Best 20″ kids’ bikes for 6-8 year-olds

Quick picks: for parents in a hurry

To save you time on scrolling through a long list of suggestions, these are the absolute best 20" kids' bikes, covering a range of budgets.

• Best budget option: BTWIN 20" Riverside 500 (RRP £219.99 currently £199.99)
• Best range of gears: YOMO 20 (£400.00 + free helmet)
• Best for serious MTB: woom OFF AIR 4 (£955.00)

Top tips: choosing the best 20” kids’ bike

Pressed for time? Here are the most important things to bear in mind when choosing a 20-inch bike for your child:

• Size: Kids grow at different speeds, so sizing is really important. A bike that’s too big can feel scary and hard to control, while one that’s too small will soon be outgrown. Use our simple guide on how to easily measure your child for a new bike to make sure you’re picking the correct size.
• Weight: The lighter the bike, the easier it is for your child to handle. Look out for what the bike is made from - lighter materials like aluminium can make a big difference. It’s also something you’ll appreciate when you’re loading it into the boot or lifting it onto a bike rack.
• Gears: A 20-inch bike is often a child’s introduction to gears. Some use twist-grip shifters (similar to a motorbike), while others use thumb shifters. Make sure the system is easy for your child to use. Smaller hands can struggle with adult-style gearing.
• Price: We’ve included a range of price points to help you find something suitable. That said, extremely cheap bikes often don’t perform well and may even be unsafe. Read more about why you shouldn’t buy a REALLY cheap new kids’ bike, and if money is tight, consider buying a second hand bike, as it's much more cost-effective.
• Type: Around this age, you’ll start seeing a split between all-purpose hybrid bikes and mountain bikes designed for light trail use. For everyday riding, we usually recommend hybrids. But if your child will be heading off-road regularly, you might want to consider one of the best 20” mountain bikes.

Best 20” kids' bikes

Here’s our pick of the top 20-inch wheel bikes for kids, arranged in order of price from the most affordable to the higher-end options.

We only include bikes we genuinely trust, models we’d recommend to our own friends and family. That means you won’t find ultra-cheap bikes that look tempting at first glance but often fall short when it comes to durability, performance or safety. Instead, we focus on quality and reliability, so you can be sure you’re making a smart investment for your child’s cycling journey.

Buying advice: how to choose from the best 20” kids’ bikes

If you need a bit more guidance before taking the plunge, then here are some answers to some common questions.

What makes a good 20" wheel kids bike?

A high-quality 20” bike for children should be lightweight, sturdy and built to last. Ideally, it will weigh under 10kg so your child can manoeuvre it easily, making riding much more enjoyable. A well-built bike is also a smarter investment, as it can be handed down to younger siblings or sold on when your child moves up a size.

Unless your youngster is riding off-road most of the time, a hybrid model is a sensible choice. These bikes are versatile enough to handle both pavements and bumpier surfaces like grass and gravel.

Good gearing is another key feature. Look for a wide range of gears that are simple to operate, so your child can manage climbs and flats confidently. Smaller hands will benefit from shifters designed with ease of use in mind – typically found on bikes with more premium components. Most 20” bikes come with flat handlebars, which help provide a natural, upright position and reliable control.

It’s worth thinking about gear shifter type too. Some bikes use twist-grip shifters, while others are fitted with thumb triggers. If possible, let your child try both options to see what feels most intuitive. You can always upgrade or swap out components later if necessary.

What age child is a 20" wheel bike for?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as 20” wheel bikes vary across brands. Some come in multiple frame sizes to accommodate both shorter and taller riders. In general, the smallest models suit children with an inside leg measurement of around 47cm, but many bikes are better suited from 52cm upwards. This typically corresponds to children aged 6 or 7, although some taller 5-year-olds may be ready to size up.

It’s really important to measure your child accurately before buying. If possible, try out a few bikes in person to find the right fit. Avoid the temptation to size up too soon – a bike that’s too big can feel overwhelming and be difficult or unsafe to ride.

