The 10 Best children’s bikes
Show all 101. Ridgeback 24
£239.99, cyclesurgery.com
This mountain bike, aimed at seven to 10-year-olds, is engineered to take all the knocks. The light frame makes it easy to lift.
2. Islabikes Beinn
£249, islabikes.co.uk
The national cyclists' organisation CTC is among Islabikes' biggest fans, which says it all. These bikes are built to last.
3. Trek MT 60
£225, evanscycles.com
This bike has a durable, corrosion-resistant aluminium frame and front suspension – an excellent choice for boys aged five and over.
4. Weeride Pro Pilot
£149, elc.co.uk
No, this bike doesn't have a wheel missing – you simply attach it to your own bicycle and your child pedals behind. For ages four to nine.
5. Apollo Moonstone 20
£109.99, halfords.com
With its vibrant graphics on a white frame, this is a great all-rounder for girls aged six to nine. The front suspension fork provides comfort.
6. Puky Z2
£159.99, pukybikes.co.uk
Unlike most bike manufacturers, Puky only makes children's bikes, so it is a true expert. The Z2 has many clever child-centred features.
7. Specialised Hot Rock 24
£270, specializedconceptstore.co.uk
With 21 gears and a premium aluminium frame, this mountain bike also has special tyres for varied terrain.
8. Kettler Speedy
£35.99, kettler.co.uk
Balance bikes are all the rage – and rightly so. They're fun and enable kids to master the balance needed to ride a two-wheeler at an earlier age.
9. Raleigh MX
£95, raleigh.co.uk
The MX range is inspired by the fast and furious world of Motocross. Available in two sizes (age 3+ or 5+), it has loads of safety features.
10. Mongoose Subject
£197.99, evanscycles.comNew for 2012, this is a terrific first BMX for kids aged 13 and up. It has all the parts you'll need, including BMX-style grips and pegs for tricks.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies