Every product we recommend is carefully researched, fact checked and tested where possible. If you buy from a link, we may earn a small commission. Learn more.

If you buy from a link, we may earn a small commission. Learn more.

The Best Mountain Bikes For Kids of 2024

The Best Mountain Bike's For Kids

What Is The Best Kids Mountain Bike?

In this kids mountain bike review, our team thoroughly compared build quality, ease of assembly, downhill performance, climbing performance, enjoyment and value for money for multiple products. After hours of research and testing, we recommend the Huffy Kids Hardtail Mountain Bike as the best kids mountain bike on the market.

Kids Mountain Bike Reviews

B07DR28GKQ
0028914738086

Looking for a bike that’s perfect for your little one? Look no further than the 20-inch Huffy Stone Mountain. This bad boy is designed to look fierce in its Metallic Cyan blue gloss, but it’s not all about looks. 

With a solid steel hardtail frame and six speeds, it’s built to handle any adventure your young rider wants to tackle. And don’t worry, the product manual guides you through every step of the assembly process. This bike is perfect for kids between the ages of 5-9 and with a rider height of 44-56 inches. Plus, the alloy quick release makes it easy to adjust the seat height as your child grows. 

With front suspension and a comfortable ATB saddle, this bike handles uneven terrain with ease. And with steel linear pull handbrakes, your child will be able to stop on a dime whenever they need to. 

So if you want a bike that’s safe, reliable, and fun, the Huffy Stone Mountain is the perfect choice!

At a glance

If you’re looking for a bike that’s both fun to ride and safe, you should check out the Huffy Stone Mountain. It’s a great choice for parents who want their kids to have a smooth and enjoyable ride but also want to stay safe on the road.

Looking for a bike that’s perfect for your little one? Look no further than the 20-inch Huffy Stone Mountain. This bad boy is designed to look fierce in its Metallic Cyan blue gloss, but it’s not all about looks. 

With a solid steel hardtail frame and six speeds, it’s built to handle any adventure your young rider wants to tackle. And don’t worry, the product manual guides you through every step of the assembly process. This bike is perfect for kids between the ages of 5-9 and with a rider height of 44-56 inches. Plus, the alloy quick release makes it easy to adjust the seat height as your child grows. 

With front suspension and a comfortable ATB saddle, this bike handles uneven terrain with ease. And with steel linear pull handbrakes, your child will be able to stop on a dime whenever they need to. 

So if you want a bike that’s safe, reliable, and fun, the Huffy Stone Mountain is the perfect choice!

Features:
Style / Type
Hardtail
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
13-17 inches
Wheel Sizes Available
16-20 inches
Suspension
Front
Gears
6
Tires
Brakes
Linear pull
Weight
16 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • High-quality steel frame.
  • Easy to assemble.
  • Reliable braking power.
  • Easy to adjust seat height.
  • Front suspension.

Cons

  • Slightly on the heavier side.
B00UQ7RBFE
0798753220669,0038675176003,7103481289636,0714547240767

Get ready for an epic adventure with the Mongoose Kong Fat Tire Mountain Bike! It’s perfect for riders between 48 and 60 inches tall, with a frame size of 13 inches. 

You’ll conquer even the steepest hills with ease thanks to the Shimano rear derailleur with seven speeds and twist shifters that make gear changes a breeze. Plus, the adjustable threadless headset means kids of all heights can ride comfortably.

But that’s not all! The strong, lightweight alloy rims give you added speed and performance, while the beach cruiser pedals ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. And with front and rear disc brakes, you can ride with confidence and stay safe no matter where your journey takes you.

But the real star of the show? The 4.25-inch supersized all-terrain knobby tires! They’re perfect for off-road adventures and will give your kids the traction they need to tackle any trail. And with a sturdy steel frame, this bike is built to last

At a glance

The Mongoose Kong Fat Mountain Bike is an ideal choice for parents who want their kids to stand out in a crowd. It can tackle rough terrain, shred through dirt and even handle snow in the winter. This bike is perfect for kids who enjoy riding on rugged trails.

Get ready for an epic adventure with the Mongoose Kong Fat Tire Mountain Bike! It’s perfect for riders between 48 and 60 inches tall, with a frame size of 13 inches. 

You’ll conquer even the steepest hills with ease thanks to the Shimano rear derailleur with seven speeds and twist shifters that make gear changes a breeze. Plus, the adjustable threadless headset means kids of all heights can ride comfortably.

