The lightest children's bicycles: ranking of the best

The best children's bicycles for 2-4 years (12 inches)

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

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

Five tips for choosing a children's bike

1. Age appropriate
   . The design must be suitable for the child’s level of physical development. For the little ones there are four and three wheeled options, and for teenagers there are two wheeled ones.
2. Consider height
   . Riding level and age are not always similar to existing height. It is best to use the formula by which the height should be divided by 2.5 and another 2.54, then you will get the desired value in inches to select the appropriate wheel diameter.
3. Try before you buy
   . The child must sit and ride a bike. Look carefully at the distance between the crotch and the frame, it should not be less than 10 centimeters.
4. Buy only in specialized stores. In such places there is a large selection of trusted manufacturers, and the consultants have the necessary knowledge and will be able to give the right advice.
5. Child's consent. It is very important that he feels comfortable driving the chosen model. The baby should feel comfortable in control, then falls and injuries will be minimized.

The best children's bicycles for 3-5 years (14 inches)

Bicycles with a wheel diagonal of 14 inches are designed for fidgets from 3 to 5 years. Since by this age not everyone has mastered a children's vehicle, this category, like the previous one, is characterized by the presence of four wheels and the most simple design without unnecessary control nuances. At the same time, such bicycles usually have an increased safety margin, because as children approach 5 years of age, they become noticeably more energetic, ride more actively, often strive to gain decent speed and even try to perform simple jumps and tricks. Therefore, reliability is of particular importance.

The best models of children's bicycles for children from one year old

Puky Fitsch

pros

• Reliable German manufacturer
• Klaxon as a gift
• Lightweight design
• Sustainability
• Wide rear wheel arrangement

Minuses

• The horn is poorly secured

From 5000 ₽

Thanks to clear instructions, assembling a bicycle for children over one year old takes little time. The four-wheel design is very stable and does not tip over on small bumps and uneven surfaces. The pedals are not heavy, the unit is maneuverable and light. The child will quickly master the controls and start driving.

JAGUAR MS-0745-1

pros

• Low cost
• Set includes basket and handle
• Safety rim
• The saddle can be installed in 3 positions

Minuses

• Unreliable build

From 1800 ₽

A small child is not able to assess his surroundings. He may drive onto the highway or interfere with passers-by. By controlling the handle, you, for insurance, direct the baby in the right direction.

1 TOY Т58443 Peppa

pros

• Seat with backrest
• Robust steel housing
• Low price
• Tassels on the steering wheel

Minuses

• Unstable
• The steering wheel turns over

From 1300 ₽

An excellent solution before purchasing more serious equipment, so that the child learns how to ride a bicycle. There is a drawing of Peppa Pig on the seat.

The best children's bicycles for 4-6 years (16 inches)

Models with 16-inch wheels are very widely represented on the children's bicycle market and are designed for ages from 4 years. By this point, many children have already formed tastes and preferences, so you should not be surprised at the breadth of choice. Companies produce a wide variety of bicycles in this category, both in terms of design and capabilities. Some participants in the rating are designed for riding not only in the city, but also off-road, and are also equipped with powerful brakes, which will not only please fans of extreme driving, but also protect them from the consequences of unsuccessful experiments.

The principle of operation and structure of a children's bicycle

Almost 150 years have passed since the invention of the first bicycle, but the operating principle and design of the “iron horse” have remained virtually unchanged.

And there is no difference whether it is an adult or a child, although models for the smallest still have their own characteristics:

1. The frame here is simpler and lighter, because it does not experience serious loads.

2. The seat and steering wheel are height adjustable - thanks to this, the bike can “grow” with the child.

3. The pedals are often located on the axis of the front wheel; the chain drive is installed only on two-wheeled models for schoolchildren.

Children's bicycles can also have a high handle, with which it will be convenient for parents to control the movements of the baby, a basket for things, a sun canopy, or even a game panel. But all these elements are found only in three-wheeled models for preschool children.

The best children's bicycles for 6-9 years (20 inches)

Solutions for cyclists of primary school age are not much different from adult models, except for size and weight. These bicycles, as a rule, can cope with heavy loads without problems and are equipped with a number of useful additions - from practical baskets for small items needed on the road to speed switching and soft fork settings. Bicycles for children around 7 years of age and older are generally more maneuverable than versions for toddlers and reach greater speeds, giving their owner complete freedom of movement.

Which brand of children's bike is better to choose?

