15 best children's bikes

Children's entertainment and sports

A quality bicycle for a child should be comfortable, reliable and with good components. Safety and comfort while driving depends on this. Children grow up quickly, so bicycles have to be renewed as they grow up.

Nevertheless, buying a low-quality bicycle, counting on the fact that the child will grow up faster than it breaks, is not worth it. You can always resell a branded bike to other parents for almost the purchase price (on average, the price of used bicycles drops by 10% for each year of use). A cheap bike is almost impossible to sell after two years of intensive use. Components in such bikes quickly deteriorate, and changing them before selling is unprofitable.

How to choose an inexpensive, practical, high-quality and comfortable bike for your child? You will find the answer to this question in this publication. We have prepared a rating of the best children's bicycles, as well as practical recommendations that will help you make the right choice.

The best manufacturers of children's bicycles

Puky. The company was founded in 1949. The headquarters is located in the German city of Wülfrath. In addition to bicycles, it produces balance bikes and scooters. Products are tested in laboratory conditions under overload conditions, therefore they are distinguished by reliability and safety
STELS. Bicycles of this brand are produced by the Russian company Velomotors. The company was founded in 2003. Today the company has three factories (near Moscow, in the Bryansk region and in Krasnodar). In addition to bicycles, ATVs, snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles are produced. Products do not always win in terms of reliability, but the price is pleasantly pleasing.
S'cool. The German firm has been making bicycles for 15 years. There are both children's bicycles and balance bikes (bicycles without a chain, which require pushing off the surface with the feet to ride), as well as bicycles for adults. Production is based on a focus on safety and reliability. Therefore, sometimes the price of a bike can seem high.
Merida. This company proves that quality branded products from Taiwan are not a myth. The company has existed since 1972. Merida's credo is in the production of beautiful, high-quality, yet inexpensive bicycles. Today Merida is ranked 15th in the ranking of the largest enterprises in Taiwan.
Giant. The company was founded in 1972 in Taiwan, but since 1986 there has been an active expansion of the company's divisions in Europe, Australia and the USA. About 55 percent of the world's branded bicycles are produced at Giant's facilities.

Best kids bikes for 2-4 years (12 inches)

Bicycles for toddlers from 2 years old are a special category of children's vehicles, because the requirements for them are very specific. Since riders under the age of 4 are usually just getting to know their first iron horse, the speed of the model and the number of speeds in this case usually does not matter much. Therefore, manufacturing firms rarely equip developments for children from 2 years old with a speed switch, fork adjustment and other bells and whistles.

However, many bicycles in the category can boast of such important characteristics as light weight, ease of operation, and a comfortable frame. Some of the best in the rating are also characterized by improved stability, side wheels, and sometimes an increased safety design.

3 STELS Magic 12

The trio of the best bicycles for toddlers from 2 years old begins with the most affordable, but nevertheless convenient and practical model of a domestic company. Unlike most competitors, Stels Magic is not only equipped with two additional wheels for training a child to bike and a parental handle that allows parents to control the first movements of the baby or just roll it, but also has a reliable design.Made entirely of steel, it is strong enough to resist damage from rough riding. At the same time, a 12-inch children's bike received the most complete equipment: a basic trunk, a bell, fenders to protect clothes from splashing, as well as a protective pad on the handlebars.

According to the reviews, the model is quite high-quality made for its price and is not inferior in reliability even to some slightly more expensive counterparts. The weakness of Stels was only the not very strong mount of the mirror.

2 SHULZ Bubble 12

Being the development of a domestic company, this children's bike, nevertheless, stands out among the rest for its quality and suitability for active walks. The premium class is ideal for fidgets who love obstacle course cycling. Threadless steering column is stronger than common counterparts. The V-Brake, considered one of the most reliable, belongs to the walking grade, which guarantees sufficient braking power with ease of use. A separate advantage of this member of the rating was the belt drive, which replaced the usual chain for everyone. Thanks to him, it is safe to ride a bike even in a fluffy skirt or raincoat, there is no danger of injury and noise, no constant care is required.

