Category Archives for Bikes

Mountain biking is not a cheap hobby, and if you are buying your first bike, you will probably want to keep your costs to a minimum. The cost of a bike is a lot of money for anyone, especially if you aren’t sure if the hobby is for you or you aren’t cycling at an advanced level just yet.

If you look at a competitive level, mountain bikes for off-road riding or just standard mountain biking are likely to cost far more than $1000, but that shouldn’t put you off. This is a decent budget for a starter mountain bike, and you can purchase something with great features like mechanical disc brakes, rear suspension, shifters, and other components that will last you a long time and still handle some seriously rough terrain.

Unfortunately, it isn’t just as simple as deciding a budget and diving straight in with a purchase. Mountain bikes have a huge variety of features and no two models are identical. The important thing is to understand your own unique needs and preferences and we’ve set out to break down the features to make your decision as easy as possible—all without breaking the $1000 mark.

Hardtail vs. Full Suspension

These are terms you might have heard discussed in biking magazines and on product descriptions. Simply put, a hardtail means that the suspension is only on the front wheel of the bike. Full suspension means both in the front and at the back wheel too. If you hear the term “dual suspension” it is worth noting that this means exactly the same thing as full suspension.

Hardtails tend to be cheaper due to the fact there is less construction involved in only adding suspension on the front, and while some beginners opt for these, it isn’t necessary if your budget is $1000, as you can definitely purchase a good quality full suspension bike for this.

The suspension fork is a key aspect of any MTB and needs tuning to specific needs. A lot of suspension forks have different modes and allow you to switch between them. They are designed to make your life easier based on how you are riding, so there may be an uphill ‘lockout setting’ or downhill, trial, and full lock settings. Full suspension bikes are superb options for downhill riding, rocky surfaces, and trails as they can handle any bumps thrown at them, whereas a traditional hardtail might struggle.

Frame Build and Size

The frame of a mountain bike is nothing short of vital. It has a huge impact on the weight and feel of the bike. At the lower end of the market, in terms of price, anything you can find that isn’t just aluminum is a benefit. Aluminum is fine for starters, but a lot of the high-end products are now introducing carbon-based products for a huge amount of rigidity but less weight. When first introduced, people didn’t have as much confidence in carbon frames, but they certainly do now as the technology has come a long way and any fragility has gone.

Your frame should give a good strong basis for your MTB. It is the core holding everything together.

Frame size is another consideration and the height of each bike might be something you take into account when making any buying decision. There are some really handy charts out there that will help you choose your bike size based on your height and weight.

Wheel Size

Wheel Size is important but generally decided for you by industry standards. The industry has gone from using 26 inches to 29 inches and then to 27.5 inches. Ultimately, this is one less decision to have to make.

Mountain Bike Reviews

Now, on to the long-awaited reviews. We’ve picked a selection of bikes which are worth a look. Some are well under $1000 while others are close to this mark.

Cyrusher FR100 Folding Mountain Bike

Cyrusher is an Asian brand with growing popularity around the world, especially America. The FR100 is a folding bike, which isn’t everyone’s preference, but having a bike that can fold up to a compact size does come with a huge amount of benefits.

The alloy frame of this bike may be seen as a disadvantage, but it is extremely sturdy with shock absorption in almost every possible place on the bike, allowing for flexibility. The front fork and middle frame are designed to absorb shock even in the most trying conditions and the suspension is hard to find fault with.

There is a school of thought that dismisses folding bikes, but actually, the Cyrusher is a great example of how great this technology can be. It is very easy to fold up and put in your car or take on public transport and once it has been folded out to full size, you wouldn’t really know it was a folding bike. Dual suspension on a folding bike is not something that is easy to come across, but the FR100 fits the bill.

This has 24 gear speeds on its gearbox made by Shimano systems, which means it is perfect for a wide variety of terrain and inclines. Whether you are on the way up or are going downhill, you can find a gear to suit. This bike is even popular among city bikers and commuters due to its wide range. The brilliant Shimano brake system it is suited to everything from muddy terrain to sidewalks.

