Holidays are coming! One of the most popular gifts for children and teenagers is the bicycle. Here is our list of the best bikes for teens in 2022.
Most adults can tell you about their first bike and the adventures they had when they were young. A bike offers children the first and unforgettable feeling of freedom. The best bikes for teens help a lot in the development of motor skills and muscle development.
So, it is, therefore, essential to choose the right one. There are no specific rules for buying a particular bike for a child. However, the tips below should point you in the right direction. We bet that you will save a lot of time by reading our reviews!
What are The Best Bikes for Teens?
In our list of 15 best bikes for teens below, Diamondback Tess 24 Mountain Bike is our best choice because of its excellent features, premium Shimano body parts, and a wide range of functionalities. If you want a cheap but still efficient bike, Razor High Roller BMX/Freestyle Bike is an excellent choice for a price under $250.
Best Overall: Diamondback Tess 24 Mountain Bike
“Beautiful bike; good value; bike for short adults; well-built; amazing deal; strong V-brakes.”
Good for Teenage Girls: Raleigh Rowdy 16/20/24 Bike
“Mountain bike; experienced riders; boys and girls; amazing value; junior riders; better control.”
Good for Youth Adventure: Diamondback Jr Viper BMX Bike
“Training wheels; high tensile steel; single-hand brake; excellent transition; put together.”
Good for 11 Year Old Girls: Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser Bike
“Easy to assemble; smooth ride; single-speed cruiser; nice-looking; coaster brake; 11 years old.”
Good for 12 Year Old Boys: Mongoose Legion Freestyle BMX Bike
“12 year old son; easy to assemble; advanced riders; best quality; solid bike; heavier than expected.”
Good for 6 Year Old Girls: sixthreezero Around The Block Cruiser Bicycle
“Beach cruiser; short minty girl; bang for the buck; mint green; great bike; fully assembled.”
Good for 10 Year Old Boys: Kent Oakwood Men’s Cruiser Bike
“Aluminum frame; price point; comfortable ride; brake pads; bike for the price; 10 year old son.”
Good for 15 Year Old Boys: Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
“Multiple colors; perfect height; outstanding quality; more cushioned; good size; teen boys; 15 years old.”
Good for Beginners: Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike
“Lightweight; best bike; entry-level; carbon fiber; STI shifters; brake pads; best value; road bike.”
Good for Hybrid Cycling: Schwinn GTX Hybrid Bike
“Hybrid bike; easy to assemble; reversed position; front and rear; smooth-shifting; easy ride.”
Good for Mountain Biking: Mongoose Ledge 2.1 Mountain Bike
“Mountain bike; gear shifters; excellent quality; easy assembly; great bike; perfect beginner bike.”
Good for Preteens: Diamondback Octane Youth Mountain Bike
“Gear controls; exceptional bike; aluminum frame; solid and durable; early ages; package intact.”
Good for Outdoors: NAKTO Cargo Electric Bicycle
“Daily commuter; outdoor activities; e-bike cruiser; heavy lock; light and durable, cargo bike; affordable price.”
Best for Budget: Razor High Roller BMX/Freestyle Bike
“Front tires; front wheel; Christmas Eve; handlebars; low price; come in a package.”
All Bikes for Teens – Comparison Chart
If you are looking for the best bikes for teens, we recommend that you should refine your search based on clear elements such as the color, the number of speeds, the suspension fork, and other product characteristics.
