6 best bikes for beginners

Bikes for beginners are essential for those looking to start cycling as a recreational activity or means of transportation. Choosing the right bike is crucial for comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Types of Bikes:

    • Road Bikes: Ideal for pavement and long-distance riding. They have lightweight frames and narrow tires for speed.
    • Mountain Bikes: Designed for off-road trails and rugged terrain. They have sturdy frames, wide tires, and suspension for shock absorption.
    • Hybrid Bikes: Versatile options for various terrains, blending features of road and mountain bikes. Suitable for casual riding and commuting.
    • City Bikes/Commuter Bikes: Designed for urban environments with features like fenders, racks, and a comfortable upright riding position.
    • Cruiser Bikes: Known for their laid-back style and comfortable, upright riding position. Great for leisurely rides on flat terrain.
  2. Bike Sizing:

    • Proper bike fit is crucial for comfort and efficiency. Consider your height, inseam, and reach when selecting the right frame size.
  3. Budget:

    • Determine your budget for a beginner's bike. Prices can vary widely, so it's essential to find a bike that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
  4. New vs. Used Bikes:

    • You can find good-quality used bikes at a lower cost. However, make sure to inspect them for any damage or wear and tear.
  5. Test Rides:

    • Before making a purchase, test ride several bikes to get a feel for their handling, comfort, and fit.
  6. Safety Features:

    • Look for bikes with safety features like reflectors, lights, and responsive brakes.
  7. Gearing:

    • Understand the bike's gear system.Beginners often find bikes with fewer gears easier to handle. Single-speed or 3-speed bikes are good options for novices.
  8. Maintenance:

    • Learn basic bike maintenance, like tire inflation, chain lubrication, and brake adjustments, to keep your bike in good working condition.
  9. Accessories:

    • Invest in essential accessories such as a helmet, bike lock, water bottle holder, and basic tools for on-the-go repairs.
  10. Local Bike Shops:

    • Consider buying from a local bike shop where you can get expert advice, proper fitting, and ongoing support.
  11. Online Research:

    • Use online resources and reviews to research different bike models and brands to make an informed decision.
  12. Riding Skills:

    • Practice your riding skills in a safe environment before tackling busy roads or challenging trails. Take a beginner's cycling course if available.
  13. Cycling Etiquette:

    • Familiarize yourself with cycling etiquette, including rules of the road and trail, to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

Remember that choosing a bike is a personal decision, and the right bike for you will depend on your intended use, comfort, and budget. Taking the time to find the perfect beginner's bike will set you on a path to enjoy cycling and all the benefits it offers in terms of fitness and outdoor recreation.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bikes for beginners on the market
  

Schwinn Grit and Petunia Steerable Kids Bike, Boys and Girls Beginner Bicycle, 12-Inch Wheels, Training Wheels, Easily Removed Parent Push Handle with Water Bottle Holder, Multiple Colors

Schwinn

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Give your child his first taste of freedom with the Schwinn Grit Boy's Bicycle; This kid's bike features a parent push handle that actually steers the bike and can be removed easily when the child is riding alone
  • For added protection, a fully enclosed chain guard keeps kids clean and safe, while front and rear fenders keep the road grit off
  • Removable heavy duty training wheels add stability for beginning riders; Stay hydrated with the included water bottle, cage mounted to the push handle
  • A quick release seat post and quick release alloy saddle adjust as your child grows
  • This bike ships ready to be assembled; The wheels measure 12 inches

User questions & answers

Question: Do we need to assemble this? if yes what tools required to assemble it
Answer: Yes but the assembly was easy. Follow the direction closley on the handle bar assemly important to get that right. As i recall the rear wheel was already attached to the frame. The front wheel is easy too, just be sure that the wheel locks are used. You will need two adjustable wrenches a Phillips screw driver and a pair of pliers. Also the tires will need air. Be careful, the 12" tires will take only a little air, don't overfill. My Grand daughter loves hers. It is very pretty!
Question: my son just turned 3 years old ..would this item work for his age? my son his average height
Answer: Oh my yes, we bought this for our sons 3rd birthday, it's was the best present so far! We get so many compliments everywhere, boardwalk, camping or just riding down our street! Our son was 42" at 3 years old!
Question: Is this good for a 2 year old girl
Answer: Yes. I would say this bike was perfect for my daughter. She was 2 years old when I got it. She couldn't quite peddle and I knew that would happen. Thats why I went with this bike because of the handle. She learned how to peddle and dont want any more help but i still have the bar just for when we come to a hill. She is almost 4 now and I would say its still in perfect shape.
Question: Is it possible to take the pedals off to make this a "balance bike" temporarily
Answer: Yes. It works great as a balance bike too. I took off the pedals and the training wheels and lowered the seat as low as it would go. My 3.5 year old loved it and learned to balance and lean into turns on his own over the summer.

