KIDS' MOUNTAIN BIKE REVIEWS AND MORE

We get it. Good things cost good money. But I have never heard anyone say, "I really shouldn't have bought that great mountain bike." Not long ago, kids' mountain bikes and accessories were not very good. Youth mountain bikes from big manufacturers were heavy and poor performing. My favorite bike shop mechanic called this the "curse of the kid bike." Well, the curse has been broken, manufacturers are investing in designing good gear for young riders. Here is some of what we've been able to get our hands on.

Downhill Bikes For Kids

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Downhill bikes for kids are purpose-built and full-suspension. Here are several picks with 20-inch wheels, 24-inch wheels and small adult size bikes.

readmore

The Best Mountain Bikes for Kids 11-14 Years Old

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Here are 10 of the best mountain bikes for kids 11-14 years old. Our choices feature many of the components available on full-sized bikes.

readmore

Best 24-inch Mountain Bikes for Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

In our opinion, these are the best 24inch mountain bikes for 8-11 year olds. There are full-suspension, front suspension, and rigid options.

readmore

Best 20-inch Mountain Bikes for Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Our picks for the best 20-inch mountain bikes for your 5-8 year old kid.

readmore

Best 26-inch Wheel Mountain Bikes for Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

In our opinion, these are the best mountain bikes for 8-11 year olds. There are full-suspension, front suspension, and rigid options.

readmore

Best Bikes For Kids 1-3 Years Old

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Here are our bike picks for 1-3 year olds in 2019. Balance bikes are the way to go when you have a young'un ready to get started on a kids bike.

readmore

The Best 16-inch Bikes For Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Your 4-5 year old could be ready to get off road and on the single track. Here are our picks for the best bikes that will get the job done.

readmore

Best 14-inch Bikes for Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Get your child started with their first balance bike or a pedal bike when they are 3-4 years old. Here are our picks for 2022.

readmore

Best 12-inch Bikes For Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Balance bikes are the way to go when you have a young'un ready to get started on a kid's bike.

readmore

Best Mountain Bikes for 8-11 Year Old Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

In our opinion, these are the best mountain bikes for 8-11 year olds. There are full-suspension, front suspension, and rigid options.

readmore

Best Bikes for Kids 3-4 Years Old

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Get your child started with their first balance bike or a pedal bike when they are 3-4 years old. Here are our picks for 2022.

readmore

The Best Bikes For Kids 4-5 Years Old

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Your 4-5 year old could be ready to get off road and on the single track. Here are our picks for the best bikes that will get the job done.

readmore

Best Mountain Bikes for Kids 5-8 Years Old

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Our picks for the best mountain bikes for your 5-8 year old include options with 20+ inch wheels and a fat bike.

readmore

Prevelo Zulu One Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Prevelo Zulu One is a rigid single-speed bike with 14-inch wheels. And, we think it will be many 3-5 year old's first off-road bike.

readmore

Prevelo Alpha Zero Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Prevelo Alpha Zero is a balance bike designed to fit kids as young as 1.5 years old. See if it's a good fit for your little ones.

readmore

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

These Patagonia duffel bags hold more than the average daypack or medium sized suitcase. But are they a good option for your family on the go?

readmore

Prevelo Alpha One Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Prevelo Alpha One just may be your child's first pedal bike. It has 14inch wheels, handbrakes and a freewheel option.

readmore

Best Stocking Stuffers for Mountain Bikers

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Mom chose our list of the best stocking stuffers for mountain bikers. Take look and select from a cool bell, trail snacks, a multi-tool, and several more gift ideas.

readmore

The Best Mountain Bike Helmets For NICA Riders

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Get a lid for your NICA kid! Here are our picks for the best helmets for your NICA athlete. Of course each helmet is designed to be safe, but comfort, ventilation and look are also important factors to consider.

readmore

The Best Enduro Helmets For Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Is your young mountain biker ready to go full enduro? Keep her/him safe and comfortable with our selections of the best enduro helmets for kids.

readmore

Full Face Mountain Biking Helmets For Kids

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Full face mountain biking helmets will help protect your kids' cute grills as well as your investment in advanced orthodontics.

readmore

VelociRAX Bike Rack Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Take a look at the vertically oriented VelociRAX bike rack. Depending on your needs, they can carry 3-7 bikes.

readmore

Ten Great Mountain Bikes For NICA Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Young mountain bikers can join a NICA team as early as 7th grade. Here's are 10 mountain bikes that will help them enjoy cross country racing.

readmore

Prevelo Zulu Four Heir Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Prevelo Zulu Four Heir is a 24 inch wheel mountain bike capable of more than just cruising singletrack.

readmore

Transition Scout Review

Written by Teagan and Brett | SHARETWEET

Junior gravity enthusiast/mountain biker Teagan Heap helps us review the Transition Scout.