But that’s not all! The strong, lightweight alloy rims give you added speed and performance, while the beach cruiser pedals ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. And with front and rear disc brakes, you can ride with confidence and stay safe no matter where your journey takes you.

But the real star of the show? The 4.25-inch supersized all-terrain knobby tires! They’re perfect for off-road adventures and will give your kids the traction they need to tackle any trail. And with a sturdy steel frame, this bike is built to last

Features:
Style / Type
Fat tire
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
13 inches
Wheel Sizes Available
10 inches
Suspension
Rigid
Gears
7
Tires
All terrain knobby
Brakes
Disc
Weight
15 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Shimano rear derailleur.
  • Twist shifters for easing shifting.
  • Lightweight alloy rims.
  • Front and rear disc brakes.
  • Reputable bike brand.

Cons

  • Only available in one color.
B00Z9O8EUA
0038675330108

The Mongoose Exlipse Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike boasts a sturdy and lightweight steel frame that is ideal for all kinds of mountain biking adventures. 

It comes equipped with a set of high-quality alloy wheels that are designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, regardless of the terrain. The bike also features an impressive 21-speed system, complete with a reliable Shimano rear derailleur that ensures smooth and easy gear changes for your child each and every time

Additionally, the bike is fully equipped with a set of 3-piece cranks, which are designed to provide maximum power and efficiency when pedaling. The bike also includes a set of front and rear linear-pull brakes, which are highly effective at stopping the bike quickly and safely. 

As for assembly, it is important to note that the brake cables and shoe position should be carefully adjusted to ensure optimal performance and safety for your child.

At a glance

The Mongoose Exlipse is designed for junior riders with 24-inch wheels. Its durable yet lightweight steel frame, 21-speed precision shifting, and front and rear suspension make it suitable for any terrain. It’s an excellent choice for any ride, whether cruising around town, going to school, or exploring bike trails.

The Mongoose Exlipse Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike boasts a sturdy and lightweight steel frame that is ideal for all kinds of mountain biking adventures. 

It comes equipped with a set of high-quality alloy wheels that are designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, regardless of the terrain. The bike also features an impressive 21-speed system, complete with a reliable Shimano rear derailleur that ensures smooth and easy gear changes for your child each and every time

Additionally, the bike is fully equipped with a set of 3-piece cranks, which are designed to provide maximum power and efficiency when pedaling. The bike also includes a set of front and rear linear-pull brakes, which are highly effective at stopping the bike quickly and safely. 

As for assembly, it is important to note that the brake cables and shoe position should be carefully adjusted to ensure optimal performance and safety for your child.

Features:
Style / Type
Dual suspension
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
15 inches
Wheel Sizes Available
24 inches
Suspension
Dual
Gears
21
Tires
Brakes
Linear pull
Weight
15 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Lightweight alloy wheels.
  • Shimnao rear derailleur.
  • Reliable linear braking.
  • 21-speed gears for riding on all terrain.
  • Dual-suspension.

Cons

  • Dual-suspension mountain bikes can be a bit heavy.
B07WPG4QBG
0028914735498

Are you in a hurry to get your child on their new bike? Then the Quick Connect kids bike is perfect for you! It’s super easy to assemble – just insert the fork and handlebar, fold down the pedals, and insert the seat. 

But what sets this bike apart is the features that make your child’s ride smoother and more exciting. With 6 speeds and easy-to-use shifting, your little one can easily ride over different terrains. Plus, the rear derailleur guard protects the gears from damage. And when it’s time to stop, the front and rear hand brakes provide consistent stopping power. 

The Valcon bike is great for adventurous kids who want to take their riding to the next level. It has a cool design, full suspension, and front and rear handbrakes; everything your child needs to tackle any challenge. 

And with the included kickstand, they can stop and start with ease. Plus, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you know it’s built to last.

At a glance

With a sleek charcoal gray frame, vibrant orange accents, and rugged 20-inch tires, the Huffy Valcon bike is built for real riding adventures. Perfect for ages 5-9 and riders between 44-56 inches tall, the full suspension makes even the bumpiest terrain feel like a breeze.

Are you in a hurry to get your child on their new bike? Then the Quick Connect kids bike is perfect for you! It’s super easy to assemble – just insert the fork and handlebar, fold down the pedals, and insert the seat. 

But what sets this bike apart is the features that make your child’s ride smoother and more exciting. With 6 speeds and easy-to-use shifting, your little one can easily ride over different terrains. Plus, the rear derailleur guard protects the gears from damage. And when it’s time to stop, the front and rear hand brakes provide consistent stopping power. 

