The 20-inch bike is a must for our children. It is the ideal size for boys and girls who are taking their first communion, between 7 and 9 years old, and a height of 120 to 135 cm.
Since they grow so fast, this model becomes small in no time, so it is not worth investing too much money.
Moreover, it is a good idea to buy a second-hand 20-inch bike. It will be great unless it has gone through several siblings or cousins. Bike manufacturers know this, and that’s why most models are low-cost.
Bike Size of 20 Inches
These bikes do not have sizes, and with this chart, you can get an idea of when your child should move up to a larger bike size.
The 20-inch bike means saying goodbye to training wheels and hello to speeds or gears. This detail allows a child with some cycling experience to take on more challenging distances or inclines.
It is a bike for leaving the protected area of the park or pedestrian zone. If your child has yet to learn to ride a bike, starting with a 16-inch bike is advisable.
The First Bike With Gears
It takes kids a bit of time to get used to handling gear. On the one hand, the rotating handle requires some sensitivity to shift up and down loads.
They also need to internalize it to anticipate the gear change. It is very typical for them to try to shift gears when they are in the middle of an uphill climb and get stuck because their legs cannot keep up with the required speed.
Fortunately, 20-inch bikes only have one chainring because, with so much abuse on the gearshift, the chain would surely come off every two by three. That’s why it’s exciting that the chainring is enclosed, so the chain does not come off quickly.
Beware of Tacky Bikes
When buying a 20-inch bike, I recommend not asking the child’s opinion too much. They are too easily swayed by aesthetics and are crazy about double-suspension bikes.
The problem is that these bikes could be more convenient and comfortable for short distances. And adding accessories like mudguards or racks is a nightmare.
Other bikes are decorated with superheroes or Disney characters, and they are of the worst quality and have very dispensable accessories.
Another very typical mistake that I have experienced is buying BMX-type bikes. They are very cool but heavy. And the worst part is that they are very uncomfortable for short distances, especially since they don’t have gears.
Before buying a 20-inch bike, ensure the frame is low near the saddle. Most children do not have the skill at that age and like to be able to put at least one foot on the ground without having to lower the seat.
The front suspension is also unnecessary in most cases unless you plan to use it off-road.
Better With Mixed Tires
The MTB aesthetic is prevalent on these bikes; most have fat, treaded tires. It is best to use hybrid or asphalt tires, narrower and less profiled.
That way, you need less effort to ride on asphalt. That’s why I recommend that change if you want your child to travel by bike or around the city.
Once again, the rack is an exciting accessory, so the child gets used to carrying their backpack or toy comfortably. The saddles of these bikes are comfortable and are usually not a problem.
Something that is also cool is to have a bell and reflective elements to spare. Kids are harder to see, and more than passive lighting is needed.
The Best 20 Inch Bike
It can be challenging to find your youngster the ideal bike. Even while many 6- or 7-year-olds might be able to ride a 20-inch bike, it is not necessary to go for a “one size fits all” solution.
Instead, think about investing in a bike that is uniquely suited to your child’s requirements and tastes.
We have done extensive research and chosen our top picks for the finest bikes for kids to help make your search easier.
Don’t believe us? Read the in-depth descriptions of each bike below to decide for yourself why it’s the right choice for your youngster.
Don’t accept a bicycle that is just “good enough.” Give your child the gift of a bike that is customised to meet their unique needs and preferences.
You can be sure that your youngster will ride in comfort and style for many years to come by heeding our advice. Get the ideal bike for your child today by starting to browse our range!
1. Schwinn Koen Boys Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Hybrid Bike, BMX Bike
- Age Range (Description): Boys
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 1
- Color: Black/Blue/Red
- Frame material: Steel
This bike is the ideal option for parents who want the best for their children, with premium building materials and being a part of the Schwinn SmartStart program.
Yet, don’t just take our word for it; over 5,853 reviews and a 4.5-star rating on Amazon show that many parents also concur. You won’t find a 20-inch bike with this level of performance and durability for a better price.
It is first and foremost simple in design. Kids can easily operate the simple gears and general design, and the bike’s sturdy steel frame makes it resistant to even the most challenging rides.
