14 inch Pedal Bikes

We love these bikes. Pint size and ready to rip, these are the bikes to look at for the ages of 3 and 4. Get the first bike right as it sets the tone for years to come. A free wheel, 14 inch rims and two hand brakes is what we recommend. We really dislike coaster brakes and believe with these bikes there is no need to look elsewhere. These companies have raised the game for the first pedal bike. Everyone else needs to catch up. We have purposely left out 12 inch bikes as we don't think the value is there nor the correct geometry and spec on anything currently available with the excpetion of the new Cleary Gecko. For fit, measure your child's inseam and compare to minimum and maximum seat heights, best to have an inch or so more inseam than minimum seat height. For more information on what to look for, have a look at our buyers guide video below.

Spawn Yoji14

We started our first kiddo on the Yoji and we didn't look back. The new Yoji knocks down the weight and stand over, amazing! Wider 1.9 inch tires and bmx influenced this bike is equally at home at the bmx track as it is on the neighborhood pavement.

Weight: 13.3 lbs | MSRP: $475 US $625 CDN | Min seat height: 14.5" |  Where to buy: Spawn

Woom 2

Woom nails this starter 14" pedal bike. We have spent loads of time on the Woom line of bikes and our smallest learned to pedal on the Woom 2 this Spring. The weight and geometry of the bike is truly amazing which makes the littlest of riders able to turn the cranks with ease. The lightest 14 inch out there!  Make sure to order the free wheel kit as if comes standard with a coaster if shipped to US. OUR FULL REVIEW HERE

Weight: 11.2 lbs | MSRP: $399 US | Min-Max seat height: 15.94"-19.09" |  Where to buy: Woom

Prevelo Alpha One

With a super low minimum seat height, this great little bike hits a home run for fit, weight,  geometry and features. The DNA of this bike screams MTB! Like the Woom 2, make sure  to order the freewheel kit ($12) with the Alpha One as Prevelo ships it stock with a coaster brake in the US. OUR FULL REVIEW HERE

Weight: 13.45 lbs | MSRP: $379 US | Min-Max seat height: 15.6"-17.5" |  Where to buy: Prevelo | Prevelo Canada | Backcountry

Prevelo Zulu One

This scaled down little MTB is very unique. Disc brakes, 2 inch wide tires, 66 degreee HA make this a descent favoring steed for 3 year-olds. The Alpha series from Prevelo probably fits the needs of most but this bike does exist if you have a little ripper that spends all their time on dirt trails that point downhill. OUR FULL REVIEW HERE

Weight: 16 lbs | MSRP: $469 US | Min-Max seat height: 16"-25" |  Where to buy: Prevelo | Prevelo Canada

Forth Bikes Park 14

Some good value in this 14 inch bike from this new Canadian based brand. Not as refined as the more premium priced bikes but checks all the boxes for a great kids bike: Tektro V-brakes, Alloy frame, 3 piece alloy cranks and a freewheel.

Weight: 15.5 lbs | MSRP: $235 US, $285 CDN | Min seat height: 16" |  Where to buy: Forth Bikes

 

Forth Bikes Park 14x

Park puts mechanical disc brakes and some grippier 2.1 inch wide tires, 102mm length cranks,  on a value 14 inch bike. 69 degree head angle make this bike very similar to the commencal Ramones in its intention.

Weight: 15.5 lbs | MSRP: $285 US, $345 CDN | Min seat height: 15" |  Where to buy: Forth Bikes

 

 

Pello Romper 14

One of the most undervalued brands, Pello hits all marks with the Romper 14. Make sure to order the freewheel edition at check-out for an extra $20. This alloy frame screams quality. Kenda 2.1 inch tires, chris king threadless headset, short reach tektro v-brakes, 25T front/14T rear chainrings, this is a fabulous first pedal bike with its ride right geometry.

Weight: 14 lbs | MSRP: $ 359-$379 US | Min-Max seat height: 17.5"-21.75" | Where to buy: Pello Bikes

Cleary Gecko 12 inch

The new Cleary Gecko has dropped some weight by going to alloy from steel and also gets a higher rise bar to put the kids in an upright position for learning to pedal. Highlights include sealed headset and bottom bracket bearings and the short reach brake levers for the tots. Small 19mm grips, toddler sized seat and little 89mm cranks round out a pint size whip for the 2-3.5 year old. Be sure to get the freewheel option for the best chance of pedaling success. OUR FULL REVIEW HERE

Weight: 13 lbs | MSRP: $370 US | Min-Max seat inseam: 15"-18" |  Where to buy: Ready Set Pedal

Radio Bike Co. Zuma 14

A nice little mountain bike here with 2.25 inch crown gem tires and mechanical disc brakes. Nice little 89mm cranks, an FSA headset and KMC chain round out this smart aluminum frame. Unfortunately, the pricing on this bike is out to lunch unless you can get it on sale.

