Best kids' bikes 2024

Kids Bike Search

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Choosing one of the best kids' bikes can feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to cycling with kids. To make things easier, we've carefully picked out top brands that we've reviewed and trusted over the years.

The best bike for a 3-year-old learning to ride will be very different from what works for a 13-year-old mountain biker or a 9-year-old tackling cyclocross. Your budget and how often the bike will be used are also important factors to consider.

To help you navigate the options, we’ve put together a kids bike buying guide to find the best bike for your child’s specific needs.

Unlike some guides that highlight popular but lower-quality bikes, every model we recommend has been tested by our family review panel. With our hands-on testing, complete with photos and bike reviews, you know you’re getting reliable advice based on real-world use.

Some brands we feature include affiliate links, while others don’t—our recommendations are based entirely on quality and performance. If it’s a bike we’d happily choose for our own children, then it’s one we’ll recommend for yours.

Still unsure? Our expert buying advice at the end of this guide can help. If you’re on a tight budget, our cheapest kids' bikes guide has plenty of affordable options.

Once you’ve found the right bike, don’t forget safety essentials like one of the best kids' bike helmets, and if you're planning for multiple ages, check out our guides on cycling with teenagers and cycling with babies and toddlers.

Quick picks: best kids' bikes for parents in a hurry

In a hurry? Here are the links to some of the best kids' bike brands we've reviewed.

Scroll down for more in-depth details and additional options.

Best budget kids’ bike brand:

B’Twin offers a wide variety of kids' bikes to suit different budgets, ages, and riding styles, with home delivery or click & collect at Decathlon stores. Decathlon also has a buy-back program and sells pre-owned, refurbished bikes at lower prices.

Best mid-range kids’ bike brands:

Kidvelo offers convertible balance-to-pedal bikes, ideal for children transitioning to pedals.

YOMO Bikes provides excellent mid-range quality and includes a buy-back option, plus a free helmet with every purchase.

Best premium kids’ bike brand:

woom Bikes designs high-quality, feature-rich bikes that ensure years of cycling enjoyment.

Best online retailers to buy kids' bikes:

Tredz and Wheelbase carry a strong selection of kids' bikes at various price points, all from reputable brands.
Get a free helmet when you buy from Wheelbase and use the promo code CYCLESPROG!

Top tips: to help you choose the best kids’ bike

Here are the key things to think about when buying a kids’ bike. You can find more details in our FAQs section.

Size: Picking the right wheel size based on your child’s height is crucial for comfort and safety. A bike that’s too big or too small can be hard to control. See our guide on how to choose the right size bike for your child’s age.
Weight: A lighter bike is easier for kids to handle, making cycling more enjoyable. Heavier bikes can be harder to manoeuvre, especially on hills. Go for the lightest option your budget allows.
Budget: Cheaper bikes tend to be heavier and have basic components, while pricier models are lighter, better equipped, and provide a smoother ride. If you’re looking for great value, check out our cheapest kids’ bikes guide.
Materials: Aluminium frames are lightweight and rust-resistant, whereas steel frames are sturdier but often heavier.
Brakes: For younger kids, simple rim brakes work well. Some small bikes use coaster brakes (back-pedalling to stop), which can take getting used to. For older kids or budding mountain bikers, disc brakes offer better stopping power, especially in wet weather. Look for brake levers designed for small hands.
Gears: Most children are ready for gears around age 7 or 8. Gears help with hills, but too many can be confusing for younger riders. A simple 7- or 8-speed setup is a good starting point.
Secondhand availability: Kids grow fast, so a well-maintained secondhand bike can be a great way to save money. Our guide to buying a secondhand kids’ bike has tips on what to look for.
Accessories: hink about extras like mudguards, a rack, or a bottle cage. Not all bikes have the right fittings, so check compatibility before buying. Our kids' bike search tool can help you find the right match.

B’Twin

Best value kids’ bikes

Wheel size: 12–26”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, mountain bike, city bike
Typical age range: 2–12+ years, plus a wide range of adult bikes for teens
Warranty: Lifetime on frame, stem, handlebars. Other parts: 2 years
Geographical availability: All countries that have Decathlon stores

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B'Twin, Decathlon’s in-house bike brand, offers a wide range of kids’ bikes, with models numbered from 100 to 900—the higher the number, the better the specifications.

