Marin Hidden Canyon 20

There are very few reviews of 20-inch kids' bikes, but a 2009 review in Bicycling magazine recommends the Marin Hidden Canyon 20 for older children. The Marin Hidden Canyon 20 has 20-inch wheels, and bikes of this size are best suited for 8- to 12-year-olds. The bike has a simple design, and it comes in versions for both girls and boys. Unlike most kids' bikes that have a heavy steel frame, the Marin Hidden Canyon 20 sports an aluminum frame. It also has multiple gears to help kids take on hilly terrain. Bicycling magazine says the Marin Hidden Canyon 20 is a safe and reliable choice for kids, and the bike gets high marks for its powerful brakes. Marin bikes are only available at independent bike shops, and the Marin Hidden Canyon 20 is more expensive than kids' bikes available at big-box stores. Still, experts say bike shop bicycles are usually higher quality and will last longer. For younger children, we found the best reviews for the 16-inch Schwinn Jasmine or Scorch (*Est. $100).

There are few professional or owner-written reviews for 20-inch kids' bikes. Bicycling magazine is one of the few sources that recommends specific bikes for different age groups, and Christine Bucher at Bicycling provides the best information on the Marin Hidden Canyon 20. We also found a few user reviews, but they offer good details.