Best kids' bikes 2024

Kids Bike Search

159 bikes match

Finding the best kids' bike can feel overwhelming, especially if you're just starting with cycling with kids. To help simplify things, we've carefully selected top brands that we've reviewed and trusted over the years.

The best bike for a 3-year-old just learning to ride will differ from what works for a 13-year-old mountain biker or a 9-year-old gearing up for cyclocross. Considerations like your budget and how often the bike will be used also play a big role in the decision.

To guide you through the process, we've created a kids bike buying checklist that can help you find the ideal bike for your child’s specific needs.

Unlike other guides that promote popular but substandard bikes, each bike we recommend has been thoroughly tested by our family reviews panel, complete with photos and bike reviews to back up our recommendations.

Some brands include affiliate links, while others don’t – our recommendations are based solely on the quality and reliability of bikes we would choose for our own kids (and yours).

Still unsure? Take a look at our buying advice at the end, or check out our cheapest kids' bikes guide if you’re looking for budget-friendly options.

When your child is ready to ride, consider adding one of the best kids' bike helmets, and if you have other age groups to think about, see 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 some key points to consider when buying a kids' bike. For more details, visit the FAQs section.

Size: Choosing the right wheel size based on your child's height is crucial for both comfort and safety. A poorly sized bike is harder to handle. See our guide on how to choose the right size bike for your child’s age.
Weight: Lighter bikes are easier for kids to manage and ride, especially on slopes. Heavier bikes can make riding less enjoyable and harder to control. Aim for the lightest bike your budget allows.
Budget: Inexpensive bikes are often heavier with basic components, while higher-end bikes are lighter, more durable, and give a smoother ride. For great value options, take a look at our cheapest kids’ bikes guide.
Materials: Aluminium frames are lightweight and rust-resistant, while steel frames tend to be sturdier and sometimes more affordable, though heavier.
Brakes: For young beginners, simple rim brakes work well, while coaster brakes (back-pedaling to stop) are also common on smaller bikes. Older kids or those interested in mountain biking may benefit from disc brakes, which offer better stopping power, especially in wet conditions. Look for brake levers sized for small hands.
Gears: Most kids are ready to start using gears around age 7 or 8. Although gears make hills easier, too many can confuse a younger rider. For beginners, aim for a bike with 7 or 8 gears.
Secondhand availability: Buying secondhand can save money, especially for fast-growing kids. Look for well-maintained bikes from reliable brands, and check out our guide to buying a secondhand kids’ bike for tips.
Accessories: Consider if your child might need mudguards, a rack, or a water bottle cage. Not all bikes come with mounting points for these, so be sure to check if they're compatible. You can find this information in our kids' bike search, so be sure to check that out!

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

Buy Now

B'Twin, Decathlon’s in-house brand, offers a broad range of kids' bikes with models numbered from 100 to 900, indicating higher specs as the numbers increase.

The 900 and some 500 series bikes are impressively built, while even the lower-numbered models offer excellent value compared to similarly priced bikes.

Specialised ranges include Rockriders for mountain biking and Riversides for urban and leisure rides. B'Twin also caters to younger kids with balance and smaller pedal bikes.

Decathlon’s UK buy-back and refurbish scheme makes their B'Twin bikes an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option too.

For a detailed look at one of their bikes, check out our B'Twin Riverside 900 review.

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

YOMO, a new kids' bike brand for 2024, has really impressed us at Cycle Sprog with its attention to detail and high-quality ride experience. As a brand, YOMO excels in both style and performance, making their bikes perfect for everything from weekend rides to the daily school run.

We recently reviewed the YOMO 20, and found its lightweight frame, quality components, and smooth ride ideal for families seeking a top-tier bike. You can read our full impressions in the YOMO 20 review for more details.

While YOMO sits at the higher end, their buy-back scheme makes it easier to size up, so they're a solid long-term investment.

Buy any YOMO bike direct and get a FREE helmet

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

If you’re looking for high-quality, durable kids' bikes, woom is a great choice. We’ve reviewed many woom bikes and are consistently impressed by their design, style, and longevity. These bikes hold their value well, due to their robust construction, and still look nearly new after lots of use.

woom stands out with innovations like colour-coded brake levers, and automatic gear shifting on the 16" woom Original 3 Automagic.

Their Now Urban range is also pushing boundaries in kids' bike design.

They offer sizes from the 12” woom Original 1 to the 26” woom Original 6, plus woom OFF mountain bikes, and the woom UP e-bike model.

For more details, check out our comprehensive guide to woom kids bikes and our woom bike reviews.

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

Vitus offers a diverse range of kids' bikes, from balance bikes to trail-ready mountain bikes, that are designed for fun and confidence-building across all terrains.

For younger kids, the Vitus 14 and Vitus 16 models provide a stable and lightweight aluminium frame, optimised for control and comfort with short-reach levers, small-diameter grips, and a single-speed gearing system that’s easy to master.

As they progress, the Vitus 20, Vitus 20+, Vitus 24 and Vitus 24+ models introduce trail-ready features like the Shimano Altus 7-speed drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and plus-sized Vee Crown Gem tyres that offer added stability, grip, and a smoother ride without the need for heavy suspension forks. These bikes are great for aspiring trail riders, with stable geometry and durable components that handle forest paths, parks, and other challenging surfaces.

