Kids Bikes: Reviews

Updated July 2011

Shopping for a kids' bike can be tricky. Bikes from discount stores are cheap, but in the reviews we read, some have problems from the get-go, usually stemming from poor installation or shipping damage. On the other hand, bike shops give you the full-service experience, but at a price. ConsumerSearch compares expert advice with user reviews and ratings to find the best bets of both types.

Schwinn Roadster Trike

Best tricycle

$70

Estimated Price

Parents who want a durable tricycle that can be passed down to younger children recommend the 12-inch Schwinn Roadster Trike. This steel-framed tricycle is more durable than plastic models, reviews say, and experts and users alike praise the retro styling. The trike comes with pneumatic tires, an adjustable bucket seat, chrome fenders and a wooden standing deck. The Schwinn Roadster Trike earns praise for easy assembly, and kids enjoy extras like tassels and a handlebar bell. Although the steel frame gets high marks for durability, it's also heavy, which is a common complaint about kids' bikes. Some parents also say they have problems finding replacement inner tubes for the small tires. The Schwinn Roadster Trike is available for both girls and boys, and it comes in blue, red or pink.

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Razor Rip Rider 360

Tricycle for older kids

$90

Estimated Price

For older kids (ages 5 and up), the Razor Rip Rider 360 is a top choice. This unusual tricycle has one large wheel in the front and two caster wheels in the back, which allows the tricycle to do 360-degree spins and move in more directions than a traditional trike. It's clear from reviews that kids love the Razor Rip Rider 360, mainly because it spins and goes fast. Parents also like the tricycle because it is stable thanks to a wide bucket seat and a low center of gravity. Easy assembly is another plus. Although the Razor Rip Rider has a weight capacity of 160 pounds, the bike may be too small for older kids with long legs. The Razor Rip Rider 360 is available only in blue, and many parents say they wish it came in colors like pink or red for their daughters.

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Strider PREbike

Best balance bike

$100

Estimated Price

Balance bikes are all the rage. Designed for kids under the age of 5, balance bikes do not have pedals so children propel themselves forward with their feet and then lift their feet up to coast. Parents say balance bikes teach kids how to balance on two wheels -- something tricycles and training wheels don't do. The Strider PREbike is a particular favorite because of its durable steel frame, puncture-proof tires and adjustable seat. Kids love to ride the Strider PREbike, reviewers note, and parents say the 7-pound bike is easy to lug around. In addition, many reviewers say their kids are able to transition to a two-wheeled bike with no problems. However, some critics say the Strider PREbike is expensive.

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Kettler Violet or El Toro

12-inch kids' bike

$110

Estimated Price

Twelve-inch bikes are a good first step for children ages 2 to 5 who have outgrown their tricycle or balance bike. Reviewers say the Kettler Violet (for girls) and El Toro (for boys) are durable kids' bikes that are more versatile than many 12-inch bikes. Both the seat and handlebars are adjustable, which makes it easier to achieve a precise fit, and the included training wheels are removable. Reviewers say Kettler bikes are sturdy and comfortable, thanks to a steel frame and anti-slip pedals. The rear coaster brake is easy for young children to operate. However, like many kids' bikes, the Kettler Violet and El Toro are heavy, so some children may struggle, especially when pedaling uphill. We also saw several reports that the assembly instructions are confusing.

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Schwinn Jasmine or Scorch

16-inch kids' bike

$100

Estimated Price

We found few reviews of 16-inch kids' bikes (for kids aged approximately 4 to 8 years), but one expert recommends the Schwinn Jasmine (for girls) and Scorch (for boys). Unlike smaller 12-inch kids' bikes, the Schwinn Jasmine and Scorch have hand brakes in addition to a rear coaster brake. Reviewers say this provides good stopping power and teaches kids how to use hand brakes while they still have the familiar coaster brake as a backup. Both bikes have a steel frame, chain guard and removable training wheels. Parents say the training wheels are sturdy, and kids love the fun colors and comfortable padded seat. However, a number of parents complain that the bikes were damaged during shipping, so many reviewers recommend having these bikes assembled at a store.

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Jamis Starlite or Laser

20-inch kids' bike

$215

Estimated Price

The Jamis Starlite (for girls) and Laser (for boys) have a lightweight aluminum frame, which sets them apart from their heavier steel-framed counterparts. The upright geometry gives kids a good view in traffic, and a big comfy saddle is another plus. Like the Schwinn Jasmine and Scorch, the Jamis Starlite and Laser include both hand and coaster brakes, so kids can rely on the coaster brake until they are comfortable with hand brakes. The Jamis Starlite and Laser bikes are only available through independent dealers, so you'll have to visit a bike shop to get one. They are more expensive than 20-inch bikes sold at big-box stores, but experts say you'll get what you pay for with more durable components, precise assembly and longer warranties. Depending on your child's height, 20-inch bikes are recommended for ages 8 to 12.

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