Best Kids Bikes You Can Buy Online in 2023 - Time

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Learning to ride a bike can be a right of passage for children when they move from babyhood to childhood, tricycle to bicycle, and the world stretches before them, one sidewalk at a time. Unfortunately, the road can be bumpy (literally and figuratively) so to ward off potential scrapes, bumps and breaks, it’s important to consider the best bike for your kid. 

“It is very important that a bike fit the child riding it. Ensure proper bike fit by bringing the child along when shopping for a bike,” shares Ann Schroeppel, of Safe Kids Worldwide. “Select one that is the right size for the child, not one they will grow into.”

Of course, figuring out the best fit for your kid may feel overwhelming because so many types and brands are on the market. To help, we’ve rounded up some of the best kids’ bikes for multiple terrains and purposes, so they can safely travel from the mountains to the playground, and everywhere in between. 

How to choose the best kids’ bike (i.e., what to consider)

How old is your child?

Your child’s age, height and experience are some things to consider when bike shopping. For example, your two-year-old will need a much different bike than your 12-year-old. “Some kids don't understand the pedaling motion until they're 4 or 5 years old,” says Libby McComb of Bicycle Habitat in NYC and Brooklyn, NY.   

What safety features do I need for my child?

Your child’s bike should have a sturdy frame, a reliable braking system, plus reflectors and lights for visibility at night. Depending on your child’s abilities and/or the type of bike they’re riding, they may want knee and elbow pads and even riding gloves. No matter the rider’s age, a protective helmet is always necessary when riding a bike.

Should my kid get fitted for a helmet?

Properly-fitted helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries by at least 45%, per Schroeppel, yet less than half of children 14 and under usually wear a bike helmet. It’s the best way to prevent head injuries and death, according to research by SafeKids.org, so make sure your child has the right size helmet and wears it whenever riding. “Your child’s helmet should meet the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards,” says Schroeppel. “When it is time to buy a new helmet, let your children pick out their own because they will be more likely to wear them for every ride.”

Should I go to a local bike shop for expert advice?

Even if you don’t buy your bike locally, visiting your local bike shop for advice is worth it. And, if you can, shopping locally can be a great way to ensure you can easily go back with questions about fitting for a bike.

How much does my child weigh and how tall are they? 

How a bike fits your child is essential for safety. A bike that is too large or too small for your child will impact their ability to safely handle it. If a child’s feet are straining to reach the pedals, they can’t ride the bike. Likewise, if your child’s feet are dragging below them, on the ground. 

Does my child know how to ride a bike? 

Your child’s ability and, in some cases, agility are two factors to consider when purchasing a bicycle. “Once they get the hang of balancing, adding pedals into the mix is easy,” shares McComb. 

Should my kid test-ride a bike before I buy it? 

Yes. Like any vehicle, it’s always wise to have your child try out a bike before you buy it. “It's important to think about fit, but also about what kind of riding they're going to be doing and their confidence level,” says McComb. “If your child is already comfortable on a bike, you can go with something they’re just on the cusp of being big enough to fit on, size-wise, but if they're just learning, a slightly smaller bike is easier to manage.” 

Are electric bikes safe for kids? 

It depends on who you ask, but most electric bikes are not designed for kids. “We would not recommend electric bikes for most kids. Most have manufacturer warnings about being intended for adult use only,” says McComb. “They are often heavy and can be operated at higher speeds some riders are not ready for.”

Does the bike come with a warranty and can I return it? 

Ask your seller about their return policy on bikes, as well as whether they offer a warranty period. 

Should I ask other parents about their experiences? 

Absolutely. Ask your friends and colleagues about the bikes that worked for their kids and ask why they chose a particular make and model. Go a step further, and ask if your children can try out the bikes, too. 

Ask your kid, ‘Why do they want a bike?’

Ask your kids why they want one and how they will use it, suggests McComb. “Do they love biking? Do they want to go mountain biking? Do they want to do a bike tour? Ride to school? Think about how long they might have this bike for and how their use might change in that time,” she suggests. A kid who wants to spend weekends on the bike path but also wants to ride to school will need a hybrid model versus a mountain bike, for example. 

