Deals On Mountain Bikes For Big Kids – January 2020

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Mountain bike deals for teens - January, 2020

Deals on mountain bikes for teens and pre-teens – Are you searching for a mountain bike to fit your pre-teen or teen or NICA rider?  There are some some killer deals on select mountain bikes happening now. May of these bikes are 2018 or 2019 models, but if you’re looking to buy new, you’ll want to strongly consider one of these deals. Many shops are generally looking to get rid of remaining inventory to make room for newer models. These six mountain bikes have good quality components and are available now – but not for long!

Mountain bike deals for teens - January, 2020

January 2020 deals on mountain bikes for teens and pre-teens

orbea m50 eagle 27.5 carbon hardtail mountain bike

Orbea Alma M50 Eagle 27.5″ (2019) | 50% off | ONLY Medium Size Left!

One of the most amazing deals on mountain bikes for teens this month! Orbea designed the Alma to create a light, fast bike that you can take anywhere. Complete with Orbea’s OMP carbon frame, the Alma 27.5” M50 is a mean trail ripping machine. The RockShox Recon TK air fork sports 100mm of travel that will guide your rider effortlessly over obstacles, while the Mach 1 Klixx wheelset is tubeless ready. The SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain provides your young rider with a huge 12-speed gear range to get through any terrain, and Shimano’s hydraulic disc brakes give you optimal stopping control. Orbea’s wide handlebar and low stem make handling a breeze, and the Selle Royal seat keeps you comfortable even on long rides. The medium frame Alma M50 has a stand-over height of 28.9 inches and is made to fit riders ranging in height from 5’5″ to 5’11” tall.

picot mach 6 carbon mountain bike

Pivot Mach 6 Carbon Race Xo1 Eagle Mountain Bike (2018)| 20% off | ONLY Large Size Left!

The Pivot Mach 6 carbon into lively and witty bike. See our full Mach 6 review. Whether you’re churning out the watts to get to the top of the next hill or bombing down technical terrain – the Mach 6 carbon yearns to help you build and release the kinetic energy that makes this sport so rewarding and fun. Pivot uses a DW-link for its ability to soak up the chunder without compromising pedaling. The Mach 6 climbs like a short-travel bike, and descends with power and authority. The Fox Factory Float DPX2 shock provides 155-millimeters of buttery-smooth travel. Additionally, the SRAM Eagle drivetrain offers massive gear range. The large frame Pivot Mach 6 carbon has a stand-over height of 29.25 inches.

santa cruz tallboy a d complete mountain bike

Santa Cruz Bicycles Tallboy A D Complete Mountain Bike (2019) | 30% off 

The Santa Cruz Tallboy A D Complete Mountain Bike doesn’t care if you call it a trail bike, an XC racer, or just a good old mountain bike. It’s all of these things, but all it wants to do is rip. Made from dependable and rugged aluminum alloy, this is a lightweight short-travel bike with that’ll pedal with all day long, with quick acceleration and an efficient SRAM NX 11-speed drivetrain. Additonally, this bike boasts a Fox Float Performance DPS  shock and the RockShox Recon RL fork. Finally, being a Santa Cruz, the Tallboy is set up to rip right out of the box, this model is your most affordable ticket to getting out the trails on a Santa Cruz full-squisher. Currently available in sizes S, M, L and XL with a minimum standover height of 27.75″

juliana joplin mountain bike for teens

Juliana Joplin D Mountain Bike (2019) | 30% off | ONLY Medium Size Left!

The Juliana Joplin is a trail bike built for speed and distance on technical trails. Your teen or pre-teen rider will find many things to like about this mountain bike. Firstly, the shock has been specially tuned for lighter riders and provides 110mm of VPP suspension. Secondly, the aluminum frame adds durability and value. Thirdly, the Rock Shox Recon 120mm Fork can handle rock gardens with ease. Additionally, the SRAM NX 1×11 drivetrain offers a wide range of gears. The Medium size stand-over height = 27.6″.

norco fluid fs 1 mountain bike

Norco Fluid FS 1 (2019) | 20% off 

With its confidence-inspiring geometry, playful ride handling, incredible suspension feel and unmatched fun factor, the Fluid FS will take your teen’s’ trail riding experience to the next level. Designed around 27.5″ wheels for XS-M frame sizes and 29″ wheels for M-XL, the Fluid FS gives medium riders a choice of wheel size allowing them to further fine tune handling characteristics based on their size, riding style and preferences.  The Fluid FS 1 mountain bike includes a RockShox Revelation RC fork with 130mm travel and the RockShox Deluxe R shock. The Norco Fluid FS1 is available in sizes S, M, L and  with a minimum stand-over height of 29.5 inches.

Trek full stache 8 mountain bike

Trek Full Stache 8 (2019) | 20% off | available in M and L sizes only

Full Stache 8 is a full suspension 29+ mountain bike perfect for rugged backcountry riding. This bike has some impressive features for teen riders. Firstly, the Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame provides extra stiffness.  Secondly, the SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain gives a huge gear range for quick climbing and blistering sprints. Thirdly, the Fox Float rear shock provides 130mm of travel mirrored by the RockShox Pike fork. Fourthly, aggressive 29×3.0˝ Bontrager XR4 Tubeless Ready mid-fat tires on beefy 40mm rims will roll over just about anything. As an added bonus, Trek also threw in a a Bontrager Dropper post. The height range for a medium is listed as 5’3″-5’8″ and the height range for a large is listed as 5’8″-6’2″.