| Best Bikes for Teens | It’s Best for | Material | Weight | Number of Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diamondback Tess 24 Mountain Bike | Best Overall | Aluminum | 40.85 lbs | 21 speed |
| Raleigh Rowdy 16/20/24 bike | Best for Teenage Girls | Aluminum low standover | 19.2 lbs | Single speed |
| Diamondback Jr Viper BMX Bike | Best for Youth Adventure | Hi-Ten steel frame | 25 lbs | Single speed |
| Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser Bike | Best for 11 Year Old Girls | Steel frame | 30 lbs | Single speed |
| Mongoose Legion Freestyle BMX Bike | Best for 12 Year Old Boys | Hi-Ten steel frame | 26.46 lbs | Single speed |
| sixthreezero Around The Block Cruiser Bicycle | Best for 6 Year Old Girls | Steel frame | 40 lbs | 7 speed |
| Kent Oakwood Men’s Cruiser Bike | Best for 10 Year Old Boys | Cruiser bike frame | 40 lbs | 7 speed |
| Diamondback Overdrive Bike | Best for 11 Year Old Boys | Aluminum frame | 32.4 lbs | 3 speed |
| Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike | Best for 15 Year Old Boys | Schwinn steel mountain-style frame | 30 lbs | 7 speed |
| Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike | Best for Beginners | 6061 double butted aluminum aero frame | 25 lbs | 14 speed |
| Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike | Best for Hybrid Cycling | Aluminum frame | 45.95 lbs | 21 speed |
| Mongoose Ledge 2.1 Mountain Bike | Best for Mountain Biking | Steel full suspension frame | 46.6 lbs | 21 speed |
| Diamondback Octane Youth Mountain Bike | Best for Preteens | Aluminum alloy frame | 30 lbs | 6 speed |
| NAKTO Cargo Electric Bicycle | Best for Outdoors | Iron frame and aluminum alloy hub | 57 lbs | 6 speed |
| Razor High Roller BMX/Freestyle Bike | Best for Budget | Tensil steel frame | 29.4 lbs |
Top 14 Best Bikes for Teens Reviews in 2022
Choosing the best bikes for teens is as crucial as selecting the right fitness equipment. The market has many varieties of bicycles, making it difficult to choose one. So, here we are with the details of the bikes, depending on the needs of teenagers.
Best Overall: Diamondback Tess 24 Mountain Bike
Key features
- Shimano Tourney drivetrain
- Adjustable-reach levers
- HL Zoom travel fork
Product specs
| Weight | 40.85 lbs |
| Brake | Linear pull brakes |
| Number of speed | 21 |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Wheel size | 24 inches |
The Diamondback Tess 24 model has the most excellent features among 15 best bikes for teens on top of this list. They equip it with premium Shimano gears (3×7 speed drivetrain). The cycle has a full carbon shape and comfortable design, making it ideal for long rides.
And your child will not complain of back or neck pain because the bicycle has a Hi-Ten steel frame, a strong kickstand, and a mechanical disc brake with adjustable levers. These functions offer the highest efficiency and proper protection for teenagers.
You will have various choices since the bike’s wheels are available in four sizes: 12 inches, 16 inches, 20 inches, and 24 inches. Besides, with a bottle holder, the bike is suitable for multi-purposes, such as road cycling, general use, and exercise.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Premium-quality functional parts
- Great protection features for neck and back
- High efficiency and performance
- The durable bike frame
- Suitable for multiple purposes and terrains
- Eye-catch baby blue color and affordable price
- A bit heavy for young teens
Best for Teenage Girls: Raleigh Rowdy 16/20/24 bike
Key features
- Single-speed drivetrain
- Mountain saddle and soft grips
- Alloy V-brakes
Product specs
| Weight | 19.2 lbs |
| Brake | Alloy V-brakes |
| Number of speed | Single speed |
| Material | Aluminum low standover |
| Wheel Size | 16 inches |
The Raleigh Rowdy bike is extra-lightweight since it is made of aluminum. The bike is available for the teens who heighten from 38 to 45 inches, especially for the girls. It is suitable for urban riding or adventure in the mountains.
The bike is ideal for girls who are passionate and experienced in cycling. It not only supports movement coordination, but it is also a useful and fun exercise to strengthen the muscles and bones of the arms and legs.
Its attractive and functional design is perfect for those young girls who are riding the bike. The Raleigh bicycle will help them support during their first steps. However, your kids may suffer sudden stops when using this unit.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Lightweight with premium materials
- Supports for balance and easily stopping
- Attractive and stable design four mountain rides
- Reasonable price with great functionalities
- Easy to control
- Suitable for young-aged girls
- The bike is not available for fast riding or off-road terrains
- High price
Best for Youth Adventure: Diamondback Jr Viper BMX Bike
Key features
- Single-speed drivetrain
- Comp III Style tires
- Coaster and hand brakes
- Hi-Ten steel frame and fork
Product specs
| Weight | 25 lbs |
| Brakes | Rear hand brake and coaster brake |
| Number of speed | Single speed |
| Material | Hi-Ten steel frame |
| Wheel Size | 20 inches |
If your child likes to explore the surrounding woods or hilly terrain by bike, Diamondback Jr Viper BMX Bike is a superb choice. You may even get it only for your child’s adventure travel.