The Schwinn Koen also spares no expense when it comes to safety. You may ride with peace of mind knowing your youngster is secure thanks to the coaster brake in addition to the front and rear V-brakes. The 20-inch wheels are also ideal for kids 6 and older or between 48 and 60 inches tall.
Now, give your kid the gift of a Schwinn Koen boys bike and watch them ride with delight and assurance!
2. Schwinn Elm Girls Bike for Toddlers and Kids
Key Features
- Bike Type: Hybrid Bike
- Age Range (Description): Girls
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 1
- Color: Pink/Purple/Teal
- Frame material: Steel
With three stylish hues to choose from and a solid 4.6-star rating on Amazon from over 7088 votes, this bike is a clear winner among girls and parents alike.
Why is the Schwinn Elm so popular? For starters, it’s designed to be easy for kids to use and get used to.
With a single-speed setup and sturdy steel frame, your child can focus on having fun and riding with confidence, rather than struggling with complicated gears or a flimsy build.
And although though it has a simple design, the Schwinn Elm is anything but dull. Your child may ride in comfort and style thanks to the streamlined, slim grips and seats and the adjustable pedal positions.
Also, the seat can be modified to fit people who are 48 to 60 inches tall or children who are 6 and older, so it may grow with your child and bring years of fun and adventure.
And best of all, the Schwinn Elm is reasonably priced, so you don’t have to spend a fortune to get your kid a top-notch, highly regarded BMX bike that they’ll adore.
3. Magna Dynacraft Throttle Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Children’s bikes, BMX bikes
- Age Range (Description): 6 – 10 years old boys
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 1
- Color: Black/Blue/Orange
- Frame material: Steel
This single-speed bike is an excellent option for young riders who wish to ride quickly and perform tricks because it has many characteristics in common with a BMX bike.
The Magna Kids Bike has a solid 4.5-star rating on Amazon from over 2,204 reviews, making it an obvious favorite among parents and children.
Also, you can be confident that your youngster will have a tonne of fun and adventure on this bike thanks to the sturdy steel frame covered by a lifetime warranty.
The bike weighs 26.95 pounds, a little more than some other models, but it’s still a terrific option for daily riding.
You can be sure your youngster will be safe while riding thanks to features like a foam cushion on the handlebars and a braking system appropriate for a roller coaster.
The Magna Kids Bike is an excellent option for families on a budget because it is unbelievably cheap.
4. Mongoose Legion Freestyle Kids BMX Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: BMX Bicycle
- Age Range (Description): 6 – 12 years old Boys
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 1
- Color: Orange / Red / Silver
- Frame material: Steel
A bike with a staggering 2,530 reviews and a stellar 4.4-star rating appropriate for riders of all skill levels.
This bike’s sturdy and durable steel frame and fork will allow your child to ride at their own pace for a more extended time without worrying about wear and tear.
But that’s not all; this bike has magnetic sealed-bearing aluminum wheels and a 40x16t one-piece forged steel 170mm crank transmission to match the design of a professional BMX bike.
It can therefore survive even the roughest rides and is long-lasting.
Therefore pick the Mongoose Legion L20 if you want to offer your child a training bike that will help them develop their abilities and confidence on the road.
It’s the best option for riders of all ages and skill levels because of its sturdiness, tenacity, and top-notch performance.
5. Huffy Valcon 20″ Mountain Bike for Boys
Key Features
- Bike Type: Kids Bike, Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): 5 – 9 years
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 6
- Color: Charcoal
- Frame material: Steel
The Huffy Valcon 20″ Mountain Bike is the ideal bike for adventurous kids because it is totally shock-absorbing. Parents can give their child a surprise gift for every occasion, including Thanksgiving or Christmas, with simple installation.
The Huffy Valcon 20″ is a quality mountain bike that’s suitable for riders aged 5 to 9 and between 44 and 56 inches in height. Even if your child is taller than average, the bike can adapt to a higher height.
With 605 ratings and a rating of 4.3 out of 5, this bike is sure to impress your child and provide a thrilling riding experience.
The Huffy Valcon 20″ has the fantastic advantage that training wheels can be fitted, enabling kids to learn how to ride without help.
