A few will have coaster brakes, but for the most part, differences will be between what type of hand brake a bike has. Braking systems include V-pull brakes, disc brakes (mechanical and hydraulic), and Guardian Bikes’ unique SureStop braking system. Our “Best Of” list is mainly comprised of bikes we would classify as neighborhood bikes or light trail use, for which the vast majority of kids use a bike. Some place kids in a more upright position, which is better suited for more timid riders, while others place riders in a more aggressive, leaned forward position, which is better for more adventurous riders. These kids bikes feature either wider and knobby tires for better traction on various surfaces, or a more aggressive positioning on the bike. This positioning on the bike allows kids to more easily shift their weight around while speeding up a jump or going through a tight turn – whether on pavement or dirt.
All of the bikes on this list are for boys or girls, with the same frames and components. They do offer different color options, which are in an array of typical girl colors and gender neutral colors. Guardian’s unique patented braking system allows kids to activate both the rear and front brake with ONE brake lever. Upon activating the single brake lever, the rear brake is activated, which is turn activates the front wheel’s brake. In regards to weight, be cautious about purchasing a 24 inch bike with a shock as they can add a lot of unnecessary weight to a bike.
An excellent beginning mountain bike with a family-friendly price tag, the Rockrider is an excellent value for the young, ambitious rider. Whether your grom is flying off curbs, small dirt jumps, or tackling basic single track, the ST900’s Suntour XCT fork offers plenty of cushioning. With just one brake lever that sequentially engages the rear brake followed by the front brake, timid kids feel more secure, and aggressive kids have the added stopping power they need. 24 inch bikes are typically the best fit for kids ages 8, 9 and 10, but be sure to check out our kids bike sizing guide if you are unsure about the best size bike for your child.
Online selling fees, listing creation, disassembly, packing, shipping time and cost, insurance, price negotiation, time investment, return management, tire kickers, low-ball offers. Here’s a quick summary of what to look for when selecting the best bike for your 8 to 10-year-old. For more detailed information on the topics below, check out our buying guide at the bottom of the article about the best kids bike brands on the market.
When it comes time to slow down, the Alpha’s Tektro v-brakes offer quick and responsive stopping power. 24 inch bikes are typically available with 7 or 8 gears that are shifted with one shifter. Unlike most adult bikes that have two shifters, one for each derailleur, kids’ bikes typically have fewer gears and just one derailleur. Having to only huffy beach cruiser worry about one shifter is much easier for kids as they can simply shift up or down without having to worry about which hand and which shifter to use. The woom 5’s combination of a super lightweight frame, a more upright body position, and a wide gearing range make this bike the most natural and easy ride of any 24 inch bike we’ve tested.
With 2.25″ wide tires and an optional front suspension fork, the Precaliber is the perfect ride for the adventurous neighborhood rider who is eager to tackle both paved and dirt trails. With top-notch Tektro hydraulic disc brakes that are usually reserved for true mountain bikes, the Meerkat offers plenty of stopping power for added confidence and safety. To smooth the ride, the Meerkat is the only bike on this list to feature a steel frame that helps to absorb vibrations and chatter from the trail. The heavier frame, however, makes it less suitable for really timid riders. Built on a durable frame equipped with mechanical disc brakes and 2.6″ wide cushioning tires, the REI Co-Op Cycles REV 24 Plus is a great entry-level trail bike that also excels around the neighborhood.
Ride with confidence on this one-of-a-kind bike featuring dual disc brakes. Front and rear dual disc brakes provide reliable stopping action in all types of weather conditions. These brakes are especially handy for climbs and descents, and for a more consistent response in muddy or rocky terrain. Wider tires combined with disc brakes allows for greater traction in wet or dry conditions, and increased rolling momentum. Wider tires increase momentum with less exertion, a characteristic you appreciate more, the further you ride. The front suspension is crafted for a responsive ride, while the 3-piece steel crank remains durable for many years of use.
In the past few years, a select few budget-friendly brands have produced much needed change in the kids bike market. The Decathlon and Polygon bikes you see below are significantly better than any bike you will find at Walmart. They are lighter-weight, have better quality components, and are designed to make riding easier for kids. This ratio is more important when a child is younger and just learning to ride, but is still applicable for your 8 and 9-year-olds! The more aggressive and longer your child rides, the more important weight becomes as well. If trail riding or any type of riding with varied elevation is in your child’s future, aim for a bike that is less than 30% of their weight.
Based on milions of used bicycle transactions over twenty year on tens of thousands of diffirent bicycles, our scientists report on used bicycle market trend. Since used-bikes typically sell below their asking price, our analysis tracks actual sale prices to determine Private Party Value. May include rusty parts, seized/snapped components, brakes in need of adjustment/repair, missing parts, missing reflectors, tires in need of air/repair/replacement, etc.
Coming equipped with a 2.1″ wide all-terrain tires and a 50mm coil suspension fork, the MTB provides just enough grit for adventurous riders, but without breaking the bank. New to the US, but not to the biking world, Polygon Bikes offers top-notch bikes with quality components at an affordable price. Their new Premier Ultralight 24 inch bike is no exception and comes fully spec’ed with a Shimano drivetrain, Kenda tires, and Promax brake levers.