The number of children's bikes 12 inches in stores is very large. And the more important it is to choose the best option among them. You need to know what are the features of good models, and what to look for first.
Key features and nuances
For many children, a bicycle becomes the very first means of transportation that they master on their own. Models with 12-inch wheels are designed for the 2'4 year age group. And therefore it is necessary to approach the choice more carefully than in any other case. Otherwise, there is a great risk of health problems. It is impractical to “rush” to the first bike that attracted its brightness.
Instead, one should think thoroughly: whether any structural flaws mask this brightness. It happens even with a bicycle for a girl. Extremely “parrot” colors often cause children to reject bicycles and even conflicts between them.
Choosing the best height, conduct a bike test. One leg (after scrolling the pedal to the bottom position) is almost straightened. The second leg is held so that when it is at the top point, it does not bump your knee into the steering column. Both feet should be placed on the pedals during the test with the entire surface of the foot.
Choosing a bike for users of a small age, it is necessary, as for adults, to assess the quality of the steering wheel. When maintaining it at the farthest point, there should be no discomfort. It is very bad if, after a complete turn of the column, the steering wheel is at a right angle.
What else do you need to know?
Striving to get the lightest bike is not necessary. An overly lightweight model may be unstable on the road. In addition, it must be remembered that relief is "bought" usually by reducing the strength of the main components and reducing the configuration. But an overly heavy bike is also bad. It will be difficult for a child to drag him through a street or underground passage, through rail tracks, curbs.
That wheel diameter is 12 inches, does not mean that every 2 wheels are the same. Their individual modifications also differ in width. The larger it is, the better the cross-country ability of the bike. However, this advantage turns into a heavier and lower maneuverability. As for the thickness of the rubber, it mainly affects the dynamics of the bicycle and is almost not connected with its cross-country ability.
Bikes with wheels with a diameter of 12 inches for girls and boys rarely differ in technical parameters. The difference may not be related to this, but rather to the desired riding style and scope. Cartoon style bicycles or fantasy bicycles are usually very expensive. It is imperative that you do not rely on proprietary descriptions or even reviews. The direct impression of the bike and the ride on it is an indispensable source of valuable information.
When choosing a bike for children, one should pay attention to such nuances of a decent model:
- the chain is necessarily covered by protection;
- gear changes and hand brakes are not needed;
- the size of the frame and other parts is precisely adjusted (no “growth” is provided);
- the seat and steering wheel can be height-adjusted to suit individual needs.
Rating
The rating of two-wheeled bicycles with wheels with a radius of 6 inches is worth starting with a version such as Puky 4125 ZL 12-1 AluKiwi. This superb German bike stands out with meticulously thought-out ergonomic characteristics and design excellence. The aluminum frame is slightly understated, which makes it easier to fit. The manufacturer used special powder coating methods to paint the main parts. It is important that all parts are spot welded, which guarantees a special mechanical strength.
Of course, the manufacturer used only carefully tested components. The delivery set includes a step for parking and a trunk. Extra wheels will have to be purchased separately. Both wheels are equipped with reflectors. The chain is naturally protected. An interesting feature of the Puky product is the steering wheel airbag.
If we talk about Russian products, then it is worth paying attention to SHULZ Bubble 12. When creating the frame of this bike used lightweight aluminum alloy. Users can adjust the steering wheel and seat for themselves. Tires on wheels are very wide. When designing the model, the designers provided for its equipment with industrial-grade bearings. Even the seat attracts attention - it is covered with flawless skin substitute. The steering wheel was supplemented with flu from genuine leather. The model is available in 4 basic colors. One of them is fuchsia.
STELS Magic 12 allows children to ride no less confidently. And yes, this is another domestic development that fully meets the conditions of our country. For the manufacture of frames used selected steel. The frame itself is located quite low. The rear brake is provided. Gripses made of rubber. Large-width tires with a single rim of aluminum alloy and stiffeners are put on wheels.
Another great modification is Scott Voltage JR 12. Even its appearance is unusual, rather similar to the typical appearance of bicycles for dermat jumping. The delivery set does not include auxiliary wheels, but the manufacturer offers to buy them additionally. The design is optimized for inexperienced in riding children. The transmission is well protected, foot and hand brakes are provided.
Bike age 1.5 to 3 Giant Animator C / B. It has no gearshift function. The aluminum frame is designed very carefully and is highly durable. Equipped with removable side wheels.The bike is ideal for walking over short distances.
Finally, it is worth considering the recommendations on the approximate correspondence of the child's age and wheel diameter:
- for 2-4 years - 12 inches;
- for 3-6 years - 14 inches;
- for 4-8 years - 16 inches;
- for 8-12 years - 20 inches.
On how to choose the size of a children's bike, see further.