We hope our list of deals on mountain bikes for teens and pre-teens is helpful. We’ll try and publish a list of new deals monthly, since you never know when your teen will hit that growth spurt and outgrow their bike and all their shoes and clothes!

We’d love to see what MTB shenanigans your kids are up to! Share your MTB adventures with MTBwithKids on Instagram or Facebook

Visiting Sprockids Mountain Bike Park In Gibsons British Columbia

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Mountain biking with kids at Sprockids Bike Park

Gobs of people make the pilgrimage to Whistler every summer to ride the bike park; the area’s valley trails or get a dose of Crankworx. But if you’re ready to literally broaden your mtb family’s horizons and expand your portfolio of riding in beautiful western BC, we have a great option. Hop on a ferry and head even further west to Gibsons on BC’s Sunshine Coast and visit the Sprockids Mountain Bike Park.

Mountain biking with kids at Sprockids Bike Park

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VISIT our resource page for Kids’ Mountain Bikes

Getting To The Sunshine Coast

You have to take a ferry to access the BC’s Sunshine Coast from West Vancouver. It takes just under two hours to get from Horseshoe Bay [Vancouver] to Langdale [Gibsons] not including waiting to board the ship. We strongly recommend reserving a ferry ride so you don’t get surprised by a busy travel day. Fares are reasonably priced and you can easily just do the jaunt as a long day-trip.

Boarding the ferry from North Van to Langdale
On the ferry deck to Sprockids

Helpful Resources For Sprockids Mountain Bike Park

Getting To The Sprockkids MTB Park

Simply hop on the Sunshine Coast Highway from the ferry port at Langdale or Gibsons. About halfway between the two towns, head north on Stewart Road.

Gibsons BC Area Bike Shops

Elphi Cycles - Roberts Creek, BC

Elphi Cycles

1058 Roberts Creek Road
Roberts Creek, BC

Website: www.elphicycles.com
Phone: 778-458-2636

Off The Edge

5519 Wharf Avenue
Sechelt, BC

Website: www.offtheedge.org
Phone: 604-741-0767

GIBSONS MTBK WEATHER

Sprockids Mountain Bike Park Trail Map

Visiting Sprockids Is A Family-Fun-For-All

A wonderful skills park and about 8.5 miles of trails for beginner, intermediate, and advanced mountain bikers await you in this fun and well developed zone. The trails near the bottom of the mountain range from easy to intermediate. The upper portion of the mountain has a few black rated trails.

Sprockids Park sign
Skills park - Sprockids
Riding the Sprockids Park with mtb kids

When we visited the park, we had a ball at the skills course for around half an hour and then ventured off to ride some single track.

A route we chose took us to the top of Fuzzy Hugs. After descending that, we hit a couple other intermediate trails. The riding there is classic BC. Giant old trees, beautifully built wood features, and that sooooo sweeet sound of tires humming over just-right-dirt that doesn’t grease up.

Sprockids MTB Park - Fuzzy Hugs

The park is not lift-served and you can’t shuttle because we all like earning the ride down, don’t we? There are a few bike camps that use the area, so don’t be surprised if you run into groups of other riders.

Sign post at Sprokids bike park

Getting around at Sprockids is super easy. You can identify where you are based on trail intersections and several well-placed trail sign posts with maps.

Sprockids MTB Park - descending a trail with mtb kids
Sprockids MTB Park - elevated feature
Deck to skinny at Gibsons BC Sprockids Park

The kids seshd’ a few features along the way so they could find the right lines and demonstrate how years of gymnastics classes could be brought to the bikes.

CMBTA - Coast Mountain Bike Trail Association

When you visit, consider making a contribution to the local trail organization, CMBTA [Coast Mountain Bike Trail Association].

Fuel Up For The Next Ride

When you’re ready to recharge the batteries and grab something to eat – explore the town of Gibsons. Visit the harbor and stop at one of the many local eateries.

Gibsons BC harbor stroll
Smitty's Marina - seafood restaurant
Cabin-boat. Not a house boat.

Check out our Destinations and Trails page for more fun places to ride and visit! We’d love to hear about your favorite places to ride bikes with your family, too. Share your faves with us on Instagram or Facebook

Woom Off 5 Review

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Featured photo - Woom Off 5 Review

The Off 5 is the 24 inch wheel kids’ mountain bike in a relatively new line up of offerings from Woom. This company makes bikes specifically for kids. Undeniably, Woom has earned a very favorable reputation for making kids’ bikes that are fun and easy to ride.

Featured photo - Woom Off 5 Review

Now, with the introduction of the Off series, Woom’s designers have created true purpose-built youth mountain bikes. Importantly, the Off series bikes adhere to the company’s principles: Faster Learning, Experience Adventure, and Value. At the current time, the MSRP for each bike in the Off series is less than $700 USD.

Wheel SizeBike WeightChild AgeSaddle Height RangeMSRPLive Price
Woom Off 420"17.2 lbs6 - 8 years old23.9 in - 29.5 in$669.00 USDcheck
Woom Off 524"18.9 lbs7 - 11 years old28.2 in - 32.28 in$679.00 USDcheck
Woom Off 626"20.5 lbs10 - 14 years old30.9 in - 38.4 in$699.00 USDcheck

Presently, most kids mountain bikes bikes in this price range are composed of aluminum alloy frame and fork components. However, the fork on the Woom Off is constructed from carbon. The carbon fork reduces weight and improves responsiveness. To note, Woom has plans to offer an air fork for the Off series in 2020.