Off-road adventures are made possible by the hi-ten steel frame’s dual shock forks’ ability to withstand shocks from the road. This bike is a fantastic method to give your youngster mountain biking experience and confidence.
Another great feature that might assist your child in quickly becoming accustomed to the gears is the 6-speed traction system. The Huffy Valcon 20″ is also a gift that your youngster will treasure for many years to come thanks to its stylish design and sturdy construction.
In conclusion, the Huffy Valcon 20″ Mountain Bike is a secure, enjoyable, and premium present for children who love to travel. This bike is a present that will definitely make your child happy because it is simple to assemble, training wheel compatible, and has a sturdy construction.
6. Huffy Kids Hardtail Mountain Bike for Girls
Key Features
- Bike Type: Kids Bike, Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): 5 – 9 years old
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 6
- Color: Metallic Cyan，Solar Flare
- Frame material: Steel
- Suspension Type: Front
The Huffy Valcon 20-inch has a comfortable seat, and adjustable handlebars, and can accommodate riders between 44 and 56 inches tall. This upright riding position reduces stress on the back and shoulders.
The Huffy Stone, on the other hand, would be a better choice if you’re seeking a lighter bike with a more streamlined design. This bike has 2903 evaluations with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5, making it a well-liked option among young mountain cyclists.
Even though the Kolo 1200 shock fork isn’t the largest, the seller has included a useful video tutorial on how to put it together quickly.
The Huffy Stone’s Solar Flare straddle frame, which is appropriate for both boys and girls, is another fantastic feature. This makes it a great choice for families that want to hike the trails together and have several kids.
Both the Huffy Stone mountain bike and the Huffy Valcon 20-inch full shock have their particular advantages and can give your kid a fun mountain biking experience.
What would be the ideal fit for your young rider ultimately depends on your unique preferences.
7. Diamondback Bicycles Cobra 20, Wheel Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Kids Bike, Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): 4 – 9 years old
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 6
- Color: Orange
- Frame material: Steel
- Suspension Type: Front
For young riders wishing to advance their abilities, the Diamondback Cobra 20 is an excellent mountain bike.
This bike comes equipped with a shock fork, strong brakes, and a Shimano 6-speed transmission with trigger shifters for seamless gear changes, among other noteworthy features.
The Cobra 20 can be used on sidewalks and uneven terrain, making it perfect for exploring the neighborhood.
The bike is suitable for riders 4 – 9 years old and 44˝ – 54˝ in height, although it’s recommended to wait until the age of 12 to ride.
Young riders will have an excellent riding experience on the Diamondback Cobra 20, a high-quality mountain bike.
Anybody wishing to support their child’s skill and love for cycling will find it to be a terrific purchase thanks to its cutting-edge features and durable construction.
8. Royce Union RTX Kids 20″ Aluminum Mountain Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Kids Bike, Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): 6 – 12 years old
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 6
- Color: Matte Black、Sea Crystal
- Frame material: Aluminum Frame
- Suspension Type: Front
This bike is a good pick for young riders, with 225 satisfied customers giving it 4.5 out of 5.
One of the main advantages of the Royce Union RTX is its lightweight aluminum frame. This makes it easier for kids to handle and ride, providing a more enjoyable experience overall.
Plus, the bike’s dual suspension system helps absorb shocks and bumps while riding on rough terrain, making for a smoother and more stable ride.
The Royce Union Kids Aluminum Mountain Bike also has a supportive saddle and a 6-speed gearing system appropriate for the bike’s size for extended rides.
This makes it possible for young cyclists to ride comfortably and enjoyably when tackling hills and severe inclines.
Overall, the Royce Union Kids Aluminum Mountain Bike is an excellent option if you’re seeking a lightweight, rugged mountain bike with full shock absorbers for your youngster.
Your youngster will have a pleasant and thrilling riding experience because of its excellent features and high customer satisfaction.