Dozens of manufacturers offer to pay attention to the products of their brand. However, not every one of them takes their products seriously. Among the most reliable brands were:

• Shulz . This Russian manufacturer entered the market in 2008, and now specializes in producing city bicycles for the whole country and abroad. The starting batch was one model, which was distinguished by a folding lightweight aluminum frame, compactness, and low price. From 2010 to 2012, the brand developed and then entered the international market. The brand stands out for its reliability and quality.
• Stels . A Russian brand that also develops snowmobiles and scooters. It entered the market in 2003; in 2008 there were already two production plants. Offers high-quality and reliable items supplied worldwide.
• Stark . The production is located in Taiwan, where they develop not only children's, but also classic adult models, as well as run bikes for extreme driving, mountain bikes, racing bikes, and road bikes.
• A giant that produces bicycles, spare parts, and accessories. The products are very popular in Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Belarus. On the market since 1999, it is actively developing and expanding its product lines. The company provides a quality guarantee, tests products, and produces the best components.
• Jaguar . Creates and implements modern multifunctional models. Over the years on the market, quality, reliability, style have remained unchanged.
• Navigator . Russian brand specializing in new products for teenagers and children. The model range includes two- and three-wheeled bicycles, as well as walking models for children. All lines are distinguished by reliability, proven quality, and affordable prices.
• Royal . A European leader that offers consumers bicycles, scooters, and balance bikes. The Royal company has its service centers in many countries around the world, provides up to 10 years of warranty on the frame, and delivers products to customers free of charge.
• Merida . The Taiwanese manufacturer offers a wide selection of youth and adult bikes. The assortment includes urban and stunt models. Bicycles for children aged 6 years and older are popular.
• Novatrack . A Russian brand that offers safe, high-quality and stylish design variations: there are folding, compact, and classic ones. The model range is updated every year, and the technical department does not forget to control quality, so these bikes meet all technical standards.
• A division of the popular company Forward. On the domestic market it offers high-quality, stylish and modern bicycles for children, teenagers and adults.

Models for children 2-4 years old

For boys

SHULZ Bubble 12

pros

• Excellent quality build
• Stylish appearance
• Possibility of mounting side wheels
• Comfortable fit
• Smooth brake operation

Minuses

• High price

From 22200 ₽

The bike is durable, all fastenings are well tightened. The belt drive requires no maintenance. Very beautiful model. There are 7 colors to choose from. If you need to choose a bike for a boy, but he has not yet mastered the process of driving, SHULZ Bubble 12 is an excellent solution, since you can install side wheels.

Puky ZL 12-1 Alu

pros

• German quality
• Comfortable soft seat
• Good quality welds
• High-quality paintwork

Minuses

• No additional wheels or bell included
• High price

From 19000 ₽

Assembly takes place in Germany, not China. The soft, smooth ride ensures comfortable and easy movement of the bike. The transport weight is light. The child can easily park and carry the device. The handlebars and saddle can be adjusted in height.

Royal Baby RB12-17 Freestyle Space №1 Alloy Alu 12

pros

• Smooth welding units
• Hypoallergenic paint covering the frame
• There is a container for liquid
• Beautiful color combinations

Minuses

• Weight 8 kg

From 10500 ₽

As your child grows quickly, the seat and steering wheel can be easily adjusted. The kit includes additional side wheels that help you learn to maintain balance when riding a two-wheeled bicycle.

For girls

Novatrack Maple 12 (2017)

pros

• Convenient frame shape
• Lightweight material
• Basket included

Minuses

• Weak nodes

From 3800 ₽

After assembly, it is better not to hang up the bell, stickers and wings so that they do not weigh down the structure and do not distract with rattling and bright colors until the girl learns to ride. The wheels have smooth tires without aggressive tread. After purchase, it is better to stretch all the nodes for reliability. The frame shape is one of the lightest and most comfortable, nothing superfluous.

Giant Adore C/B 12 (2016)

pros

• Interesting bright design
• Attention to detail
• The set includes side wheels and a basket.

Minuses

• Heavy

From 10300 ₽

All dangerous elements are hidden: there is a full cover on the chain that covers all moving mechanisms. The saddle with a soft anti-slip surface does not cause pain. It is easy for a child to make sharp turns.

Royal Baby RB12G-4 Princess Jenny Girl Steel 12

pros

• Steel frame material
• There are side wheels and a basket
• White color with pink details

Minuses

• Lots of distractions

From 9700 ₽

A steel frame is stronger than aluminum. Pink ribbons are attached to the steering wheel and basket. This can be both a plus and a minus. There are many distracting parts on a bicycle that can interfere with learning.

The lightest

Royal Baby RB12-16 Buttons 12 Alloy

pros

• Aluminum frame material
• Front handbrake
• Weight 7 kg
• Hypoallergenic painting

Minuses

• Frame without shock absorption

From 6500 ₽

An excellent option in terms of price and quality ratio to buy a bicycle for a child. The basis of the transport is a durable and high-quality aluminum frame. There is a hand brake on the front wheel.

Puky Z2

pros

• Weight 8 kg
• Rear foot brake
• Multiple colors for choice
• Rack and fenders included

Minuses

• Price

From 16200 ₽

A lightweight and durable model is suitable for a child over 2 years old. The bike has a flag, front and rear reflectors.