Woom Off 5 Review - happy mountain biker on single track

Quick Look – The Woom Off 5 

standover height icon

MIN. SADDLE HEIGHT

28.2 inches

drivetrain icon

DRIVETRAIN

1 x 9

wheel size icon

WHEEL SIZE

24 inches

weight icon

WEIGHT

18.9 lbs

age icon

AGE RANGE

Approx. 7 – 11

Top tube close up - Woom Off 5 Review
Brake lever detail - Woom Off 5 Review

Some More Numbers And Specs – Woom Off 5

In addition to its carbon fork, he Woom Off has some other stand-out features. Firstly, the hydraulic brakes make controlling speed easy. Secondly, Schwalbe Rocket Ron tires provide high quality grip. We really love having tubeless tires in our family. However, we don’t think it would be too hard to set these wheels up as tubeless. To this end, you can use either tape and valves or the bottom inner portion of a 20″ tube. To be sure, it’s a little odd that the tubes that shipped with our demo have schrader valves. But luckily, most bike pumps are both presta/schrader compatible.

FrameLightweight, high-quality 6061 T6 aluminum with butted and hydroformed tubes
ForkLight carbon fork; 100 x 15 mm through axles
BrakesHydraulic disc brakes from Promax
Gears9 speeds; SRAM trigger shifter; SRAM X5 derailleur
DriveNarrow-wide chainring with 28 teeth in the front Cassette with 11-34 teeth in the back
CranksLightweight, forged 130 mm aluminum cranks with narrow tread
RimsSuperlight woom OFF DISCO TEC double-chamber aluminum rims
Tires24 x 2.35″ Schwalbe Rocket Ron with ADDIX SPEED rubber compound
Weight18.9 lbs without pedals
Buy-Direct PriceWoom Website

Additionally, the Woom 5 Off has a quick-release seat post collar, not a collar that requires a hex key. Accordingly, seat hight changes are quick and easy. Contrarily, if you want to get adventurous and increase your standing as a valued parental life form you can make a few modifications. Firstly, pick up an old external RockShox dropper. Secondly, install it on the Off.  You’ll want to cut the dropper’s line to the proper length and affix it to the top tube with zip ties. Without aa doubt, this adjustment can boost your little rider’s confidence even more.

Saddle detail - Woom Off 5 Review
Bash guard on the Woom Off 5

Drivetrain And Design

The 1 x 9 SRAM drivetrain is smooth-shifting and reliable. What’s more, the wide gear range is great for speedy flats and quick climbs. Surprisingly, the Woom Off even has a bash guard protecting the front chain ring.

Next, step back into time and behold- a kickstand! This easy-to-remove accessory was just as surprising as the bike’s carbon fork. Keep it on if you like, or use it to prop up the bike for a photo shoot. The bike’s a looker and worth every photo you take.

The designers at Woom understand aesthetics. Smooth lines along the top tube of the bike, impeccable curves on the chainstays, and a minimalism is better-ism doctrine are noticeable. Overall, this bike looks fats!

Carbon Fork close up - Woom Off 5 Review
Rear mech derailleur and cassette - Woom Off 5 Review
Shwalbe Rocket Ron tire detail - Woom Off 5 Review

Woom Off 5 Geometry

Woom Off 5 Geometry

Click the image above to enlarge it

Tire/wheel size24“
Cockpit/handlebar height34.4”
Steering angle69°
Top tube horizontal21”
Wheelbase38“
Seat tube angle70°
Minimum saddle height28.2”
Maximum saddle height32.28”
Crank length5.12"
Handlebars adjustabilityAngle +/-15°; Height +/- 0.47″

Who Is The Woom Off 5 Built For?

This kids’ rigid mountain bike is going to work very well for any mountain biker 7-11 years old and 50″-57″ tall. Skill level doesn’t matter. Beginning mountain bikers through experts will enjoy this bike on cross-country terrain.

Riding The Woom Off 5

Our riders simply loved pedaling the Woom Off 5. The bike’s weight is its greatest attribute. One of our riders was riding the bike in a familiar area where he was used to riding a heavier bike. He was able to climb a few hills for the first time on the Woom Off instead of walking them and he let us know over and over.

Woom Off 5 Review - single track turn
Woom Off 5 Review - elevated deck

The bike zipped through descending turns and quickly transitioned to climbing with a couple of hasty shifter clicks.

Woom Off 5 Review - pump track shadow
Turning with confidence - Woom Off 5 Review

A confident, skilled and safe rider can maneuver the Woom Off to the top obstacles and over the rocks. The fact that it’s a rigid frame didn’t bother our pre-teen riders. The width of the rims, quality of rubber, and tire pressure helped smooth out the bumps.

Woom Off 5 Review - riding over elevated feature

You’re always going to hear us say “Fit is it.” Be sure to get the Woom Off that will fit your child best. Never get a kids’ mountain bike that’s too small or too big. Be Goldilocks and get the bike that’s just right. The right fit allows your child to use the bike safely and maximize all of its features and components as designed and intended. Because Woom has built the Off in three different sizes, you can be sure to get the right one, right now.

Exiting a turn - Woom Off 5 Review
Woom Off 5 Review - riding across rocks

The Woom’s geometry allows kids to pedal efficiently, steer, brake and descend with determination. Fun is always part of the universal, multi-lingual equation, too.

Woom Off 5 Review - youth mountain biker on 24 inch wheel bike
Woom Off 5 Review - pump track turn

Consider The Woom Off 5 For Your Kid’s First Real Mountain Bike

Unquestionably, Woom has upped their game by designing the Off series of kids’ mountain bikes. As can be seen, they are competent machines at an excellent price-point. The hydraulic disc brakes, wheels, tires, and carbon fork make the line up an immediate contender for families who will be getting their kids their first real mountain bike.