Our top kids’ bikes picks

Best bikes for ages 18 months to 5 years

Balance bike: 12 Sport Balance Bike

The OG of balance bikes, Strider balance bikes remain popular for parents and kids. No training wheels here, just simple geometrics that allow your child to balance themselves and practice being comfortable on two wheels. The Strider Sport can accommodate a wide range of sizes and ages (from 18 months up to four years). 

Adjustable height handlebars, seating (11″ to 19″ on a Strider Sport model), and a lightweight frame make this no-pedal bike a great option for conquering balance before making the leap to a full-on pedal bike. 

Key specs:

• Recommended ages: 18 months to 4 years
• Tires: Foam 
• Bike weight: 6.7 pounds
• Seat height: 11- to 19-inches
• Price: Varies; $139.99 at Strider

Strider - 12 Sport Balance Bike Ages 18 Months to 5 Years - Blue

Starter bike: Frog 40 Starter Bike

When your kid graduates from a balance bike, a good one to pick up next is a Frog 40 starter bike. This lightweight and colorful option has wide tires and a 15-inch inseam, making it a comfortable ride for a younger child (3 to 4 years) or a smaller 5- or 6-year-old. 

Key specs:

• Recommended ages: 3 to 4 years (but could fit a smaller, older child)
• Wheel size: 14 inch
• Bike weight: 14 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Tektro brakes and no gears
• Safety and comfort: Small saddle and brakes are easy to use
• Price: Varies depending on the retailer

Koda 2 16-inch Kids’ Bike

A 16-inch Koda bike – $119.99 from online retailer Retrospec – is another great starter set of wheels for those kids who need a step up from a balance bike. 

Key specs

• Recommended ages: 4-6 years
• Wheel size: Retrospec 16 inches x 1.75 inches, S/V valves - Air-Filled, 40psi
• Bike weight: Lightweight frame
• Brakes and gears: Rear coaster brakes
• Safety and comfort: High back saddle seat offers comfort while making it difficult to slide off
• Price: Varies. $119.99 at Retrospec

Best bikes for ages 6-10

Guardian makes a 20-inch Small Kids Bike for kids sized 43” to 51” tall. These lightweight frame bikes are easy to handle, with adjustable seats, easy-to-reach handle brakes (as opposed to coaster brakes on pedals) and a low crossbar so your child can get on and off their seat with no trouble. This bike has 541 reviews and 4.9 stars on Guardian’s site, with parents expressing great satisfaction, especially with the hand brakes, making it easy for the kids to stop. If your child loves this bike, Guardian sizes up to 14 years. 

Key specs

• Recommended ages: 5-8 years
• Wheel size: 20 inches
• Bike weight: 20.7 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Hand brakes
• Safety and comfort: A low crossbar offers more comfort for getting on and off the bike. Adjustable bike seat for a comfortable fit and compatible with training wheels.  
• Price: $289 (prices may vary) 

Guardian 20-inch Small Kids Bike

Best bikes for ages 8-12

Trek multi-terrain bikes are a great investment for kids who love to ride, being comfortable and lightweight hybrid bikes. The Wahoo 24 is a popular model for this age range and comes in various colors. 

Key specs

• Recommended ages: 8-12 years
• Wheel size: 24 inches x 1.95 inches
• Bike weight:  21.11 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Hand brakes and 1x8 drivetrain
• Safety and comfort: Easy for kids to control, plus a padded saddle
• Price: Trek bikes vary depending on the model. The Wahoo 24 is $499.99

Woom bikes like the Woom 6 are another great lightweight choice for this age range (among others) because of the eight-speed gear system, comfortable seat and child-specific geometry. 

• Recommended ages: 10-14 
• Wheel size: 26-inch and 2-inch thick tires
• Bike weight: 22.1 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Hand breaks and eight speeds
• Safety and comfort: Child-specific geometry for safety and comfort 
• Price: $699

Woom Original 6

Best budget kids’ bike

When shopping on a budget, visiting your local bike store is a great place to look for affordable trade-up programs and rehabbed bikes. While buying used bikes can be a crapshoot, you may find a good deal. Whenever buying a budget or used bike, McComb recommends bringing it to your local bike store for a check-over to make sure everything is working as it should.

Best kids’ mountain bike

Bike company Specialized Riprock 20 is among the best mountain bikes for kids who like to travel tough terrain. This mountain bike was upgraded in 2022, and users report a better overall shredding experience for their young riders around five to eight years of age. 

