Bicycles 24 inches for boys and girls: models and choices
Most teenagers enjoy cycling. Parents are only happy with this - the child receives optimal physical activity, spends a lot of time in the fresh air. To get the most out of the process, all that remains is to choose the right bike. We will tell you how to choose a 24-inch bike in the article.
Peculiarities
24 '' bike (i.e. 24 '' wheel radius) intended for children 8-14 years old, whose height is 130-150 cm. In general, this design is very similar in appearance to an adult bike, although it is smaller in size. But the bike differs not only in size, but also in other design features.
Such products have a narrower and thinner steering wheel, front and rear brakes, soft suspension. The bike is lighter and safer.
Unlike toddlers' bike models, 24-inch bikes have a large number of speeds (usually up to 21), good quality drivetrain. Although rare, disc brakes are still possible.
Finally, kids 'and teens' bicycles still have more colorful designs than older ones.
Varieties
Depending on the design features and functionality, 24-inch bicycles can be of the following types.
Folding bike
Bicycles for children from 8 years old can be foldable. This is the best option for those families who are often on the road and are used to leading an active lifestyle.... It is enough to fold the bike to turn it into a compact and easy-to-transport structure.
Mountain
These bicycles have improved cross-country performance, which is achieved thanks to the presence of hydraulic brakes and a powerful damping system. The frame of such models is most often made made of duralumin alloys; steel and titanium can act as additional reinforcement.
Urban
Designed for driving on relatively flat and straight city roads and light bumps. As a rule, they have a lightweight aluminum frame and a wider seat. They are often equipped with massive protective wings.
Based on the frame material criteria, we get the following bike varieties.
- Bicycles with an aluminum frame lighter, in addition, the material better conducts reinforcement from the pedal to the wheels, and also helps to avoid strong springiness on bumps.
- Steel - more durable, but also heavier and more expensive material. Does not possess properties characteristic of aluminum. Steel frame bikes for teenagers are commonly found in the mountain bike lineup.
Depending on who the bike is intended for, distinguish between models for boys and girls. The latter are usually smaller and lighter, with a lower frame and a wider and softer seat. In most cases, we are talking about differences in design.
The lineup
Let's take a look at the most popular 24-inch bicycles for teenagers.
Scott Scale JR 24 DISC
This model is the result of cooperation between American and Swiss companies (the production facilities themselves are located in Cambodia). It is one of the most popular and it is no coincidence that it tops the ranking of bicycles for teenagers.
It is characterized by increased cross-country ability, suitable for driving over rough terrain and even loose soil.
This is largely due to wide tires and a handlebar. Has 21 gear speeds. Finally, it is worth noting the rich color palette - you can purchase models of gray, red, green and blue shades.
Merida spider j24
Bicycle from a Taiwanese manufacturer able to successfully overcome both bumpy off-road and urban asphalt paths... This model uses the patented original transmission from the Chinese company Shimano, which, in turn, allows the bike to be used in 6 speed modes. Also, the reliability and comfort of the ride is ensured by the proprietary braking system. The bike is light enough thanks to the use of aluminum as a material for the frame and other supporting structures.
Stinger defender
Model suitable for frequent riding does not break. Designed for those who like walking around the city. The steel frame adds structural stability, and the rigid fork allows for more efficient use of pedaling energy and thus increases acceleration. The bike has 6 gearshifts and lightweight rim brakes. The latter provide smooth and safe braking.
Stels Navigator 410 MD
Teenage bike for height from 135 cm (which is why it is not suitable for all 8-year-olds), equipped with a steel frame, double rims, disc brakes. Designed for frequent cycling around the city, as well as not too rugged wooded area.
Novatrack Extreme 6 sp. 24
Bicycle for children from 9 to 12 years old... A review by independent experts makes it clear that one of the distinguishing characteristics - perfectly functioning brakes. The V-brake system provides emergency braking even on wet asphalt. Of course, this is the merit of branded tires. The fork is spring-elastomeric (guarantees good controllability), the number of speeds is 6.
How to choose?
Make sure that the bike you like will fit your child. To do this, put him on the seat. With your legs extended, you should easily reach the pedals. And not just touch them with the tips of your feet, but completely lie on them. When pedaling, your feet should not rest on the steering wheel.
Contrary to popular belief, a child should not reach the floor or ground with his feet while sitting on a bicycle. Riding such a bike is fraught with knee problems.
It is worth immediately deciding which bike you need - city or mountain. If you choose a more affordable model, immediately abandon the two-suspended structure.... They do not work well in inexpensive models and only make them heavier.
If you are purchasing a bike for a beginner and do not plan to ride on uneven roads, you can opt for a bike with a rigid fork. They will cope with small bumps, but they will not weigh down the bike and help save money on the purchase.
The handlebars should be the same width as the child's shoulders. When turning the steering wheel 90 degrees, the child should calmly hold it from a sitting position. That is, to reach the farthest point of the rudder.
Ideally, the device should be equipped with two braking systems. It is not always possible to stop the bike with the front brake. This can be dangerous at high speeds. This is why a rear brake is so important.... In general, the rear brake is usually used to reduce speed, and the front brake is used for emergency braking.
If the size of the bike is optimal, evaluate its strength: how reliable the supporting elements are, how neat and strong are the seams in the places where the parts are welded.
As for the frame material, of course, I would like to purchase a more durable steel product (average weight - from 20 kg). However, such a model will be heavy for a child, it is better to choose a bicycle with an aluminum frame (weighs on average 13-15 kg).
Pay attention to the position of the frame. Its height must be safe. A simple test will help to verify this - put the child next to the bike. The frame should be 10 cm below the young cyclist's groin.
Whenever possible, bikes with switchable suspension forks should be purchased. On a flat road, the fork can be disengaged to make driving easier and faster. And when descending from a hillock, on the contrary, turn it on. The main thing is to explain to the child why to switch from one option to another and how to do it. Otherwise, they will be unused.
If the child will ride on a hard straight road (for example, asphalt paths), then preference should be given to bicycles with thinner and smoother treads. But thick tires with a pronounced relief are more suitable for driving on rough terrain. However, tires can be replaced if desired. Wheeled rims are available in double and single. The former are more reliable, but also more expensive.
Another important detail is the presence of protective fenders on the bike. They are located above the wheels and protect the child and the upper part of the bike from dirt and small stones flying from under the wheels during the ride.
If the child drives alone onto the roadway, it is better to purchase a bicycle with reflective elements and a suspended rear light.
An overview of the 24-inch bike for boys and girls is provided in the video below.