The 20-inch wheel makes it the right choice for kids aged from 4 to 9 years old. Riding this bike is very easy thanks to the linear-pull brakes combined with coaster brake and 18-speed options.
We can adjust the seat according to the inexperienced rider’s height. It is suitable for the size from 44 to 54 inches. The bike is perfect for preteens and teens who go to the mountain adventure frequently at a reasonable price.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Compatible with all terrains and weather
- Suitable for long rides on rough roads
- High-functional operating parts
- Easy to control and assemble
- Eye-catching color and affordable price
- The bike is not suitable for tall or heavy riders
Best for 11 Year Old Girls: Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser Bike
Key features
- 17-inch steel frame
- 26-inch aluminum wheels
- White-wall balloon tires
- Coaster brakes
Product specs
| Weight | 30 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
| Brakes | Easy-to-use coaster brakes |
| Number of speed | Single speed |
| Material | Durable steel frame |
| Wheel size | 26 inches |
Firmstrong is a manufacturer of high-quality beach bikes. If you live on the coast and are looking for a cool looking and comfortable beach cruiser with family, then the Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser is a brilliant choice. The bike with padded white tires, wide handlebars, and comfortable saddles is perfect for girls 11 years old and above.
The teen bike is available in frame sizes of 24 and 26 inches to suit riders with heights ranging from 5 to 6 feet. The bike also has shifting options: single, 3-speed, and 7-speed. You can choose the level of three and seven speeds if you want to ride higher altitudes.
The urban beach cruiser is ideal for comfortable and recreational riding on paved roads and blocked terrain if your 11-year-old daughter needs a bike for leisure rides, Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser bike worth studying.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- High-quality frame and wheels
- Lightweight and compact
- Three shifting options
- High durability and efficiency
- Easy to use and deliver
- Comes with a large seat, dual springs, and comfort handlebars
- The bike is not available for fast riding or off-road terrains
- High price
Best for 12 Year Old Boys: Mongoose Legion Freestyle BMX Bike
Key features
- Hi-Ten steel frame
- L20’s drivetrain and chain-ring
- Aluminum U-brake and levers
- One-piece forged steel cranks
Product specs
| Weight | 26.46 lbs |
| Brakes | Aluminum U-brake and brake levers |
| Number of speed | Single speed |
| Material | Hi-Ten steel frame |
| Wheel size | 16 – 20 inches |
At this age of 12, children are heading towards adulthood. They need an adventure companion to their height, even in the literal sense. And the fantastic Mongoose Legion Freestyle BMX is an efficient and performing model.
In the saddle, it guarantees fun! Thanks to its ergonomic shape, it can cushion any pressure. It is, therefore, suitable both on the road and on unpaved and steep terrain.
The wheel tires are very resistant and have been specially designed to guarantee the best performance over time without being damaged. The frame is very sturdy and stable so that your children can have fun in complete safety.
Thanks to the practical gear shift on the handlebar, no route will be difficult or tiring. It is the ideal bike for a few outings with friends!
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Sporty and ergonomic design
- Suitable for rough terrains
- High-quality wheel tires for tear resistance
- Practical gear shift for easy stopping
- Sturdy and durable frame
- Speedy performance
- The faulty brake line and handle when delivered
Best for 6 Year Old Girls: sixthreezero Around The Block Cruiser Bicycle
Key features
- Coaster brakes
- Deluxe cushioned saddle and foam grips
- Optimal basket
Product specs
| Weight | 40 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
| Brakes | Pedal-backwards coaster brakes |
| Number of speed | 7 |
| Material | Durable steel frame |
| Wheel size | 26 inches |
Girls also love to ride their bicycles and take out trips. For this reason, we have chosen a beautiful and practical cruiser bike, the sixthreezero Around The Block. This bike is perfect for your little six-year-old girl who loves outdoor activities.