Product features

The ideal kids bike for the beginner rider

Start your kid off right with the Grit and Petunia Steerable Kids Bike. Comes equipped with a parent steer handle so you can help push and steer for you little one while they learn the basics. Heavy duty training wheels for stability when they are ready to remove the steering bar. A tool free and easy adjustable seat lets the bike grow with your child. Removable training wheels for when your child is confident to ride on two wheels.

Easy rear steering handle

The parent is always in control! They learn the fundamentals up front and when they are ready you can take off the handle.

Tool Free Seat Adjustment

If your child grows, or you are sharing the bike with different children. The seat adjusts quickly and easily with the seat post lever. No tools, so easy!

Everything is on board for a great ride

They ride while you walk, jog or run behind. The water bottle has a built in holster.

Mongoose Legion L16 Freestyle Sidewalk BMX Bike for-Kids,-Children and Beginner-Level to Advanced Riders, 16-inch Wheels, Hi-Ten Steel Frame, Micro Drive 25x9T BMX Gearing, Green (M41600U10OS-PC)

Mongoose

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

For 45 years, Mongoose has been in the dirt, down the trails, and on the ramps. With the Legion Series, Mongoose offers a full line of freestyle BMX bikes for riders of all ages and ability levels. The Legion L16 is designed to be a great introduction into the world of BMX. Putting the Hi-Ten steel construction and hard-wearing single-wall wheels to great use, this mighty Mongoose rolls through every park and across every sidewalk with style and speed. Fantastic for leveling up on your freestyle tricks and skills, this lightweight and reliable BMX keeps you well supported on every landing, with its aluminum rims and chunky tires absorbing every impact. This bike ships ready to be assembled.

  • The Legion L16 is a great first BMX bike that features the geometry and feel preferred by today’s riders; Suggested rider height is 3'6" and smaller
  • The Legion L16 features a durable Hi-Ten steel frame with 15.3" top tube length
  • Drivetrain features a 130 mm one-piece crank with a 25T alloy chainring and American loose ball bearing bottom bracket
  • 16” x 2.3” tires mounted on aluminum single wall 28H rims with 3/8” in axle front hub and 9T cog ball bearing cassette rear hub
  • Hi-Ten steel handlebar and fork, 40 mm stem, standard 1-1/8” headset, and aluminum U-brake

User questions & answers

Question: It says this typically ships within 1 to 2 months. How soon should I expect this item to actually ship and will it really take up to 2 months
Answer: I ordered when it was in stock showed up within 3 days. It could take the whole 2 months, as shipping sucks lately and also the 18" bike has been backordered in multiple brands for a while now.
Question: Does this bike go backwards
Answer: only if you are scooting it backwards. If you mean fly wheel, yes. The back brake is on the handlebar.
Question: does the pink have front brakes? white shows one, pink shows two. desc shows one
Answer: The Pink LSX has both the front and rear brake levers. The White LSX only has one, the rear brake lever. Thanks
Question: What are the tools needed to assemble the bike? I would like to purchase them as well
Answer: You really only need an Allen key wrench, a 5/8" open end wrench, a Phillips screwdriver and air for the tires

Product features

Mongoose Legion Freestyle BMX Sidewalk Bike Series for Kids

The foundation of the Legion L16 is a Hi-Ten steel frame (15.3” top tube). The L16's Hi-Ten steel 6.5” rise handlebar and 40mm stem are designed for precision riding, while the aluminum single wall 28H rims and 2.3” BMX tires offer grip and durability. The 25x9T gearing with 1-piece forged steel 130mm crank and American loose ball bottom bracket offer a clean, reliable drivetrain.

Hi-Ten Steel Frame

The L16 features a durable Hi-Ten Steel frame with a 15.3 inch top tube length. Suggested rider height is 3’6” and smaller.