One parent we spoke to purchased a Rockhopper, not specifically designed for children, because the Riprock was too small. So if you like the Riprock, your child could continue to grow into other Specialized mountain bikes.  

• Recommended ages: 5 to 8 years
• Wheel size: 20 inches
• Bike weight: 22.6 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Front and rear brakes 
• Safety and comfort: Intermediate geometry designed for all-trail terrain
• Price: Varies, $599.99 at Specialized

Specialized Riprock 20

Best BMX bikes for kids

BMX bikes came of age in the 1960s and are great for racing and tricks. They are heavier than most 20” bikes and not usually great for long-distance cycling, but if your kid is a BMX fan, there are options out there. 

Another recommended BMX bike for older kids between five to six feet tall is the Sunday Primer, which weighs 25 lbs with 20” tires. Built specifically for BMX around a pro-level geometry, the bike has a high-quality build to provide safety to young BMX riders.

• Recommended ages: Various ages (Jr. Primer for younger kids and 20” to 24” for older ones)
• Wheel size: 20 inches
• Bike weight: 25 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Odyssey Springfield Brakes and Lever
• Safety and comfort: Built specifically for young BMX rides
• Price: Starting at $490

Sunday Primer BMX Bike

Mongoose Legion L18

With its durable frame, the Mongoose Legion L18 is a good choice for beginner BMX riders whose height is between 3’.8” and 4’8”. It’s heavy, weighing 28 lbs, according to its website, so make sure your child can handle the heft

.  Key Specs

• Recommended ages: 8-12
• Wheel size: 18 inches
• Bike weight: 28 pounds
• Brakes: Aluminum U-break
• Safety and comfort: N/A
• Price: Varies

Best hybrid kids’ bikes

Many bikes for kids are hybrid, meaning they have flat handlebars but no mountain bike-like suspension fork. Lightweight and easy to handle on both city streets and gravel bike paths, there are many options for kids in this area, including Trek's Precaliber 24-inch 8-Speed Bike for 8-to-12-year olds, with a 24” padded seat for comfort. 

Key specs

• Recommended ages: 8 to 12 years
• Wheel size:  24 inches
• Bike weight: 24.6 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Hand brakes; eight gears
• Safety and comfort: Comfortable seat 
• Price: $449.99

Trek Precaliber 24-inch 8-Speed Bike

Cleary bikes are another hybrid winner with parents, for selling an all purpose, high quality bike for kids. These bikes are lightweight and designed specially for children, from toddlers to preteens. Parents cited the Owl and Meerkat as particular favorites from Cleary. 

Key specs:

• Recommended ages: 6 to 8 years
• Wheel size: 20 inches
• Bike weight: 19 pounds
• Brakes and gears: Tektro junior v-brakes & brake levers; one speed
• Safety and comfort: Adjustable leather seat
• Price: Varies

Cleary Owl 20 Single Speed Bike

Best bikes for bigger kids

For bigger kids that are getting too tall for a standard kids’ bike, there are some great and affordable mountain bike options from Giant, like the ATX, that fit riders as small as 4'8. Some bikes for bigger kids are simply adult bikes in extra-small sizes. 

Key specs:

• Recommended ages: Depends on size of rider (XXS should fit sizes 5’0 to 5’2”) 
• Wheel size: 26-inch wheels 
• Bike weight: N/A
• Brakes and gears: All-weather brakes and integrated mounts
• Safety and comfort: Suspension fork with 100mm and a custom designed seat for comfort
• Price: Varies

Giant ATX 26 Mountain Bike

​​For kids that are going to be doing more on-road, or light bike path use, we love the Sirrus X 2.0, which also goes down to about 4'8 in an XXS, or the Trek FX1 XS or S which can fit riders as small as about 4'10 in an XS.