Woom’s light-weight build is going to be a game-changer for kids who have learned to ride on heavier bikes. To sum up, your kids are going to be able to ride longer and and go farther on a bike with a build that had been engineered and fabricated to be heavy on fun and light on the scale.

Mountain Biking Experiences Are The Best Gifts

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Mountain biking experiences are the best gifts
Mountain biking experiences are the best gifts

Now that the holiday season is here, we’ve been thinking a lot about gifts. Most of us have a limited amount of money. How can we make sure that it is well spent on gifts that will bring long term happiness?

Research has been done on how people could use their money to make themselves happier. Although it seems to make sense that spending money on material objects would increase happiness because possessions last longer than an experience, the opposite is true.

best gifts are experiences

The Possession Paradox

The paradox of possessions is that although we think that the enjoyment we get from an object will last as long as the thing itself, that is wrong. Possessions can make us happy, but only for a while. The excitement of that new toy, iPhone or clothing can quickly fade into the background as they become a part of our daily lives. There are 3 reasons why this happens.

  • Adaptation – We get used to the stuff we’re surrounded with. Possessions that once seemed unique and exciting quickly become common.
  • Novelty seeking – New possessions lead to updated expectations. Once we get used to a new object, we look for something better.
  • Comparison – We must keep up with the Joneses. Objects are easy to compare. We are happy with our new TV/car/bike until a friend buys a better one—and there’s always someone with a better one. Ever had this happen with a brand new bike? We have.
Woom Off 5 Giveaway 2019

Win A Woom Off 5

If you’re 18 or over and a legal resident in the continental U.S., enter to win a free bike through Dec. 15th. Read more

Create your mountain biking achievement certificate

Free Achievement Certificate

Have a mountain biker in the family who did something great? Create a free achievement certificate now. Read more

Experiences Are Powerful

According to researchers, although experiences are fleeting, they tend to deliver more-lasting happiness than things. Here’s why:

Anticipation

Researchers have found that anticipation of obtaining a possession causes impatience. However, anticipation of an experience causes excitement and enjoyment. Experiences are enjoyable from the very first moments of planning, all the way through to the memories you cherish forever.

Harder To Compare

We can’t compare experiences in the same way that we compare objects. It’s almost impossible to quantify the relative value of any two experiences, which removes the compulsion to keep up with the Joneses. This makes experiences that much more enjoyable.

Experiences Are Temporary

Paradoxically, this is a good thing for happiness. Think of the last item you purchased that wasn’t as good as you hoped it would be. Once you own something, you get reminded of how it wasn’t as cool as you thought it would be every time you see the object. Fleeting experiences don’t allow this to happen. Good experiences seem to get better over time. Even bad experiences (type 2 fun, anyone?) become excellent stories to share and bond over. The value of experiences actually increases over time.

experinces gifts mountain biking with kids

Relationships

Experiences connect us to other people. Obviously, having experiences with other people creates deeper and more meaningful relationships. Significantly, even when an experience has ended, it continues to play a role in relationships. When you run into a fellow mountain biker, you have a certain easy bond and connection. You can talk about trails, the places you’ve biked and the adventures you’ve had. Social connections are a major key to happiness.

gifts identity experiences

Identity

You can really like your material belongings, but they remain separate from you. In contrast, your experiences really are part of you. We are the sum total of our experiences. Buying a new TV isn’t going to change who you are; but tackling an epic mountain bike ride most certainly will. We become travelers or foodies or mountain bikers.

Gifting Experiences

Things may last longer than experiences, but the memories that linger are what matter most. Does that mean the end of unwrapping gifts? Not necessarily. There is actually research that shows that a certain type of material gift give more lasting happiness than others. If you are going to buy a material item, choose a product that will lead to an experience. Experience-oriented products have been shown to increase well-being and happiness, too.

Here Is A List Of Our Favorite Gifts

  1. A trip to a new or old favorite mountain bike location. Check out our Destinations and Trails page to see some of the places we have visited.
  2. Lessons/camps. Give your loved one the gift of new skills! One of our favorite camps is SGC, but search your local area for lessons or camps near you.
  3. Mountain bikes and accessories – Yes, we know these are objects, but these objects will lead to experiences with your family and friends! Check out our MTB gift list to find the best experience oriented gifts!
gifts holiday experiences
mtb friends little creek mesa

Have you given the gift of mountain biking experiences to your family?  We’d love to see and hear all about it.  Share your best gifts with us on our MTB With Kids Facebook page

Wanting to get your kids out on bikes with you?  Visit our Tips for Mountain Biking With Kids articles to help you get started.

2020 Norco Fluid FS 1 24 Review

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Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review - featured photo

The Norco Fluid FS 1 24 is a full-suspension mountain bike for kids with 24 inch wheels and a brand spanking new design for 2020. Norco made some excellent design changes to make this bike even better. The four-bar suspension system is the most notable change. Additionally, Norco slackened the head tube angle and made the seat tube angle steeper. All in all, the Fluid FS 1 24 is an aggressive bike with a standover height of 22.4 inches.

Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review - featured photo

As of now, you can get this bike and others direct from Norco. Norco has developed an online buy-direct program or a “click-and-collect” system. When you purchase a bike online from Norco, it’s shipped to your local Norco dealer. Once your dealer has assembled the bike- you pick it up! Here are details on how it works.

Who Is The Norco Fluid FS 1 Built For? 

