Children's bicycles from 4 years old: types and choices

There are a huge number of different children's vehicles on sale. A review of the best bicycles for kids 4+ will help parents decide which model to use.

Cycling builds endurance in children, promotes the activation of brain processes, the development of coordination of movement, vestibular and musculoskeletal systems. Young cyclists are less likely to suffer from colds. Children's bike has its own characteristics depending on the age of the young driver. From the age of 4, children already stop riding 3-wheeled bicycles and begin to learn how to ride 2-wheeled models.

It is best to start with a 4-wheel design. Most kids' two-wheeled models are equipped with two small side training wheels. They are removed approximately when the cyclist reaches 5-6 years.

Two-wheeled transport devices for children are equipped with a comfortable saddle. The chain is protected from slag and cyclist's clothes getting into it. The handlebars usually have head bump protection. The frame is lowered to make it easier for the baby to get on and off the bike. Two-wheeled bicycles can have a shock absorber, several speeds, additional equipment.

Children's models are divided by type of design, depending on the age of the child for whom they are intended:

• tricycles for kids 2-3 years old;
• two-wheeled bicycles with attached training wheels on the sides, intended for children 4-7 years old;
• two-wheeled children's bicycles, which are a copy of an adult road vehicle, are suitable for adolescents from 7 to 12 years old.

The frame and wheel size must match the child's height.The rim diameter is measured excluding the tire in inches, and only occasionally in centimeters.

There are special tables that show the relationship between wheel diameter in inches and the height of a young cyclist:

• bicycles with 12-inch wheels are suitable for babies up to 88 cm in height;
• 14-inch wheels should be chosen with a height of 90 to 98 cm;
• children whose height is from 100 to 114 cm, a vehicle with a wheel diameter of 16 inches is suitable;
• a child's height from 115 to 124 cm assumes the use of a bicycle with 18-inch wheels;
• children with a height of 125 to 130 cm are suitable for a 20-inch vehicle;
• If you are over 130 cm tall, you will need a 24-inch model.

Bicycles with a steel frame are more suitable for babies under 5 years old. They offer the stability required by beginner cyclists. The lightweight version with an aluminum alloy frame is suitable for older children.

The review of first-class Russian designs includes several popular models.

• Top model for girls 6-7 years tops the rating Stels Pilot 230 Lady 20 V010. A rotating handle on the handlebars allows the little cyclist to change speeds. The modification has 6 speeds, which is very rare for children's models. The high strength of the structure is evidenced by the double rims of the wheels with horizontal bridges. The bike is easy to operate, has excellent maneuverability, and has an effective braking system. The vehicle is free to navigate uneven hilly terrain.

• The best folding and most practical design was recognized as the modification Altair Kids 20 Compact. The folding bike fits easily into the trunk of a car. It is convenient to store it in any hallway. The child's vehicle has an excellent trunk, a good bell, fenders on wheels, a protective pad against bruises on the steering wheel. The disadvantages include the lack of a hand brake.

• New Russian model "Desna Druzhok 16" is gaining popularity due to the reliability of the design, simplicity and ease of use. The modification provides for a protective pad on the steering wheel, fenders on the wheels, a cover for the chain. Simple steering wheel adjustment helps the growing driver adapt the vehicle to his height. The bike is equipped with a simple trunk that any beginner can easily use.

According to the newspaper "Komsomolskaya Pravda", the top-end models are Bear Bike Kitezh 16 and Lisaped 16. The first modification weighs 7.8 kg. Reinforced rims prevent breakage from frequent curbs.

The second model is lightweight. It is easy to maneuver and learn to keep balance on it. The bike weighs only 5.5 kg. The designs are great for boys and girls 4-6 years old.

We also offer an overview of the range of other popular bicycles for children from 4 years old.