It is an excellent and sturdy bike. The bike is suitable for any terrain thanks not only to the gearbox that allows an undemanding climb but also resistant thanks to the durable wheels.
The feminine trait that characterizes this bike is not only the pink color but also the woman’s predisposition of the frame to get on the saddle more easily.
In this phase, where the girls are heading towards preteen, it is the ideal bicycle to spend fun days in the company, walking in the city or the middle of nature.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Offers the smooth rides and comfortable experience
- Support for body gesture of young girls
- Durable and solid frame
- Available for beach cruising
- Easy rides and fast stopping
- Affordable price
- Short girls may struggle with the seat
Best for 10 Year Old Boys: Kent Oakwood Men’s Cruiser Bike
Key features
- Enclosed chain cover
- Quick-release seat
- Rust-resistant aluminum frame
Product specs
| Weight | 40 lbs |
| Weight capacity | 320 lbs |
| Brakes | Front and rear handbrake |
| Number of speed | 7 |
| Material | Cruiser bike frame |
| Wheel size | 26 inches |
- High-quality components and bike’s parts
- Enhance the safety for sports use
- High efficiency and durability
- Simple and compact design
- Easy to control and ride
- Affordable price
- Only suitable for boys over ten years old
- The short riders may find it difficult to control the bike
The Kent Oakwood cruiser bike is one of the best mountain bikes for 10-year-old teen boys on the market today. The bike features a sturdy 6061 aluminum frame, 25-inch wheels, disc brakes, and rear derailleur shifter.
Stopping the bike is simple with disc brakes and linear-pull brakes, while it makes shift speeds smoother with Shimano’s 7-speed train. The bike has a sturdy look and is adult-sized, making it ideal for older kids aged ten and over.
Best for 15 Year Old Boys: Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
Key features
- Aluminum and steel frame options
- Schwinn suspension fork
- Schwinn alloy rims and crank
Product specs
| Weight | 30 lbs |
| Brakes | Front and rear alloy linear pull brakes |
| Number of speed | 7 |
| Material | Schwinn steel mountain-style frame |
| Wheel size | 24 – 29 inches |
The Schwinn High Timber MTB is a steal. The road bike features a full aluminum and steel frame, 700c alloy wheels, double pivot brakes, and a 21-speed drivetrain. The bike is more massive than other road bikes, at 30 pounds. Regardless of the weight, the bike is easy to handle for teen boys above 15 years old.
It comes with a comfortable padded seat from Schwinn, Shimano A050 shifted, and a double road shifter. The frame is only available in one size, making it suitable for cyclists with a height of 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 10 inches.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- High-quality components and materials
- Speedy rides with excellent stopping power
- Solid and durable design
- Can handle up to 50 pounds
- Suitable for all racing sports
- Affordable price for steel frame only
- Heavyweight for children below 15 years old
Best for Beginners: Vilano Shadow 2.0 Road Bike
Key features
- STI integrated shifters
- 6061 aluminum aero frame
- Extra pedals included
- Shimano brake lever
Product specs
| Weight | 25 lbs |
| Brakes | Dual pivot alloy caliper |
| Number of speed | 14 |
| Material | 6061 double butted aluminum aero frame |
Vilano Shadow is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner, an experienced biker, or a casual rider, the Shadow is an excellent companion. The bike has integrated Shimano STI gears and brake levers, which allow for precise braking and gear changes.