The Valcon bike is great for adventurous kids who want to take their riding to the next level. It has a cool design, full suspension, and front and rear handbrakes; everything your child needs to tackle any challenge. 

And with the included kickstand, they can stop and start with ease. Plus, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you know it’s built to last.

Features:
Style / Type
Full suspension
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
20 inches
Suspension
Dual
Gears
6
Tires
Trailing edge
Brakes
Linear pull
Weight
16.87 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • 6 speeds for easy shifting.
  • Full-suspension.
  • Cool design.
  • Reliable braking.
  • Limited lifetime warranty.

Cons

  • Again, as with most full-suspension mountain bikes, it is slightly on the heavier side.
B07532YK99
0791964560760

The Cobra 20 is an exceptional kids’ mountain bike specifically designed to adapt to the growth of your young rider. It boasts a durable steel frame that can withstand the rigors of challenging rides and inexperienced riders. 

This bike has several impressive features, such as a suspension fork, powerful brakes, and a 6-speed drivetrain, making it an excellent choice for exploring beyond the neighborhood’s confines. The Cobra 20’s big tires are suitable for riding on both pavement and dirt, and it also features a rear derailleur guard for added reliability and longevity. 

The 20″ model of the Cobra 20 is ideal for 44″-54″ tall riders aged approximately 4-9 years old. The Shimano 6-speed drivetrain with a trigger shifter provides effortless shifting, giving your little ones the necessary boost on climbs. The Hl Zoom 40mm travel fork is designed to absorb rocks and roots, providing a smooth and comfortable ride like a bike for big kids. 

Additionally, the linear-pull brakes have adjustable-reach levers that keep them safe and in control, providing an extra layer of safety for your young adventurer.

At a glance

Overall, the Cobra 20 is an impressive and reliable adventure partner that will give your young rider the confidence and freedom to explore the world beyond the neighborhood. It’s cool features and durable construction make it an excellent investment that your child can enjoy for years to come.

The Cobra 20 is an exceptional kids’ mountain bike specifically designed to adapt to the growth of your young rider. It boasts a durable steel frame that can withstand the rigors of challenging rides and inexperienced riders. 

This bike has several impressive features, such as a suspension fork, powerful brakes, and a 6-speed drivetrain, making it an excellent choice for exploring beyond the neighborhood’s confines. The Cobra 20’s big tires are suitable for riding on both pavement and dirt, and it also features a rear derailleur guard for added reliability and longevity. 

The 20″ model of the Cobra 20 is ideal for 44″-54″ tall riders aged approximately 4-9 years old. The Shimano 6-speed drivetrain with a trigger shifter provides effortless shifting, giving your little ones the necessary boost on climbs. The Hl Zoom 40mm travel fork is designed to absorb rocks and roots, providing a smooth and comfortable ride like a bike for big kids. 

Additionally, the linear-pull brakes have adjustable-reach levers that keep them safe and in control, providing an extra layer of safety for your young adventurer.

Features:
Style / Type
Front
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
20 inches
Suspension
Front
Gears
6
Tires
Brakes
Linear pull
Weight
13.6 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Trigger shifter.
  • Shimano 6-speed drivetrain.
  • Rear derailleur guard.
  • Big tires.
  • Designed to grow with your child.

Cons

  • The orange color is not the most stylish.
B07PZF1SPL
0087876154969

The Vertical Alpine Eagle 24″ bike is the ultimate companion for young riders who crave adventure and aren’t afraid to blaze new trails. 

Equipped with a full suspension frame that gobbles up bumps like they’re nothing, this bike is a force to be reckoned with. The striking green and white deluxe paint finish with pink accents will turn heads as your kid’s whiz by. 

With an 18-speed index derailleur and grip shifters, they’ll easily conquer any incline, while front and rear v-brakes ensure safe and secure stops on the way down. Setting up and adjusting the bike is a breeze thanks to the quick-release seat post, and the plush padded saddle guarantees a comfortable ride. 

And when it’s time to rest after a challenging ride, the sturdy steel kickstand makes it easy to park their trusty steed. Junior riders will have a blast exploring the great outdoors on the Vertical Alpine Eagle 24″ bike, wherever their ride takes them.

At a glance

With its eye-catching paint job and cool design, this bike is sure to turn heads in the neighborhood. And the best part? It won’t break the parent’s bank! Experience the comfort and excitement of owning your very own full-suspension mountain bike with the Dynacraft Vertical.