• Stylish modification Early rider belter 16 with an aluminum frame has a weight of 6 kg. The lightweight two-wheeled bicycle is produced in England.
• Czech child model Author stylo 16 with an aluminum alloy frame weighs 7.5 kg.
• Russian model Stels Jet 16 with a steel frame weighs from 8.5 to 10 kg, has a wheel diameter of 16 inches, one speed, inflatable wheels. The optional equipment includes only additional wheels and a bell.
• Korean bike Capella S-14 produced in China. One of the safest children's models has a steel body with a seat and handles made of dense rubber. The chain is well protected. This prevents the edges of clothing, small stones and other objects from falling into it. The vehicle has a suspension fork and suspension on the rear wheel, due to which there is good traction on rough terrain, and the little driver gets additional convenience. The vehicle's wheel diameter is 36 cm, there are two brakes: foot and powerful front, as well as 1 speed. The set includes side wheels, a bell and a vessel for drinking water. The bike is ideal for beginners.
• Model for girls Cube Kid 160 Girl Flower Power weighs just over 8 kg.Has foot and hand brakes. The package includes additional wheels, a bell and a flag of the bike manufacturer. The wheel is 16 inches in diameter. The body is made of aluminum alloy.
• Children bicycle Jaguar MS-A142 Alu produced in China. It has an aluminum body, 1 speed, rear brake. The wheel diameter is 14 inches. Mirror-finish frame, polished rims increase the vehicle's reflectivity. Tread tires increase traction, ensuring the same ride on paved and uneven surfaces. The device weighs 9 kg. The package includes additional wheels and a bell.
• Russian bicycle Novatrack Astra 14 has a steel body, 1 speed, pedal brake. There is no hand brake system. The low frame contributes to the quick adaptation of the young driver to the vehicle. The frame is made of steel, the rims are made of aluminum. The wheel diameter is 14 inches. The package includes additional wheels, a trunk and a bell. Weight is 8.8 kg.
• American bicycles Haro are distinguished by their reliability and excellent stability. They guarantee the child a safe ride. American model Specialized 16 Hotrock Boys with aluminum alloy frame weighs 8 kg, great for teaching kids to ride a bike.

When choosing a children's bike, you must take into account the manufacturer's recommendations. It is very important to choose the right model. An incorrectly chosen bike gives the child discomfort, contributes to frequent falls from the vehicle, bruises, serious injuries and even fractures. Before buying, the baby must definitely sit on the bike, try it out.

You shouldn't buy a bike for growth. Feet should be free to reach the pedals. It is necessary to measure the distance from the elbow to the fingertips and, focusing on this measurement, select the frame. For the convenience of jumping off the bike, the distance from the frame to the groin should be approximately 10 cm. The handlebar, located at the optimal height, helps the child to ride comfortably. The knees should move freely without touching the hands.

Children from 4 years old can fit a model with wheels from 12 to 20 inches, with a low and high frame. The height and physique of the child is of no small importance. The size of the wheel is selected based on the following calculations: the baby's height is divided by 2.5 and then by 2.54. For example, if the child has 100 cm, it is necessary to carry out the calculation - 100: 2.5: 2.54 = 15.7. The resulting number is rounded up, and then, when buying, they are looking for a model with 16-inch wheels.

Most likely, a 5-year-old child with a height of 115-118 cm will need to buy an 18-inch bike. If the baby is going to ride in the evening, then the device should be equipped with a shiny reflective element.

Wheels of 20 inches are usually suitable for a 6 and 7 year old child. Cyclists of this age can choose a modification with wheels equipped with an LED strip. It illuminates the road well and does not distract from driving. When buying, you need to pay attention to the presence of brakes that ensure the safety of children. The rear brake is used to reduce speed, the manual brake is used for hard braking. A moderately soft and wide seat should be ergonomic. It is necessary to take into account the complexion of the baby. So that the kid can easily pick up the fallen bike, you should choose a lightweight structure with an aluminum alloy frame.

There is no fundamental difference when choosing a model for a boy and a girl. The bike can vary in colors and designs. Girls prefer pink tones and the available baskets, pictures with princesses and flowers, and boys choose more restrained shades with stickers of airplanes, cars, prefer a loud bell. The signal is required for the bicycle device.

Kids love bright colors that motorists usually notice right away. This can prevent an unforeseen collision with a young cyclist. It is recommended to additionally purchase a protective helmet and gloves that protect the baby from injury. For those wishing to purchase a child vehicle for a longer period, there are models with an adjustable seat height and an available steering wheel tilt option. This enables the growing cyclist to use the device for a long time.

Before buying, you should carefully check the steering wheel, frame, wheels. Each movable part must be securely fixed and rotate freely. It is advisable that the bicycle chain is covered with a plastic pad - then the clothes will not interfere with the ride. It is necessary to inspect the structure for chips, defects. The model must be made of durable material and have smooth surfaces.

For information on how to choose the right children's bike, see the next video.