We highly recommend this bike for many disciplines of mtb riding. The Fluid FS1 is great for enduro, downhill, intermediate to advanced technical trails, bike parks, shuttle laps, dirt jumping, and all-mountain riding. However, it’s not an optimal 24 inch wheel kids’ bike for XC races. Norco offers the Fluid HT specifically for cross-country riding and racing, The Fluid HT is a fab 24-inch wheel hardtail.

Female youth gravity rider on the Norco Fluid FS 1 24
Male youth and the Norco Fluid FS 1 24 full-suspension mountain bike

The Norco Fluid FS 1 24 At A Glance 

standover height icon

STANDOVER HEIGHT

22.4 inches

drivetrain icon

DRIVETRAIN

1 x 11

wheel size icon

WHEEL SIZE

24 inches

weight icon

WEIGHT

28.6 lbs sans pedals

age icon

AGE RANGE

Approx. 9 – 12

Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review - Manitou fork detail
Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review - cassette and derailleur

A Little More About The 2020 Norco Fluid 24

Let’s get into the weeds! The new Fluid 24 gives us a lot to talk about! It is has a lot of features seen on full-size adult bikes. Here’s a run-down of its primary attributes.

Frame6061 Alloy Frame, 120mm Travel, tapered headtube, boost axle spacing
ForkManitou J-Unit 24" Air with 145mm Travel
ShockFox Performance FLOAT 3-position, SV/EVOL, custom light tune
Dropper PostJD TransX Light Action Dropper, 100mm,1x lever
BrakesShimano BR-MT500 hydraulic, 180mm
ShifterSRAM NX 11 speed
DerailleurSRAM NX
CassetteSRAM PG-1130 11-42T
CranksSRAM SX Eagle 155mm with 30t front ring
RimsSun Ringle Duroc 30 Kids tubeless ready
Front TireMaxxis Minion DHF Folding Bead EXO / TR 24×2.40”
Rear TireMaxxis Minion DHR II Folding Bead EXO / TR 24×2.30”
Weight28.6 lbs without pedals
Buy-Direct PriceNorco Website

The Norco Fluid FS 1 24 ships with the utra-super-cool youth SDG Jr. Pro component package. This package includes a kid-sized saddle, grips, pedals and bars. This accessory package is also available as an a-la-carte item. In addition, it comes in in several bright color options: black, blue, green and pink from Amazon | Competitive Cyclist | Jenson USA

Surprisingly, the Norco Fluid FS 1 24 even has a chain guide! Off the top of my head, I don’t recall seeing this on any other kid’s bike.

Cockpit detail - Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review
Maxxis Minion DHR - Norco Fluid 24
Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review - SDG saddle
Chain ring and crank detail - Norco Fluid FS 1 24 review

Norco Fluid 24 FS 1 Geometry

Norco designed this bike specifically for kids who weigh less than 90 lbs and in the 9-12 age group. Get out the tape measure and see if your grom is a good fit for this all-mountain and bike park shredder.

Norco Fluid FS 1 24 2020 Geometry Figure

Click the image above to enlarge it

Travel (mm front/mm rear):145/120
Reach:350
Stack:531
Head Tube Angle:64.5
Fork Offset:40
Seat Tube Length:305
Effective Seat Tube Angle:75.0
Rear Centre Length:407
Bottom Bracket Rise/Drop:-5
Bottom Bracket Height:305
Horizontal Top Tube:492
Wheel Base:1052
Stand Over:569
Head Tube Length:100
Trail:106
Recommended Seat Post Drop:100
Maximum Post Insertion:160
Stem Length:35
Crank Length:152
Tire Size:2.35" - 2.6"

Riding the Norco Fluid 24 FS 1

Our test riders railed the berms, stomped the tech, and sent the Norco Fluid 24 through the air. In short, they put this bike through its paces.

Sending the Norco Fluid FS 1 24 off a cannon jump
Dad sets up the Norco Fluid FS 1 24

Each of our girl and boy riders were experienced gravity racers. Certainly, their parents took care to set up the bike properly. In this situation, the adjustment for each child included: cockpit set up, adjusting the air pressure in the suspension and tires, as well as seatpost height. Each rider felt comfortable and confident on the bike after proper set up.

Making quick work of a drop on the Norco Fluid FS 1 24
Flying across the landscape with the full-suspension 2020 Norco Fluid FS 1

Big jumps and black-diamond technical terrain call for Full face helmets, protective gear, and advanced skills.

Catching air with the Norco Fluid 24 FS 1

A confident mountain biker on the right bike can effectively corner through loose turns. The kid-sized Maxxis DHR and DHF on the Fluid are excellent. This pairing is a favorite on adult-sized bikes as well.

Cornering on the Norco Fluid FS1 24
The Norco Fluid FS 1 24 is a capable climber

Both of our pre-teens enjoyed the ergonomics of the SDG Components on the bikes, especially the handlebars and grips. Bars are meant to be cut! When you get your Norco Fluid 24, be sure to cut the bars so your young mountain biker is custom fit to the bike. This fine tuning will allow your womp rat to maneuver the bike with confidence.

Riding the Norco Fluid 24

Pedaling this bike is just good, honest work. Our riders’ geometries optimally fit the crank length on this bike.

The Norco Fluid FS 1 handles rough tech just fine

One of our riders has an older model Fluid. He immediately fell in love with the Manitou air fork on our demo.