readmore

Bontrager Avert Women’s Mountain Bike Rain Jacket Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

This Avert Stormshell women's rain jacket from Bontrager is one of my favorite mtb garments.

readmore

Camelbak Flow Belt And Podium Bottle Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

This hydration and storage solution from Camelbak is comfy and light. It's agreat for kids and adults who embark on trail rides.

readmore

Introducing The Specialized Carbon Hotwalk

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Specialized has created the most expensive balance we have ever seen. Take a look at the Hotwalk Carbon.

readmore

Shred Til Bed Book – From Kids Ride Shotgun

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

This book from the Kids Ride Shotgun bike seat group, features animals and the alphabet.

readmore

PNW Components Rainier Gen 3 Dropper Post And Loam Lever Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Our 13 year-old has used a PNW Components Rainier Gen 3 Dropper and Loam Lever for several months. See how they've held up.

readmore

Bontrager Ion Pro RT/Flare RT Light Set Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Bontrager Ion Pro RT/Flare RT light set is composed of two rechargeable LED lamps. Read our review and become enlightened.

readmore

PNW Components Loam Grips Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Mom and Tyge have been using these PNW Components grips since early spring. Learn more about them in our review.

readmore

Bontrager Rhythm Women’s Mountain Bike Jersey Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

When mom's ready to ride, she needs proper clothing like the comfortable and good looking Bontrager Rhythm jersey.

readmore

Camping Gear For Your Family Mountain Biking Road Trips

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

When we hit the road and camp, we're sure to bring these essentials. See the tent, sleeping bags, stove and other items we use.

readmore

Trek Fuel EX 8 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Read how the Trek Fuel EX 8 performed across a variety of settings including cross-country NICA races and the old Rampage site.

readmore

Bontrager Quantum MIPS Mountain Bike Helmet Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

This Bontrager helmet is being used by our young teen this season. It has been broken-in and in use for months. Get the details and read the review.

readmore

PNW Components Range Stem With Accessory Mount Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

This stem is a clever item that allows you to attach a light, action camera or whatever else you can figure out. Parents will enjoy using it, too.

readmore

Bontrager Cycling Socks Review

Written by Cassie | SHARETWEET

A Bontrager sock review? Sure. Your tweens and teens need socks without holes in them when you get new shoes.

readmore

Prevelo Zulu Four Heir Preview

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Here's a preview for the Prevelo Zulu Four Heir. It's a great 24-inch mountain bike for kids with an air fork.

readmore

Bontrager Flatline MTB Shoes Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Our youngest gets his Bontrager on and demos a pair of Flatline shoes. Read on to see how things went.

readmore

Das Optics Sunglasses Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Das Optics wants your kids to have stylish eye protection that's fun to wear and reasonably priced. There are a couple more perks, too. Read on, ride on!

readmore

Rocky Mountain Reaper 27.5 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Don't fear the Reaper 2.75 - embrace it. Our kid rode this rock-stomper for a couple of months so he could put it through its paces in several locales.

readmore

Rocky Mountain Reaper 27.5 Preview

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Take a quick spin across the local university campus on the Rocky Mountain Reaper 27.5. This bike features RockShox suspension and a SRAM drivetrain.

readmore

Oakley DRT5 Mountain Bike Helmet Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Oakley DRT5 is a trail helmet our mtb son actually likes wearing. It features MIPS and nifty clips that keep sunglasses in place when not shredding.

readmore

TAIR Ripper Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Born and raised in Golden, Colorado – the TAIR Ripper is a front-suspension carbon frame mountain bike for kids. Learn more about this bike in our review.

readmore

Norco Sight 27.5 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Norco Sight 27.5 is ready for your grom to take to the hills! It's an all-mountain, full-suspension shredder with 150mm front and 140mm rear travel.

readmore

Norco Sight 27.5 Preview

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

We got our just barely washed hands on a Norco Sight 27.5 and couldn't wait to share this preview. Sign up for our emails and follow us on Instagram to stay in-the-loop for everything MTB With Kids.

readmore

Steadyrack Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Steadyrack allows you to store your family's bikes vertically. It's a practical, space-saving design at a reasonable price.

readmore

Mountain Bike Deals for NICA Racers – Spring 2020

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

If you have a teen or pre-teen, this is the time to upgrade your kid's mountain bike. Here are some great spring 2019 deals for NICA athletes.

readmore

Trailcraft Timber 26 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Trailcraft makes mountain bikes in a variety of sizes and configurations. Read about their light-weight hardtail with 26 inch wheels.

readmore

Deals On Mountain Bikes For Big Kids – January 2020

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Take a look at these great deals on six big mountain bikes for big kids. Get one now before they're gone.

