Sooner or later, all parents come to the conclusion that it is time to add their child and bike to the fleet. But here the question arises: which bicycles are the lightest and what should you pick from? It is noteworthy, but even for the smallest children - from three years old - it is quite possible to choose both a mountain bike and a speed bike. Consider the most popular models.
We take into account the nuances
Choosing a bicycle for a child, one must proceed from his growth and physical development. That is why experts advise you to come along with your child for a purchase - this will allow you to immediately check whether the vehicle meets its parameters. But sometimes it is bought as a gift. Therefore, it is worth remembering which bikes are the lightest and what to look for when choosing models blindly.
2 to 4 years old
These bicycles are designed for the youngest children, but you should not be afraid - it is at this age that they need to be taught to ride and learn new movements. All bicycles of this group have a wheel size of 12 "and are additionally equipped with side wheels - thanks to this child it will be easier to ride without support, and you will not worry about the stability of the vehicle.
The lightest children's bike for this age group is Author Catty: its weight is only 4.5 kg, and it is the ease and convenience of operation that many parents like. True, this is the so-called runbike - that is, a bicycle without pedals. A full-fledged bike, which is just as light, is the Author Jet: it weighs only 9 kg and is of high quality, which is explained by the European production of the model.
From 3 to 6 years old
At this age, children's bicycles (the lightest models weigh 6–9 kg) are equipped with 16-inch wheels. It is believed that this group of vehicles is the most popular. Like models for children younger, these are equipped with additional safety wheels, but they can be removed. Experts say that the longer the child will ride on harnesses, the more difficult it will be to switch to two wheels. Among the most popular models in this group (from three to six years) include:
- Author Stylo - a bicycle equipped with a lightweight aluminum frame, which significantly reduces its weight - it is only 7.5 kg. The frame attracts attention with ergonomics and a comfortable fit, so riding a bike is a pleasure. If necessary, safety wheels can be supplied.
- Author Bello - a model that pleases with stylish design and reliability. The manufacturer pays close attention to the appearance, in which everything is perfect. The frame is made of aluminum alloy, equipped with two side wheels, the ability to adjust the steering wheel and saddle, wings and chain protection in the configuration - such a unit can not but rejoice. The weight of the lightest bike of this brand is 7.1 kg.
- Stels Fortune 16 ". This beautiful model is suitable for both 3-year-olds and older children. The frame is durable, as it is made of high quality steel, there are two brakes - front (manual) and rear. For walking through the streets and parks, this is the best option! Thanks to the convenient low frame, the child can sit down and get off the bike, the seat and the steering wheel are adjustable, and the soft covers on the steering wheel provide comfortable operation. since most other models designed for children 3-6 years old, on average weigh from 10.9 to 11.9 kg.
From 5 to 9 years old
For this age, bicycle wheels are already wider - from 18 to 20 inches. Their distinctive features are lightweight frames that are already close to the design of adult bicycles. Some of them are complemented by a suspension fork or have a special geometry. What are the lightest bikes in this age category? One of the most popular models is Author Melody with an aluminum frame: it differs in thoughtful geometry and is designed for girls. Six speeds will allow the child to choose the optimal riding mode. The model weighs only 10.3 kg, it has full-sized metal wings that come with the configuration.
Stark bliss girl
Girls will also like the Stark Bliss Girl bike: 6 high-speed modes, powerful and high-quality rim brakes, a rigid design - thanks to these indicators, the bike behaves ideally both on the ground and on asphalt. The lightest bike for a child in this age category weighs 10.3 kg - this is a Author Melody bike. Among light models, Autor Energy (weight 10.8 kg) or Autor Smart (the latest model weighs only 8.9 kg, although it is considered teenage) can be noted.
Folding models
In an effort to save space in the apartment, we even try to choose bicycles as small as possible. Folding models in this regard have many advantages - they are easier to store and transport in public transport, they are easier, however, it is important that the structure is easy to assemble and disassemble and be durable. Most models are based on light alloys made of aluminum, and can even be equipped with an electric drive. Let's consider what the easiest folding bike is offered by different brands:
- Dahon Speed Uno. The weight of this folding bike is only 10.9 kg. This model is suitable for trips to a picnic or around the city and is considered the lightest in the world. Another model of this brand weighs 12.5 kg, while it differs in a compact design in which the manually-welded frame is one of the most reliable and tough. The presence of a rear derailleur is the key to excellent clearance, that is, the bike can easily cope even with a sharp turn.
- Airframe The frame of this bike is made of high quality alloy, so the weight of the whole structure is 10.5 kg. Thanks to the unique mechanism, the bike can be folded down to very small sizes.
- Dawes Kingpin. The weight of this model is 13.6 kg, and even the pedals are added to it. Stylish appearance will appeal to every buyer.
Mountain kids: what to choose?
If you and your children are used to extreme relaxation, then you will certainly need high-quality equipment and equipment. And start costing with a choice of light mountain bikes. Their lightness is ensured by a strong but lightweight frame, which is created from aluminum, carbon fiber and other materials similar in characteristics. To choose the lightest mountain bike, you need to consider many factors, ranging from the riding style and the type of terrain in which the vehicle will be operated, and ending with the cost.
Most often, children's mountain bike models are equipped with 20 or 24 inch wheels. And for the most part, these are just cheap copies of adult models that have expensive components that kids just don't need. In general, mountain bikes are designed for children from 10 years old, but it all depends not so much on the age of the child, but on its parameters - growth and physique. The lightness of the models is ensured by the use of a well-thought-out design based on aluminum alloy, steel, titanium or carbon fiber. The convenient frame and design are thought out in such a way that children are comfortable traveling even long distances.
Popular mountain models
If you are looking for a mountain bike for your child, pay attention to the following vehicles:
- Bulls Tokee 20 (2015). This bike weighs only 11.5 kg and is versatile: you can ride it both in the city and on difficult road surfaces. The geometry of the model is such that it is suitable for children from 6 years. the bicycle is equipped with a high-quality hitch, a suspension fork, has 18 gears and powerful wheels.
- Cannondale. Bicycles of this brand contribute to a comfortable and direct fit, so your child’s posture, even when driving on poor roads, will be correct. The children's frame, created from an aluminum alloy, is thought out to the smallest detail, so the process of driving a bicycle will bring only joy.
- Kellys Wasper is a mountain bike designed for kids from three years old. Yes, yes, even at this age, parents can begin to instill in their child a love of extreme sports. One speed, rear foot brake and front rim, safety wheels - all this makes the mountain bike ordinary and convenient to use. The weight of this model is 9.6 kg, which is convenient for parents who have to carry it in their hands.
To summarize
How are the easiest bicycles for children? To conclude, you need to immediately evaluate a number of models, consult with specialists, let the child try to control the bike himself, so that he can make the right decision. Only such an integrated approach will allow you to provide your child with a safe vehicle.