The Norco Fluid 24 rides and flies like an adult bike

Norco Has Improved Upon The Already More-Than-Capable Fluid 24

Certainly, kids’ full-suspension mountain bikes are getting sophisticated. And not just because more companies are making them. In this case, Norco used its years of experience to make the Fluid even better. To summarize, Norco totally revamped the Fluid’s frame and suspension makeup to ensure kids have an optimal experience. What’s more, the additional SDG package, tried-and-true brakes and drivetrain provides a wonderful mountain bike for pre-teens who love to shred. We recommend this bike without reservation.

Does your kid need a slightly bigger bike?

Norco recently introduced the Sight Youth 27.5. Norco designed this all mountain 27.5 mountain bike to help groms take their riding to the next level. The Sight Youth 27.5 will fit a 4’9” – 5’2” rider. To emphasize Norco deliberately tuned this bike for lighter riders. The youth tune includes lighter springs and shock damping curves. This bike provides 140mm rear and 150mm front travel for a more forgiving ride under lighter riders.

About Norco 

Norco is a Canadian company. They strive to create progressive bicycle designs that maximize performance. In addition Norco selects components to complement their designs and meet their own high expectations for ride quality. Each Norco bicycle must pass stringent standards for performance, aesthetic and quality. Norco’s goal is to create bicycles that inspire confidence in everyone who rides them. What’s more, they hope that that everyone who throws their leg over a Norco bicycle will be in a better position to realize their full potential. Check out Norco’s website for more info.

Shout-out! 📸 Thanks to Salt Lake City photographer Steve Lloyd for supplying a couple of photos. Follow him on Instagram @stevelloydphoto

Woom Off 5 Giveaway 2019

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win a kids mountain bike woom off 5
win a kids mountain bike woom off 5

Join 0ur email list for a chance to win a Woom Off 5 kids mountain bike!

Mountain Biking With Kids is giving you a chance to win a Woom Off 5 kids mountain bike!  The Woom Off 5 has 24 inch wheels and is designed to fit kids 7-11 years old who are 49” to 57” tall. This bike was used as a demo in our upcoming review.
First, follow @woombikesusa on Instagram now. Then, read the rules for this contest and enter to win! A few items to note.  Firstly, the winner must be 18 years of age or older in the continental USA. Secondly, the contest ends on December 15, 2019 at 11:59 am MST. A random winner will be chosen by December 16, 2019 by a computer app and be notified via the email address provided by a human upon entry.

The deadline for entering this contest has passed. Thanks to all who entered!

Woom Off 5 Preview

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Woom Off 5 Kids Mountain Bike - - Carbon Fork

Introducing the Woom Off 5 Kids Mountain Bike. Woom gets it. Design a light bike that’s comfortable and kids are going to like it – we mean really like it. Woom specializes in making bikes that are easy to ride. In a word, Woom bikes are FUN!

Now, with another season of experience under its well-fitting belt, Woom has launched the Off series. This is a group of purpose-built kids mountain bikes complete with disc brakes and Schwalbe tires. Oh, did we mention a carbon freakin’ fork?! The Woom 5 Off is available at a very reasonable price-point, too.

We’re in the process of writing a full review and video summary for this beauty, but wanted to share a quick glimpse of what’s to come.

Here’s a brief overview. Firstly, the Woom OFF 5 is a super light mountain bike for kids. Secondly, the hydraulic disc brakes make it easy for children to handle descents without getting tired. Thirdly, the 5 Off  has a super light frame and kid sized components to make it an excellent climber. Finally, we bet your kiddo will love this bike!

Wheel SizeBike WeightChild AgeSaddle Height RangeMSRPLive Price
Woom Off 420"17.2 lbs6 - 8 years old23.9 in - 29.5 in$669.00 USDcheck
Woom Off 524"18.9 lbs7 - 11 years old28.2 in - 32.28 in$679.00 USDcheck
Woom Off 626"20.5 lbs10 - 14 years old30.9 in - 38.4 in$699.00 USDcheck

Why buy a Woom Kids Mountain Bike?

  1. Woom bikes are lightweight. These bikes are 40% lighter than a conventional children’s bike, making them significantly easier to ride.
  2. Woom bikes are designed just for kids. The kid-sized components improve your rider’s safety and comfort. Check out our full review of the Woom 5.
  3. Kids learn to ride faster when they are comfortable. Woom bikes are more comfortable for kids because of their light weight and  kid sized components .
  4. Woom bikes hold their value.  Once your kids outgrows this bike you can pass it on to siblings or re-sell  it at a good price.
  5. Free shipping. Woom offers nationwide free shipping and free 30-day return shipping on all kids bikes.
  6. Fast delivery. Woom ships UPS Ground and your Woom Bike will typically arrive in 3-5 business days
  7. Satisfaction guaranteed. Woom offers free 30-day return shipping for all of their products.
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Cyber Monday 2019

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Cyber monday for mountain bikers
Cyber monday for mountain bikers

Here’s a list of links that will help you get the most from your Cyber Monday. Note that each link is an affiliate link and MTB With Kids will earn a small commission from purchases. Thanks for visiting our site and supporting the brands that have partnered with us.

If you need an item for a specific family member or friend, please visit our Ultimate Gift Guide For Mountain Bikers.

Alchemy Bikes

Alchemy Bikes

Black Friday Sale: $1,000 off the Arktos 27.5.

Backcountry

Backcountry

Love or hate the goat – save up to 50% on items site wide.

BTO Sports

BTO Sports

Get deals on jerseys, helmets, goggles, gloves and more.

EVO

EVO

Up to 60% off site wide.

Five Ten

Five Ten

Save 20% off Five Ten mountain bike shoes. Save 50% off other Adidas styles.

Jenson USA

Jenson USA

Tons of mountain bike accessories for over 50% off. Also, stay tuned for exclusive contests on our site featuring Jenson USA gift cards.