Key Specs:

• Recommended ages: Various; The XXS will fit riders who are 4’8” to 4’11” tall. 
• Wheel size: The wheel base is 1036mm
• Bike weight: N/A
• Brakes and gears: Hydraulic disc breaks; N/A
• Safety and comfort: Ergonomically engineered Shared Platform Body Geometry saddle, handgrips, and pedals.
• Price: Varies

Sirrus X 2.0 XXS

• Recommended ages: Various; The XS will fit riders who are 4’9” to 5’1”
• Wheel size: N/A 
• Bike weight: 27lbs (lightweight aluminum frame)
• Brakes and gears: Disc brakes and 16 speeds
• Safety and comfort: Tektro MD-U310 mechanical disc, flat mount, 160mm rotor
• Price: Varies

FX 1 Disc

Note: By the time your teen wants a new bike, chances are, they may need an extra small adult size, according to McComb. Some well-known bikes, like Trek, also sell extra small adult sizes, so your teen can see where they fit on the spectrum of inseam (how you measure for a kid’s bike) sizing. The bikes listed above would likely fit a smaller teen. 

How we made our selections

Picking a bike is usually a personal choice, based on factors like type, color, make, and model, plus the fit and age of your kid. Bikes are expensive, but safety is a major concern for most parents when choosing one. 

We spoke to kids and their parents, bike sellers, and safety experts to learn more about all the many bikes out there on the market. We focused on bikes that are known for safety features and comfort for children, and we narrowed down our focus to the under 13 years of age contingent. 

What are the different types of kids’ bikes?

Balance, dirt, mountain, hybrid, and BMX are just a few types of bikes that are  available for kids. 

Best place to buy kids’ bikes

There are many great companies making kids’ bikes, so buying one online has never been easier. Going to your local bike shop is a great one-stop shop where you can try out bikes and get advice tailored to your child before you buy one. 

Are electric bikes safe for kids?

Electric bikes for kids are a no, according to most bike experts. “I would say some pedal-assist (no throttle) class 1 e-bikes that are limited to less than 20mph are okay for older, adult-sized teens that are already very, very comfortable cyclists with excellent bike-handling skills, who can be trusted to operate them safely, but always wear a helmet and obey the rules of the road,” shares McComb. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

When do kids start riding bikes?

Every child is different, and the age they start riding bikes depends on their development, says McComb. “Some kids don't take to a balance bike right away and prefer a bike with training wheels,” she says. Balance bikes can be for 18-month-olds and there are mountain bikes designed for as young as five years. However, when it comes to safety issues, age does matter. 

“It can be hard for kids to judge speed and distance of cars until age 10, so limit riding to sidewalks (although be careful of vehicles in driveways), parks, or bike paths until age 10. No matter where you ride, teach your child to stay alert and watch for cars and trucks,” Schroeppel adds.  

How are kids’ bikes measured?

When measuring for kids’ bikes, you measure the child’s inseam. So, you need to consider the height (not the age) of the rider as well as the size of the wheels. For example, a 20” kid bike would usually suit a six or seven-year-old and a bike for an 11-year-old will usually have bigger, 26” wheels. 

Which bike is best for a five-year-old?

The best bike for a five-year-old will depend on the child. Some may still need a balance bike, and others will be ready for a bike with training wheels. In many cases, an experienced rider at five years can handle whatever bike fits them. 

What age should kids’ bikes have gears?

There isn’t a specific age for kids and gears, but most bikes designed for seven or eight-year olds offer some gear options.

Photo: Marcus McDonald

A little extra knowledge when selecting a child’s bike can make all the difference to their riding experience, ideally setting them up for a lifetime of happy cycling. To find the best kids’ bikes, I consulted bike sellers, cycling coaches, and the experts behind bike-testing and review sites. There’s one big tip they all agree on: Don’t waste your money on something cheap from a big-box store. “Cheap bikes are generally heavy, have poorly designed geometry, and have components that aren’t serviceable or will fall apart quickly,” says Kristen Bonkoski, the founder of the popular kids’-bike website Rascal Rides. “If you buy a good-quality bike, you can get a good portion of your investment back by selling it used later on,” or even handing it down to a younger sibling.

While you don’t have to buy a fancy road bike for your 9-year-old to pedal around on this fall, it’s worth investing in a model that’s durable and repairable. “It doesn’t have to be crazy expensive, but you’re looking for a quality frame, cranks, and gears,” says Michael Sandler, a coach at Star Track Cycling. I found a range of expert picks for the best kids’ bike for every age, below — whichever you choose, don’t forget to buy a helmet.

