Stationary Kids Bike

Stationary Kids Bike

The 5 Best Kids' Bikes

Let them cruise around the neighborhood

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Your child's first bike is an exciting purchase, but it can be overwhelming to sort through all the options. When choosing the best kids' bike, consider your child's age, size and strength. Toddlers can usually start off with a tricycle or balance bike (a two-wheeled bike without pedals) while they get used to steering and sitting on a bike. Older children can try a two-wheeled bike with training wheels, which can be removed when the child gains more confidence and skill. Kids who don't need training wheels still need a bike that is the appropriate size and weight, so they can ride it safely and easily. And of course, kids should always wear a safety helmet when riding any bike.

Here are our picks for the best kids' bikes so they can cruise in style.

Our Top Picks

Reviewers said the bike helped their kids master a 2-wheeler.

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The bike is made of a durable steel frame that can withstand bumps.

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This three-wheeler is low to the ground and supremely stable.

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A substantial bike that has steel wheels with wide grippy tires.

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Teaches kids the fundamentals of balance and body control.

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Though this bicycle is on the more expensive side, you can feel good about this purchase because it will go the distance. Customers note that kids as young as 3 years old have easily made the transition from balance bike to a two-wheeler thanks to this bicycle.

When first introducing kids to the art of biking, a discreet handle under the seat makes it easy for parents to help kids along until they're ready to balance the bike themselves. Then, once kids have mastered the art of biking and are comfortable on two wheels, the light aluminum frame and wide 12-inch wheels on this model makes it easy for first-time riders to maneuver. The bicycle also comes with a freewheel and front and rear brakes—a feature that makes it easy for new riders to brake safely. Kids will love that the sleek bicycle looks like a "big kid" bike and comes in a number of bright, bold colors.

Although there are some cheaper models available, this bicycle is your best bet when it comes to budget models. It's of very high quality and comparable to much more expensive models, but still relatively affordable—especially when you consider the fact that it'll last for many years. The Joystar comes with training wheels to help keep very early riders stable, but they are easy to remove once your child has mastered the art of balancing on a two-wheel bicycle. The seat saddle also has a handle for parents to help with this transition. Additional safety features include wide, durable tires, a chain guard, and an easy-to-use foot brake.

Despite the price tag, the bike is made of a durable steel frame that can withstand bumps and heavy use. Still, the bicycle comes with a lifetime warranty—just in case.

For tentative youngsters just getting acquainted with bicycles, you can't go wrong with a simple tricycle. This three-wheeler is low to the ground and supremely stable, making it a great choice for the earliest riders—ideally kids ages 1.5 through 3 years old. At this age, it's more about getting the kids used to sitting on a bicycle and pedaling, and this tricycle is perfect for just that.

Parents will love that the bike is very affordable, but comes fully assembled and ready to ride. The steel frame also folds for easy storage and portability—use it at home or tote in on vacation. The tricycle also has a covered bin, so your child can bring his or her favorite toys along for the ride.

Though inherently easy to maneuver, the tricycle does have some important safety features for extra security, including a low center-of-gravity, a controlled turning radius, and a safety latch to keep the tricycle secure.

Just because a bike has training wheels, doesn't mean it's lacking sophistication—this bicycle is a prime example. The sporty bicycle looks a lot like models manufactured for older kids but is perfectly suited for the younger set, thanks to the addition of the training wheels. This particular bicycle with training wheels is a step above other models because it is very substantial for a smoother, safer ride. It has a sturdy steel frame, a one-piece crank, a ball bearing drive shaft, a full chainguard, and steel wheels with wide grippy tires. It also comes with additional premium features, like a bell, a water bottle, training wheels, and a quick-release seat post that's easy to adjust as your child grows.

A balance bike is one of the best ways to teach a youngster to ride a bike. Though it may look intimidating without training wheels, many parents swear it makes the transition from tricycle to bicycle an easy one. This is because a balance bike teaches kids the fundamentals of balance and body control, but is small enough that kids can still put their feet on the ground.

Because a balance bike is a transitional bike, you probably won't want to spend too much money on it. This model is a great compromise between affordability and functionality. It's manufactured by an extremely well-known company in the biking world and has features comparable to much more expensive models. The bike has a durable steel frame that weighs less than seven pounds, a comfortable padded seat, thin grips that are easy for small children to hold on to, and puncture-proof foam tires. Still, it's important to note that some customers don't like the maintenance-free tires—they say they are more prone to slipping on some smoother terrain.

Size

When choosing a bike for your child, look at the wheel size. Smaller kids need bikes with smaller wheels (for instance, 12-inch wheels for 2 to 4 year olds and 14-inch wheels for 3 to 5 year olds). Bigger kids can ride bikes with bigger wheels. Look for 16-inch wheels for 5 to 8 year olds, 20-inch wheels for 6 to 10 year olds, and 24-inch wheels for 8 to 12 year olds. Look for bikes with adjustable seats to you can move it to fit your child's leg length. Don't buy a bigger bike with the thought that it will last your child longer. The bike must fit your child's current size in order for it to be safe and comfortable to ride.

Durability

Kids' bikes should be well constructed and sturdy enough to withstand tipping over. It might be tempting to be the most inexpensive kids' bike, but a flimsy bike will not stand up to frequent use. The wheels and tires should be strong and durable.

Style

New riders (age 2 to 4) might be more comfortable starting out with a study tricycle or a balance bike, which allows them to glide along with feet raised or quickly put their feet on the ground to stabilize themselves. Kids 5 to 7 are usually ready for a two-wheeled bike. Many bikes designed for kids this age offer training wheels, which can be removed once kids gain the confidence to pedal without balance assistance. Older kids can ride traditional bikes with more advanced pedaling and braking features.

FAQ

• Where can you find a durable bike for kids?

  High-quality bikes for kids can be found in many retail outlets, including bike shops, sporting good stores, and big-box stores like Target and Walmart. When shopping for kids' bikes online, read reviews and consider the price to quality ratio. The cheapest bike available might not last as long or be as enjoyable for your child to ride a one that's slightly higher in cost.

• At what age do kids usually start riding bikes?

  Kids can start riding bikes between 2 and 4 years old. At this age, a tricycle or balance bike is usually best because these bikes help kids gain confidence and skills. Kids can start riding traditional two-wheeled bikes between 4 and 7 years old. Kids with lots of confidence may be more comfortable riding at a younger age, whereas more hesitant children might want to wait a bit longer before riding.

• Where can you find a gender-neutral bike?

  Many bike manufacturers offer gender-neutral or unisex bikes that are appropriate for boys or girls. Look for unthemed bikes in neutral colors. Some retailers like Target and Walmart let you filter your search to show gender neutral bike options.

• How do you make it easy for a kid to learn riding a bike?

  Many people swear by balance bikes to help make it easy for their kids to learn riding a bike. Balance bikes have two wheels but no pedals; kids use their feet to propel themselves forward, lifting them up off the ground to glide along as they are comfortable. Training wheels are another tool that can make it easier for kids to learn to ride a bike without worrying excessively about falling over.

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Stationary Kids Bike

Source: https://www.thespruce.com/best-kids-bikes-4767060