This bike is designed for riders between around 1.6 meters and 1.85 meters and has 26-inch wheels. It is hard to find a downside, though an upgrade may be to choose a model which is not completely alloy such as this. It comes 90% assembled, so a little bit of finishing is required to ensure the bike is ready to take to the trails.

All-in-all, a decent option at a very good price, and if you don’t mind a bike with an aluminum frame, then the FR100 is well worth your consideration.

Diamondback Hook Complete Mountain Bike

Diamondback has such a huge range of bikes that there is always likely to be one of their products on an MTB list. We’ve selected the Hook model as one of the best models out there for beginners due to the features it packs in at such a reasonable price tag.

One of the big advantages of the Hook bike is the fact that it is available in five different sizes, so whatever height and size you are, you can find a bike that will suit you perfectly. The smaller options are ideal for youth riders.

This is another aluminum bike, which we’ve come to expect for this price tag. It weighs in at 31 lbs, which is far from the heaviest bike on the market. The Diamondback hook design is low-slung and the modern design is evident in the 27.5-inch wheels. It is great for trails and downhill biking. It handles really brilliantly with precise turning even on the tightest trails out there, but it also feels sturdy throughout.

There are eight gears on this bike, so not as many as a lot of the other products at this price range. This may be something of a disadvantage, but having eight gears does give it a fair range and is suitable for uphill and downhill riding.

Considering the price, the Diamondback has a really professional feel to it. A lot of their range is far more expensive than the Hook, which is their entry-level bike and comes with plenty to get you started.

Mongoose Stasis Comp 26-Inch Full Suspension Mountain Bicycle

​Finding the right hybrid bicycle can be frustrating and requires a crazy amount of time and patience. Finding the best hybrid bicycle for beginners is a completely different story—and one that definitely requires more patience than normal if that’s even possible. However, we’ve compiled a list that combines the absolute best hybrid bicycles for beginners, including a list of pros and cons that will help you ultimately decide which bike is best for you.

The advantages of a hybrid bicycle

What are hybrid bicycles?

A hybrid bicycle is basically a combination of a mountain bike and a more regular road bike.  This blend of features results in a great ride that is smooth and adapted for both terrains. You may have heard of cross bikes or even fitness bicycles—these are hybrid bicycles. Normally much faster than the average mountain bike, this combo of elements is in part due to the large wheels taken from the road bikes and the heavier, sturdier frame and higher handlebars borrowed from mountain bikes. Because of this sturdier frame, riding hybrid bikes will probably feel much more solid than normal road bikes. 

Types of hybrid bicycles

While hybrid bicycles can have similar purposes and productions, there are two major categories that fall into the larger hybrid bike class. Depending on what you plan on using your hybrid bicycle for, you may find one version of these bicycles to be better than the other. While both bike categories are great options, the bike that is best for you really just depends on how you plan on using the bicycle in your lifestyle.

Hybrid Classic Bicycles

As the title mentions, Hybrid Classic Bicycles have a much more traditional, almost old-fashioned look.  These bikes have an upright and comfortable position, leaving you feeling relaxed and stable on your journey or ride.

Because of the way these bikes are made, they aren’t necessarily built for speed. Regularly moving at a more leisurely pace, these bikes are perfect for little jaunts around town or if you need an efficient way to get to work. 

You’ve probably seen these old fashioned bikes more than once, with their baskets on the back.  Because of this handy little tool, these bikes are great for running errands or going to the grocery store, as you have a way to hold all the belongings you buy!

While best for running errands, commuting to work or partaking in a leisure ride, these classic hybrid bikes aren’t recommended for off-road biking.

Hybrid Sports Bike

Again, as the name suggests, this hybrid bike is great for more sporty activities, which is the complete opposite of the classic bike we talked about above. Designed to be faster and much more powerful on different terrain, these bikes have more of the appearance of regular mountain bikes.

If you’re looking for a faster and sturdier way to go about your day, a sport hybrid bike may be your better option than the classic hybrid bike. If you tend to find yourself in rougher terrain or going off the road for a quick little expedition, hybrid sport bikes are much better options for you than classic hybrid bikes.

