Things to note when buying kids bikes
Light weight
Kids will be able to get most out of cycling from bikes that are lightweight. Balance bikes are simple bikes that are light weight and made of wood. It is safe for children to ride on as they do not come with pedals and chains that may interfere with the way the child maneuver the bike and risk catching on loose clothing. As the term ‘balance’ suggests, the objective of a balance bicycle is for the kid to learn how to steer and balance by scooting with their feet pushing them forward until they are able to cruise with their feet raised when the speed picks up. Thus the weight of the bicycle plays an important part of helping children to learn and love cycling as physical burden is lightened.
When buying children bikes, try to look for one that weighs around 13 kilograms and less for 20 inches and 24 inches wheel bikes. We have a wide selection of bicycles for children at our online cycling store that cater to children of all ages in learning cycling.
Safety for kids
As the construction of balance bikes are very easy and straightforward, they do not have any holes or small empty places where the child’s fingers will get stuck or trapped in. The center of gravity of balance bikes are also relatively low, making it a stable bicycle for kids. The kids are able to freewheel on gentle slopes as they grow older and get more familiar with the bike without having to worry about tumbling over. As another safety precaution for kids, be sure to get them the correct cycling helmets to protect their heads from falls that can have dangerous impact on their skulls.
Appropriate Brakes and Pedals for kids
When the kid reaches four years of age, you may consider adding pedals and brakes to prepare your child for the next phase of learning cycling. The brakes should be of a size small enough for the child’s hand to grip on, they should also be easy to pull without having to exert too much strength.
Optimal length of use over the child’s growth years
When you buy bikes for kids, always keep in mind that you should choose one that your child is able to use for as many years as possible. This is not just to ensure its optimal quality and life span but also critical in training your kid in getting familiar with the same cycling equipment in his or her development years so they won’t outgrow their bicycles too soon.
Kids Bike Size
When kids reach around six years of age, they would want a bike on their own. Parents should also not be tempted to buy bicycles for your kids that are too large for their sizes. A bike that is overly-huge can be very awkward for them to ride on and handle. Generally, children bikes that are of 14 to 16 inches wheel bikes are suitable for kids of 4 to 6 years old, those of 20 inches are appropriate for children of ages 5 to 10 years old, and 24 inches wheel bicycles are suitable for ages 8 to 12 years.
Long Seatpost and Steerer with washers
Choose a bike for your child that has a long seatpost and a steerer with multiple washers so that the bike is completely adjustable and suited to the body of the child. A bike that comes with a quill stem works just as fine. So long as the system is adjustable and is able to maximize its versatility with the child’s growth, children should be able to get accustomed to it as they become older. Unlike an adult, the length of the legs and the height of hips of a child are much shorter. Thus kids always prefer lower seat height as the bikes will be easier to mount on, and their feet are also be able to reach the ground when they come to a halt, giving them more control over the bike.
Minimal Number of Gears
Too many gears can cause confusion and mechanical complications for children. For starters from 3 to 5 years of age, one gear is sufficient, while a 3-speed hub is good for kids around 6 to 8 years, and a 7 or 8-speed derailleur is suitable for 9 to 12 year olds.
Types of children bikes
Balance Bikes
Children can begin to learn cycling from age 2 onwards. The most common type of kids’ bicycles for their first riding experience is the balance bike as described above.
BMX Kids Bikes
Children of three to 4 years old may begin trying on metal framed bikes that are made from lightweight aluminum metal frame structure.
As the child grows older, look for BMX bikes that are made of chromoly steel instead of aluminium, as steel is stronger and can take the bike through tougher and bumpier rides. Steel also provides a surface that is easier to be repainted. BMX bikes tend to have lower saddle and smaller wheels compared to conventional bicycles.