Drivetrain and Chainring

The L16’s drivetrain features a 130mm 1-piece crank with a 25T alloy chainring and American loose ball bearing bottom bracket.

Wheelset and Hubs

The wheelset features 16 inch x 2.3 inch tires mounted on aluminum single wall 28H rims with 3/8 inch female axle front hub and 9T cog sealed bearing cassette rear hub.

Handlebars and Stem

Aluminum U-brake provides precision speed control, while the Hi-Ten steel handlebar and fork are joined by a 40mm stem for maximum steering performance.

Aluminum Balance Bike for Kids and Toddlers - No Pedal Sport Training Bicycle for Children Ages 3,4,5

2 months and up

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • NEW 2018 MODEL - The Extreme Light Weight Balance Bike weighs in at just 4 lbs. The all-aluminum frame and foam tires makes this one of the lightest balance bikes in the world.
  • BALANCE BIKE DIMENSIONS - The seat adjusts as low as 11" from the ground all the way to 17" tall. The handle bars will adjust from 20" at the lowest point to 24" tall. Making this the best option for young beginners learning to ride a bike.
  • WARRANTY - If at all you are not satisfied with the bike, or even the results, please let us know. We will 100% buy back the balance bike from you. With the 100% guarantee, we will fix or replace defective parts as well.
  • SAFETY A MUST - Along with providing the best balance bike at the lowest cost, know that each bike is built and inspected with your child's safety in mind. Each clamp is tamper proof, both wheels equipped with safety washers and each frame build to way exceed the weight limits of even larger children. With rigorous testing with larger children, we are proud of the durability of the 2018 model.
  • SIMPLE SET UP - Each bike come partially assembled. The wheels are securely attached and ready to ride. Just slide the seat and handlebars in the right position for your child and clamp it down with the wrench provided.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this bixe bike taller than the bixe 10” that has a basket on the handles
Answer: No. There are pedal bikes you can take the pedals and chain off from.
Question: Does this compare to Strider Balance Bikes
Answer: This is our exclusive AODI brand custom kraft paper packaging, it will not easily be damaged.
Question: Is an Allen wrench or other tool required to make adjustments to the handle bar and seat height
Answer: The balance bike Seat adjustable lowest setting from the ground about 14.5 inches.
Question: What is the weight limit
Answer: No, it is a balance bike not a regular bike. It does not have pedals or training wheels.

Product features

Less Risk of Injury

Unlike learning to ride a bike with training wheels, kids learn to balance first. This greatly reduces the risk of injury as they can safely plant their feet anytime they feel unbalanced. Kids who learn with training wheels often experience anxiety and several crashes and as they try to stay upright once the training wheels are gone. You probably have some painful memories of this yourself, right?

Build Confidence

Balance bikes are simple to use. Your toddler will quickly grasp the concept of walking with the bike between their legs, and immediately feel a sense of accomplishment. Progress comes quickly as they lengthen their steps and increase their speed. Meanwhile you can feel confident that they have the right bike to keep them safe and steady.

Learn Faster

Because kids can start on a balance bike years before a traditional pedal bike, they can master their balance by the time they are 3 or 4 years old, often when other parents are starting their kids on training wheels. Even if your child is a little older, you'll be surprised how quickly they pick it up. We've seen children 5 years old with no experience learn to balance in a single summer.

Cost Effective Fun

Unlike last year's expensive Christmas toys, your Bixe balance bike will still be loved years after it's first use. And once your child outgrows it, you can hand it down to your next child or sell it in your upcoming garage sale. And as an added bonus, you're giving your child the chance to learn a life skill. Smart move mom and dad.

A Balance Bike For Every Age

We build balance bikes to fit kids from 18 months all the way up to 9 years of age. See below for a quick comparison between our two most popular sizes to learn which bike will best fit your child.

TRACER Edge 3.0 Freestyle BMX Bike for Young boy and Adult Beginner-Level to Advanced Riders Hi-Ten Steel Frame Bicycles Multiple Colors

Tracer

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • 【EASIER RIDING】The TRACER BMX series is a great entry level complete that works well on the street, dirt, park and anywhere. They’re great for kids due to their small wheel size, but they’re also a lot of fun for taller riders and adults.
  • 【SAFER RIDING】Aluminum U-brake and brake levers provide precision speed control, with Hi-Ten steel. DRIVER: 9T, TIRES: 20 x 2.3", BRAKE LEVER: Alloy Stealth, BRAKES: Alloy Cease U-brake.
  • 【HIGH QUALITY】High quality sealed ISO bottom bracket with CrMo square axle and bearing shells of wrought iron.
  • 【STRONGER DESIGN】The frame is made from strong Hi-Ten steel to give you reliable support and long-lasting comfort and is perfect for the street, park or trails. The wheels set features 20” x 2.3” tires mounted on aluminum single wall 36H rims.
  • 【EASY INSTALLATION】 Fits riders from 5 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall; comes 85 percent assembled.