At the same time, the model weighs only 6.7 kilograms, which greatly simplifies management. In addition to lightness, reviews note quality, convenience, good equipment. All parents give the model a 5.

When choosing a bike for a child, many parents simply pay attention to the price. In fact, there are more parameters that will determine the quality of bike use. In particular, parents should consider the following:

The quality of the saddle, tires, carriages. Since the weight of the child is quite small, many manufacturers make saddles out of plastic. In our ranking there are models with a steel saddle frame. Such products do not crack and last much longer. The tires must also be branded. A great option is Kenda. This also applies to the carriage. A bush with bearings makes the carriage mechanism virtually eternal. Good bushings are made by Neco.
Materials. The weight of the frame determines the weight of the overall structure. Cheap bicycles use steel frames. In higher quality - from aluminum alloys. Wheel rims are made of the same materials. Bicycles with aluminum frames and rims weigh less than steel ones.
Appearance. The brighter the color of the bike, the lower the risk that the motorist leaving the parking lot will not notice the baby. For this, reflectors and flags are attached to bicycles. In addition, the brighter the color of the bike, the more the child likes it.
Brakes. The main attribute of the little driver's safety. It is better if there is both a rear and a hand brake. The rear is used to reduce speed, the front is used for hard braking. Basically, the front brake uses a cantilever or V-Brake design. Both brakes are good, but the cantilever brake is stiffer. the compression of the right or left block occurs with a uniform application of force.

1 Puky 4125 ZL 12-1 Alu Kiwi

Children's bike Puky 4125 ZL 12-1 Alu Kiwi is equipped with an aluminum alloy frame. Therefore, the total weight of the structure was 8 kg. This is a versatile bike. It will suit both boys and girls. All products are assembled in Germany from high-quality components, so they practically do not need service.

General characteristics

Frame type: rigid, without shock absorbers
Number of speeds: one
Wheel diameter: 12 inches
The bike is equipped with a rear pedal brake. (There is a cantilever front brake)
Withstands loads up to 50 kg
Suitable for children up to 105 cm tall.

Best kids bikes for 3-5 years (14 inches)

No less stable than the models for the smallest, and only slightly heavier, bicycles for children 3 years and older pleasantly surprise with improved speed, and sometimes additional features. After all, closer to 4 - 5 years old babies become more curious, move more actively and strive for new discoveries.In addition, some children, having begun to master the bicycle at a very early age, by the age of 3 are already well controlled with children's vehicles and can even race on far from the most passable terrain.

All this makes structural strength and overall survivability the most important criteria. At the same time, some participants in the rating are designed to drive not only on flat asphalt paths, but also on rough terrain.

4 STELS Wind 14 (2017)

Despite the more than modest price, the bike for young athletes from 3 years old is surprisingly practical and well-equipped. Comfortable, moderately soft, spring-loaded seat allows you not to get tired during long walks. The frame, seatpost and other significant parts, subject to constant stress, are made of steel, which makes the children's bicycle of the Russian company quite strong and reliable. At the same time, for such a budget model, Stels received many useful additions. These include a simple but comfortable trunk, fenders, a bell and a special protective cushion so that the baby does not hurt himself on the steering wheel when braking.

Also, this member of the rating was loved by many buyers for its excellent balancing and ease of development. Often, children 3 - 4 years old manage to ride it from the first attempt, which greatly simplifies the process of teaching a baby to a bicycle. The wide 14-inch wheels also make it quite stable.

3 Novatrack Astra 14 (2016)

The Novatrack Astra 14 is a bike that comes standard with everything for your child's comfort. There is a sufficient degree of protection here, there are side wheels and a trunk. The frame is low, so it will be easy for a young child to get used to a new bike. And the disadvantages are minor when you consider the low cost of the bike.

