Let’s take a look at the best 24-inch mountain bikes for kids, shall we?
But first, you may want to know what to look for before buying. I’ll make it easier for you: the most vital features on a mountain bike are safety features, heavy-duty frame, and sturdy wheels. You’ve got all that; you’re good to go! Let’s talk in detail about your options.
Quick Comparison: Best 24 Inch Mountain Bike
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1. Omeng Shock Speed Mountain Bike |
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2. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike |
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3. Roadmaster Granite Peak Boy’s Bike |
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4. Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike |
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5. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike |
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How to Choose the Right Bicycle Size for Your Little Buddy
When buying an adult bike, you usually pay attention to the frame size. However, that’s not the way it is with kids’ bikes. In this case, the wheel size matters the most.
The process can be confusing because a lot of bikes are labeled for specific ages. I’ll tell you how to quickly figure out if the bike size suits your child without pulling your hair out.
For starters, three measurements will help you; the wheels’ size, the seat post height, and the standover height. If you get those right, you’ll be able to purchase a bike that suits your child’s body.
Kids’ bikes usually start at 12-inch wheels. 24-inch bikes are the largest size for kids, which suits 8-10 years old. Bikes that have larger wheels are regarded as adult-size ones.
As for the seat post height, you’ll want to measure your child’s inseam to ensure that you get it right. The minimum seat post height shouldn’t be higher than your kid’s inseam.
That way, he’ll be able to reach the pedals without struggling. However, if your child has been training and knows his way around bikes, the seat post maybe 1-3 inches higher.
Lastly, you can test the bike by letting your child stand over it. If he’s standing comfortably without contact with the bike’s top tube, the bike size suits him.
The 5 Best 24 Inch Mountain Bikes – You’ll Wish You Knew About Them Earlier
These five brands were handpicked for their various features and high functionality. Skim through them and pick your favorite!
1. Omeng Shock Speed Mountain Bike
Description
The Omeng Shock Speed is your best option for rough terrains. It has everything your child may need for trail rides: dual-suspension, shock-absorbent wheels, high-carbon steel construction, and all-terrain tires.
The Omeng features a high-safety brake system that takes on both front and rear wheels. That way, your child can easily operate the brakes when an instant stop is needed. Additionally, the wheels are highly durable and easy to maintain. They glide smoothly on sand, trails, mud, and creek roads.
Moreover, the bike has a user-friendly folding mechanism. It comes with a quick-release clamp that lets it close on itself in an instant. That way, you can store it anywhere without a hassle.
Features and Specifications
- 21 speeds
- 24-26 inch wheels
- Suspension fork
- Disc brakes
- Foldable design
- Weight: 44 lb
Pros
- High-carbon steel frame for durability
- Quick-release clamp for fast folding
- All-terrain wheels to ensure functionality on all surfaces
Cons
- Heavyweight
Video: MTB Basic Maintenance Routine
2. Huffy Hardtail Mountain Bike
Description
The Huffy Hardtail has a trendy red frame that appeals to kids. It’s made of highly durable steel, and the manufacturing company provides a lifetime warranty upon your purchase. The bike is ideal for 10-years old kids.
The Huffy provides high safety for the user. It has a suspension fork that performs superbly on bumpy grounds. Besides, there’s a removable derailleur guard that helps the bike stay steady while accelerating. This feature is especially useful for hill riding. On top of all that, there are hand brakes that act instantly when pulled.
As for ergonomics, the bike features an adjustable handlebar that allows the user to straighten their back while riding. This prevents the shoulders from straining and causing health issues in the long term.
Features and Specifications
- 21 speeds
- 24-inch wheels
- Adjustable seat height
- Steel frame
- Weight: 41.1 lb
Pros
- Knobbly tires for higher tractionInstant hand brakes to ensure the user’s safety
- The High-quality ATB saddle increases the user’s comfort
- Quick-release clamp for fast folding
- Comfortable-grip handles
Cons
- The handlebar is not easy to assemble
- Heavyweight
Video: Huffy 24 Inch Mountain Bike
3. Roadmaster Granite Peak Boy’s Bike
Description
The Roadmaster Granite Peak will give your kid an enjoyable riding experience. It’ll shift gears effortlessly thanks to the twist shifters. In addition to that, the knobbly tires will ensure that the wheels stay on the ground.