Weight: 15.8 lbs | MSRP: $569 US | Standover: 4.7" |  Where to buy: Competitive Cyclist

 

 

Louis Garneau 14 inch

Louis Garneau looks to have have hit the new kids line out of the park. Available in US and Canada, this little  16 inch has all the details figured out. Pivotal seat/post to get really low min seat heights, colour coded brake levers, low bottom bracket, kenda tires, riser bar, narrow q factor cranks...we just just don't know total weights.

Weight: Unknown lbs | MSRP: $ 359 US | Min-Max rider height: 95cm-110cm | Where to buy: Louis Garneau

 

Vitus 14 Kids Bike

This bike delivers some good value. Tekro V-brakes, 1.75 inch Kenda tires, narrow Q factor, 90 mm cranks, free wheel, alloy frame, all make for a great bike at a great price. Chain Reaction ships this bike worldwide.

Weight: 14.1 lbs | MSRP: $259 US | Min-Max inseam: 14"-17" |  Where to buy: Chain Reaction

 

Norco Roller 14

Alloy frame and steel fork, the Roller 16 hits the mark with V-brakes, Freewheel, wide 1.95 inch tires and descent geometry. Bummer it is only available in Canada. US version comes with a coaster brake so forget about it.

Weight: 16.5 lbs | MSRP: $379 CDN | Min-Max rider height: 3'1-3'5 |  Where to buy: Norco

 

Commencal Ramones 14

The Commencal Ramones 14 is a nice bike. Definitely not the lightest as it sits among the heaviest the group, the gearing sits at 28T front and 18T freewheel. Mechanical brakes and Vee tire 2.25 inch crown gems round out the build on a frame with a 70 degree HA. Make sure to get the freewheel version not the coaster brake!

Weight: 16.75 lbs | MSRP: $320 US | Min-Max height: 3'1"-3'7" |  Where to buy: Ready Set Pedal

 

Joey 2.5 14 inch bike

Ditch the training wheels and the push bar thing and you are left with a bike light years ahead of department store bikes but a bit behind the more refined (and more expensive) premium bikes. Down sides are the caliper brakes but a lot of upside for this price; low stand over, quick release seat clamp, light weight and freewheel (no coaster brake)!

Weight: 15 lbs | MSRP: $209 US | Min-Max rider height: 33"-41" |  Where to buy: Amazon

Aceger 14 Kid's Bike

We realize not everyone can or wants to shell out $200-$450 for a 14 inch bike. We are so committed to freewheels and handbrakes for kids that it excludes most low price bikes. Here is the exception. Have reasonable expectations, this will be nowhere near the quality of a $250+ bike, the geometry is not as good, it is  heavier and will take some assembly. You may need to cut down a seat post, the brakes will be plastic and not as easy to pull, the bearings will not be sealed etc. But, it has a freewheel, V brakes front/rear, and a decent looking headset. They offer free returns as well.

Weight: 17.5 lbs | MSRP: $135 US | Min-Max rider height: 13"-16" |  Where to buy: Amazon

Early Rider Belter/Seeker 14

A really nice equipped pint of a bike for the neighbourhood (Belter) and  adventurous kiddo who hits the dirt trails (Seeker) . Light weight, belt driven, sealed bearings, and tekro jr v-brakes, this little bike screams quality build. The 2.25 Seeker tires care better for kids who ride on dirt and the Belter 2.0 BMX tires are best for those spend more time on pavement. At $100 more than a woom or prevelo we are not sure the value is there for the price.

Weight: 12.3-12.5 lbs | MSRP: $459 US | Min seat height: 15.75-16.15 | Where to buy: Early Rider

85 Comments

  1. TristanJanuary 11, 2024

    Thanks for the write ups!
    Our guy is 2.5, and we’ve got him on a Prevelo alpha one. The fit is making things harder than they need to be – for his feet to touch the ground, the seat needs to be so low that he can’t properly turn the pedals.
    I think this would be fixed with a bike that has a lower bottom bracket. It doesn’t seem like bb height is well reported or thought about in these bikes, though.