The Shadow model also has an aluminum frame and a 700c double-walled wheel with a double pivot brake. The bike is light and available in small, medium, and large sizes. It is perfect for the usage of fitness, club riding, triathlon, and exercise.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Available for all levels of riding
- Offers excellent protection and performance
- Suitable for all terrains and weather
- Premium parts and components
- The stable frame structure
- Easy to use and storage
- Customer service is hard to connect
Best for Hybrid Cycling: Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Hybrid Bike
Key features
- Schwinn aluminum dual-frame
- Schwinn suspension fork
- Schwinn alloy crank
Product specs
| Weight | 45.95 lbs |
| Brakes | Alloy linear pull brakes |
| Number of speed | 21 |
| Material | Aluminum frame |
Schwinn GTX Comfort Adult Hybrid bike is a high-end teen bike. The bike features include 26-inch wheels, lightweight steel frame, durable 26-inch nylon tires, alloy brake levers, and Shimano drivetrain. You can choose from several shift options, including single speed, 7, and 21-speed gear sets.
It is one of the best hybrid bikes for multi-purposes, from casual rides to professional sports. The frames are also available in various models to meet the needs of male and female riders. Disc brakes make it easier to control the speed of the vehicle and stop it smoothly.
However, the bike is expensive, which is its only drawback that we can find.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Versatile and compact design
- Easy to use and assemble
- Efficient front wheels
- Easy stopping supports
- Suitable for all cycling sports
- Ideal for both males and females
- Expensive
Best for Mountain Biking: Mongoose Ledge 2.1 Mountain Bike
Key features
- Steel suspension frame and fork
- 21-speed twist shifters
- Shimano rear derailleur
- 3-piece crank
Product Link: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mongoose-Ledge-2-1-Mountain-Bike-27-5-wheels-21-speeds-mens-frame-Black/48520141
Product specs
| Shipping weight | 46.6 lbs |
| Brakes | Alloy linear pull brakes |
| Number of speed | 21 |
| Material | Steel full suspension frame |
| Wheel size | 24 inches |
Mongoose Ledge 2.1 bike is a bike your teen is into mountain biking, and you might want to consider this birthday gift. The Ledge 2.1 men’s mountain bike is among the best MTBs you have today.
It has a full aluminum structure with fork suspension, 3-piece crank with alloy wheels, Shimano 21-speed gearbox, and rear derailleur. The high-end mountain bike gives your kids a high-performance workout on every ride.
Overall, the bike is easy to use and can be a big budget-saver on electric bike expeditions. It comes with hydraulic brakes for safe stopping, which is ideal for mountain biking, fitness, and exercise.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Best mountain bike so far
- High-end parts with efficient performance
- High maneuverability and controllability
- Durable and long-lasting for years
- Easy to ride and balance
- Reasonable price
- Hard to assemble for teens
- The shifters are low quality
Best for Preteens: Diamondback Octane Youth Mountain Bike
Key features
- Hl Zoom travel fork
- Shimano Tourney speed drivetrain
- Clever guard
Product specs
| Weight | 30 lbs |
| Brakes | Linear pull brakes |
| Number of speed | 6 |
| Material | Aluminum alloy frame |
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
The Diamondback Octane mountain bike for kids is one of the best options available for preteens. They make the bike of durable aluminum and come with a suspension hook, making riding less stressful for the body.
It also has Shimano’s six-speed train and linear-pull brakes to stop the bike safely in varying weather. It also features a 20-inch wheel suitable for younger children. In short, the Diamondback Octane model is a perfect bike for cycling, fitness, and daily exercise of preteens recently.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Durable aluminum frame
- Sport and compact design
- High protection and efficiency
- Large wheels for speedy performance
- Available for teens and preteens
- Suitable for all exercise and fitness activities
- Hard to assemble and maintenance
Best for Outdoors: NAKTO Cargo Electric Bicycle
Key features
- 36V 10AH lithium battery
- High-strength carbon steel frame
- V-brake and rear expansion brake
Product specs
| Weight | 57 lbs (with battery) |
| Brakes | Front V-brake, rear expansion brake |
| Number of speed | 6 |
| Material | Iron frame and aluminum alloy hub |
Does your child love to explore the great outdoors? The NAKTO Cargo Electric Bicycle is just what you need for an adrenaline rush. NAKTO Cargo Electric Bicycle has six gears, supported by the Shimano Altus transmission, and is made of NAKTO light alloy.
NAKTO Cargo Electric Bicycle is a bike that looks great and delivers performance too. It comes with a 6-speed gearbox, alloy frame, and aluminum clever disc brakes. The alloy wheels have six solid rims that give the bike a sporty look. They make the fenders of plastic and are not very attractive.
