Best Bikes for (really little) Kids

Any parent who enjoys cycling can’t wait to get “Little Timmy” on a bike. You are never too young or too old to start riding, but getting the activity started at a young age is a perfect way to promote a healthy, active lifestyle for your child. There are dozens of options of bicycles for children as young as 2 years of age. Here I have compiled a list of some of the top-rated trikes for tikes.

Classic Retro Trikes (ages 2-5)

Although these are technically tricycles and not a bicycle, these flyers are a great way to help a little one learn balance, steering and basic pedaling. With supervision, even an early walker is ready for these classics. On the left is the Classic Flyer by Kettler 12″ Retro Trike and the cute, pink one is the Radio Flyer Girls Classic Dual Deck Tricycle, Pink.

Kettler Bingo Kids’ 12” Training Bicycle (ages 2-5)

Start off with the detachable training wheels, and remove them when they are ready! For added safety, the bike has a padded seat and handlebars, and the chain is covered. A steel frame, rear brakes, and a hand brake make this an ideal first bike for a preschooler.

Schwinn 12” Grit Bike (ages 2-5)

This highly rated bike is for young ones that need a little more support before they are ready to fly solo. The Schwinn Girls’ 12-Inch Petunia Bike has a handle that can help push and actually steer. Once the child is riding along nicely, you can remove the handle and let the heavy-duty training wheels keep them balanced. Then it won’t be long before the child will want you to remove them, which is very simple to do. Wide street tires, front and rear fenders and even a bell, make this bike a great choice for beginners. The seat is also easily adjustable for fast growing kids. (The attached water bottle on the handle is a nice addition as well!)

Tonka Mighty Kids 12” Bike (ages 2-5)

He’ll feel like a “big boy” on this tough little track-styled bicycle. Your child can learn to ride with coolness with a dual-suspension frame and heavy-duty, removable training wheels. Safety features include an enclosed chain and padded handlebars. Simple coaster brakes make this bike easy to safely operate.

Radio Flyer Classic 12 inch Cruiser (ages 2-5)

Style is only the beginning on this great little cruiser from Radio Flyer Classic Pink 12 inch Cruiser? Pink. Removable training wheels, Radio Flyer’s “grow-with-me” adjustable seat, enclosed bike chain and fenders make this a great choice for your little princess.

Huffy 16-Inch Boys Pro Thunder Bicycle (ages 4-8)

Once you enter into the category of 16-inch bikes, they simply get larger in size for taller children. This Huffy 16-Inch Boys Pro Thunder Bike (Orange) features a steel frame, and like the other children’s cycles, a padded handlebar and seat are standard safety fair. The big motor-crossed styled tires add a nice comfort level to the ride. The fun part about 16 inch bikes? That usually means the child has grown enough that Mommy and Daddy can ride along as well.

Schwinn Jasmine Bicycle (ages 4-8)

The Schwinn brand has long been a trusted bicycle manufacturer. Their commitment to cycle quality is even applied to their children’s bicycle. This Schwinn Girl’s Jasmine Bicycle (Pink) bicycle features a low stand over frame, three braking methods and even an attached handlebar bag. Colored rims add to the fun of this quality, children’s bicycle. Adjustable seat height means she’ll enjoy this bike for many years.

No matter what age you decide to introduce your child to bicycling, make sure you also stress the importance of safety. Bicycling can add a lot of pleasure to your child’s life, but they need to fully understand that safety comes first. Some basic cycling safety tips include:

 

1. Always wear a helmet
2. Be alert of your surroundings when riding
3. Avoid cars and busy streets
4. Watch for and avoid road hazards (including cracks and bumps in sidewalks).

Now get your kid outside and ride! Teaching your child to ride a bike is fun and healthy. As your child gets older, they will also appreciate the joy of riding their bike to school, to their friend’s house or to a local park.

 Additional Resources

This video is a lesson on Bike Safety for Kids and Adults. This is from the show called “On Location” on WCOT.