    Do you have any recommendations for 12-14” bikes that have particularly low BBs? Thanks!

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsJanuary 11, 2024

      Prevelo and Woom have some of the lowest BB’s going. Going lower makes crank length an issue as its tough to go shorter than the cranks they have on spec in 14 inch bikes.

      Reply
  2. KaraNovember 20, 2023

    Thanks for the great reviews! We just bought a Spawn yoji 14 for our 2.5 year old, but the min seat height is closer to 17” rather than 14.5, which means it’s not usable for our little one. We can’t get ahold of the Spawn customer service. Any idea what’s happening here? We’re really bummed!

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsNovember 21, 2023

      I believe US customers get shipped with a longer post to get by silly consumer law. Just cut the post with a hacksaw or take to a bike shop.

      Reply
      1. KaraDecember 8, 2023

        Thanks! We’re in Europe- turns out their EU supplier sent us the old model, so the seat isn’t fixable and the bike is heavier by 3 lbs. Spawn hasn’t responded to emails, phone, online forms- they’re unreachable. A bummer of a situation! Sharing so nobody else ends up sad like us.

        Reply
  3. Justin B.September 4, 2023

    My daughter just discovered the Pump track! She’s 6 and is still adamant about riding her balance bike, which she is really good at. We got her a bike that unfortunately had a coaster break on it, around March. Seeing how much she enjoyed the pump track tonight, I’ve already started looking for a new bike. She still hasn’t learned to ride without training wheels. A free wheel will definitely be necessary to teach her to pedal as well as continue to enjoy the pump track.

    I looked up the Aceger but looks like it is no longer available. Do you guys have recs in that same price range?

    I’m a road bike guy and I’m already getting excited for family biking.

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsSeptember 5, 2023

      Nothing in that price range, Check out the Forth/Park line of bikes. Great value.

      Reply
  4. SukhJuly 16, 2023

    My duaghter is almost 4 and has an inseam of 15.5” (very small for her age). The best bike options seem like the cleary 12, yoji 14 or the park 14. The yoji is really expensive and I am not sure if it is worse, the almost double, price compared to the cleary 12 and park 14. To me the big noticable diffence is how much higher the handle bars are compared to the seat, how important is this for ease of ride? Am I better off just getting the cheaper cleary or park?

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsJuly 17, 2023

      We would recommend going to 14 inch wheels if you can. The Spawn is a more refined, lighter weight and better component spec bike. It’s geometry and bar height are spot on for beginners. It’s really a decision of what you are willing to spend …

      Reply
      1. JonOctober 3, 2023

        Hey guys!
        I have a 2 year old who loves biking on his Woom 1.

        I would like to buy him his first pedal bike, with the intent of towing him and experiment MTB when it will be time.
        He is at the max seat height of the Woom 1 (14.4″), and the Woom 1 brake is hard to grab (V-brake).

        I was thinking to buy a bike with disc brakes, so he can learn to modulate.
        This leaves the Ramones, the Park and the Zulu?

        The Park has the lower seat height and I can upgrade the brakes for hydraulics.
        Is it worth it to wait and buy the Zulu?

        thanks!

        Reply
        1. The Bike DadsOctober 4, 2023

          The Paradox here is the disc equipped bikes available are a little heavier in the 14 inch category. We would love to see the lighter weight 14 inch frames (woom 2/Prevelo alpha) disc brake equipped. We have a feeling, one or more of the premium kids brands will make this a reality soon as this is the next step. The first pedal bike is really one to master pedaling, balancing and controls. Either of the bikes mentioned will work but do consider a lighter v-brake bike may be the better option and wait til 16 inch to go the disc brake route, hopefully a light weight disc break will be available by then.

          Reply
  5. Pierre-Etienne VachonJuly 13, 2023

    Hey,

    I wonder if the Commencal Ramones 14 would be a decent choice over the Prevelo Zulu One for my daughter. She currently is on a balance bike and we do a lot of down hill at a moutain bike park. One of my concerns was breaking and I looked into the Kids Ride Shotgun option but felt like it was a steep price to pay for a kid who would go on to a pedal bike for sooner or later and for a longer period. ( I also thought of just removing pedals at first) The thing is that the Commencal is about 50% cheaper than the prevelo with what seems to be similar features. Could you help me out. Thanks a lot for all this great information.