What

we’re

looking

for

Wheel size

Unlike adult bikes, which are categorized according to frame height, kids’ bikes are measured by wheel size. These sizes range from 12-inch wheels (for toddlers) to 24-inch wheels (for taller kids on the precipice of their first adult bike). A 12-inch bike will typically be a balance bike or tricycle, whereas a 14- to 16-inch bike will be single gear with coaster brakes instead of hand brakes. Hand brakes and multiple gears are typically introduced around the 20-inch mark.

While wheel size will give you a good idea of the age range a bike is suitable for, it’s important to get more specific than that when choosing your child’s bike. Some manufacturers will offer guidance as to the minimum and maximum rider heights for each model, but your best bet is to go by your child’s inseam measurement (the length of their inside leg), since even kids of the same overall height will have different proportions. Once you have that inseam measurement, check the bike’s stand-over height to make sure they’ll have some clearance. On a properly fitted bike, Bicycle World co-owner Ilene Marcos says a kid should be able to touch the ground on tiptoe when seated on the saddle (or on flat feet for beginners who are still building their confidence) and have a slight bend in their knee at the lowest point while pedaling. I’ve also taken note of the height or inseam recommendations for each bike listed.

Brakes and gears

Experts told me that kids should start developing adult-riding habits as soon as possible; this is why the industry has trended toward balance bikes for beginners (and not those with training wheels), as well as intermediate bikes that feature hand brakes and multiple gears, as opposed to coaster brakes and fixed speeds. The recommendations here will set kids up for adult-style road riding. And because there are plenty of adventurous young riders out there, I also looked at nine-speed road bikes and mountain bikes with fancy disc brakes.

Safety and comfort

I looked for bikes with bright colors and reflector panels that will help keep kids safe at night. For bikes aimed at toddlers, additional safety features including chain guards are essential. But the biggest safety-and-comfort feature I favored when compiling this list, as advised by kids’-cycling experts, was lightness of frame. The heavier the bike, the more difficult and potentially accident-prone the ride. “Weight is critical, especially for younger kids,” says Bonkoski. Whatever your child’s age, you’ll want to get the lightest bike you can afford. You’ll also want to avoid the temptation to buy too big a bike in the hope your kid will grow into it. “It is understandable to want to save money,” says Sean Wilson, a physiologist, former cyclist, and the founder of the Youth Cycling Association. “However, a bike that does not fit properly will make it more difficult for the child to ride and ultimately can cause them to have negative experiences.”

A final point: If you’re getting it shipped, it’s still a good idea to get your bike safety checked at a local bike shop. “I see a lot of people buying brands I love online, but they’re not building them properly and following instructions,” says Rachel Varn, a certified cycling instructor and the founder of PedalPower Kids, “and that is a safety issue.”

Best kids’ bike overall

Co-op Cycles REV 16 Kids’ Bike

$229

Wheel size: 16-inch | Brakes and gears: Single speed, coaster brake | Safety and comfort: Lightweight aluminum frame

REI’s affordable Co-op REV range, recommended by Bonkoski and Natalie Martins, the owner of the kids’-bike review site Two Wheeling Tots, is affordable without compromising on weight: Its aluminum frame clocks in at just over 16 pounds. “In addition to being the lightest budget bike we know of,” Martins says, “the REV is backed by REI’s amazing return policy, making it a no-brainer.”

Like most 16-inch bikes, this one has a classic back-pedal coaster brake instead of a hand-operated one. It also comes with training wheels, which you may remove if your kid has been learning on a balance bike — more on that, below. It has a low stand-over height of 17.2 inches, meaning the rider must be at least that height and ideally just a bit taller.

$229

Buy

Best first kids’ bike

Woom 1 Balance Bike

$249

Wheel size: 12-inch | Brakes and gears: Mini-hand brake | Safety and comfort: Lightweight, upright seating position