Moosejaw

Moosejaw

Get 50% back in Moosejaw Rewards.

My Medic

My Medic

Get a first aid kit. Their Black Friday sale has been extended.

Norco Bicycles

Norco Bicycles

It’s Black Friday Week. Save up to 50% on previous model year bikes.

Prevelo Bikes

Prevelo Bikes

Get $47 worth of add-ons for free!

REI

REI

Gobs of outdoor gear for up to 50% off.

Woom Bikes

Woom Bikes

Get a free accessory with your bike purchase through December 3rd. Big news to come regarding a giveaway on our site as well.

Fezzari Solitude Review

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Fezzari Solitude review

Do you have a cross-county specialist in your clan? Does your teen race in a middle school or high school NICA league? Do you want to save hundreds- if not thousands of dollars on a race-ready carbon frame hardtail 29er? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we would like to introduce your family to the Fezzari Solitude.

Fezzari Hails From The Wasatch – Not The Dolomites

Fezzari bikes are designed in Utah along the corridor of the Silicon Slopes – the state’s geographic swath of startups and technology companies at the foot of the Wasatch mountains. We love this area for it’s mountain biking opportunities with access to single track in the foothills and bike parks up the canyons. Now this local bike company is making an impression on the bike industry as well.

Fezzari Factory Store sign
Fezzari frame prototype / model

We’ve been aware of the Fezzari brand for several years. Naturally- they’re quite popular in our neck-of-the-woods. Based in the town of Lehi, the Fezzari factory store and warehouse was less than an hour drive from the house. When I arrived to pick up our demo, I was greeted by Jordan and he told me, “The company has been steadily growing, and we’re moving into a larger space soon.” That’s a testament to the fact that exclusively selling online is working. A large part of this relies on accurately fitting customers to a bike based on measurements and other data supplied.

It’s all part of Fezzari’s 23-Point Custom Setup. Jordan also stated, “We realize that spending $500-$5,000 on a bike sight unseen via our direct to consumer sales model still requires a leap of faith. Fezzari removes those barriers by offering award winning, world-class bikes, at a savings of 30%-40% compared to other companies selling through the dealer model.”

Fezzari showroom

Quality Frames Backed Up With A Lifetime Warranty And Growing Accolades

Fezzari also backs up their frames with a lifetime warranty and a 30-day “Love It Or Return It” policy. Their website states that if you don’t think you and your bike are a match made in heaven after riding it for 30 days, your can return it for a refund. Fezzari will even cover the shipping.

Another reason why Fezzari is growing is because their bikes are good. Their enduro model, the La Sal Peak, won Bike Magazine’s award for the best long travel bike under $4,000.

Fezzari Solitude Overview

The Fezzari Solitude comes in three sizes and can be fit with either 27.5+ or 29 inch wheels. Our demo was set up with 29 inch wheels. You can choose from a 16 inch, 18 inch or 20 inch frame. The Solitude is designed to fit a rider with a standover height ranging from 27.5 inches through 31.5 inches. Three build options are available for the Solitude where the Elite Race specs govern carbon wheels. We got the Solitude Comp which featured WTB wheels. With the stock seat post and pedals, our bike weighed in at 25.6 lbs.

Frame detail - Fezzari Solitude
Stem and head tube cap - Fezzari Solitude

Frames Built For Durability And Performance

Monoform carbon molds used for the Solitude result in a single-piece frame that does not have joints. Many other bike brands build up a front triangle and a rear triangle that need to be bonded together. With the elimination of joints in the frame, Fezzari’s technology allows the use of longer carbon fibers. Sans junctions and bonded sections, Fezzari’s frames are light, strong, stiff, and responsive.

Non-drive side detail on the Fezzari Solitude

Geometries For Miles Of Smiles; Comfort And Efficiency

Take a look at the angles and dimensions on this light, dependable, cross-country machine. You’ll see that it’s designed to ascend with efficiency and be a comfortable dirt chariot across challenging terrain.

Geometry - Fezzari Solitude review

Numbers shown are for the Fezzari Solitude with 29-inch wheel set. Take a look at the Fezzari site for numbers on the 27.5+ wheel set.

161820
A - Top Tube21.923.524.4
B - Seat Tube16.018.020.0
C - Chainstay16.716.716.7
D - Head Angle68.5°68.5°68.5°
E - Seat Angle70.5°70.5°70.5°
F - Head Tube4.34.44.7
G - Bottom Bracket Height13.013.013.0
H - Bottom Bracket Drop2.02.02.0
I - Wheelbase41.642.944.6
J - Fork Offset2.02.02.0
K - Standover Height27.829.831.8
L - Stack23.723.824.1
M - Reach14.316.017.2
Internal cable routing detail - Fezzari Solitude
Solitude Elite RaceSolitude EliteSolitude Comp
FrameFezzari MC279+ Full-Carbon Frame, 100-120 mm TravelFezzari MC279+ Full-Carbon Frame, 100-120 mm TravelFezzari MC279+ Full-Carbon Frame, 100-120 mm Travel
SuspensionFox Float 34 Step-Cast 120mm travel, Performance EliteFox Float 34 Step-Cast 120mm travel, Performance Elite2018 RockShox Reba RL Solo Air, 29er Boost, 120mm Travel
DrivetrainSRAM GX Eagle 1×12SRAM GX Eagle 1×12SRAM NX 1×12
WheelsReynolds TR 249 S or Reynolds TR 367 SStan’s Arch MK3 29er, or Stan’s Baron S1 27.5+WTB I29 TCS Tubeless 29er, or WTB Scraper i35 27.5+

Our bike had a SRAM 1×12 drivetrain with a 32t ring in the front and a 42t granny gear. A 95mm long crank got power to the wheels and Level T brakes made the bike slow down and stop. For live pricing and more build details, visit the Fezzari website /// https://www.fezzari.com/solitude ///.