    Reply
    1. Pierre-Etienne VachonJuly 13, 2023

      Also considering the Spawn Yogi 14. Thanks

      Reply
    2. The Bike DadsJuly 13, 2023

      Depends on size/skill level of kiddo and what terrain you will be riding the most. At 3/4 years old (14 inch bike) its best to get something light weight. Yes, a disc brake is easier to pull but light weight still trumps. It would be nice if the lighter offerings come with a disc brake.

      Reply
  6. AlanJuly 6, 2023

    Thanks for the great blog guys!

    Our boy is 2.5 years old with 11” inseam. He’s so ready to tryout new bikes at the bike shop, but everything is too big unfortunately. He can cruise around at high speed and coast with his legs up on his strider balance bike. We wish there was a pedal bike option that would fit him. We’re thinking of upgrading him to a balance bike with a brake at least. Any thoughts on options we don’t know about?

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsJuly 7, 2023

      Our experience is to keep the balance bike as long as they want/you can. No rush to pedals especially at such a young age and short inseam.

      Reply
      1. AlanJuly 9, 2023

        Saw this a little late LOL. Turns out the Prevelo Factory was 20 mins away. We visited them a couple days ago, and tried out the Alphas.

        He likes his Alpha One, they set it up with no pedals so he’s just getting used to brakes and bigger bike at this point. Seems to be easing into it. Enthusiasm for the new bike means he has not picked up the strider since.

        Reply
  7. KanikMarch 26, 2023

    I have got seeker 14 for my second son, so he can catch up with older one and start sooner to pedal. He managed to learn to ride on it well on pavement but riding in the dirt with the 2,25 crown gems is bad exeriance. These are simply to heavy… I regret not getting vitus 14″. I can’t understand Early Rider going with so fat tires. We had so good experience with belter 16″ trail (with schwalbe BlackJack 16×1.9 tires). 16″ belter with 16×1,9 is 200g lighter then seeker 14″on crown gems (with bigger frame). Meanwhile buying 14″ off-road aftermarket tyres is not easy in EU. I just wanted to share my experience as a cautionary tale.

    Reply
  8. AnonymousMarch 3, 2023

    Hi, my 2.5 year old has lately been asking for a bike with pedals “like mama’s bike”. He likes his balance bike but is very on-and-off, rides a few minutes and then wants to walk then ride again. He can coast with feet up for a few seconds, turn corners, go up and down kerbs etc. How do I know if he is ready for a pedal bike? It’s a big investment, I’m doubting between getting him the next size up of balance bike or trying for a pedal bike. I don’t want him to be put off biking altogether if his first pedal bike experience is negative. He definitely needs an upgrade one way or another – the pavements here are extremely uneven and the small wheels of his balance bike make it difficult to control sometimes.

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsMarch 3, 2023

      Let them stay on the balance bike as long as they want. They gain such amazing confidence, balance and coasting skills that all is needed when they are ready is pedaling…when they ask for pedals. You cn also buy a 14 inch quality pedal bike and just pull cranks and pedals off. They can use as a balance bike and just throw pedals on when its time.

      Reply
  9. AnonymousFebruary 25, 2023

    What are your thoughts between Rocky Mountain Edge 14 and the Norco Storm 14? Thanks!

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsFebruary 25, 2023

      Rocky mountain takes it between those two due to geometry. The edge actually has some BB drop which makes it more stable. Lower seat height and standover as well.

      Reply
  10. LisaFebruary 17, 2023

    Hi Dads,

    You mentioned that Woom bikes resale for 80% of MSRP. I would rather get a 14” with a price tag in the $200 so I’m leaning towards the Park 14. I have a 40” tall timid rider with 16” inseam. Where can a person buy a used Woom or other high end bike? Do you recommend used bikes for a very casual cycling family who just want to take a spin in the neighborhood?

    Thanks,
    Lisa

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsFebruary 17, 2023

      Facebook marketplace and the Wooom Facebook group best for used bikes. We always recommend used bikes, its finding one that’s the issue. Happy Hunting!

      Reply
  11. Daddy TDecember 27, 2022

    Hi Dads,

    Can you come out with a new/updated list (ex: Guardian 14 has been discontinued… per the folks over at their website when I emailed them asking about it).

    I’m using this list to get me going and wondering if there are some additional options out there.

    Thanks for the effort!