Because of these reasons, the sport hybrid bikes are much easier to navigate more rural roads that may be harder terrain than the average city sidewalk. But, of course, these bikes do equally as well in cities and are designed to strive in whatever terrain you may find yourself.

What are hybrid bicycles best for?

Because of its dynamic combination, hybrid bicycles tend to be best for commuting. Whether you’re off to work or just need a way to get around your neighborhood as you run errands, hybrid bicycles are the finest way to go. Their sturdiness combined with the speed makes your ride safer and easier to handle, both on busy city streets with cars and people all around you—and on more rural roads that may be a bit rougher to ride on.

As you can see, the combination of features (from road bikes and mountain bikes) leaves this bike perfect for commuters, regardless of your current commuter outlook. Whether you live in a busy city or a rural town in the midwest, if you need a bike to get you to work, hybrid bikes are the safest and most reasonable way to go. 

Hybrid bicycles aren’t just for commuting (though many people purchase them because of this sole reason). If you want a reliable bike that can do the best of both worlds, hybrids are great additions to your lifestyles. However, it should be noted that hybrids, while being able to survive on different types of terrain, aren’t the best for all terrains. If you want a bicycle just for mountain biking, you’re going to want a mountain bike. But if you want to go for a ride on the beach, hybrid bikes are great.

Hybrids don’t have to just be used for commuting. If you want to go off the beaten path, you still can with hybrids. And, of course, hybrids are great for recreational activity on the weekends with family!

The best hybrid bicycles for beginners

Now that we’ve covered just why and how hybrid bikes are incredibly important, it’s time to talk about the brands and models that have outdone themselves in producing high-quality hybrid bikes. Here are the top five hybrid bicycles, broken down in detail to discuss just why they’re at the top.

​Diamondback Bicycles Edgewood Hybrid Bike

​

​As comfortable as they come, the Diamond Bicycle Edgewood Hybrid Bike has the 700c wheels of a normal road bike, yet the aluminum alloy frame makes the whole riding experience much more stable than your average road bike. Also, with an extra layer of cushioning in the seat, this bicycle is known for its wide tires and easy to use brakes. A bike that considers comfort its first priority, many riders that are looking for a leisure ride may appreciate the many shift gears that strive to bring you the best ride possible.

To put it simply, here are the pros and cons of the Diamondback Edgewood Hybrid Bike:

​Fortified Theft-Resistant 8 Speed Disc-Brake City Commuter Bike

A reliable city bike, this hybrid bicycle offers anti-theft aspects that no other high-quality bicycle offers on the market. The frame is made of lightweight aluminum, the bike has KMC 8 gear shifters installed, and the tires are puncture-resistant. Built in both small and larger sizes, this bike offers options for both shorter and taller riders. To make this bike harder to steal, it comes with custom security bolts, leaving your bike safe and free from potential thieves. With this new technology, potential thieves have a harder time running off with your bike—and simply cannot quickly steal your bicycle as you run into a building to complete your errands for the day.    

To put it simply, here are the pros and cons of the Fortified Theft-Resistant Commuter Bike:

​​Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s 26-Inch Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle

​Produced with an aluminum frame and front and rear brakes, the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle is an upright riding format that was designed with a foot-forward intention that helps to maintain the proper leg extension needed for a comfortable ride. With a Shimano 7-speed, Internal Hub installed, you can ride this bicycle in a variety of ways and in a variety of different types of terrain. Made for both long and short commutes, the saddle is produced with comfortable material. The bike also comes with a rear rack for potential baskets to store groceries and different items you collect on your journey or commute or bike tools. 

To put it simply, here are the pros and cons of the Sixthreezero EVRYjourney Men’s 26-inch Hybrid Cruiser Bicycle:

​​​​Diamondback Clarity 2 Hybrid Bike

​With 21 gears and available in four different size frames to best suit your height, the Diamondback Clarity 2 Hybrid Bike is adjustable and easy to use. With a mechanical disc brake installed, this bike actually doesn’t have front suspension which could potentially be a problem if you’re looking for a bike to ride in, say, forests. However, this bike’s sole purpose is efficient for more urban rides, and less rough terrain or forest excursions. 

