant to be ridden without the use of feet or legs, it requires a bit more focus. The upper body tends to tire out quicker than the legs, so kids will have to expend more energy getting this toy to get up and go.
The timing of when to move the wheel is something that has to be learned, and different kids will pick it up at different speeds, though most get it within a few tries. This trial-and-error experiences helps teach patience and mental fortitude. The reward for sticking it through? Going faster than everyone else.
We noted reports of some toys not working properly. If the car does not steer smoothly, check to make sure the hex bolt has been tightened all the way. If it is at all loose, the wheel may not be correctly gripping the steering column. Make sure the back wheels have been knocked down into the wheel house firmly so they don’t pop off during a ride.
We want to point out a misprint on Amazon’s site. They list the toy as being made in Canada, when it is actually made in China. The manufacturer is based in Canada, yes, but they do not produce the toys there. Made in China. Not Canada.
Care
- Wipe down with a damp cloth
- Hose off outside
Parts and Pieces
A rubber mallet (or wooden block and hammer) and a screwdriver are needed for assembly. Please see the video above to see how to pop the toy together, quickly and easily.
Concerns
As with all toys, be mindful if playing in a driveway or otherwise near a street.
The toy keeps the rider pretty close to the ground, and we have not heard of any serious injury when used appropriately.