    Reply
  12. RyanNovember 28, 2022

    Hey dads, can I call you that? Trying to buy my 3 year old his first pedal bike. He cruises great on a balance bike. Trying to buy one of the sub $300 bikes and it looks like a 14” Forth or a 12” Cleary both fit the bill right now with sales. He’s got a 16” inseam so I don’t want to jump to a 16” wheel bike like the Cleary Hedgehog, though that would be most idea for long term and Cleary doesn’t offer a 14”. Is Forth the obvious choice?

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsNovember 28, 2022

      We both are highly tuned to responding to “Dad.” LOL. For sub $300, both those bikes will fit the bill. Two different paths to the same result…a 16 inch. Unfortunately, the 14 inch won’t let you skip a 16 inch and move direct to a 20 inch. The cleary does have better parts but the smaller wheels and smaller fit means you will need to move him to a 16 sooner. I’de almost buy the 16 inch in addition to the 12 if you want to capture the sale price for both sizes. The other scenario is the 14 Forth, ride it a few months longer than on to a 16. Have fun!

      Reply
  13. GretchenJune 20, 2022

    I am trying to decide on the next bike for my 4-year-old and the frog was one of my top choices but was discouraged when I didn’t see it on your list. Curious as to Why the Frog 40 was left off the list. I noticed the Frog 44 is on the 16″ bike list. Is there a reason you didn’t like their 14″?

    Reply
    1. The Bike DadsJune 21, 2022

      Just don’t see the Value of the Frog 14 inch at $430. Its more expensive and heavier than both the Prevelo Alpha and Woom, we would prefer to save money and get a lighter bike in this category. If you do go with the Fog, make sure to get the freewheel version as they do also come with coaster brakes in the US.

      Reply
  14. Dawn BachmeierApril 30, 2022

    Thanks so much for doing a clip on the 5 BEST PREMIUM 14 inch bikes!!! That’s what I wanted. Thanks for all your work!!

    Reply
  15. JakeJanuary 3, 2022

    Hey Guys, Absolutely love the site! I’ve got a couple of tall twin boys that love hitting the pump track, flow trails, and skills parks on their striders. Looking to get them 14″ pedal bikes for their 3rd birthdays in March.

    Considering the Woom2, Prevelo Alpha, or ZuluOne (As all seem like they’ll be available at that time if we pre-order).

    For the diversity of riding we’ll be doing, what would you recommend? Is the ZuluOne overkill for kids that spend most of their weekends on dirt? Looks pretty burly.

    Reply
    1. ColinJanuary 4, 2022

      Hi, introducing pedaling will be the main goal of a 14 inch bike as they will probably be ready for a 16 inch by age 4. The Zulu one may be over-kill unless all you are doing is towing them up to do flow trails, then its really nice to have the disc brakes so they don’t fatigue on the descents. The woom 2, prevelo alpha and spawn Yoji 14 would all be great for everything else. They would all do great for your needs but if you are splitting hairs, the Spawn with is BMX geo is great for pump track and skills park, the prevelo does well as an all rounder and has the more trail geometry of the bunch and the woom is more upright bar which is great for kids just learning and the light weight and narrower tires make it great for covering longer distances around the neighborhood.

      Reply
      1. JakeJanuary 4, 2022

        Thanks Colin, That’s super helpful. I measured the guys last night barefoot, 41.5″ tall and a ~16.5″ inseam. Should I be looking at the 14-inch bikes or the 16-inch?

        Would love to avoid them growing out of their bikes after 6 months.

        Reply
        1. ColinJanuary 4, 2022

          At 16.5 they would be 14 inch. All the bikes you are looking at will command a resale of 80% of MSRP if you take care of them. Just flip them when the time comes.

          Reply
  16. sam broadbentOctober 6, 2021

    Any thoughts on the new Specialized Jett 16? looks like it ticks a few boxes.

    I’m having trouble find bikes on your list in Australia.

    Reply
    1. ColinOctober 6, 2021

      Great bike. Fantastic Geometry and parts plus a free wheel!

      Reply
      1. sam broadbentOctober 7, 2021

        Thanks Colin. I’m a little worried about jumping from a 12″ Cruzee balance bike which is extremely lightweight to a 16″ pedal bike in one go. My Daughter has just turned 4 (42″ tall and 18.5″ inseam) and is very capable on the balance bike but it seems like a big jump.
        Should i be looking for a 14″ bike first? There doesn’t seem to be a lot of options that i can find in Australia that don’t have coaster brakes or training wheels in 14″

        Reply
        1. ColinOctober 8, 2021

          Check out the Norco Coaster 14. I believe Norco’s are available in Oz at LBS. Alternatively, go with the lowest min seat height 16 you can find. Cheers!