9. RoyalBaby Freestyle Kids Bike
Key Features
- Bike Type: Kids Bike, Mountain Bike
- Age Range (Description): 6 – 13 years old
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 1
- Color: 7 colors to choose from
- Frame material: Aluminum Frame
- Suspension Type: Front
RoyalBaby Kids Bike Boys Girls Freestyle Bicycle is the perfect choice for parents looking for a high-quality, durable bike for their children.
Although RoyalBaby’s brand may not be well-known in the adult bicycle field, we highly recommend this bike for its excellent features and benefits.
With over 12,128 ratings and 4.6 out of 5 ratings, this bike has proven to be a popular choice among parents and children alike. In fact, it’s currently ranked first in Amazon’s list of children’s bicycles, which is a testament to its quality and performance.
One of the standout features of the RoyalBaby Kids Bike is its easy assembly. With 95% pre-assembly and included assembly tools, parents can quickly and easily put this bike together for their children.
Your youngster can ride farther and safer on this bike thanks to the resilient tires and strong frame.
Parents can choose from up to seven different colors to discover the ideal bike to complement their child’s personality and sense of style. And with a wide range of extras like DIY decals and bike bells, your kid may completely personalize their bike.
The RoyalBaby Kids Bike is not just for show; it is also built to be comfortable. Your child will always experience a smooth and comfortable ride thanks to a soft seat and handlebar.
And the comprehensive instructional video makes it simple to educate your youngster to ride even if you’re not a big bike fan.
The RoyalBaby Freestyle kid bike has a 20″ frame, making it the ideal size for male and female little riders between 44″ and 60″ in height.
So why not use the RoyalBaby Kids Bike Boys Girls Freestyle Bicycle to give your child the gift of freedom and adventure? You won’t look back on your decision!
10. Guardian Kids Bikes Ethos
Key Features
- Bike Type: Kids Bike
- Age Range (Description): 5 – 9 years old
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
- Number of Speeds: 1 or 6
- Color: Aqua/pink、Black/red
- Frame material: Aluminum Frame
When choosing a bike for your child, safety should always be your top priority. That’s why we highly recommend the Guardian Ethos from Guardian Bikes – a cycle that pays extra attention to the safety of children riding.
Featuring a proprietary braking system from SureStop, the Guardian Ethos is designed to prevent non-braking situations and keep your child safe.
With one brake lever efficiently controlling both wheels, your child can stop 44% faster and avoid head-over-handlebar injuries. Plus, the 44% shorter braking stroke ensures safer braking every time.
With 932 ratings and a 4.7 out of 5 rating, the Guardian Ethos has proven to be a popular choice among parents and children.
But it’s not just about safety – the Guardian Ethos also boasts a lightweight steel frame with modified geometry to keep your child lower to the ground and promote stability.
And with an extended wheelbase, your child can ride with more control and steadiness.
But the Guardian Ethos isn’t just functional – it’s stylish too. The exterior design is eye-catching and thoughtful, with stickers that will delight children and capture their imaginations.
And with out-of-the-box assembly and all the necessary assembly tools included, you can have this bike up and running in less than 10 minutes.
What Size Bike Does a Child Need?
When selecting a bike for children, their inseam and height should be taken into consideration to get the best-fitting bike. Click on the wheel size to see our top picks for each bike size.
| Bike wheel | Child Height (in.) | Approx. Years | Inseam (inside leg length) |
| 12 inches | 30-39 | 2-4 | 12-17 |
| 14 inches | 37-44 | 3-5 | 16-20 |
| 16 inches | 39-48 | 5-8 | 18-22 |
| 20 inches | 42-52 | 6-10 | 21-25 |
| 24 inches | 50-58 | 8-12 | 24-28 |
| 26 inches | 56+ | 10+ | – |
It’s important to buy a bike that fits well now rather than one that is too big and they can grow into. A bike of the right size will be easier for children to handle, much safer, and more fun.
Is a 20 Inch Bike Good for Adults?
When it comes to bike size, there’s often a debate over which size is best suited for adults.
While some may argue that 20-inch bikes are too small for adults, the truth is that adults can indeed ride 20-inch BMX bikes with ease.
Yet it’s crucial to keep in mind that riding a bike that’s too tiny can be uncomfortable and even hazardous.