Here’s how to easily measure your child for a new bike, and our guide is my kid's bike the right size for them? will help you make sure it’s a good fit.

Does my child need a 20” mountain bike?

At the 20” wheel size, you’ll notice more specialist bikes entering the mix – including mountain bikes. We’ve highlighted the best 20” mountain bikes, which are designed for young riders tackling rougher terrain. These models often include more advanced features for off-road performance, but they do come with a higher price tag.

Unless your child is regularly riding on mountain bike trails, a hybrid bike is usually a better all-round option. Hybrids offer the comfort and control of a mountain bike, with features like wide tyres and flat bars, but they’re lighter and more efficient on tarmac and smoother paths.

Mountain bikes can be heavier and harder work on flat routes, so unless your child is going to make full use of the extra features, there’s no need to splash out on one. Don’t feel pressured into buying a bike that goes beyond what your child actually needs.

How can I adjust the bike to fit my child as they grow?

Most 20” bikes come with adjustable features that can be fine-tuned as your child gets taller. The saddle height is the easiest place to start – it can usually be raised to keep pace with their growth, but make sure the seatpost isn’t extended past the minimum insert line. As a general rule, your child should be able to place their toes on the ground when seated.

Quick-release seat clamps are a great addition, allowing you to make height adjustments without needing any tools – handy if you’re swapping between siblings.

Some bikes also have adjustable handlebars. You may be able to raise or lower them slightly, or change the angle and reach if the bike has an adjustable stem. These small tweaks can make a big difference in helping your child stay comfortable and in control as they grow.

If you’re looking for a bike that will last through a growth spurt or two, consider the  Black Mountain HÜTTO for its adaptability.

How do I teach my child to use gears?

Getting started with gears might feel like a big step, but it’s surprisingly manageable with a bit of practice and patience. Start by showing your child how the gears work – explain that lower gears make pedalling easier uphill, while higher gears help them go faster on flat stretches.

The best place to practise is a safe, flat area where they can get a feel for changing gears without the pressure of traffic or tough terrain. Encourage them to experiment and see how it affects their pedalling. Simple tips like “shift before you get to a hill” and “use a harder gear when you’re going faster” can make things easier to understand.

Stick with them during the early rides so you can help guide the process. With a bit of encouragement, most kids quickly get the hang of it and enjoy the independence that comes with using gears.

Is an expensive kids' bike worth it?

Given the current cost of living crisis, it’s completely understandable to want to save money wherever possible. Kids' bikes can get expensive, but there are some significant benefits to higher-quality models. If you’ve got some flexibility in your budget, a mid-range bike can offer great value.

More expensive bikes are generally lighter, making them easier for your child to ride. They also feature better components, more reliable brakes, smoother gear shifts, and tougher tyres.

Investing in a higher-quality bike can pay off in the long term, as these bikes tend to last longer and hold their resale value. If you’re looking for the best value without overspending, check out our guide to the cheapest kids' bikes that are actually good.

If your budget is tighter, buying a second hand bike is a smart way to get a quality ride for less. Just steer clear of the very cheapest new bikes, especially those covered in cartoon characters—these are typically toy bikes that won’t last. Here’s why you shouldn’t buy a REALLY cheap new kids’ bike.

What accessories should I get with the bike?

There are several accessories that can enhance your child’s cycling experience. Start with one of the best kids’ bike helmets to keep them safe in case of a fall. Younger riders or those nervous about falling might also benefit from knee pads and elbow pads, though not every child will want them.

If you’re leaving your bikes unattended, you’ll need one of the best kids’ bike locks to keep them secure. For riding in low-light conditions, consider the best kids’ bike lights to help them see and be seen.

Other useful accessories include water bottle cages, mudguards, a kickstand, and a rear rack, especially if they’ll be using the bike for school runs.