The Vertical Alpine Eagle 24″ bike is the ultimate companion for young riders who crave adventure and aren’t afraid to blaze new trails. 

Equipped with a full suspension frame that gobbles up bumps like they’re nothing, this bike is a force to be reckoned with. The striking green and white deluxe paint finish with pink accents will turn heads as your kid’s whiz by. 

With an 18-speed index derailleur and grip shifters, they’ll easily conquer any incline, while front and rear v-brakes ensure safe and secure stops on the way down. Setting up and adjusting the bike is a breeze thanks to the quick-release seat post, and the plush padded saddle guarantees a comfortable ride. 

And when it’s time to rest after a challenging ride, the sturdy steel kickstand makes it easy to park their trusty steed. Junior riders will have a blast exploring the great outdoors on the Vertical Alpine Eagle 24″ bike, wherever their ride takes them.

Features:
Style / Type
Full suspension
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
24 inches
Suspension
Dual
Gears
18
Tires
Brakes
V-brakes
Weight
21.32 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Powerful rim brakes.
  • Quick-release seat post.
  • Convenient kickstand for easy parking.
  • Full-suspension frame soaks up the bumps.
  • 18-speed

Cons

  • Slightly heavy due to it being a full-suspension mountain bike
B09Q2QBW64

The JOYSTAR Contender is a unique mountain bike tailored specifically for children, with a 20-inch frame. The designers of the Contender did not compromise on quality when selecting the components of this bike. 

The end result is a top-of-the-line mountain bike that is perfect for kids who love to explore the outdoors. With full front and rear suspension, the Contender is designed to accommodate a wide range of adventures. Additionally, it comes equipped with both front and rear V brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power when needed. 

For parents in search of the best downhill mountain bikes for their kids, the JOYSTAR Contender is definitely worth considering. Its high-quality components and impressive features make it an ideal choice for adventurous young riders.

At a glance

The JOYSTAR Contender is perfect for kids aged 7-12 and has a sturdy yet lightweight frame made of hi-tensile steel. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the seat height with the quick-release alloy feature. And with its modern design, it’s not only practical, but it looks great too! Parents will appreciate how easy it is to assemble, transport, and store.

The JOYSTAR Contender is a unique mountain bike tailored specifically for children, with a 20-inch frame. The designers of the Contender did not compromise on quality when selecting the components of this bike. 

The end result is a top-of-the-line mountain bike that is perfect for kids who love to explore the outdoors. With full front and rear suspension, the Contender is designed to accommodate a wide range of adventures. Additionally, it comes equipped with both front and rear V brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power when needed. 

For parents in search of the best downhill mountain bikes for their kids, the JOYSTAR Contender is definitely worth considering. Its high-quality components and impressive features make it an ideal choice for adventurous young riders.

Features:
Style / Type
Full suspension
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
16-20 inches
Suspension
Dual
Gears
1
Tires
Pneumatic
Brakes
V-brakes
Weight
12 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Dual-suspension.
  • Front and rear rim brakes.
  • Middle-mounted kickstand.
  • Front and rear mud fenders.
  • Durable steel frame.

Cons

  • At nearly 30 lbs, the JOYSTAR Contender is quite heavy.
B07Y3FWSRY
0028914735092

These ROYCE UNION RTX mountain bikes made of aluminum are perfect for children aged 5 to 9 years old who want to train. 

The dual suspension system helps to absorb shocks while riding, providing a smoother ride. It can also handle harsh impacts while allowing the front wheel to stay on the ground more accurately, giving you better stability and grip. The shifting mechanism is durable and consistent, making it easier to ride. 

You can customize the adjustable saddle with bumpers to your liking. With a sleek black aluminum frame, neon green graphics that are coated in a protective gloss, and vibrant cables and rear suspension bands that create a cool accent, this bike is both stylish and practical.

At a glance

If you’re a parent seeking a high-quality and safe bike, Royce Union bikes are an excellent choice. These bikes are crafted by engineers who are also avid cyclists and understand the significance of reliable quality. Every bike is built with solid reliability and your child’s safety in mind.

These ROYCE UNION RTX mountain bikes made of aluminum are perfect for children aged 5 to 9 years old who want to train. 

The dual suspension system helps to absorb shocks while riding, providing a smoother ride. It can also handle harsh impacts while allowing the front wheel to stay on the ground more accurately, giving you better stability and grip. The shifting mechanism is durable and consistent, making it easier to ride. 