When you purchase your child’s first bike, you will have three options: tricycle, training wheels, or balance. Overwhelmingly, the industry is trending toward balance bikes, which are designed to inspire confidence in young riders from the outset: They’ll always be on two wheels, and pedaling should come fairly easily once they’ve been gliding around on one of these for a while. Although balance bikes tend to be more expensive than tricycles, they eliminate the need for training wheels when your kid graduates to a pedal bike, explains Martins. “When they’re tall enough, or when they want a pedal bike, you can actually skip training wheels completely. They literally get on the bike and pedal away.” Cherie Moore, the owner of the Colorado bike store Ready, Set, Pedal, agrees that balance bikes “have literally changed the way kids learn to ride bikes.” She says, “Kids can now learn to balance and maneuver a bike with the security of being able to put their feet down.” German brand Woom is Martins’s top choice for the smallest of riders, being recommended for kids 31 to 40 inches in height. (The company also happens to make some of our favorite kids’ bike helmets.) In addition to being “ridiculously lightweight,” Martins says that Woom’s balance bike “comes with air tires to provide additional traction and cushioning, as well as an easy-to-use hand brake.”

$249

Buy

Best (more affordable) first kids’ bike

Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike

$140

now 7% off

From $130

Wheel size: 12-inch | Brakes and gears: None | Comfort and safety: Lightweight

For a reliable, cost-effective balance bike, Strider is the most recognized brand, Martins says. It’s also a favorite among Strategist staffers, with both writer Lauren Ro and senior editor Jen Trolio starting out their kids with Strider balance bikes. Martins describes Strider’s 12 Sport as a “well-known, quality bike” with adjustability options and an extra-long seat post that allows it to fit kids between about 18 months and 4 years old (the company says it will suit riders with a 12- to 20-inch inseam). At 6.7 pounds, it’s light enough for toddlers to move around with.

From $130

Buy

$120

Buy

Best first kids’ bike (with pedals)

Retrospec Koda 2 Plus 12” Kids’ Bike

$130

$130

Wheel size: 12-inch | Brakes and gears: Hand brake, coaster brakes | Comfort and safety: Chain guard, fat tires

12-inch bikes with pedals and training wheels offer a more traditional alternative to balance bikes, and kids can get started on them at around 2 to 3 years of age. Retrospec makes some of the Strategist’s favorite colorful beach cruisers for adults, and its new Koda 2 Plus kids’ bikes are similarly delightful. They also come recommended by Martins, who calls their frame quality “great for the price” and adds that they’re more reliably in stock than other brands. She particularly likes the Koda 2s for their high-quality hand brakes “that are typically not found on budget-friendly bikes.” With a stand-over height of 13 inches, the brand recommends the 12-inch Koda 2 for riders between 28 and 38 inches tall.

$130

Buy

Best starter bike for slightly older kids

Woom 2

$399

now 10% off

From $360

Wheel size: 14-inch | Brakes and gears: Single-speed, hand brakes, coaster brake | Comfort and safety: Lightweight, chain guard

The kids’-cycling teachers I talked to were quick to praise Woom’s well-made, high-component bikes, which are famous for having minimalist (yet sturdy) aluminum frames. “All of the Wooms I’ve worked with have been very well made and lightweight,” says Bike Whisperer NYC instructor Andree Sanders. Varn and Sanders point out that while Woom bikes are expensive, they have a high resale value, which makes them worth the price if you can afford the initial outlay. “I’m an advocate for spending a little more,” Sanders says. “You want biking to be as easy and fun as possible for the kid, and a high-component bike will help with that.”

This 14-inch Woom 2 is particularly suited to non-toddlers who are learning to ride for the first time, says Richard Conroy, the education director of Bike NYC. That’s because, per the design, it can be ridden pedal-free as a balance bike initially. Once your kid’s confidence builds, feel free to install those pedals and let them coast.

From $360

Buy

Best adjustable kids’ bike

Frog 44 Bicycle

$480

Wheel size: 16-inch | Brakes and gears: Fixed gear, hand brakes | Comfort and safety: Super-lightweight, reflectors, safety bell

The British brand Frog was mentioned by several experts. For new pedalers of around 4 to 6 years, with its minimum inseam of 17 inches, Wilson and Moore recommend the Frog 44. It’s a superlight (just 14 pounds), all-aluminum bike that can be adjusted as the rider grows. It would be a great second bike for kids who are ready to learn hand braking but have no urgent need for gears. Moore likes that it comes with easy-to-install mudguards for kids who like to ride in the rain. And it must be said that the colorways and patterns are supercute — the bike even comes with a small bottle of matching paint to touch up any scratches incurred while riding.