It is advised that people who prefer to ride a 20-inch BMX bike do so while wearing the appropriate protective clothing, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads.
This can assist keep riders safe and help them enjoy their journey without getting hurt.
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best 20 inch Bike
Construction Material
It’s important to carefully consider a number of aspects while selecting the ideal 20-inch bike for your youngster. To achieve a suitable fit, it is first and foremost important to measure your child’s height.
The young rider should be 120–135 cm long to fit a 20-inch bike. Depending on the terrain your child will be riding on and the size you have chosen for them, you must choose between a BMX and a mountain bike.
The best bikes for accessible routes are BMX bikes, while mountain bikes are preferable for harder terrain.
Although many manufacturers provide models with colours and designs aimed towards boys or girls, it is also crucial to take the rider’s gender into account.
Another important aspect of the frame is that it should be simple for your child to get on and off the bike and put their feet on the ground. Some manufacturers provide frame designs that let young cyclists manoeuvre more easily.
The Components
Performing a thorough price comparison is a crucial step when purchasing a 20-inch bike.
However, it’s important to also carefully examine all the components of the model you are interested in before making a purchase.
Gears are an important feature to look for, as they make riding easier and more efficient.
The majority of 20-inch bikes have six gears, and some versions have twist grips to make shifting gears easier. Riders may effortlessly increase or lower the gears with these grips and with little effort.
While changing gears, other bikes include indexed levers with two triggers that can shift the gears up or down with even more precision.
The Accessories
If you’re unsure how to find an affordable 20-inch bike, it’s important to take a close look at the accessories included with the bike. This is especially important when purchasing for young riders.
First and foremost, look for a small basket built into the handlebars, which can be used to carry items needed on the ride.
Another essential accessory to look for is a kickstand, which allows the child to park the bike upright without it falling over.
A horn is another essential item since it enables the rider to announce their presence on the road.
According to the brand, horns might have different designs. An anti-theft gadget can also offer more security and peace of mind.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
When should I buy a bicycle for my son?
A child can start riding a bicycle from age 3, but transitioning from a trike to a bike requires some adaptation. Stabilizers are still necessary at this age, or you can opt for a model without pedals to help your little one gradually learn to regain balance.
How do I measure the size of a child’s bike in inches?
The size of a children’s bicycle corresponds to the dimensions of the wheels and is typically expressed in inches.
The wheel measurements can usually be found on the sidewall of the tires to make your selection easier. Many websites provide tables of indicative sizes that can assist you in selecting the right bike.
What size is a 20-inch bike?
A 20-inch bike is generally suitable for a child who is approximately 1.20-1.35m tall or 6-8 years old. However, the compatibility between age and size is only indicative, as two children of the same age may not be the same size.
How do I teach a child to ride a bike?
Starting at 18 months, introduce your child to tricycles; at around two years old, they can begin to walk independently.
This helps them develop coordination and autonomy. Around 4-5 years old, they can use a bicycle adapted to their size, and this is an excellent time to teach them how to climb up and down.
Once they’re comfortable with that, move on to learning how to start, pedal, and brake correctly. Gradually, you can remove the training wheels and provide less support.
How do I adjust a children’s bike?
Adjusting a children’s bike is essential to make it suitable for young riders. Regularly change the saddle to accommodate growth and ensure both feet are flat on the floor while seated for easy stopping.
At around eight years old, adjust the saddle height so that only the balls of your feet touch the ground when the bike is stationary.
What height is a 20-inch bike suitable for?
A children’s bike is selected based on size, not age. For a child between 1.20 m and 1.35 m tall, a 20-inch bike is suitable. For more clarification, consult a buying guide for the best 20-inch bikes that cover essential criteria.
Why buy a 20-inch bike?
When kids are ready for a 20-inch bike (around age 6), they have a greater interest and ability in cycling. They can bike longer distances and faster, and if they’ve been riding for a while, they may be ready for their first geared bike.
What do 20 inches mean on a bike?
The “20 inches” refers to the size of the wheels, which is traditionally a standard size and is followed by 14″ and 16″ and then comes before 24″ and 26″ and above. It is also the wheel size of choice for most BMX bikes.
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