You can customize the adjustable saddle with bumpers to your liking. With a sleek black aluminum frame, neon green graphics that are coated in a protective gloss, and vibrant cables and rear suspension bands that create a cool accent, this bike is both stylish and practical.

Features:
Style / Type
Dual suspension
Frame Material
Aluminum
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
20 inches
Suspension
Dual
Gears
6
Tires
Brakes
Linear pull
Weight
15.79 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Super cool paint job.
  • Dual-suspension.
  • Durable shifting mechanism.
  • Toolkit included.
  • Shimano 6-speed.

Cons

  • The ice blue color is not for all kids.
B086QKRB5Y
0038675223653

The Mongoose Argus MX Kids Fat Tire Moutain Bike is Equipped with impressive 16-inch wheels and all-terrain tires that are 3 inches wide, this bike offers unparalleled traction and stability on any surface. 

Designed to cater to the needs of your 3 to 5-year-old rider, it features BMX-style components that provide incredible control and a totally cool look. The single-speed drivetrain ensures a low-maintenance and user-friendly experience that your little one will surely appreciate. 

Safety is a top priority, which is why this bike boasts a steel caliper rear brake that provides reliable and effective stopping capabilities. Durability is also a key feature, thanks to the sturdy steel frame that is built to last and provide strength for all their wild adventures.

At a glance

The Mongoose Argus MX Kids Fat Tire Mountain Bike is perfect for your little adventurer! With 16-inch wheels and 3-inch wide all-terrain tires, it offers superior traction and stability on any surface.

The Mongoose Argus MX Kids Fat Tire Moutain Bike is Equipped with impressive 16-inch wheels and all-terrain tires that are 3 inches wide, this bike offers unparalleled traction and stability on any surface. 

Designed to cater to the needs of your 3 to 5-year-old rider, it features BMX-style components that provide incredible control and a totally cool look. The single-speed drivetrain ensures a low-maintenance and user-friendly experience that your little one will surely appreciate. 

Safety is a top priority, which is why this bike boasts a steel caliper rear brake that provides reliable and effective stopping capabilities. Durability is also a key feature, thanks to the sturdy steel frame that is built to last and provide strength for all their wild adventures.

Features:
Style / Type
Fat tire
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
16-20 inches
Suspension
Rigid
Gears
1
Tires
Fat knobby
Brakes
Steel calipher
Weight
13 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Reputable and renowned bike brand.
  • Super fat tires.
  • Cool design.
  • Safety comes first.
  • Easy to maintain drivetrain.

Cons

  • Single speed, so kids are unable to learn the skill of shifting.

Look no further parents; the Diamondback Cobra 24 is here to satisfy your little dirt enthusiast! 

This bike is the perfect solution for introducing your child to the world of mountain biking and bridging the gap between child and adult bikes. With 24-inch wheels, the Cobra 24 can easily navigate over various obstacles while still being manageable for smaller riders. 

Plus, the 21 gears and suspension fork provide the necessary support for young riders to tackle dirt trails with confidence. Constructed with a durable steel frame and sturdy wheels, the Cobra 24 is built to last. This particular model is designed for riders who are between 53″ and 62″ in height and aged approximately 8-12 years old. Get your child excited about hitting the trails with the Cobra 24

At a glance

If you want to introduce your child to mountain biking and have them feel more grown-up, this bike is the ideal choice. It’s a great way to transition from a child’s bike to an adult’s bike.

Look no further parents; the Diamondback Cobra 24 is here to satisfy your little dirt enthusiast! 

This bike is the perfect solution for introducing your child to the world of mountain biking and bridging the gap between child and adult bikes. With 24-inch wheels, the Cobra 24 can easily navigate over various obstacles while still being manageable for smaller riders. 

Plus, the 21 gears and suspension fork provide the necessary support for young riders to tackle dirt trails with confidence. Constructed with a durable steel frame and sturdy wheels, the Cobra 24 is built to last. This particular model is designed for riders who are between 53″ and 62″ in height and aged approximately 8-12 years old. Get your child excited about hitting the trails with the Cobra 24

Features:
Style / Type
Frame Material
Alloy steel
Frame Sizes Available
Wheel Sizes Available
24 inches
Suspension
Front
Gears
21
Tires
Wide knobby
Brakes
Linear pull
Weight
13.6 kg
Scores:
Build Quality
Ease of Assembly
Downhill Performance
Climbing Performance
Enjoyment
Value For Money
Overall

Pros

  • Reputable bike brand.
  • 21- gears.
  • Durable steel-frame.
  • HI ZOOM 40mm travel fork.
  • Shimano drivetrain.