The Roadmaster features a front suspension fork. Also, the wheels are adorned with alloy rims that add to the stability of the whole bike. It’ll perform superbly on bumpy roads, unpaved ground, and mud trails.
Moreover, the bike’s frame is made of heavy-duty steel, and it has a 3-piece crank for extra durability. If your child is tall, they can easily adjust the Roadmaster’s seat to their preference.
Features and Specifications
- 18 speeds
- Dimensions: 62″ x 23″ x 37″
- Front suspension
- Steel frame
- Age: 8 and up
- Weight: 35 lb
Pros
- Adjustable seat for maximum comfort
- 3-piece crank for stability
- The high-quality twist shifters ensure smooth shifting
- Linear pull front and rear brakes for extra safety
Cons
- Only 18 speeds available
Video: Roadmaster 24 inch Granite Peak Boys Mountain Bike
4. Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Description
The Mongoose Exlipse is an ideal budget option. Despite its relatively low price, the bike comes fully-equipped with dual suspension system. Additionally, the frame is made of heavy-duty steel. It also features shock absorbers that work well for most terrains.
Furthermore, the gears offer 21 speeds that can be shifted easily, thanks to the Shimano cluster. Not only that, but the bike also has hand brakes that deliver constant stopping power. They’re placed on the side of the bike for convenience.
The Mongoose is perfect for country trails and soft ground. However, it’s not the best option for rough terrain, despite its full suspension. Other than that, the bike is a pleasure to own.
Features and Specifications
- 21 speeds
- Full suspension fork
- Steel frame
- SRAM shifter
- Age: 8-11
- Weight: 30 lb
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Full suspension for better control
- Comfortable-grip handles
- Shock-absorbing frame
Cons
- The bike requires frequent maintenance
Video: Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension MTB
5. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
Description
When it comes to safety features, the Schwinn High Timber is hard to match. It features a front suspension fork that ensures smooth gliding. Plus, the frame is made of robust steel alloy that’ll stay intact for years.
Your kid can shift the bike’s gear instantly, thanks to the Shimano Revo shifters. Additionally, the front and rear disc brakes will lessen the impact of stopping the bike abruptly. Your kid will easily operate it using the dual levers.
The bike has 24-inch wheels, and there’s an adult model that has 29-inch wheels, in case you want to join your little kid on their ride.
Features and Specifications
- 21 speeds
- All-terrain wheels
- Front suspension
- Quick-release clamp
- Steel frame
- Shimano Revo shifters
- Weight: 38 lb
Pros
- Sleek design
- Front and rear disc brakes for safety
- High-quality, durable materials that’ll last for years
Cons
- Uncomfortable seat
Video: Schwinn High Timber Youth and Adult Mountain Bike
How to Choose the Very Best 24-Inch Mountain Bike
If you want to get the best mountain bike out there for your kid, you may want to consider a few things. Let’s check them out.
Weight
Weight may be the most significant feature of a kid’s mountain bike. The reason is simple; if the bike is too heavy for your child, they won’t be able to move it around or carry it when they have to. And unfortunately, most bikes nowadays are too heavy for kids.
The right bike weight shouldn’t exceed 40% of the child’s body weight. That way, they’ll be able to ride it easily without exhausting themselves.
Hand Brakes
Kids with minimum riding experience may not be able to operate coaster brakes. Therefore, instant hand brakes will be enough for them. You don’t have to worry about their safety too. Hand brakes are highly safe and provide enough control over the tires.
However, most kids’ bikes now have coaster brakes to avoid legal issues. So, you may have to buy a bike that has it either way.
Frame
The bike’s frame makes for most of its weight. So, its material should be your primary focus when making the purchase. The best mountain bikes have either aluminum or steel frames.