Specifications Novatrack Astra 14:

Wheels 14 inches (aluminum rim);
The presence of protection on the steering wheel and chain;
The set includes side wheels;
Low price;
Disadvantages: Weight 8.8 kg (steel frame). There is no hand brake, only a rear pedal brake;

2 Capella G14BA606

The ranking of the best is deservedly topped by the most advanced bicycle for children from 3 to 5 years old. The novelty of this year received a durable steel case with not too much weight, a bell, wings, good chain protection, which will protect the chain from the edges of clothes, pebbles and other foreign objects, which makes the children's model one of the safest. In addition, the bike of the South Korean company with a worldwide reputation pleasantly surprises with the best shock absorption in the category. Being a two-suspension vehicle means not only a suspension fork, but also a suspension on the rear wheel, which guarantees comfort and excellent traction on rough terrain.

All this makes the Capella bike a good solution for both beginners and those who have already learned the basics of driving a vehicle. Also a plus was the powerful front V-Brake, which distinguishes the model from many analogues.

1 JAGUAR MS-142 Alu

The bike is designed for a child up to 115 cm tall. The mirror-like color of the frame and polished steel rims increase the reflectivity of the structure. Such a bike can be seen from afar, and its owner will always be visible to both pedestrians and drivers. The bike quickly gained fans all over the world. They are actively buying it in Russia as well.

Bicycle features:

Tread tires increase grip. Allows you to ride both on asphalt and on mud;
Lightweight aluminum frame;
Wheels - 14 inches. Rim material - aluminum;
There is protection for the chain.

Best kids bikes for 4-6 years (16 inches)

Children's bicycles with 16-inch wheels are mostly designed for height up to 125 centimeters, which makes them the best choice for children from 4 to 6, at least 7 years old. However, it is not only the dimensions that distinguish them from the designs for a younger age. First of all, this category is more widely represented, multifaceted and includes bicycles of different levels.Some of them, like the 12 "or 14" models, are good only for the city. Others do well with intense cross-country races and even basic backyard stunts.

At the same time, individual participants in the rating attract children with an extraordinary design, allowing young riders to emphasize their individuality. In this they are also very different from models for toddlers, which have more similar designs.

5 Desna Druzhok 16

The new, but already popular, kids bike of 2018 is considered the best model with 16-inch wheels in the budget segment. Although the development of the Russian company is as simple as a good old Soviet bicycle, it is reliable and convenient to use. The steel construction is durable and practical. The complete set of the model for riders from 4 years old is basic, but decent. A protective pad on the steering wheel, fenders on wheels, a simple trunk that a child can easily handle, and a special chain cover to prevent foreign objects from entering, have become good additions to an already successful design. The bike also received an effective V-Brake, which is very good for a budget employee.

According to reviews, Desna is characterized as an excellent combination of price and quality of performance. The model is not flimsy, versatile and will last for more than one season. Simple handlebar adjustment allows the bike to grow with your child.

4 Royal Baby RB16G-1 Stargirl Steel 16

By the age of 4 - 5, many girls begin to form their own style, often there is a craving not just for bright things or images of cartoons, but for an elegant girlish design. The best solution for little fashionistas who appreciate sophistication and original color combinations will be a children's bike with a truly royal design. The carefully chosen colors loved by the girls are perfectly complemented by the elegant bows and crown design on the steering wheel, as well as a real wicker basket for toys. Moreover, this member of the rating is perfectly adapted to the needs of girls. Sturdy yet graceful female-style steel frame and chain guard allow you to ride your bike comfortably even in a long dress.

In addition to the stylish design, the company decided to please customers with useful additions, which included a bell and stable side wheels included. The only downside can be a weight of 10 kilograms.

3 S'cool XXLite 16 (2016)

The bike is suitable for those who believe that safety while driving is paramount. The moving parts of the chain are protected by a pad, on the handlebars there is a soft protective cover. V-Brake levers on the front wheel allow for effortless braking and tread wheels for maximum traction

Bicycle features:

Aluminum alloy frame and wheel rims;
S'cool Terrain tires;
The best children's bicycles for 6 - 9 years (20 inches);
The disadvantage is a large weight (9.5 kg) despite the use of light alloys in the construction.

2 Puky 4271 ZLX 16 Alu

Puky bikes are well built, quality parts, and great looks. The ZLX 16 Alu is no exception. The bike can carry loads up to 50 kg and is designed for children from 45 to 105 cm tall. The bright orange color and low frame make the bike a welcome gift for both boys and girls.