Product features

Your BMX Style

The TRACER BMX series is a great entry level complete that works well on the street, dirt, park and anywhere. They’re great for kids due to their small wheel size, but they’re also a lot of fun for taller riders and adults.

Drivetrain and Chainring

The Drivetrain Features 175mm 3-piece tubular chromoly hollow spindle cranks with a 25T alloy chainring and mid sealed bearing bottom bracket.

Easier Braking System

Ultra-responsive Alloy Cease U-brakes and Hi-Ten steel fork are joined by a 50mm stem and threadless sealed integrated headset for maximum steering performance.

High Quality Wheelset and Hubs

The Wheels set features 20” x 2.3” tires mounted on aluminum single wall 36H rims with 3/8” axle front hub and 9T cog sealed bearing cassette rear hub.

Haktoys Tricycle 3 in 1 Balance Trike Beginner Training Bike for Toddlers and Kids of 12 to 36 Months with Removable Pedals and Adjustable Seat, Bicycle

Haktoys

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Helps develop balance, coordination, and motor skills that is designed to ultimate beginner’s bike!



Specifications and Features:

Telescopic rear wheel

Great exercise for children

Great way to improve sense of direction for children

Bicycle dimensions (after setup): 25.6 x 13.8 x 18.9 inches (65 x 35 x 48 cm)

Maximum weight: 66 lbs (30 kgs)

Net Weight: 7.2 lbs (3.26 kgs)

Box packaging dimensions: 20 x 9 x 7 inches (50.8 x 22.9 x 17.8 cm)

Recommended Ages: 2 - 4 Years.

Material: High-Quality PP+, High-Carbon Steel

Materials made in line with international health & safety standards. Environmentally-friendly, recyclable, safe & non-toxic.

Adult supervision is recommended.



Package Contents

1 x Balance Bike (assembly required)

1 x Instructions Manual



Why Haktoys?

HAK Toys stands by every product it offers, and it would never offer a product that does not pass HAK Toys' strict quality measurements. If the product does not meet your expectations, we will make it right – guaranteed!



  • 3 in 1 training, bike w/ pedals and bike w/out pedals modes. Lightweight and strong frame.
  • Comfortable soft cushioned foam seat
  • Shock absorbing soft rubber wheels for smoother ride.
  • Solid & Lightweight
  • Adjustable Seat
  • Easy to Assemble
  • Safe & Durable

User questions & answers

Question: What is the lowest and highest seat height
Answer: Yes
Question: Hi are the wheels rubber ir plastic
Answer: Hard rubbery plastic
Question: Does it stand on its own
Answer: I don’t think so. I think they are just the plastic rims. But works great!

Micargi MBX Cape Sidewalk BMX Bike for-Kids, Children and Beginner-Level to Advanced Riders, 20-inch Wheels, Hi-Ten Steel Frame, Micro Drive 25x9T BMX Gearing

Micargi Bicycles Inc.

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price
  • 1. The Micargi BMX series is a great entry level complete that works well on the street, dirt, park and anywhere.
  • 2. Aluminum U-brake and brake levers provide precision speed control, with Hi-Ten steel. DRIVER: 9T, TIRES: 20 x 2.3", BRAKE LEVER: Alloy Stealth, BRAKES: Alloy Cease U-brake.
  • 3. The frame is made from strong Hi-Ten steel to give you reliable support and long-lasting comfort and is perfect for the street, park or trails.
  • 4. Single-Speed. Aluminum U-brake and brake levers provide precision speed control.
  • 5.The wheelset features 20” x 2.3” tires mounted on aluminum single wall 36H rims

User questions & answers

Question: Does this only have the hand brake and not the Coastal brakes
Answer: The dimension is 12.5" X 10.5". The height of the foam is from 1 " to 3"

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