Teenage bikes: the best models and choices

A bicycle for a teenager is not only a means of transportation, but also an expression of his "I", and therefore, the choice of such a transport should be approached carefully. Bicycles for older children have their own distinctive features, and only a correctly made choice guarantees long use with maximum pleasure and minimal risk of injuries.

Teenage boys and girls of the same age group equally enjoy cycling. Nowadays, when it’s difficult to tear children away from computers and gadgets, a bicycle can be a real salvation - it promotes harmonious physical development, walks in the fresh air, making new friends and socializing.

A teenage bike is replaced by a child when the child goes to school. Usually, for teenagers of seven to eight years old, it’s precisely the teenage model of bicycle transport that is already suitable. But everything is individual and depends on how fast the child grows.

In any case, the purchase requires a “fitting”. In the saddle, the teenager should sit steadily, the legs should easily reach the pedals, the knees should not be too high when riding.

Teenage differs from adult cycling in dimensions and weight. The wheel diameter of these models is reduced to 24 inches. For the rest, he largely repeats the adult model, representing a smaller copy of it.

In general, transport for adolescents has the following features:

• steering wheel size is reduced;
• the frame is located lower, but can withstand quite decent weight due to the rigid structure;
• soft suspension;
• bright and conspicuous design, bold color schemes;
• in some models, a speed limiter is provided.

Manufacturers are trying to take into account the physiological characteristics of young riders when developing designs. In terms of technical characteristics, teenage models are not much inferior to adults, they are great for city walks, for cross-country skiing, and even for performing tricks - it all depends on the type of two-wheeled transport.

Models created specifically for teenagers are available in the product line of any self-respecting manufacturer. This takes into account not only physiological characteristics, but also the intended purpose. It is on this basis that several key modes of transport for adolescent children are distinguished.

If this purchase should be the first in life, then it is worth taking a closer look to hybrid models. They are intended for children. from 11-12 years old. This is a lightweight city bike that will last a long time. It is not racing, not stunt, the speed is not the highest, but for comfortable city walks all this is not required. The tires are thin, the tread is even, and this allows you to ride comfortably, reducing the load on the legs.

Such models very easy to manage, easy to repair in case of breakdown. They are quite safe and durable, and therefore it is often just the walking bikes that change hands, are passed on to relatives and friends when a child grows out of them. Suitable for leisurely walks. Aluminum frame for lightweight construction. A wide steering wheel with a turn to the driver is located above the seat. Protectors are wide.

This is a hybrid variety that combines the best qualities of urban and mountain two-wheeled vehicles. They have a wide tread, a frame with two upper trims, a wide steering wheel, and also there are no difficulties with speeds - they are represented by the minimum number. Models are equipped with a removable basket for transporting things.

Such bicycles are very compact and convenient for storage in conditions of lack of space, and for transportation by car with you. They have a folding frame, and the dimensions of the transport become very compact.

Bicycles designed for professional cycling have small wheels and wide tires with a deep profile. The shape of the reinforced frame is rhomboid. A high carriage and a short base provide the opportunity to develop high speeds.

Among the sports models, mountain bicycles stand apart, which are created specifically so that a teenager can ride them on difficult tracks at high speed with minimal risk of injuries. Their front wheels are always equipped with shock absorbers, and the number of speeds reaches three dozen. There are off-road mountain subspecies that easily pass through any dirt. If a child prefers high-speed climbs on a flat road, then cross-country is suitable for him.

BMX bikes are small. These are stunt vehicles. They have a small wheel diameter, low frames, a special steering wheel design that provides multiple rotation. All axes are equipped with additional tubes.

This kind of teenage bike is special. Models have a special anatomical seat, wider, all urban high-speed models with a planetary hub provide for a special frame design that makes it possible to ride directly in a dress or skirt.

A teenage two-wheeler is not hard to spot at any manufacturer, but the best, according to most users and buyers, are as follows:

• Puky - A German brand that tests every bike for safety in the laboratory;

• STELS - Russian products with a quality that is inferior to German, but the price is much more attractive than that of foreign analogues;

• S`Cool - Another German brand, the quality and safety of products of which there is no doubt;

• Merida - A popular brand originally from Taiwan offers quality and beautiful bikes at an affordable price;

• Giant - Another Thai company, which today produces up to half of all branded bicycles in the world.

It is also recommended to pay attention to the "iron horses" from Forward, Mustang, Altair - This is a classic of the genre, not losing its relevance.

We made a rating of the best models for boys and girls, the review is based on reviews from real customers.

• Forward Unit 20 2.0 - Bicycles of this brand are highly rated. This model is mountainous. It is equipped with FWD attachments, has six speeds. The frame is made of stainless steel, rim brakes are highly reliable. Ideally suited for driving around the city and not too difficult forest routes. Front and rear brakes - pleasure. The pedals have the appearance of a platform, the steering wheel is curved, it is possible to adjust its height. Included are spare wings and a footrest. Price range - from 9 thousand rubles.

• STELS Navigator 410 MD 24 21-sp V010 will serve faithfully to a child from 9 to 13 years old. This is a multi-speed model - speeds 21. The frame is steel and reliable, the bike has double rims, a reliable shock-absorbing fork. Designed for comfortable riding in the city walking mode, as well as for traveling on simple routes in the country. The bicycle belongs to the class of mountain cross-country. The steering wheel is adjustable in height, the seat frame is made of high quality steel. The price starts from 11 thousand rubles.