Puky 4271 ZLX 16 Alu specifications:

The assembly is carried out in Germany;
Aluminum frame and rim;
Manual front cantilever brake. Lighter and softer braking than V-Brake;
Use of premium Schwalbe Black Jack tires;
Protective handlebar grips, chain guard.

1 Silverback Senza 16 (2017)

Laconic enough at first glance, this novelty of 2018 is nevertheless worthy of the title of the best bike for kids aged about 5 years old in many ways. The main advantage of the model is the true German quality, thanks to which the Senza 16 model is so reliable that it is perfect not only for city roads, but also for rough terrain.Threadless headset provides better strength. Effective Hard Tail cushioning provides excellent traction on any ground, even uneven ground. The spring-elastomer walking-grade fork successfully dampens vibrations for increased ride comfort.

Surprisingly, the children's bike even has some professional capabilities. For example, the leader of the rating got the opportunity to adjust the spring rate of the suspension fork, so the young rider can easily strengthen it for asphalt or weaken it for difficult terrain.

Best kids bikes for 6-9 years (20 inches)

Although older models are sometimes suitable for children over 7 years old, offering options for a small stature, the best choice is still a children's bike for this particular age group. Unlike all previous categories, vehicles with 20-inch wheels are often as functional as adult solutions. Among them there are folding, multi-speed and other models.

Moreover, such bicycles have a number of characteristics that are important specifically for children's transport. After all, the best of them are equipped with a protective cushion, please not too much weight, are quite stable, and often still provide for the possibility of installing additional wheels for beginners. Also, do not forget that they are often more popular with the child, since their design was developed taking into account children's sympathies.

3 Navigator Batman (BH20172)

Children 6 - 7 and even 9 years old often want to be like their favorite characters no less than 5-year-old kids, and sometimes more. After all, a bright recognizable style is a great opportunity to declare yourself to the world and instantly find friends with the same interests on any playground. Therefore, the original Navigator Batman bike with a simple, reliable design and Batman design will not leave indifferent any connoisseur of films and comics about this superhero and will become a real pride of a young rider. At the same time, thanks to the powerful steel frame, the model is well protected from damage during active driving and falls.

In general, a bicycle can be called a bargain. As the cheapest model with 20-inch wheels, the development of the domestic company is very popular with children for its design and ease of use. But, according to reviews, the frame is a little heavy, and the mounts, as you would expect, are quite basic and are quite consistent with the economy class.

2 ALTAIR Kids 20 Compact (2018)

The honorary silver pedestal goes to the best practical model of 2018, which can be safely called a worthy combination of convenience and value. The main advantage of this bike for riders at the age of about 7 is the folding frame, which is rare for modern children's models, which allows you to easily fit it into the trunk of a car and makes it very easy to store the vehicle at home. When assembled, the Altair takes up half the space of any other bike. Therefore, the model is just perfect for storage in a small hallway.

Also, this year's novelty is good with a rich bundle. Unlike its rated neighbors, this bike with 20-inch wheels got everything at once: a comfortable trunk, a bell, a special pad to protect it from bruises on the handlebars, a bell and fenders. The company also took care of a pleasant bonus in the form of optional side wheels for beginners, but for some reason it did not generously use the front brake.

1 STELS Pilot 230 Lady 20 V010 (2018)

The fresh development of a popular domestic company is rightfully becoming the leader of the top three bicycles for young riders from 6 or 7 years old. The strength of the model is the ability to change speeds, which is innovative for children's bicycles. The child is offered a choice of six speeds and convenient switching between them using the rotating handle on the steering wheel. Also, the bike with 20-inch wheels received effective V-Brake brakes for active riding.

Another advantage of the Stels Pilot for girls is the robust double-walled rim design with horizontal bridges, which guarantees better durability than a conventional single rim. Therefore, the bike is recommended even for cross-country, that is, intensive riding on rough and even hilly terrain. At the same time, it is somewhat lighter than most analogues, because its weight does not exceed 13.3 kilograms, which makes the children's bike easy to operate and quite maneuverable.