It also features 650B 30-inch wheels for quick acceleration, stability, and improved traction. Braking, shifting gears, maneuvering complicated routes, and responsive handling make this a reliable adventure bike for your teen.
[su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] Pros [su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#23ca7b”]- Two working modes: e-bike and assisted bike
- Large wheels to enhance acceleration and stability
- Excellent performance and efficiency
- High protection for outdoor activities
- High maneuverability and comfort
- Come with sufficient supporting tools
- High price
- They make the fenders of cheap plastic
Best for Budget: Razor High Roller BMX/Freestyle Bike
Key features
- Strong tensile steel frame and fork
- Front-wheel pegs
- Quick-release seat post clamp
Product specs
| Shipping weight | 33 lbs |
| Brakes | Front and rear hand brake |
| Material | Tensil steel frame |
- The most affordable bike on the list
- High-quality frame and braking system
- Sporty and straightforward design for boys
- Offers comfortable and relatable rides
- Easy to ride for all ages
- Low durability
- Some parts from cheap plastic
The Razor High Roller Freestyle bike is a BMX bike for adventurous kids. If your kid loves doing his or her little tricks, this bike can be a splendid choice. It is the cheapest bike on our list, with a price range of below 250 dollars.
The bike has an alloy frame, rims, and front caliper. It has rear brakes and front suspension. The tires are only 20 centimeters in size, making the bike easy to ride for teens with a smaller frame.
It also equips the bike with Pro Series handlebars and a graphic saddle. The freestyle frame of this bike makes it ideal for street riding.
Bike for Teens Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Good Bicycles for Teenage Girls & Boys?
Remember that the best way to know if the bike is the right size is to see if the teens can sit comfortably on the bike with both feet flat on the ground. Besides looking at the bike’s tire size, pay attention to the saddle’s minimum and maximum height to make sure the boys or girls can fit the bike.
It is also important to note that unlike adult bikes measured via the frame, the best cycles for teens are measured by wheel size. Therefore, dimensions are not indicative of frame size or bike saddle height.
What Style Of Bike To Buy
Should I get a road bike or a mountain bike? Or a hybrid? And what exactly is a triathlon bicycle? These are the types of questions that often come up when discussing what bicycle your teenage daughter should ride. The best thing to do is find a shop that specializes in bicycles and get them to tell you what you need.
Ask your teenagers friends for suggestions as well. If they have a bicycle, then you can try it out or even ask to borrow it to see if the fit is right.
Determine The Right Size
In order to determine the right size for your daughter’s bike, you’re going to need some measuring tools. This includes hard tapes measure, string, and a ruler. With this information in hand, follow these instructions:
First take measurement of the head tube (the distance from where that headset is inserted into the frame). Then measure her inseam (the distance between her hip bones) and divide it by 2. This will give you an approximate length measurement of each foot on the bicycle.
Then measure from the top of her seat post tube to the ground in a standing position. The frame should be approximately 2 inches taller than her inseam, but not more than 3 inches.
Lastly, be sure to take a look at the crank length. The average woman’s leg length is about 15.5 inches from knee to floor when she’s in a standing position. In order to determine what crank length will work for your daughter, simply measure from the center of the pedal axle to where her ankle bone meets her leg. This measurement should fall somewhere between 9 to 11 inches. Read more on Bike Size Chart for Kids.
Material
Commonly, teen’s bikes are made of steel or aluminum. Steel bikes are the cheapest and most durable option with the ability to withstand many bumps.
The downside of steel bikes is that they can be significantly heavier than aluminum and rust if left out in the weather. Otherwise, aluminum bikes are lightweight, highly durable, and nearly rustproof, but cost more than steel.
Tires
Tires come in many different forms, such as solid foam, pneumatic (a rubber inflated with air), honeycomb rubber, solid rubber, and hard plastic. Balance bikes, 12-inch, and 14-inch children’s bikes may be available in the inner tube’s tires.
Tires are more common because of their comprehensive benefits, including a cushioned ride and a good grip. They come in different tread patterns, which are typically knobby tires.