          Reply
        2. Meredith GarmanNovember 1, 2021

          Would there be any way to retrofit the Joey 2.5 with a taller seat / longer seat post as child grows? We have this bike now and love it but the limited seat range is a problem.

          Reply
          1. ColinNovember 1, 2021

            You could get a longer seat post but it would probably be best to upsize to 16 inch wheel bike for best fit and performance. Measure the diameter of the post and look on amazon if you are going to go the seat post route. Also make sure you get the correct seat mount for the post.

  17. ConnerSeptember 27, 2021

    Hey Bike Dads, so glad that I found you guys! I am looking for my kid’s first pedal bike. I am trying to decide between the Woom 2 and the Prevelo Alpha One. Couldn’t help but notice the handlebars on the Woom rise up quite a bit, whereas the handlebars on the Prevelo are low like a modern adult mountain bike. Is there any reason for this? I don’t want my kid to have any trouble with the bigger handlebars since he is barely big enough for a 14″ pedal bike.

    I really appreciate all the time and effort you guys have put into this! Thanks!

    Reply
    1. ColinSeptember 28, 2021

      The more upright position of the Woom lends itself to new riders more likely to stick to the pavement around the neighborhood. The comfort of just putting your feet down to stop quickly suits a lot of kids learning. The Prevelo is a little more versatile for those kids likely to adventure on to pump tracks and some dirt. All that said, in the 14 inch category both these bikes are great and can be ridden by 3 and 4 year olds almost anywhere they should be riding their bike. Two of the best 14 inch bikes available.

      Reply
  18. JOYSTARJuly 6, 2021

    You need to add JOYSTAR Bikes in this list for sure!!! They are in stock and great bikes for kids looking to ride around their neighborhoods. They also come with traning wheels & coaster brake , which make new rider more condience . Def worth checking out!

    Reply
    1. ColinJuly 11, 2021

      Coaster brakes and training wheels do the opposite. We started this site so parents would avoid bikes with training wheels and coaster brakes.

      Reply
    2. AnonymousAugust 5, 2021

      Um…. coaster brakes is EXACTLY what most parents do not want… and why they are looking at these 3 and nerly 500 bikes. So that’s probably why this bike wasn’t included.

      Reply
  19. JoshJune 17, 2021

    Hi guys. Just a heads up. I’ve had both the Woom 2 and Spawn 14″. When my kid was just barely able to fit on these she actually fit and was able to pedal the Woom 2 first. I’ve sold that because I prefer the Spawn but my measurement, with the seat slammed, is minimum seat height 15 3/4″. This is a 2020 model bought in August 2020 from Spawn.

    Reply
    1. ColinJune 17, 2021

      Hi Josh, Thanks for the measurement. We list the spawn at their recommended fit specification of min/max inseam not seat height. Cheers.

      Reply
  20. Janet GJune 3, 2021

    I need to replace the caliper side pull brake set on my son’s 14-inch frame bike. I cannot figure out what size caliper brake set will fit. Do you have any suggestions?

    Thank you in advance for your help.

    Janet

    Reply
    1. ColinJune 3, 2021

      I’m not sure without being able to take a look. Your Local Bike shop may be best to help you out.

      Reply
      1. Janet GJune 4, 2021

        Thank you for your quick reply, Colin.

        Reply
  21. J in ORApril 14, 2021

    Love your site. Our almost 3 year old is crushing his Woom 2 (pavement, dirt pump track and light trail riding), so much so that he seems to have out-progressed it. Thoughts on best step up for him? Leaning Yoji 14″ as it’s more of an incremental weight gain compared to Zulu One, w/ wider tires and looks like a beefier frame. Cheers!

    Reply
    1. ColinApril 14, 2021

      Ride more pump tracks and pavement, go Yoji. Riding more descending trails, go zulu 1. Honestly, I would probably keep him on the woom 2 until he can size up to a 16, which will be soon. How is the woom 2 holding him back from progressing?

