The Ultimate Bike Buying Guide
If you're looking for a bike for your little one, at BargainMax we're here to help! We have a range of bikes and helmets to choose from plus some handy advice. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect bike for your child from their first ride, through to an experienced biker.
Training Wheels vs. Balance Bikes
• Training Wheels: These are great for younger kids who are just starting. They provide extra stability while children learn to pedal.
• Balance Bikes: These bikes don't have pedals and allow children to learn balance and steering first, building skills and strength when they 'push off'. Once they master these skills, they can transition to a pedal bike.
Here are some key things to check when searching for the perfect bike:
• Weight - Look for a lightweight bike that your child can easily handle.
• Brakes - Some bikes have coaster brakes (pedal backward to brake), while others have hand brakes. Hand brakes are usually easier for kids to learn. Why not try before you buy with our range of bikes. Or even try to borrow a friend's bike before transitioning onto a new one!
• Size - Choose a bike that fits your child's height. Most manufacturers have size charts to help you find the right size.
• Single Speed vs. Gears - In only a few short years, a child can quickly advance through the simple stages of cycling. For younger children, a single-speed bike is often sufficient. Gears can be introduced as the child gets older and more experienced.
• Height-Adjustable Seats - There are lots of kids' bike seats on the market so it can be overwhelming! Choose a bike with an adjustable seat height to accommodate your child's growth.
• Safety Features - Make sure the bike has reflectors, a bell, or a chain guard to keep your child safe. Why not add multicolour bike beads. Simply snap them on your bicycle spokes and transform your wheels in seconds in a fun and colourful way.
• Quality and Durability - A well-made bike with a sturdy frame and reliable components will last a long time.
Take a look at our handy bike size guide here to choose the best fit.
and don't forget...
... a helmet that fits properly. Safety is the most important thing!
Helmets significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries in children during falls or collisions, so when you purchase your bike, consider our range of helmets at BargainMax, available in a variety of sizes.
Shop bikes by age
Pay attention to the manufacturer's age recommendations for the bike as this will give you an idea of the bike's complexity and features. Age recommendations are crucial for ensuring that the bike is developmentally appropriate for the child's motor skills and coordination. Here at BargainMax, we have a variety of bikes suitable for your child's age.
Suitable for 2+ years of age: Balance bikes - 10-inch wheels
With deep tread tires for a comfortable ride with excellent grip, an adjustable saddle and handlebars accommodate growing children, our range of 10-inch wheel bikes have a soft saddle and hand grips offer extra comfort. Our 2 in 1 options, include stabilisers and peddles.
Suitable for 2-5 years of age: Balance bikes & bikes - 12-inch wheels
Our 12-ich bike range comes in a variety of options including with stabilisers or without, or as a balance bike for children not quite ready to peddle yet. With deep tread tires for a comfortable ride with excellent grip, an adjustable saddle and handlebars to accommodate growing children, our range of 12-inch wheel bikes have a soft saddle and hand grips offering extra support.
Suitable for 4 years of age: Bikes - 14-inch wheels
Ideal for children of a height between 105-117cm, our 14-inch wheel bike range is available in huge selection of colours and is sure to feature your child's favourite brand. With multiple options including baskets and removal decorations, some of our Princess bikes come with a doll carrier at the rear. Bright and eyecatching, with an adjustable saddle, grippy handle bars and removal stabilsers, our range of 14-inch bikes allows your young rider to grow in both skill and confidence.
Suitable for 5-7 years of age: Bikes - 16-inch wheels
For children aged 5-7 years of age we have a huge selection of branded bikes including Disney, Spiderman and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Built with light weight materials, our 16-inch bike range provides more grown up options including the Huffy Delirium Bike with it's matte silver finish. All 16-inch bikes come with grippy handles and an adjustable seat to ensure a comfortable trip.
Suitable for 6-9 years of age: Bikes - 20-inch wheels
Designed for older children, with a height range of 117-136cm, our selection of 20-inch bikes come with various functions to suit the experience of the rider. Choose from bikes with gears, to climb hills and ride on flat surfaces efficiently, or choose a bike with a basket on the front to store all your journey essentials.
Age recommendations can help you choose a bike with the appropriate level of complexity. Younger children may need simpler designs with training wheels, while older kids can handle bikes with gears.
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be able to find the perfect bike for your child. Just remember that they may eventually outgrow it, and you'll need to upgrade to a bigger bike in the future. Have fun biking with your little one!