Depending on the area you live and the terrain your child will ride on, the tread pattern can make a big difference. Choose the tread relevant in your area to provide the best platform for your child to enjoy the ride.
A more pronounced tread pattern can provide grip on rough terrain and help clear mud when driving off road. Slick tires are better suited to smooth surfaces, which offer adequate grip and less rolling resistance at higher speeds.
Weight
The bike’s weight largely depends on the size, the frame’s material, and the type of tires. The heavier the bike, the harder it will be for a teenager to ride the bike.
Steel bikes are more massive than aluminum bikes, and larger tire sizes equate to more weight. So, they make more gearing and additions like suspension, kickstands, and hand lever brakes.
Brakes
There are two main types of brakes: coaster and lever.
- Coaster: This brake is activated by pedaling backward and is mostly found on smaller bikes
- Lever: Lever hand brakes can be found on scales and the smallest of other bikes.
When the child is ready to use the handbrake, it varies according to his physical ability, confidence, and strength. As the bike’s size increases, the brakes are operated by hand, both front and rear.
Saddle Height
As mentioned, choosing a tire size is not indicative of the seat height of the bike. So, it’s worth checking it out before making your purchase. Check the minimum and maximum height of the bike saddle and the best measurement.
Children’s bicycles’ seat height typically starts at 10 inches and can go up to bikes larger than 40 inches. The best way to know if a child fits the bicycle is to have them stand on it.
When standing on top of the bike, there should be a small gap. The gap helps prevent injury if the child slides forward from the seat during a fall. Most frame designs feature a sloped top tube for this reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
What things to check for the best bikes for teens?
Several bicycle manufacturers design and develop a variety of bicycles for teenagers. When selecting a particular brand, be sure to check the brand’s reputation regarding quality and service.
Choosing the right brand is of particular importance if you are buying a unique bike. Things to check include quality, assembly, warranty, and service.
Which is better: Mountain bike vs. road bike?
The teen’s bikes with wheels up to 24cm are almost all in the style of mountain bikes with large and powerful wheels and a horizontal handlebar. The 24cm models give you the option to buy smooth wheels and a more professional handlebar.
It’s all about seeing what kind of bike the teen wants to ride. The best advice we can give you is to stick with the mountain bike style until they grow up enough to ride a real adult bike.
If all they do is ride on the street and never go astray, then maybe a road bike is the way to go. Whatever you do, make sure you let them try it first. Your child may both love and hate the road bike, so it’s good to try it out first.
What about a BMX bike?
Why not give your child something they may want to drive for years and years? BMXs have a lot of benefits. They are rigid, single gear, durable, and their resale value are very high.
However, the best thing about BMXs is their innate ability to go anywhere and handle any kind of situation on the bike. They are small-wheeled bikes, which means the teens can start using them at an early age, and many kids-friendly versions come with 12cm wheels.
Even when you switch to full 20cm, the bike remains the same, only slightly larger. One of the biggest positives of a BMX is that you’ll end up with a lighter and better bike by spending the same money as a teen’s mountain bike.
Which accessories are suitable for a teen’s bike?
The cost of the bike is not the only thing you should consider. When you buy a bike, you shop for the basic structure and features. You may need to pay extra for accessories such as a basket, helmet, carriage in the back, highlighters, bell, and lock.
If you buy a bicycle online, be sure to check the list of accessories supplied before ordering. However, the best way is to buy a bike after trying it out at the store.
My Top Picks
Cycling is not just exercise. It can be fun when you do it right, and with the people you love. Cycling keeps teens and their families in top shape and costs only a fraction of driving a car. So, choosing the best bikes for teens is vital and challenging.
Diamondback Tess 24 Mountain Bike is my top pick because of its excellent functions and perfect materials. Diamondback Jr Viper BMX Bike is another excellent choice if you often have adventurous rides with your teenage children.
Get ready, grab a bike for everyone in the family, and you could go on a thrilling cycling adventure through the country. Imagine how wonderful it can be! What is your teen’s favorite bike? Talk to me in my comments section.