      Reply
      1. J in ORApril 14, 2021

        Good advice. I’m actually looking at the Yoji 16″ now given the low seat height (didn’t realize how comparable it was to the Spawn 14″). He was bouncing around on trails last weekend on the Woom 2, and on pavement he almost can’t get going fast enough anymore. The light frame was great for getting his confidence dialed; now a burlier frame and wider tires seems like a better fit for more versatility. He’s got his brother’s Woom 3 also potentially waiting for him in a year. Appreciate all your advice!

        Reply
  22. AmyMarch 2, 2021

    Hi, my son is about to turn three and is solid on his balance bike, ready for pedals for sure. He is 38” tall with a 15” inseam. Can you recommend a good bike? Dad rides the trails, little guy will certainly have opportunities for off-roading. Thanks!!

    Reply
    1. ColinMarch 2, 2021

      Because of his inseam if you need something that fits now, go Spawn Yoji. It’s also an amazing bike. Once he hits a 16 inch inseam the other rad bikes on this page will fit him.

      Reply
  23. Chris SOctober 16, 2020

    We bought the Ramones for our daughter and the bike is AMAZING. Super high quality, very stout. I agree- it’s a bit heavy but it’s really good quality and very robust.

    Reply
  24. JenniferAugust 31, 2020

    What pedal bike would you suggest for a 11” inseam? I can’t seem to find one that small.

    Reply
    1. ColinAugust 31, 2020

      don’t know of any that would fit that small.

      Reply
    2. Kelsey LAugust 31, 2020

      If your kid’s on a balance bike right now: Instead of directly measuring the inseam, you might want to measure the seat height where the balance bike is currently set, or even raise the seat as high as your kiddo can comfortably ride it and measure that. I have found that I underestimated inseam with the standard methods and measuring the height on a bike they are using was easier and more directly relevant.

      Reply
      1. DanielMarch 15, 2021

        This is fantastic advice! I was just measuring my son’s inseam as 14″ (granted without shoes) but then measured his balance bike which is 15″ and he’s very comfortable at that height. Thanks!

        Reply
  25. WillJuly 5, 2020

    HELP! I’ve just invested in a 14” Ramones frame with the intention to build up and shed some of the stock build weight, unfortunately there appears to be a real lack of 14” wheels available on the market. Any suggestions where to look??

    Reply
    1. ColinJuly 6, 2020

      Unfortunately, you would might have to build a wheelset which is expensive. Probably best to sell Ramones and get something lighter…Woom and Spawn do sell their wheels but spacing and axles would have to match.

      Reply
  26. DebJune 21, 2020

    Is there a brake kit I can get for a 16 “ kid bike?

    Reply
    1. ColinJune 22, 2020

      Are you inquiring about a freewheel kit and hand brakes?

      Reply
  27. AnikaJune 12, 2020

    Hi There,

    My son is almost 4 and a half yrs old. He is 42 inches tall with an 18inch inseam. Would the early rider belter 16 be a good fit?

    Thanks

    Reply
    1. ColinJune 15, 2020

      He would be on his tippy toes for a couple months but should be good.

      Reply
  28. LauraJune 2, 2020

    I was wondering about the park cycle min seat height. I preordered it for my kid who has a 14.5 inch inseam and this would be her first pedal bike. But on the website I noticed the min seat height says 16in but your blurb says 14.5. If it actually is 14.5 then that’s doable for us but realistically, my kid probably isn’t going to fit a 16in minimum seat until next year.

    Reply
    1. ColinJune 2, 2020

      Looks to be a typo on our part. It is in fact 16 inch min seat height. Thx!

      Reply
  29. LeslieMay 31, 2020

    Hi,
    Do you know anything about the Rocky Mountain Edge 14? I can’t find any reviews on it but I’m wondering about the minimum seat height and weight, and how it might compare to the Spawn Yoji. Thanks.

    Reply
    1. ColinMay 31, 2020

      Sorry, we don’t really pay attention to bikes with coaster brakes…I believe the 2019 was a coaster and assuming its the same for 2020. The Yoji is super refined and no coaster, go for it.

      Reply
  30. ChaimMay 10, 2020

    My daughter is 3.5, been using a Haro PreWheelz 10 with the seat post up to about 15. She glides pretty well. She has asked about a pedal bike, but can’t decide whether to go with a bigger balance bike with an air brake, or just go with a 14 inch pedal bike. Any recommendations? Have been looking at the Norco Coaster 14 and all of the usual bikes, but can’t really decide especially since this is all online with social distancing.