Cons

  • Only available in blue.

5 Things To Look For When Buying A Kids Mountain Bike

If you’re not familiar with mountain bikes, this guide can help you find the right one for your child. Even if you know a lot about bikes, it’s always good to review the important things to look for before you make a decision.

1. Size

If you’re buying a bike for your child, you need to know that kids’ bikes come in different sizes based on the size of their wheels. So, before buying a bike, find out what size your child needs by checking the manufacturer’s size chart on their website. This will help you choose the right bike based on your child’s height and age. 

If your child is older, like 10 or 11, they might be able to use an adult-sized mountain bike. But in this case, you should look for an extra-small frame to ensure it fits them comfortably and is safe to ride.

2. Budget

Buying a really good mountain bike can be expensive. Firstly, think about what kind of riding your child will be doing. It’s important to figure out if they really need a mountain bike. For some kids, a regular sturdy bike will work just fine. 

These bikes can handle easy trails without needing special parts like a suspension fork or thru-axles. Thinking about the mountain bike your child needs can save you money and make their biking experience more fun. Your child’s safety should always come first, so spending a bit more money is obviously worth it. 

3. Bike Weight

When you’re looking for a bike for your child, it’s important to think about how heavy it is. Some bikes made for kids can be really heavy, even heavier than the ones adults ride. That can cause problems because kids are lighter than adults. 

If the bike is too heavy, your child might get tired quickly, feel frustrated, and not want to ride anymore. That’s why it’s a good idea to look for a light bike that fits your budget. It can make a big difference in how much your child enjoys riding.

4. Brakes

When choosing brakes for your child’s mountain bike, you have three options: hydraulic disc brakes, mechanical disc brakes, and traditional rim brakes. Rim brakes are the most cost-effective option and are usually found on beginner bikes. While they don’t stop the bike as quickly as disc brakes, they are easy to take care of and work well for families who ride casually. 

Mechanical disc brakes are a good choice if you want brakes that stop the bike faster. They stop the bike better than rim brakes and don’t take much maintenance. Hydraulic disc brakes are the most expensive but offer better control and stopping power. They are also easier for small hands to use. However, they can be expensive to maintain.

5. Suspension

When choosing a mountain bike for kids, you have three suspension options: fully rigid, hardtail, and full suspension

A fully rigid bike is the lightest and best for families on a budget or for smooth trails. If you choose a fully rigid bike, consider a carbon fiber fork to absorb bumps. For most kids, a mountain bike with a suspension fork is best, but only if it’s a high-quality air-sprung suspension fork. 

Cheap suspension forks are heavy and hard for kids to use. A hardtail mountain bike is best for smoother trails and mountain bike events. Lastly, a full-suspension bike is good for rugged trails or shredding downhill. 

A lighter bike is easier for kids to handle and jump, and investing in a lightweight bike can make a big difference in a child’s enjoyment and skill level.

Balancing Safety With Design

Speaking as a parent, I believe that when buying a bike for your child, the quality of the frame should be the top priority. Safety is of utmost importance to all parents when it comes to purchasing a junior mountain bike.

However, it is also important to let your child have a say in the bike they want. Part of the enjoyment of mountain biking for kids is feeling good about the way they look. It can be disappointing to spend a lot of money on a bike only to find out that your child doesn’t like the design.

Happy shopping and even happier mountain biking!!

Frequently Asked Questions.

Can a 12-year-old ride a 27.5 bike?

Adult bikes with 26-inch wheels used to be the norm, but now 27.5″ and 29″ wheels are gaining popularity. If you’re looking for a bike that’s suitable for an 11 or 12-year-old, you’ll likely find options with either 26-inch or 27.5-inch wheels.

How much money should I spend on a junior mountain bike?

Typically, the amount spent on a bike has an impact on its ease of use, maintenance requirements, and durability. For instance, recreational mountain bikes that are of decent quality usually cost around $200, while genuine high-level mountain bikes that come with quality components start at about $500.

Do kids need suspension on a mountain bike?

When kids try to ride a mountain bike that’s too big or heavy, they might get tired and feel like giving up. Kids don’t need as much suspension as adults because they weigh less. Bikes without suspension are easier for kids to manage and control.

Scroll to Top