readmore

Woom Off 5 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Learn about Woom's new mountain bikes as we take a look at the Woom Off 5. It's a 24 inch wheel bike for kids with hydraulic brakes and a carbon fork.

readmore

2020 Norco Fluid FS 1 24 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Norco Fluid FS 1 24 is redesigned for 2020. In addition to its improved suspension mechanics, it features a dropper post, SDG components, and Maxxis tires.

readmore

Woom Off 5 Giveaway 2019

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Join our email list for a chance to win a Woom Off 5 mountain bike. The bike has 24 inch wheels and is designed to fit kids 49" to 57" tall and approximately 7-11 years old.

readmore

Woom Off 5 Preview

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

A full review and video summary is on the way. The Woom Off series is a group of kids mountain bikes with disc brakes, great tires and a carbon fork.

readmore

Fezzari Solitude Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Fezzari Solitude is a race-ready mountain bike featuring a carbon frame and several build options with SRAM drivetrains.

readmore

Fox Youth Ranger Shorts Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

We have a hard time finding mountain biking shorts that fit our skinny kids’ waists while not bei...

readmore

Yakima Hangover 6 Bike Rack Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

This is Yakima's first foray into the vertically oriented, 6-bike capacity hitch rack category. We discover if this reasonably priced rack is a good fit.

readmore

MyMedic First Aid Kit Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Do you carry a first aid kit with you when you ride with your family? The MyMedic MyFAK is worth a look for parents, NICA coaches, and hikers.

readmore

Enduro Bikes For Kids

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Over the last few years, enduro races have started to allow kids aged 12 and younger to participate. Here are some of the full-suspension mountain bikes for kids that allow for technical descending and pedaling the transitions.

readmore

Demon United Hyper X Knee Pads For Kids Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Demon United is well established in the protective gear market for mtb kids. See how their Hyper X knee pads hold up over a summer of riding.

readmore

Commencal Clash Jr. Review

Written by Liz | SHARETWEET

The 27.5 wheel Commencal Clash Jr. has an appetite for gravity. Our review features a couple of Utah kids who know how to put this bike through its paces.

readmore

Shotgun Kids Mountain Bike Seat Review

Written by Nick | SHARETWEET

This crafty accessory from Kids Ride Shotgun allows your little one to get front-and-center on your mountain bike. Watch our video and read the review.

readmore

MTB Stuff We Love – Summer 2019

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

These are smaller accessories that can help almost everyone in your MTB family avoid flats, store gear, and get the most out of your next ride.

readmore

Pivot LES 27.5 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Pivot LES 27.5 is a cross-country race specialist. Its carbon frame and wheels are key elements for this high school usable mtb machine.

readmore

Father’s Day 2019 – Mountain Bike Dads’ Bike Checks

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Dads from across the mtb plains tell us about their families and bikes. Thanks to all of you who took the time to share the mtb love. This one's ferda-dads!

readmore

We Choose The Best Locks For Mountain Bikes

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Here are our three choices for the best mountain bike locks. We also include some tips for keeping your bikes safe from modern day horse thieves.

readmore

Mother’s Day 2019 – Mom Bike Checks

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Moms give their take on why they like the mountain bikes they chose. Happy Mother's Day to all the #mtbmoms who ride and encourage their kids to ride.

readmore

LittleBig Bike Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Parents who excel in planning ahead will want to maximize the potential this bike has to offer as their child builds fundamental bike riding skills.

readmore

Little Rider Co Jersey Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Your rad kid needs appropriate, rad clothing. Little Rider Co has stepped up and created great looking quality jerseys for young mountain bikers.

readmore

Marin Hawk Hill Jr. Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

A young YouTubing mountain biker created a video featuring his Marin Hawk Hill Jr.

readmore

Pivot Mach 6 Carbon Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

It the mountain biking term "quiver-killer" just a term? Or, is it an achievable end with the acquisition of the Pivot Mach 6 Carbon? Our kid pushed this bike to the brink.

readmore

Easter Gift Ideas for Mountain Biking Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Easter is right around the corner! If you do an Easter basket or an egg hunt for your kids, why not include some MTB goodies?

readmore

Giro Disciple Helmet Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Giro Disciple with MIPS full-face helmet is a good looking lid for kids. It also sports a couple of nifty features for your tech-minded mountain biker.

readmore

Rocky Mountain Reaper Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Rocky Mountain Reaper is at home on the rough stuff. Read our review featuring this 26 inch wheel full-suspension mountain bike for kids.

readmore

Th Best Chair for Mountain Bikers: Helinox

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

We have used the Helinox camping chairs for several years and they're great. Whenever we road-trip with the bikes, we're always sure to bring these along.

