Learning to ride a bike is a childhood rite of passage. For the youngest set, pedal-less balance bikes have taken favor over the training wheels we grew up learning on, creating confident, comfortable riders who are ready for pedal bikes at an impressively young age. If your kiddo is ready to cruise with the big kids, it’s time to start looking for a kids’ bike. When it comes to what makes the best kids’ bike, there are a few factors to consider.
The Fit is Key
Unlike clothes, experts advise against purchasing a bike your child can “grow into.” A too-big bike makes learning to ride all the more difficult and we can all agree, it’s hard enough even with the best equipment. So, you’re probably wondering—how do you measure a kids’ bike? Most manufacturers size bikes by wheel diameter, but frames and dimensions vary quite a bit from brand to brand, making it confusing to figure out which is best for your kid. (They may be a 16-inch in one style and 20-inch in another.) Age isn’t a great indicator either. (One glance at your child’s class marching into school can tell you that.) The best way to measure your child for a bike is by their inseam. Compared with the seat height of the bike, you’ll determine the most accurate fit. Guardian Bikes offers a fantastic visual on how to get that measurement, and most of the other brands we’ve included have super informative size charts as well.
Weight Matters Too
Many of the cheapest bikes on the market are disproportionately heavy for the small people they’re accommodating which makes maneuverability challenging. When possible, it is best to purchase a bike no greater than 30% of your child’s weight. (Fun fact: Most adults ride bikes that are around 20% of their weight. No wonder it’s tricky for little ones!) Like so many of the decisions we make as parents these days, choosing the right bike for your sweet, eager kiddo can be overwhelming. But let me remind you that the vast majority of us learned to ride on two-ton, janky department store bikes and surprise! we turned out just fine.
Where Should You Buy a Kids Bike?
Currently, like everything, new bikes are costly. But new isn’t always best. In fact, since cheap bikes tend to fall apart and often aren’t the most kid-friendly when it comes to proportions, a used quality bike might be more worthwhile. If it’s bike or bust this summer, we recommend hitting up your local bike shop, community bike swaps or good old-fashioned yard sales. On the bright side, if you have one your child has outgrown, there’s never been a better time to sell it.
The Best Kids’ Bikes 2024
1. Woom – The Gold Standard of First Pedal Bikes
Without a doubt, Woom is the gold standard of first pedal bikes. Not only are they the lightest on the market, but the kid-specific geometry makes learning to ride as easy a possible. The handlebars are nice and wide, offering confident control while low entry, low sitting position and a long wheelbase help them master balance. They also feature a detachable rubber ring steering limiter which can prevent accidents due to overcorrection and a chain guard to protect against cuts and pinches. And since learning how to stop is as important as learning how to go, Woom bikes feature a sophisticated freewheel pedal system (which allows them to pedal backward to balance) & kid-sized double hand brakes instead of coaster brakes which can send them sailing just as they get the hang of it. (Note that the 14” woom 2 bikes does ship with coaster brakes installed as it is a requirement of USCPSC regulations. Swapping for the hand brake system is an easy at-home fix.)
Price: $399
2. Priority Bikes – The Ultimate Ride
Priority Bikes feature belt drives and internally geared hubs, making them the ultimate ride for kids. The internal hubs on Priority Bikes are a major plus for durability, and the belt drive is virtually maintenance-free. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $399
3. Prevelo – The Perfect Bike for Your Little One
Prevelo’s Alpha series offers six different sizes for various ages, ensuring that your child gets the perfect fit. Their bikes are designed with safety in mind, featuring a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability.
Price: $299
4. Guardian Bikes – The Bike That’s Got Your Back
Guardian Bikes are designed with safety and comfort in mind. They feature a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $299
5. Strider 12 Sport – The Perfect Balance Bike
The Strider 12 Sport is the perfect balance bike for young riders. It features a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability, making it easy for your child to learn to balance and steer.
Price: $99
6. Schwinn Bike – The Classic Ride
Schwinn Bikes are a classic choice for kids. They feature a sturdy frame and a comfortable seat, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $199
7. Huffy Bike – The Fun Ride
Huffy Bikes are designed for fun and safety. They feature a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $199
8. Mongoose Bike – The Perfect Ride for Your Little One
Mongoose Bikes are designed with safety and comfort in mind. They feature a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $299
9. Mongoose Dolomite – The Perfect Bike for Your Little One
Mongoose Dolomite bikes are designed with safety and comfort in mind. They feature a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $299
10. Raleigh Bikes – The Classic Ride
Raleigh Bikes are a classic choice for kids. They feature a sturdy frame and a comfortable seat, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $199
11. Specialized Bikes – The Perfect Ride for Your Little One
Specialized Bikes are designed with safety and comfort in mind. They feature a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for stability, making them perfect for young riders. They also come in a range of sizes to fit your child perfectly.
Price: $299
Conclusion:
Choosing the right bike for your kiddo can be overwhelming, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. From pedal-less balance bikes to first pedal bikes and beyond, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a bike that’s safe, comfortable, and easy to ride, or one that’s durable and long-lasting, we’ve got the perfect bike for your little one. So why wait? Get your child on the right bike today and watch them ride off into the sunset with a smile on their face.
