How to choose a kids speed bike?

Children and teenagers love to ride bicycles and feel like “conquerors of space”. However, therefore, a serious question arises - is it necessary to buy a children's high-speed bike, and if so, what should it be. It is important to understand this topic thoughtfully and scrupulously, because any mistake will be extremely dangerous.

Logic dictates that, regardless of the speed reached, the following nuances are most important:

• choice of aluminum or steel frame;
• fit in size;
• the choice of a fully assembled bike or one that you need to assemble yourself.

It is quite clear that aluminum allows for a lighter construction of the bike. If the bike is equipped with 18 "wheels, then the difference with steel models can be 1-1.5 kg. But even if it is smaller, it still feels very strong when riding.

Winged metal is easier to work with than steel... Therefore, it is easier to give it precise geometric shapes. Often made from aluminum, bicycles are equipped with superior hubs and tires. The result is excellent roll-forward performance. Any toddler can ride an aluminum bike, even one who has never sat on a seat before.

For comparison: learning to ride steel models will take at least 4-5 days.

Besides, aluminum does not corrode. It retains its pleasant appearance for quite a long time. Aluminum bicycles will sell more profitably than steel counterparts. Finally, such models usually have a more attractive design and are covered with high-quality varnishes and paints.

The frame and other parts are, of course, very important. But it is even more important to answer the question of whether, in principle, it is worth buying a bicycle with a gear change for children. The obvious disadvantage of such structures is that even on the run, adults will not be able to control the movement of the child and protect him from trouble. That's why only those children who have skated on simpler models for at least 2 seasons and already have the necessary management skills need to acquire high-speed bikes. Large companies specializing in the production of bicycles advise purchasing high-speed modifications only for children from 7 years old.

Therefore, you need to make sure before buying that the child balances well himself when riding on two wheels. The disadvantage of such a model will be both the increased price and a number of difficulties during the repair (especially for those who are poorly versed in technology).

However, the savings do not only depend on the cost of a particular model. It is necessary to understand that the faster the children grow up, the more often you will have to change the bike for them. Attempts to "get by with little blood" and "drive to the last in an old car" turn into not only ridicule from peers. This simply depreciates the very essence of a bicycle as an assistant in harmonious physical development. That's why with a very limited budget, it is better to give preference to 1-speed models.

Both children's and adult bicycles are sold in two versions: "in a box" (cheaper) and "complete" (usually more expensive). Despite the price attractiveness of the first path, you need to remember about the limitations:

• only those who at least once repaired it will be able to assemble a bike from scratch;
• you will have to prepare a set of tools (hexagons, open-end and adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers);
• assembly takes at least 1-2 hours;
• more difficult to defend their rights to warranty service.

The difference in price will definitely not justify the need to buy it again if something goes wrong.

But there is one more subtlety that must be said about. The fact is that the age of future cyclists is also very important when choosing a bike. A good bike for 8 year olds has:

• hand brakes;
• headlights;
• wheels from 20 to 24 inches;
• most often, but not always, the brake hub on the rear wheel.

In the 8-10 year category, bicycles are usually unisex. But this only applies to technical details. The color of the used paint and its saturation will allow you not to make a mistake when choosing. Of course, it is very foolish to go to the market or to the store without a child. Practice shows - willingly ride only what they like externally, and when landing, and in dynamics.

It is extremely important: along with taking into account the height, it is worth remembering about the length of the legs. It can be different for two people of the same height - and until they remember this, it is difficult to detect the difference. It is unacceptable to shuffle your feet on the ground, or a situation where you cannot reach it.

Experienced cyclists are advised to be interested in the brands of not only the bike in general, but also the key parts that are used in it. If you use components of dubious origin, this is a good reason to be on your guard. For schoolchildren, and even more so for teenagers, you need to choose bikes with more stable metal pedals. Mechanical brakes are also preferred over hydraulic counterparts.And, of course, you should be interested in reviews of the models, especially on thematic forums.

How to choose a children's bike, see below.