To put it simply, here are the pros and cons of the Diamondback Clarity 2 Hybrid Bike:

A chainless bike that even has a nightglow feature, the Biomega NYC 11-Speed Low-step Hybrid Bike is a mixture of classic and modern aspects. With an 11-speed function, automatic gears, built-in mudguards, and twin brakes, this chainless bike has more high-quality production and material to offer than just its chainless feature. While obviously much more expensive than the average bike, this hybrid bicycle caters to the beginning rider that is looking for a modern and stylish way to commute to work or to add to their lifestyle.

To put it simply, here are the pros and cons of the Biomega NYC 11-Speed Low-Step Hybrid Bike:

​​​​​​Conclusion

After much debate and review, after taking into consideration the pros and cons of each hybrid bicycle mentioned, the clear winner and best hybrid bicycle for beginners is the Fortified Theft-Resistant 8-Speed Disc-Brake City Commuter Bike. Installed with groundbreaking new anti-theft technology that no other bike on the market has, along with its high-quality production and material, as well as its lightweight frame that allows it easy to carry wherever you are, this hybrid bicycle outperforms every other hybrid bike here (and there are some great ones listed).  Great for beginners who are looking for a stable and sturdy bike to commute with, this hybrid bike is the clear winner. Whether you want a leisure bike or a bike for long commutes in tough terrain, the Fortified bicycle brings you every advantage and benefit that hybrid bikes can offer.

​Bike tours are incredibly popular ways to travel and have fun while you have some off time.  Touring with an electric bicycle increases that enjoyment extraordinarily. Already quite big in China and now Europe, electric bicycles are becoming more everyday bikes worldwide—but they’re also great for touring.

Traveling by bicycle is a feeling like no other. You’re outdoors and there’s a sense of being closer to nature and your surroundings. Electric bicycles increase this wonderful feeling while still giving you the energy to travel and be on your merry way discovering new things and places through your journey.

The main things you should know about electric bikes

What are electric bicycles?

Electric bikes are just that: electric. Also known as e-bikes, electric bikes are bicycles with an integrated electric motor. While every electric bike is different on how they are made and, therefore, work, most e-bikes in the United States have a throttle feature that propels the bike forward. Like motorcycles and motorized scooters work, this throttle is the powerhouse of the e-bike. However, it should be noted that there are some countries where the throttle is not allowed, so pedal assist is therefore needed. Most electric bikes can go up to 20 miles per hour or (if you have pedal assist) however fast you can pedal it.

How reliable are e-bikes?

For the most part, electric bicycles are actually really reliable. A high-quality bike will be fine throughout any bicycle tour, even in crazy temperatures. Most electric bikes are made to withstand temperatures from -15 to +45 degrees Celsius, which is quite a good range. Also, these bikes usually last well even in situations like sandstorms or crazy bumpy trails and roads. 

However, we do caution taking electric bikes out in heavy rain, as this has been known to fog up some computer displays in electric bicycles.

How long or far do electric bikes work for?

Now, battery range depends on usage including but not limited to how hard you’re pedaling overall, how hilly your trail is, how windy it is, how much assistance you chose, the bike’s weight, your own weight, the tire inflation, the road’s surface, and the size of the battery. As you can see, a lot goes into finding out how long a battery lasts, or how far you can travel without charging the battery.

A lot of people that tour with electric bikes decide to only use their electricity and power for the hills or when it’s particularly windy. This way, they know their bikes will last for the whole tour.  Bikers can also save as much battery energy as possible by coasting downhill and always making sure the gears are in the best gear for their situation or scenario.

How to charge when you’re on the road

Along with a bike tour, you may think it would be hard to find a place to charge your electric bike batteries. However, it’s actually pretty easy. For the most part, people charge their batteries at hotels and places that they stay along the way. You can also recharge at cafes or supermarkets.

For a full charge, it takes about 3–4 hours, depending on what type of electric bike you have, as well as the battery size.