The 900 and some 500 series bikes are particularly well-made, but even the lower-numbered models offer impressive value for money.

B’Twin’s Rockrider range is designed for mountain biking, while the Riverside models are suited to urban and leisure rides. They also have balance and smaller pedal bikes for younger children.

Decathlon’s UK buy-back and refurbishment scheme makes their B’Twin bikes an eco-friendly and budget-conscious choice. To see one in action, check out our B'Twin Riverside 900 review.

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YOMO

Best mid-range brand

Wheel size: 12–26”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid
Typical age range: 2–12+ years
Warranty: Lifetime frame and forks, 1-year parts
Geographical availability: UK

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YOMO is a new kids' bike brand launching in 2024, and we’ve been really impressed with their attention to detail and smooth ride quality. Their bikes are designed for everything from school runs to weekend adventures, combining stylish looks with excellent performance.

We recently reviewed the YOMO 20 and found its lightweight frame, high-quality components, and comfortable ride ideal for families looking for a top-tier bike. Read our full thoughts in the YOMO 20 review.

While YOMO bikes are at the premium end, their buy-back scheme makes it easier to upgrade as your child grows, making them a strong long-term investment.

Buy any YOMO bike direct and get a FREE helmet

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woom

Best overall quality

Wheel size: 12–26”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, mountain bikes, e-bikes and city bikes
Typical age range: 2–14 years
Warranty: 10 years (frames, rigid forks, handlebars, stem), 2 years (everything else)
Geographical availability: International

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woom bikes are known for their quality, innovative design, and longevity. We’ve tested several models, and they consistently stand out for their lightweight frames and child-friendly features.

They include clever touches like colour-coded brake levers and, on the 16” woom Original 3 Automagic, automatic gear shifting.

The range spans from the 12” woom Original 1 up to the 26” woom Original 6, along with their woom OFF mountain bikes, and the woom UP e-bike.

For an in-depth look at their range, check out our comprehensive guide to woom kids bikes and our woom bike reviews.

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Vitus

Best mid-range brand

Wheel size: 12–26”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, road, mountain bike
Typical age range: 2–12+ years
Warranty: 2 years warranty
Geographical availability: UK, international

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Vitus offers a wide range of kids’ bikes, from balance bikes to serious trail-ready mountain bikes. Their bikes are designed for fun and confidence across different terrains.

For younger riders, the Vitus 14 and Vitus 16 provide a stable, lightweight aluminium frame, easy-to-use brakes, and a simple single-speed drivetrain.

As kids progress, the Vitus 20, Vitus 20+, Vitus 24 and Vitus 24+

introduce features like Shimano Altus 7-speed gearing, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and grippy Vee Crown Gem tyres. These are great for young mountain bikers looking for control and durability without the extra weight of suspension forks.

Vitus bikes were previously available through Wiggle and Chain Reaction Cycles, but since both closed, Evans Cycles has taken over their distribution.

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Kidvelo

Best for learning to ride

Wheel size: 12, 14 and 18”
Bike types: Balance bikes, and balance to pedal conversions
Typical age range: 18 months – 7 years
Warranty: Lifetime on frame and fork
Geographical availability: UK, Australia and New Zealand. International on request

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Launched in 2022, Kidvelo has quickly built a reputation for its high-quality, lightweight balance bikes designed to make learning to ride both fun and easy.

These bikes grow with your child, thanks to adjustable seat heights and handlebars that ensure comfort through various stages of development.

One of the standout features is Kidvelo's 2-in-1 design. Both the 14" and 18" models convert effortlessly from balance to pedal bikes with a simple pedal kit, making the transition from balancing to pedalling smooth and stress-free.

Ideal for children aged 18 months to 7 years, Kidvelo bikes feature lightweight alloy frames and components designed for smaller riders. Our Kidvelo Rookie 14 review highlights their impressive build quality and retro-inspired design, a hit with both kids and parents.

Meanwhile our Kidvelo Rookie 18 review tells a great story of how this large balance-to-pedal bike helped an autistic child learn to ride at her own pace.

With a lifetime warranty on frames and forks, Kidvelo offers long-lasting value and peace of mind.