readmore

Woom Bike Helmet Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The designers at Woom have made a unique kids' helmet with the safety features and functionality you need to know about.

readmore

Five Big Deals On Mountain Bikes For Big Kids

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Take a look at these great deals on five big mountain bikes for big kids. Get one now before they're gone.

readmore

Trailcraft Maxwell 26 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Is the full-suspension Trailcraft Maxwell 26 a do-it-all kids' mountain bike? Read the words. Look at the photos. Then, choose a color.

readmore

The Best Mountain Bike Racks For Families

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Here are our picks for bike racks. They are not cheap, but they will ensure your family's mountain bikes arrive at the trail head undamaged.

readmore

Woom 5 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Woom 5 was designed in Vienna, Austria – just like Beethoven's 5th symphony. Is this a coincidence? Is this a cycling masterpiece? Read on!

readmore

Alta Racks, Alta Six GPR Bike Rack Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

We tried out the Alta Racks, Alta Six GPR bike rack system. This bike rack holds up to six mountain bikes and it's made in America.

readmore

Bell Super 3r Helmet With MIPS For Kids – Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

A removable chin bar for the Bell Super 3r provides another level of protection for your kid's cute face when trail conditions get rowdy.

readmore

Five Ten Freerider Contact Mountain Bike Shoes for Kids – Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Kids grow out of stuff fast. That means our 11 year old got to try out a pair of Five Ten Freerider Contact mountain biking shoes for the season.

readmore

Trailcraft Maxwell 24 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Trailcraft Maxwell 24 is a premium full-suspension mountain bike for kids. The model we review in this article featured a Shimano XT components and Stan's No Tubes wheels.

readmore

Summer 2018 Audiobooks For Families

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

It's finally road trip time! Before you load up the mountain bikes, load up your smartphone or cd player with these audiobooks we've enjoyed over the years.

readmore

Spawn Yoji 14 Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

We got our hands on a Spawn Yoji 14. This highly adjustable kids' bike for riders aged 2.5 and up features 14 inch wheels, hand brakes and a fab saddle.

readmore

Orbea MX 24 Trail Mountain Bike Review

Written by Dan | SHARETWEET

This 24 inch wheeled mountain bike was put through its paces by a young girl who has raced and jumped the bike. Read what she says about this front-suspension option from Orbea.

readmore

Prevelo Alpha Two – Kids’ Bike Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

If your 4-6 year old biker is ready to transition to their first pedal bike from a balance bike or bike with training wheels, you should look at this 16-inch wheel offering from Prevelo.

readmore

5 Mountain Biking Shorts For Kids

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

We've tried a few different brands of mountain biking shorts for our kids over the years. These shorts from popular brands are built for fit, comfort and function.

readmore

Leatt DBX 5.5 Junior Neck Brace Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

The Leatt DBX 5.5 Junior neck brace can be partnered with a one piece full-face helmet to provide your aggressive grom an additional level of protection.

readmore

Scott Scale RC JR 24 Mountain Bike Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

The Scott Scale RC JR 24 is a race ready cross country mountain bike designed specifically for kids. Find out if this frame and build is a good fit for your young rider.

readmore

October Audiobooks for Family Road Trips

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

We've chosen three seasonal favorites for October's audiobooks. Bring these along so your young mountain bikers look forward to the next long drive.

readmore

Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes for Kids – Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

These mountain biking shoes for kids are a wonderful accessory if your kids like to ride with flat pedals and get rowdy.

readmore

Three Audiobooks You May Enjoy On Your Next Mountain Biking Trip With Kids

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

A story about audiobooks on a mountain biking with kids website? Abso-freakin’-lutely! Audiobooks are the reason why our mountain biking kids don’t mind long trips in the car.

readmore

Trek Fuel Ex Jr. Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Our youngest has been on this ride for a few months. Find out if the full-suspension Trek Fuel Ex Jr. irons out the bumps while keeping the weight low enough to do the job as an all-mountain/enduro kid's bike.

readmore

SixSixOne Rage Youth Knee Pad Review

Written by Traci | SHARETWEET

Knee pads are mandatory for some of our mountain bike rides. Here's how the current knee pads for our 10 year old measure up after a few weeks of heavy use.

readmore

Bell Super 2r Helmet Review

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

Has your kid crashed and hit his/her face on a cross-country mountain bike ride? Read our review or the Bell Super 2r to see what we think about these after a season of riding.

readmore

Dakine Shuttle 6L Hydration Pack

Written by Brett | SHARETWEET

We picked up this handy accessory during one of our north-of-the-border trips. See how we like it after a season of use.

readmore
best mountain biking and mtb helmets for kids and teenagers
Best mountain bikes for 8-11 year olds
Woom Off - mountain bikes for kids
The best enduro bikes for kids