The main benefits of using electric bicycles

One of the best things about electric bicycles is they offer you so much potential and energy while you barely provide effort. It’s great if you have a long day planned while touring and don’t want to overexert yourself. While you still put energy and passion into your riding, much less is needed when using an electric bike.

Electric bicycles are also quite helpful if you’re riding in an area where there are a lot of hills or you’re riding into headwinds. While on a regular bike this would prove to be quite exerting and difficult, electric bikes really help you out. You won’t feel as exhausted after these little trials when you ride an electric bike.

Electric bikes also help you cover much more distance than a normal bike would. Because of the electric motor, you’re able to reach farther and wider, all while providing the same effort you would if you were riding a regular bike.

If you have injuries that have made it harder to ride regular bicycles over the years, such as knee or back pain, e-bikes are a great solution. Because you’re exerting less and using less energy than you would with a regular bike, there are less strain and pressure on your potentially inflamed joints. This makes electric bikes really beneficial to older people as well who may be experiencing arthritis in their knees or body.

Even if you’re not a regular cyclist who enjoys going on tours, e-bikes have been known to convert more than the odd person. Electric bikes are admired by almost everyone, not just regular cyclists. So, if you know someone that wants to start up riding but doesn’t have time—or if you are thinking of starting to cycle more, you may want to consider introducing electric bikes to your lifestyle.

The best electric bikes for touring

Below is a compilation list of the best five electric bikes on the market now. With a detailed pros and cons list to help you discover which bike could be best for you, use this guide to discover just what you’re looking for in a new e-bike. 

​

Made from high-quality carbon fiber steel, this e-bike has a very long lifespan and can be used for up to several years—even if used daily and in harsher conditions than normal. The battery included, a 36V, 10Ah lithium-ion battery, can be removed. Also included is a smart lithium battery charger. Built for more urban commutes, this bike isn’t recommended for harsh terrain, though it is comfortable and comes with an adjustable seat post to fit any height or need.  Equipped with front brakes to create a highly safe experience, this electric bike also comes with a horn and an LED headlamp, making it highly capable of night riding.   

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the VEEKO 26” City Electric E-Bike:

​​​​​Addmotor HITHOT Electric Mountain Bike

Made from an aluminum city frame, the Addmotor HITHOT Electric Mountain Bike has a range of about 60 miles. Equipped with both throttle riding and pedal assist, this bike performs well and is made for the harshest conditions and terrain. Also added, as an extra, are aluminum alloy spring shock absorbers and a front light that makes it easy to see—and be seen—during any night rides that you go on. This specific model also climbs even the steepest of hills efficiently.  Finally, the Addmotor HITHOT comes with a 5-inch LED computer screen that lets you track your trail, how long you’ve been riding, how your bike and battery is doing, along with other helpful features that are good to know when using an electric bicycle. 

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the Addmotor HITHOT Electric Mountain Bike:

​The Magnum UI5 Electric Hybrid Bike comes with a built-in USB where you can charge all of your mobile devices through your bike’s battery on your long tour journey. A more affordable electric bike than some other brands, this bicycle is made for both urban commuting and touring in any terrain or area. With a strong 350-watt motor and a 36-volt battery pack, this electric bicycle also offers both throttle and pedal assist. Weighing about 50 pounds overall, the whole bike frame is made of aluminum. For the most part, this bike can last for up to 20 to 30 miles before needing to be recharged.

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons for the Magnum UI5 Electric Hybrid Bike:

​With a 7-speed entry level, the DJ Mountain Bike Power Electric Bicycle was made for both touring down rural or country roads and commuting to work in a big city. Equipped with a lithium-ion battery that can be charged either still attached to the bike or removed to charge inside a home, office, or anywhere on the go, the DJ Mountain Bike has a range of 25 –40 miles.  The whole frame is made of aircraft grade aluminum and the brakes are Tektro Disc. Finally, the seat is a comfortable cushion that is spring loaded GS-900.