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Hornit

Best for stylish simplicity

Wheel size: 12-24"
Bike types: Balance bikes, first pedal
Typical age range: 18 months–10 years
Warranty: Lifetime on frame and fork
Geographical availability: UK and US

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Hornit Bikes are recognised for their stylish, lightweight designs that are both durable and easy to handle. For older kids looking to build confidence with gears, the HERO 20 and HERO 24 are excellent choices, featuring simple 3-speed gearing that provides variety without overwhelming young riders.

The aluminium frame and child-specific geometry ensure a comfortable and efficient riding experience, even on longer journeys. Parents love the lightweight build, making it easy to transport when necessary.

Hornit also offers some of the best balance bikes, but for kids ready to level up, the HERO 20 and 24 are perfect for everyday rides and light off-road trails. Plus, their minimalist design makes them a stylish choice for young cyclists.

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Black Mountain Bikes

Best for engineering enthusiasts

Wheel size: 14–20” with ‘growing frames’
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, MTB
Typical age range: 2–8 years
Warranty: 3-years frame and forks; 2-years non-consumable components. Warranty transferable
Geographical availability: International

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Black Mountain, a Welsh brand, has transformed the kids' bike market with their innovative ‘growing’ bikes. Designed to adapt as your child grows, these bikes reduce the need for frequent replacements, making them a more sustainable and budget-friendly option.

The range includes four models:

PINTO (14”) and SKOG (16”) – Start as balance bikes and transition into two sizes of pedal bikes, covering multiple growth stages.
KAPEL (18”) and HÜTTO (20”) – Designed for older kids, these models introduce gears and, in the case of the HÜTTO, optional disc brakes and suspension for more adventurous riding.

For families who enjoy a hands-on approach, converting these bikes as your child grows is a satisfying project. Our Black mountain PINTO review goes into detail about their practical design and high-quality construction.

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Frog Bikes

Best choice of sizes

Wheel size: 10–26”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, MTB, city, road, track
Typical age range: 18 months–13+ years
Warranty: 2 years - extended to 5 years for frame if you register the bike within 28 days of purchase
Geographical availability: International

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Frog Bikes have long been a favourite among parents and kids alike. Known for their lightweight aluminium frames and child-specific geometry, Frog Bikes are easier for children to manoeuvre, making cycling a joy from the very first ride.

The range includes everything from balance bikes for toddlers to road, mountain, and city bikes for older children. A standout feature is the variety of frame sizes available at the 26" wheel level, ensuring a good fit no matter how quickly your child grows.

Frog’s thoughtful designs are not only reliable but also retain their value well, making them a great choice for resale or hand-me-downs. Whether you're buying new or secondhand, our Frog Bike reviews offer detailed insights into the best options for your child.

Get a free helmet when you buy from Wheelbase and use the promo code CYCLESPROG!

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Squish Bikes

Best for playful designs

Wheel size: 12–27.5”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, MTB
Typical age range: 2–10+ years
Warranty: Frame and Forks - 3 years; components - 1 year (excluding wear and tear)
Geographical availability: UK

Squish Bikes bring together fun design and high-quality engineering, making them a brilliant alternative to more established brands.

Younger children will love the playful Splosh design and included sticker set, while older kids can choose from more mature, streamlined styles as they grow. The bikes are lightweight, easy to handle, and designed with smaller riders in mind.

We tested the Squish 18 single-speed bike, which helped our 6-year-old reviewer build confidence. The Squish MTB 26 also impressed us on local trails, providing an affordable, reliable off-road option for young mountain bikers.

For more in-depth thoughts, check out our Squish 18 review and Squish MTB 26 review.

Where to buy Squish bikes

Tandem Group Cycles - Squish's parent company
Decathlon
Tredz
Squish bikes can also be found in some local bike shops - see the Tandem Group Cycles website for more details.

Cube

Best for mini-me matching

Wheel size: 12–27.5”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, MTB, kids’ e-bikes - plus full range of adult bikes
Typical age range: 2–10+ years (+ adults)
Warranty: Frame 6 years; rest of bike 2 years
Geographical availability: International

As one of Europe’s largest bike brands, Cube offers a wide selection of kids' bikes, covering everything from city commuters to rugged mountain bikes. They even have junior e-bikes for older kids who want to join parents on longer rides.

Cube’s lineup ranges from budget-friendly options to premium models, including full-suspension mountain bikes for young adventurers. We’ve tested some of their top-end models, which offer great stability and performance on challenging trails.