Front chain ring - Fezzari Solitude
Fezzari Solitude rear hub
Air fork detail - Fezzari Solitude

Riding The Fezzari Solitude

In our opinion, a hardtail cross-country steed’s directive is simply: be light – be fast. The test rider for this bike review is a Wyatt  – our 16 year old kid who is a whopping 6ft, 1in tall and can spend hours in the saddle. A 20-inch size frame was selected based our guinea pig’s size and he was immediately impressed with how light the bike was. We outfitted our demo with clipless pedals and an internally routed Raceface dropper post. Installing the dropper was made easier by using a nifty Park Tool Internal Cable Routing Kit.

Fezzari Solitude mountain bike review

It took a couple of rides to get used to the bike. But right from that start, the Solitude stood out as a comfortable climber. The bike’s geometry and crank length were great for getting full extension on the pedals. The wide bar width  opened up the shoulders to allow for getting air into the engine. The stiff carbon frame was easy to control when the occasional opportunity for a front wheel lift presented itself.

Climbing rocky singletrack, Fezzari Solitude review
Fezzari Solitude in the autumn grass

Our test rider is old enough to remember the dark days of kid bikes that were heavy and cumbersome. Recent years have bid adieu to front derailleurs, crummy suspension forks, and cheap 26-inch wheels. Nothing was taken for granted when powering through rides with the Solitude’s [Comp build] 1x drivetrain, air fork, and quality 29-inch wheels.

Fezzari Solitude review

Following his second outing on the bike, our rider told us “I’m used to riding a long travel trail bike and descending with the Solitude took a bit of discovery. Once I figured out how to keep my feet ‘heavy’ on the pedals and my hands ‘light’ on the bars, the bike added a new element of fun and confidence.”

Descending with speed on the Fezzari Solitude

Racing The Fezzari Solitude

One of our objectives when receiving this bike was to get our rider out racing on it. In addition to competing in regional enduro events, Wyatt is on a Utah NICA team. He’s not as competitive in cross-country events as the gravity disciplines, so we were eager to see how having the right tool for the job would influence his race results.

Coming out of corner on Fezzari Solitude

The venue for the experiment was an 18 mile race; 3 laps x 6 miles with about 550 feet of elevation gain. The course featured 1.2 miles of dirt road for passing and separating the athletes prior to hitting singletrack.

MTB race on the Fezzari Solitude

Our racer said, “The bike pedaled great during the race. In open spaces, I was able to get up to speed quickly. Climbing was easier and I loved the 29-inch wheels. They rolled fast and smooth.”

In his category, Wyatt finished in 31st place on the Fezzari Solitude. At his previous race on his trail bike, Wyatt finished in 38th place. In our opinion, the bike made a big difference and allowed him to increase his overall position.

And to further sweeten the deal, Fezzari offers an additional incentive pricing to registered NICA racers and coaches. See fezzari.com/highschool for live pricing and more information

Consider The Solitude Among The Crowd Of Carbon Hardtails

Do your research and compare the Solitude’s frame and build options against all the competition – large brands and small. You will be hard pressed to find a bike that can beat the Fezzari Solitude and save you at least hundreds of dollars. Just take some simple measurements at home to determine the correct fit and you can own a premium carbon xc race bike at a very good cost. And, Fezzari’s warranty coupled with their 30 day money back guarantee removes all the fences people attribute to the online only sales model.

Best kids mountain bikes

Kids’ Mountain Bikes
Start at this page to find the best mountain bikes for kids for two year olds through teenagers

Whistler's Lord Of The Squirrels

Go On A Family Bike Ride
What’s on your bucket list for family mountain bike rides? How about Whistler’s Lord Of The Squirrels?

Real cost bike calculator

Have A Good Laugh – Or Cry
Find out how much that mountain bike really cost you with our mountain bike real cost calculator

Fox Youth Ranger Shorts Review

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Fox Ranger Racing Cargo Shorts review

We have a hard time finding mountain biking shorts that fit our skinny kids’ waists while not being too short. The Fox Youth Ranger shorts are specifically designed for mountain biking. These sturdy shorts have withstood several months of summer riding including a slide-out crash that removed a few layers of skin under the shorts – which did not rip.

We highly recommend getting mountain bike specific shorts for your young rider. Although your kid can definitely ride a bike in any shorts they have, mountain bike shorts have some added features to make riding more enjoyable.

The Fox Youth Ranger Shorts include:

  • Stretchy polyester fabric – importantly, these shorts are comfortable, quick drying, and lightweight.
  • Adjustable waistband – this feature will cinch to fit now. Then grow with your kid to fit them later.
  • Good sized leg holes – particularly important when riding with knee pads.
  • Detachable padded spandex liner – give your kiddo some added comfort for those longer mountain bike rides
  • Pockets! – these shorts include two hand pockets and two cargo pockets. The left pocket has a zip closure (perfect for a lift pass); the right has a Velcro closure.
  • Fox Ranger Racing Cargo Shorts review

Our son has worn the Fox Ranger Shorts on many of our family trips and adventures. We highly recommend Fox Youth Ranger shorts!

Compare Live Pricing at: Backcountry, Jenson USA, Competitive Cyclist, REI