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the DJ Mountain Bike Power Electric Bicycle:

​The Greenbike USA Electric Motor Power Bicycle can go up to 20 miles per hour and has a range of about 60 miles in one battery charge. Equipped with a Samsung Battery which can be removed to charge, this e-bike was made for regular commuting times as well as long journeys or tours. This specific model also allows for three different modes of riding: regular biking, pedal assist, or only throttle. This can be very effective for long tours where a rider needs to limit the battery usage. A USB connection is also provided with this e-bike, making it easy for you to charge any and all electronic devices (such as cell phones or tablets) while you are on whatever journey you take.

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the Greenbike USA Electric Motor Power Bicycle:

​Conclusion

Every bike here has shown its worth and is considered to be the best electric bikes for touring.  However, there is one main winner here: the Greenbike USA Electric Motor Power Bicycle.  Overall, this electric bike beats all of the others, hands down. With its high-powered Samsung battery, three available modes of traveling (which make it perfect for monitoring battery usage while touring), and the great equipment it comes with (like a horn and headlights), the Greenbike USA Electric Bicycle is the best possible option for anyone that wants an electric bike for touring. With the ability to have a range of 60 miles without charging, this e-bike can take your long distances in a short amount of time—even in the harshest conditions. Overall, there are just too many positives attributed to the Greenbike USA Electric Bicycle to ignore it for much longer.

​Finding the right bike for your child can be incredibly difficult. Whether you are looking for mountain bikes, road bikes, BMX bikes, bikes for off-road riding, or just standard kid’s bikes, there are different bikes that are best for different age ranges. Therefore, finding one that is perfect for your four-year-old can sometimes feel impossible. You want to make sure you get something that they’ll be comfortable riding while also feeling as safe and confident as possible. To make things easy for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best bikes for your four-year-old!

What to look for when buying a bike for your child

There are many things you have to take into consideration before actually purchasing a bike for your four-year-old. To keep things simple and to the point, we’ve broken down the aspects of bike buying that you need to deliberate about.  Each of these aspects is specific and individual to you and your child. What works for one person, however, may not work for you and your kid—and it’s important to take the time to research and look at a variety of options before you buy so that your child will be as safe as possible. And have as much fun as possible!

Always look at the size

Of course, you never want to buy a bike that is too big for your son or daughter—they won’t be able to handle it. Size is incredibly important and is a key component of safety and making sure your kid is as safe as possible. 

Bikes are usually sized and measured by the diameter of their tires. For the most part, 12” and 24” tires are the most common sized kid bikes. However, you have to look at more than just the tires when thinking of size. Make sure you study the seat height as well, as this measurement will really help tell you if the bike is too big or too small for your child.

To break things up, here are the ages and sizes of bikes that are most commonly attributed to each other:

​​​​​Again, these are just common sizes. It really really depends on your child’s size, along with the seat height.

Consider the weight of the bike

You really don’t want your child trying to first ride a bike that is incredibly heavy for them to handle. The weight of the bike is really important and should be around 40% of their weight.  However, this can sometimes be really hard to find, as kid bikes can be much heavier than this.

To try and combat this, try and find the lightest bike in your price range that would make a great addition to your child’s life. You and your child are much better off with a lighter bike than a much heavier bike that your kid can’t even handle. For the most part, a great weight to consider when buying a bike for your child is 12 lbs. 

Look at the balance of the bike

The balance and overall shape of the bike are very important for beginning riders. For the most part, starter riders do best with bikes that are lower to the ground while also have a longer wheelbase. Four-year-old riders also should have mid-rise handlebars, if at all possible. This leads to an incredibly comfortable learning experience for your child. Sometimes, other shapes of bikes (and all their little components) can leave small children to be uncomfortable while learning to ride for the first time.

Evaluate the brakes

There are two main brakes that you can find on children’s bikes: coaster brakes and hand brakes.  Coaster brakes are the standard back pedal brakes that you’ll probably find on most kid bikes.  Hand brakes are just that: the ability to initiate the brakes from the handlebar. Of course, with handbrakes, you need to properly test them. Children don’t have the strength that grown adults do (of course), so test out if you can actually use these brakes. The common way to do this is by trying to use the handbrake with your pinky—if you can’t pull it, chances are your child won’t be able to, either.