Parents can even match their bikes with their child’s Cube ride, though opinions on twinning may vary!

A quick note: some smaller Cube bikes come equipped with rear coaster brakes (backpedal to stop), which are more common in Europe than in the UK. Be sure to check the brake type to ensure it suits your child’s needs.

Where to buy Cube bikes

UK: In the UK there are lots of local bike shops who are Cube bike dealers. If you prefer to buy online then the following retailers do nationwide shipping:

Get a free helmet when you buy from Wheelbase and use the promo code CYCLESPROG!

Europe: Cube are a German based brand and have a very strong presence throughout Europe. On their website you can select which European country you are in for their bespoke website and links to local stores.

International: Use Cube's Store locator to find worldwide stockists of their kids bikes

Islabikes

Best secondhand kids’ bikes

Wheel size: 12–27.5”
Bike types: Balance, first pedal, hybrid, cyclocross/road, MTB
Typical age range: 2–13 years
Warranty: 5 years on frame and forks and a 2 years on parts
Geographical availability: Mainly UK although some bikes in Europe and USA

Founded by Isla Rowntree, Islabikes revolutionised the kids’ bike market by prioritising lightweight frames and child-specific geometry. Their bikes quickly became the gold standard, influencing countless other brands.

While Islabikes announced in October 2023 that they would cease production, they continue to supply spare parts, ensuring current owners can keep their bikes in top condition.

Secondhand Islabikes remain a fantastic option, thanks to their durability and reputation. They often hold their value, making them a sustainable and cost-effective choice for families.

If you're considering one, check out our Islabike reviews for insights into different models and tips on what to look for when buying pre-owned. Owning an Islabike means owning a piece of cycling history!

Where to buy Islabikes

Islabikes can now only be bought second hand. The best places to look for these bikes are:

What are the key things to look for in a kids' bike?

If you're new to kids' bike shopping, here are three important factors:

Can your child lift the bike? Heavy steel-framed bikes are hard for kids to manage, especially on hills. If it feels heavy to you, imagine how challenging it will be for them!
Can they use the brakes and gears? All our recommended bikes feature child-friendly controls, but check that your child can operate them comfortably, as poorly designed bikes can be unsafe.
Is it the right size? Buying a bike that's too big is a false economy. It could deter them from riding altogether. Use our guide on how to measure your child for a new bike to ensure a safe and comfortable fit from the start.

How much should I spend on a kids' bike?

Your budget will guide your choice, and you'll find a wide range of prices for kids' bikes.

We've written an entire post explaining why you shouldn’t buy a really cheap new kids' bike, but here are two quick tips:

Buy the best bike you can afford – keeping the key factors above in mind.
Consider buying secondhand – you can get more for your money with a well-looked after used bike. A lightweight, good-quality used bike will always outperform a brand new heavy one.

Does my child need stabilisers?

Many of us learned to ride with stabilisers, but now we know they can limit learning. Stabilisers effectively turn a bike into a trike, preventing kids from learning balance. To develop control, kids need to learn to balance and lean, which stabilisers don’t teach.

Balance bikes, on the other hand, help kids master full-body control, making it easier to transition to a pedal bike. Unless your child has specific needs, we suggest skipping stabilisers and starting with one of the best balance bikes. For more, check out our article answering the question, does my child need stabilisers?

How do I know if my child needs a bigger bike?

Kids grow quickly, and that means outgrowing bikes, too. It’s essential to adjust as they grow for safety and comfort.

A bike that’s too small can lead to accidents or discomfort, discouraging them from riding.

Signs your child might need a larger bike include:

Knees are too bent when pedaling – there should be just a slight bend at the lowest pedal point.
Standing over the bike leaves more than 2 inches between the top tube and groin (unless it's a low-frame design).
Difficulty maneuvering the bike, even if they once rode it confidently.

For a deeper dive, see our guide: Is my kid's bike the right size for them?

Should I buy a bike my child can grow into?

Buying a bigger bike might seem practical, but it can make riding harder. A too-big bike can be tough to control, knocking their confidence and potentially leading to accidents. It’s better to buy a bike that fits well now.

Consider secondhand options or brands with high resale value if you’re concerned about rapid growth.

For younger children, you could also look into convertible bikes that grow with them. Kidvelo and Black Mountain Bikes offer models that can start as balance bikes and convert to pedal bikes as needed.