$480

Buy

$450

Buy

Best kids’ bike for cautious riders

Guardian Ethos 16

$289

now 14% off

$249

Wheel size: 16-inch | Brakes and gears: Fixed speed, hand brake | Comfort and safety: Lightweight, reflector panels

Several of our experts mentioned kids’-bike manufacturer Guardian, which has developed a Shark Tank–approved SureStop braking system that’s designed to prevent over-the-handlebars accidents by stopping the rear wheel from spinning before the front one does. In addition to this safety feature, Varn says Guardian’s bikes have “a very low center of gravity” that makes them a nice choice for new or cautious pedalers. The bike’s steel frame weighs just 17.5 pounds, which makes it light and maneuverable. The single-lever hand brake is easy to operate, and there’s no coaster brake to lean on, which will help kids develop adult riding habits.

This bike is recommended for riders between 40 and 46 inches tall within an approximate age range of 4 to 6. For no additional cost, you can add an optional short seat post, which gives this bike an impressive seat-height range between 18 and 25.2 inches. Guardian offers a handy online sizing tool to further determine which bike size will fit your kid and how long it will likely be until the bike needs an upgrade. Plus “it’s easy to deal with the company if something’s going wrong with the bike,” Varn says.

$249

Buy

Best first geared bike for kids

Woom 4 20-Inch Bike

$499

Wheel size: 20-inch | Brakes and gears: Eight-speed, hand brakes | Comfort and safety: Lightweight

The Woom 4, at 20-inches, will suit 6- to 8-year-olds, introducing them to the concept of gears. If you’re going to spend your money on just one Woom over the course of your child’s cycling journey, it makes sense to get them a Woom 4 once they reach the appropriate height range of 45 to 51 inches tall (the bike’s stand-over height is 19.5 inches). As Sanders and our other instructors emphasized, it’s best to transition kids into adult-style riding as soon as possible, and learning how to shift gears is key. With eight speeds and a twist mechanism that’s designed for small hands, this bike will help them understand and deploy the concept.

$499

Buy

Best kids’ road bike

Frog Road 58 Bike

$935

Wheel size: 20-inch | Brakes and gears: Nine-speed, hand brakes | Comfort and safety: Lightweight with road tires and short-drop handlebars

Sandler laments that too few brands manufacture small-frame road bikes for kids who might want to join their families on longer tours. So he’s quick to recommend Frog’s range of well-built children’s road bikes, which are “an exception to the rule.” Moore, another fan, explains that Frog road bikes, while on the pricey side, are designed with a unique crank that reduces the bike’s “Q factor” (the distance between the pedals), allowing kids to put more power into each pedal stroke and making it easier for little legs to travel longer distances. The brand recommends the bike for kids 6 to 7 with a minimum inseam of 23 inches.

$935

Buy

Best kids’ mountain bike

Co-op Cycles REV 24 Plus Kids Bike

$439

Wheel size: 24-inch | Brakes and gears: Seven-speed, hand brakes | Comfort and safety: Lightweight, plus-size tires

For kids who are ready for the trail, REI’s REV Plus line “looks as cool as it rides,” Martins says. She loves the “plus-size tires and adult styling,” which helps this bike serve as the perfect transition into adult mountain biking. While this starter mountain bike lacks a suspension system, those wide tires add stability and help smooth out any rocky trails. Mechanical Shimano disc brakes ensure plenty of power and control, as does the intuitive hand-twist gear system. The bike has a stand-over height of 23.4 inches, meaning it will best suit riders with an inseam measurement just above that.

$439

Buy

Best (more-advanced) kids’ mountain bike

Woom OFF 5

$899

Wheel size: 24-inch | Brakes and gears: Nine-speed, hand brakes | Comfort and safety: Very lightweight, plus-size tires

For advanced shredders, Woom’s new “OFF” range of mountain bikes come highly recommended by Varn, who says they’re “even more durable” than its original bikes “and great for families looking to explore unpaved trails.” Ultralightweight, adjustable, and maneuverable, they can even be ridden tubeless if your kid spends a lot of time on gravel. Similar to the original Wooms above, the geometry, seats, and brakes are designed specifically for small hands and bodies, which makes them extremely comfortable and fun to ride every time. This 24-inch model is suitable for kids between the ages of 7 and 11, up to 57 inches tall.

$899

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