It’s important to test both forms of brakes, no matter what. Also, make sure you take the time to properly educate your child on how to use the brakes. It’s important to make sure your child knows what to do prior to them even riding the bike for the first time.

Consider your budget

Budget and price are very important. As you well know, your child is going to outgrow their little bike in no time. This definitely puts a damper on buying a bike that is best for your child (depending on your budget), as a lot of great, high-quality children’s bikes are quite expensive.  However, there are some cheaper options that, while not perfect, are still great and can help your child learn to perfect their riding skill.

We really don’t recommend buying a bigger bike that your child will grow into when it’s older, as this can really inhibit the learning process. It will be harder for your child to learn and is really unsafe (as the bikes tend to be bigger). Therefore, we always advise buying the bike that fits your child the best, even if they will outgrow it in the near future. This helps them learn and feel comfortable while riding, which is always the main goal.

The best bikes for 4-year-olds

Now that we’ve talked about what you should look for when buying a bike for your four-year-old, it’s time to go through the best bikes you can buy them. Detailed and broken down into pros and cons lists, these are the absolute best bikes for your small child.

​The Cleary 12” Single Speed Bike for Kids weighs about 15.8 pounds, which is a really great bike weight for four-year-olds. If you choose to use the freewheel option and remove the coasters, this drops the weight of the bike down to 13 pounds. For the most part, the seat height ranges from 15” to 18” and you can even have an optional short seat post if needed.

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the Cleary 12” Single Speed Bike:

The Woom 3 Pedal Bike is a high-quality alternative to some of the other cheaper bikes on the market. If you’re worried about the overall balance and geometry of the bike, the Woom 3 is known for how well-suited it is to young children. With dual hand brakes that are color coordinated and a weight of only 12 pounds, this bike hits all of the checkpoints. However, the expensive price can be difficult, especially if you have a lower budget. Even if you do splurge and buy this one, though, it can really help your child learn how to ride because of the overall geometry. 

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the Woom 3 Pedal Bike:

​The Critical Cycles Cub No-Pedal Balance Bike for Kids main purpose is to help bring confidence to children as they first learn to ride a bike. With no training wheels, the design is quite safe and brings balance and coordination at hand, helping children learn properly during their developmental stage. With minimal assembly, these tires are also air-free, meaning they’ll never go flat. Overall, this bike can fit children from 20 months to five years—and the seat posts and handlebars can be adjusted through growth and size differentiation. 

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the Critical Cycles No-Pedal Balance Bike:

​​Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike, Ages 18 Months to 5 Years

The Strider Sport Balance Bike is a cheaper alternative that is made from high-quality materials, while also being an effective learning tool for any children first starting out. At only 6.5 pounds, this Strider bike is one of the lightest bikes around, helping children navigate and have complete control over their bike and their riding. This Strider model also comes with a seat height of 11” to 19”. 

To keep things simple, here are the pros and cons of the Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike:

​The Banana Bike LT, now an improved model, is efficient for first-time bike riders that need an easy place to start. With a saddle that can be as low as 12.2”, even smaller children can learn efficiently from this bike. The Banana Bike LT is durable, yet lightweight so that children can easily handle and use the bike for all its purposes. The tires are EVA foam tires, meaning that they cannot be punctured, which means no flat tires. Because of the way this model is produced, this bike can be used both indoors and outdoors.

To keep things simple, these are the pros and cons of the Banana Bike LT:

​Conclusion

Out of all of the bikes best suited for four-year-olds, the winner of this list is the Critical Cycles Cub No-Pedal Balance Bike for Kids.  A low price, even for the high-quality material, this bike is (more than any other bike listed here) the best when it comes to overall geometry. As mentioned earlier, geometry and overall balance of the bike is so very important when young children are first learning to ride. This bike specifically makes it comfortable and easy for young children to learn as efficiently as possible. With the adjustable handlebars and seats, this bike also makes it easy for young children to grow and still use their trusty bike. And with those air-free tires, the maintenance level, or upkeep level, is so low that you basically don’t have to do anything once you set everything up properly. Overall, the Critical Cycles Cub Balance Bike is the best bike for young children of four years of age looking to ride.