Aluminum is a lightweight material that’s also highly durable. Additionally, it shows good performance in absorbing shocks, and it’s resistant to rust. However, it’s not as sturdy as steel.
Steel frames cost more than aluminum ones because they’re sturdier. Plus, they’re heavier in weight. Steel bikes will last more than aluminum ones will. So, it’s a matter of what you prefer.
Design
Kids don’t care much for the bike’s technicalities. They’re just looking for a bike that looks good and is fun to ride. However, it’s your responsibility to pick a bike that provides the utmost safety and comfort for your child.
As for the bike’s design, it’s best if you get a bike with a slacking tube angle. Additionally, a bike that has a long wheelbase will be more functional. That way, it’ll stay stable as it slides down a hill.
Suspension
Most buyers get confused with this feature because there are two options available; front suspension and full suspension. Let’s see which of them works better for your kid’s mountain bike.
1. Full-Suspension
Full-suspension wheels are most convenient on bumpy ground and terrain. They ensure that the bike stays stable, thus keeping the rider safe when met with sudden shocks. However, they’re impractical if your child mostly rides in streets and trails. They add unnecessary weight to the bike. Plus, they add to the cost.
2. Front Suspension
Front suspension helps keep the wheels on the ground when the bike meets sudden bumps. That way, the bike won’t do any abrupt jumps. Additionally, it’ll maintain its stability when your kid rides at high speed. The bike will also require less effort from the user to move.
Usually, the bike’s suspension system determines its cost. If the bike is cheap, the suspension will probably be ineffective. That’s why you’ll want to invest in a bike that has a reliable, fully-functional suspension.
Tires
You should pick the tires of the bike according to the terrain your kid will ride on. Bumpy ground requires wide tires to ensure maximum safety. On the other hand, country trails are safe for thin tires.
You won’t face trouble in this feature because most kids’ bikes come fully-equipped with knobbly tires. So, you won’t need to worry about it unless you’re getting a budget option.
FAQs
People have a lot of questions regarding kids’ bikes. It’s usually hard to pick something that you won’t be using yourself. Therefore, we answered some questions below that you may have asked yourself while reading.
Can a kid outgrow his bike?
Yes, kids mostly outgrow their bikes after an average of two years. It totally depends on their growth rate and the bike’s size. However, this fact shouldn’t affect your buying decision. Getting a bigger bike to make sure it’ll fit your kid later may be hard to ride. Plus, it won’t be as safe as a bike that suits his body.
Do mountain bikes come with training wheels?
No, if you want to add training wheels to your child’s bike, you’ll have to buy them separately. However, it’s recommended to let your child learn to ride without training wheels. That way, he’ll know how to balance himself on the bike properly.
Training wheels will be safer, but they’ll prevent your kid from getting the full enjoyment of riding a bike.
Should I get a mountain bike with gears?
Gears are one way to get your child accustomed to riding an adult bike. Additionally, they account for comfortable hill riding. However, some children face trouble trying to shift the gears. So, you may want to ensure that you get a bike with a smooth shifter.
Should I get the bike with grip shifters or trigger shifters?
Grip shifters are just another name for twist shifters. They’re similar to a motorcycle’s shifters, and they’re generally harder to operate. Kids mostly prefer trigger shifters because they just require a thumb press.
Conclusion and Best Offer
Our top pick among 24-inch mountain bikes is the Huffy Hardtail. It has everything you may need in a mountain bike, an ergonomic design, safety features, and a trendy design.
Best Offer
Plus, it’s not on the expensive side of the market.The only downside to it is that its chain gets loose when you’re changing gears. However, you can easily manage it by being more patient with the process.
The Alternative
If the Huffy Hardtail is out of your price range, the Mongoose Exlipse is a worthy alternative that you can consider. It has a sturdy, shock-absorbing frame, and its wheels feature a full suspension. Besides, its price tag won’t burn a hole through your pocket.
Mongoose Exlipse Full Dual-Suspension Mountain Bike
Nevertheless, you should know that it’s considered a heavy bike for kids. It’ll be a bit of a hassle to move around.