Each bike is designed with carefully proportioned components to ensure a comfortable fit for smaller riders, while the durable aluminium frames keep the weight low, allowing for easy handling and control. The Vitus range offers the ideal mix of quality and affordability, making it a solid choice for families looking to encourage outdoor adventure.

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

Kidvelo, launched in 2022, has quickly gained a reputation for high-quality, lightweight balance bikes that make learning to ride fun and easy.

Their bikes grow with your child, thanks to adjustable seat heights and handlebar reach, offering years of use.

The standout feature is the 2-in-1 design—both the 14" and 18" models can convert from balance to pedal bikes with a simple pedal kit, making the transition from balancing to pedalling seamless.

Kidvelo bikes are perfect for kids aged 18 months to 7 years, with lightweight alloy frames and child-specific components. Our Kidvelo Rookie 14 review highlights highlights their lightweight build and retro styling, popular with both kids and parents.

With a lifetime warranty on frames and forks, Kidvelo is a great choice for durability and ease of learning.

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

Hornit Bikes are known for their lightweight, lightweight, durable, and sleek designs. Their larger models, the HERO 20 and HERO 24, are ideal for older kids ready to learn gear-shifting, thanks to their easy-to-use 3-speed gearing.

With just three speeds, these bikes offer enough variety for tackling hills without overwhelming younger riders who might struggle with too many options.

The lightweight aluminium frame and child-specific geometry ensure easy handling, making longer rides more comfortable and enjoyable.

While they also offer some of the best balance bikes, the HERO 20 and 24 are standout choices for kids ready for more advanced riding, whether for everyday commutes or light off-road adventures.

With their clean, minimalist designs, these bikes are as stylish as they are practical.

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

Black Mountain is a Welsh brand revolutionising premium kids' with their innovative grow-with-your-child designs. Their durable bikes adapt through multiple growth stages, cutting waste, hassle, and cost for families.

The range includes four models: the PINTO (14”) and SKOG (16”) start as balance bikes and transition into two sizes of pedal bikes, replacing up to three bikes. This creates a smoother learning experience and saves money in the long run.

For older kids, the KAPEL (18”) and HÜTTO (20”) come with gears, with the HÜTTO offering disc brake and suspension upgrades. Both can convert to balance bikes if needed.

Black Mountain bikes combine high-quality engineering, sleek design, and eco-friendliness. If you enjoy hands-on projects, converting these bikes is a fun challenge for parents too!

You can find out more about why they stand out in our Black mountain PINTO review.

Buy Now

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

Buy Now

Frog Bikes are known for producing some of the best kids' bikes, with a range covering everything from balance bikes for toddlers to mountain, city, road, and track bikes for older kids.

A key feature is the variety of frame sizes at the 26" wheel level and a ‘mini’ balance bike option, accommodating different growth rates.

Frog stands out for its lightweight aluminium frames and child-specific geometry, making their bikes easier for kids to handle. The range includes hybrid, first pedal, mountain, and road bikes. We've tested many models over the years, and they’ve consistently been reliable and fun to ride.

Their popularity and durability also make them easy to find secondhand, offering great value whether bought new or pre-owned.

To find out more, head over to our Frog Bike reviews for specific insights into different models.

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

Buy Now

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 offer a fun alternative to more established kids' bike brands without compromising on quality.

With their playful mascot, Splosh design, and included sticker set, these bikes are ideal for younger riders who want both functionality and fun. For older kids, Squish wisely drops the playful design for a more grown-up look!

We reviewed the Squish 18 single-speed bike, and our 6-year-old tester loved it, transitioning confidently to a bigger bike. Squish’s 26” mountain bike also impressed on local trails, offering a reliable and affordable off-road option.

For more information, 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

Cube offers a vast range of kids' bikes at various price points, from entry-level to high-performance models for all disciplines and ages.

Whether you need step-through city bikes with pannier racks, hybrids, or full-suspension mountain bikes, Cube has something for every young rider—including junior e-bikes for older kids joining longer rides.

As one of the largest adult bike brands, Cube allows parents to match their bike with their child’s, though how the kids feel about that might be a different story!

We've tested Cube's top-end mountain bikes, which inspire confidence on the trails, making them a great choice for young riders ready for serious MTB action. For families with the budget and a child transitioning to adult bikes, Cube’s junior mountain bikes are a great option.

Just note that some smaller Cube bikes come with rear coaster brakes (backpedal to stop), which is common in Europe but less so in the UK—so check the brake type when choosing a model.

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

Islabikes were pioneers in quality kids’ bikes, transforming the market when founder Isla Rowntree showed parents the value of lightweight, well-sized bikes. Their innovative designs set the benchmark for all brands that followed.

In October 2023, Islabikes announced they would cease manufacturing and selling bikes, but they continue to offer spare parts for existing models.

Known for their thoughtful design and child-specific geometry, Islabikes are durable, making them perfect for passing down or reselling.

If you're buying secondhand, an Islabikes are a great option, holding their value and being eco-friendly.

Though mainly sold in the UK, they expanded into the USA and Europe, so secondhand models are a chance to own a piece of cycling history.

For more insights, check out our Islabike reviews.

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.

Best kids’ bikes 2024

Contents

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

Best budget kids’ bike brand:

Best mid-range kids’ bike brands:

Best premium kids’ bike brand:

Best online retailers to buy kids' bikes:

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