A good bike is not only entertainment and a way to develop physical strength, agility, coordination. This is also one of the means of introducing the child to the world. That's why it is so important to pick up a good 18-inch children's bike that is comfortable, safe, and outwardly attractive.
Brands and technical highlights
Buying an expensive branded bike, people are well aware of what they give their money for. Such bikes have long and firmly established themselves. On the road, in the park, on the street, they immediately attract attention. In addition to a gorgeous reputation, in their favor increased endurance, and durability.
In addition, the best brand models, even in worn condition, can be sold.
At the same time, leading companies pay maximum attention to such characteristics as:
- weight of the structure;
- driving stability;
- additional equipment;
- ergonomic frame and seat;
- fork adjustment;
- simplicity of switching speeds, braking, acceleration.
But it is important to understand that even outstanding companies may have unsuccessful models. In addition, not all "big" names are real - there is always a danger of buying a fake. For a truly original brand bike, you need to give a very substantial amount, which not everyone can pay. We must not forget that some models may not be sufficiently adapted for operation in Russia.
And finally, the “symbolic” name of the manufacturer does not mean that you can ignore the main technical points, do not get acquainted with the documentation.
What criteria to choose
It is advisable for both girls and boys to buy models of their favorite colors and designs.This point is often overlooked - and as a result, the bike can simply stand idle or be treated “without enthusiasm”. Of these “trifles,” by the way, children and adolescents “read out” their attitude to themselves. The consequences may respond in a few years.
But all kinds of accessories and additional components can (and should) be selected at your discretion. You only need to clearly understand why a particular part is used, and whether it will be useful. At the same time, it is worthwhile additionally explaining to the children why they refuse such “useful” things. And to let them know that in real need it can always be added already during the operation of the bicycle.
Maximum attention should be paid to the quality of the brake system, since children do not always know how to quickly use it.
It is important to evaluate the length of the frame. You can determine whether it is good by planting a child in the process of running a bicycle. The back should be straightened. The preliminary fitting is also simple: the frame should be as long as the distance from the fingertips to the elbow.
The weight of the bike is also critical. On the one hand, it is convenient to drag a light bike over obstacles or lift it up the stairs to an apartment. On the other hand, it can be somewhat unstable. Care must be taken to ensure that to ensure an optimal balance between these indicators.
As for the type of brakes, the classic drum version is perfect. At least for those people who do not want to understand the technical subtleties.
A folding bike should be chosen by those who want to save space as much as possible during transportation and storage. This is important for transporting the bike both in a personal car and in public transport.
Attention must be paid to the material of the frame. Aluminum structures are lighter, but cannot boast of high strength. True, they have other advantages - the minimum likelihood of corrosion and excellent transmission of force from the pedals to the propulsors.
Attractive brands and models
Buying a bike with wheels with a diameter of 18 inches, focusing only on the price, is very stupid and short-sighted. It is more useful to choose products of well-known companies. Products deserve attention among them. Puky. This brand has long established itself in the best possible way. The company focuses on the reliability and safety of finished products. The company has been operating since 1949, and for at least therefore it inspires confidence.
The company is consistently included in the ranking of optimal suppliers of bicycles for children. Stels. Despite the English name, it is based in our country. In its activity, this company builds on the old GOST, and not on their recently edited and softened versions. The result is a very decent technique of the highest level.
No less good option for two-wheeled bicycles with 18-inch wheels is the technique Merida. This Taiwanese company was able to guarantee the excellent quality of the bikes and their long-term operation. The lightweight body is created on the basis of a hollow frame and the use of carbon fiber. Despite the cheapness, very elegant bikes are obtained. The drawings covering them immediately impress the children.
As an alternative, products are often called Giant
Among bicycles for 4-6 years old with wheels with a radius of 9 inches it is worth highlighting Puky ZL 18-1 Alu 4325. Attached wheels are not provided. But there is a reliable hand brake and bell. The designers took care of the parking stand. Permissible load is 50 kg.
The official description notes the increased safety and lightness of this model. All production is concentrated entirely in Germany. The developers tried to achieve maximum thoughtfulness of details and design nuances. It is worth paying attention to the understated geometry of the frame. It is painted using powder technology, which allows to increase wear resistance.
Still note:
- excellent ball bearings;
- excellent pneumatic tires;
- wheel cover wings;
- reliable chain protection;
- front and rear reflectors;
- the trunk.
From 4 years old you can use Puky ZLX 18 Alu 4372. This two-wheeled bicycle is also designed to load up to 50 kg. The weight of the bike is only 9.4 kg. And the wings, chain protection, pedals and reflectors are already included in this mass. The stroke of the model is very easy.
Aluminum alloy wheels helped ease the design. Front wing covered with plastic trim SKS. There are 2 types of brakes. The front wheel is stopped by the model’s handbrake Cantilever, rear wheel - drum brake.
Stels Pilot 190 18 V030 - a completely fresh development. The design is designed for children from 5 years old. Side auxiliary wheels are provided. The developers also provided a pair of brakes (rim and foot type, respectively). Other points are as follows:
- the ability to adjust the seat and steering wheel;
- rear trunk;
- front basket;
- equipping wheels with reflectors;
- simple and convenient layout;
- light and at the same time very strong frame;
- rigid fork without depreciation;
- excellent suitability for learning to ski from scratch;
- very wide (1.95 inches) tires.
An overview of the Wild 18 kids bike is available in the next video.