• Novatrack Extreme 24 6 - The bike is suitable for brave and decisive boys, as it is equipped with rim brakes that quickly lock the wheels even if the child is riding on wet roads. Tires have enhanced traction characteristics, steel frame. The size of the wheels is 24 inches, there is a double rim. The number of available speeds is six. Classic pedals. Wings, horn and footrest are included. The price starts from 9 thousand rubles.

• Model for teens STELS Adrenalin MD 24 V010 - Another novelty of this year. Tires are wide, which provides transport patency not only on a dry and smooth road, but also in bad roads, dirt. Teenagers like the bright design very much, the aluminum frame and rigid fork ensure safety and at the same time lightness. The number of speeds is eight. The type of brakes is disc, in the kit there is an audible signal, a step and a parking lock. The cost starts from 19 thousand rubles.

• Welt Edelweiss 26 Teen - A model for moving and active lovers of outdoor entertainment. Very high-quality attachments, reliable wings that will protect the pants from dirty splashes and stains when driving in wet weather. The price starts from 7.5 thousand rubles.

• Forward Iris 24 2.0 - girlish version with high-quality attachments FWD, 6 speeds. The frame is made of steel, there are double rims, reliable "fast" rim brakes. The size of the wheels is 24 inches. Suitable for driving along city streets, parks, as well as for comfortable country walks, if the quality of the roads is quite satisfactory. The price starts from 9 thousand rubles.

• Stels Navigator 400 MD 24 V010 - A novelty of the current season with 18 speeds. High-grade steel frame, disc brakes, excellent suspension fork and wheel size (24 inches) will make riding around the city or beyond as comfortable as possible. The cost starts from 11 thousand rubles.

• Young lovers of interesting bicycle design will like and Dewolf wave 24 - This model was also presented only this year. The model is equipped with 7 speeds, a steel frame and a rigid fork, chain protection, extended wings. The model is designed for riding in the city. The cost starts from 12 thousand rubles.

• Merida Chica J24 - A six-speed bicycle model for girls aged 9 to 13 years. The lightweight frame is made of aluminum, there is a small but quite roomy trunk. On such an equally enjoyable will be both a trip around the city and a country walk. There is a front light. The cost starts from 15 thousand rubles.

Double suspension teenage bikes are the best option for more aggressive riding. Among such models, interesting new products were presented this year, which have already collected many useful positive reviews.

Stark Rocket 24.2 FS V - a model equipped with high-quality attachments Shimano, the number of speeds - 21, a reliable suspension fork, there is a rear shock absorber. Price - from 13 thousand rubles.

Forward Raptor 24 is an 18-speed model. The frame is made of quality steel, reliable brakes and a double rim are available. Price - from 9 thousand rubles.

Format 6612 24 is a more expensive new product, but it's worth it. This two-pendant costs from 29 thousand rubles, but it is suitable for mountain skiing. The frame is lightweight, aluminum, there is an additional rear shock absorption. Ideal for cross country skiing.

The Cube Stereo 140 Youth is a more serious model, equipped with the initial professional SRAM equipment, has 11 speeds. The frame is lightweight, made of aluminum, hydraulic disc brakes. This model was created taking into account the requirements for participation in extreme cycling and skiing competitions in the All mountain discipline. The cost starts from 151 thousand rubles.

The right choice is not based solely on the external attractiveness of a particular model. Much more important when choosing to consider safety and quality. And therefore, I want to insure adults from distance shopping.

The first thing to know is the height of the child. The legs should easily reach the pedals effortlessly, while knees should not rise too high and reach the steering wheel while operating the “iron horse”.

The size of the wheels is also related to growth and age. For example, when growing to a meter, it is recommended to choose wheels with a diameter of 12 inches, this is the choice for children of early preschool age.

The following requirements are more suitable for teens:

• child height 110-125 cm - wheel diameter of 20 inches, this is an option for children from 7 to 11-12 years;
• child height 125-155 cm - the diameter of the wheels is 24 inches, which is more suitable for children from 9 to 13-14 years.

Pay attention to weight indicators. The harder the bike will be, the harder it will be for the boy or girl to handle it. Aluminum frames always provide construction with greater lightness than steel. You may also find carbon frames - they are more expensive, but in general they comply with safety rules and principles.

• Steel frame - has a high weight, durable, can rust, but can be easily repaired, is inexpensive.

• Aluminum frame - facilitates the design, durable, not susceptible to corrosion, difficult to weld, difficult to repair. Costs more.

• Carbon - strong and reliable, but is afraid of moisture and mechanical injury. It cannot be repaired. It costs expensive.

Having estimated the frame, wheels and dimensions, it is worth paying attention to other nuances. For example, a large number of plastic parts is a significant minus, since they will quickly fail, especially during heavy use. Shock absorbers are best chosen rigid, this will ensure durability, and the saddle and pedals - metal, as the plastic quickly breaks.

Experienced parents know that adolescents grow quickly, and therefore, be sure to consider this when choosing. It is better to give preference to models that can be adjusted for growth. This will guarantee a correct fit while riding, reducing the load on the spinal column during cycling.

For comfortable and safe leisure you should choose bicycles. with hand and foot brakes. And the presence of reflective elements will make the child noticeable on the road even in twilight conditions, which again will be your contribution to safety.

Buying a bike for a teenager, it is worth taking care of protection. Such equipment includes elbow pieces, knee pads, and a helmet. It will be good if your cyclist gets a pump, a set of hexagons and a seatpost. If desired, you can supplement the model with a bicycle computer, which will show the speed of movement. Some of these accessories have a function of communication with a smartphone, this will allow the child to answer the call without being distracted by a conversation with the handset near the ear.

See how to choose a bike for a teenager in the next video.