    Reply
    1. ColinMay 10, 2020

      Grab a 14 inch pedal bike with a freewheel and take pedals and/or carnks off until she is ready to pedal. Cheers! Anything on this page is great. Match her inseam to minimum seat height.

      Reply
  31. MissyMay 8, 2020

    My daughter is 3.3 and has mastered the balance bike. She’s tall with an 18 inch inseam. She has a little brother (18 mos) who would love a hand-me-down when he’s ready but I’m still not sure what size to get her at this point because she’s right on the edge of 14 and 16 inch. I’m looking for a reasonably priced freewheel bike and I’m an experienced mechanic so I can handle making any adjustments to brakes, seat/handlebar height, etc.

    This kid loves to ride fast on and off road. She needs pedals and brakes because she gets the balance bike going so fast we can’t keep up unless we run! I’d love to hear your thoughts.

    Reply
    1. ColinMay 8, 2020

      I would go small fitting 16 inch and take pedals or even cranks off for a while so she can get used to as a “run bike.” Check out our 16 inch page, https://thebikedads.com/16-bikes/.
      Have Fun!

      Reply
  32. AbyMay 3, 2020

    Hello,

    My daughter is 3 and is using a balance bike but she’s quickly outgrowing it.

    I prefer to purchase a bike without coasters. At this present time the Guardian bikes stand out. Woom bikes still have coasters on them.

    What’s your opinion or recommendation on bikes without coasters for a 37” with a 16.5” inseam.

    Resale value is important.

    Thanks!!

    Reply
    1. ColinMay 3, 2020

      Hello, All the bikes on this page do not have coasters or have a freewheel option including the Woom (found on their website under accessories $19). Guardian does not have a 14 inch bike at this time. Woom, Prevelo and Spawn tend to have good re-sale in our experience. She will fit all those bikes. Have fun!

      Reply
  33. mr_ankylosaurOctober 12, 2019

    Hi Bike Dads!
    I’m looking to buy my son a 14“ bike for his 3rd birthday but don’t know enough to choose between two different models.

    He’s 94cm and 14kg, riding without training wheels, and is pretty good at pedalling but still needs help up even minor hills. We really only ride around footpaths at the moment since he can’t do hills, but we’d like to get back to the pump track eventually (he was well into that on his Cruzee)

    The two bikes I’m picking between have different chain wheel/cog sizes and I’m not sure which would be best.

    Commencal Ramones 14 (2020): 28T x 18T
    Spawn Yoji 14: 22T x 12T

    I get that the ratio is important, but not sure about the sizes – are these two combos very different in how easy they’ll feel to pedal?
    Which would you recommend?
    I’d be so grateful for a noob-level explanation or recommendation on which to pick.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    1. ColinOctober 17, 2019

      What you want to calculate is gain ratio which involves front and rear sprocket, crank length and outside diameter of tire. The Commencal has a tad less GR which will be a tad lower gear. I would not worry about it, they are both in the good range. Pick more on geometry, are disc brakes necessary (watch those little fingers) and weight. They both have 89 mm cranks which is a good length. We have not tried the commencal Ramones 14 but have tried the Spawn 14, my eldest learned on the bike. Its amazing.

      Reply
  34. JoshSeptember 3, 2019

    Hi,
    My 3 and a half year old son is 37 inches tall with an inseam of 14.2 inches. Currently enjoying the Kokua like a jumper balance bike thanks to your recommendation. We ride mix of pavement and dirt single track. He has started to ask for a pedal bike. I have been reviewing the Spawn Yoji 14 and Prevelo Alpha One and Zulu One. All their websites say they will fit a 14 inch inseam. My question is would you recommend starting him on one now given he is just meeting height guide or should I wait until he grows a bit taller? Also would you recommend Spawn or one of the Prevelo models for his shorter height.
    Thanks for your help, love your website.
    Josh

    Reply
    1. ColinSeptember 3, 2019

      Its probably time once they start asking for pedals. The Yoji has the lowest minimum seat height and probably best for right now at his inseam. If you wait a bit, then either bike will do. If he is just learning to pedal and you are on mixed terrain I’de stay towards alpha for Prevelo. Both great bikes. Spawn more BMX geo compared to Prevelo Alpha.Keep in mind, 14 inch bikes only last a year but these two will have great resell value.

      Reply
  35. ArtJuly 29, 2019

    Hi,

    We are looking for the next step after a Kokua balance bike. So my question to you, if you’d have to decide between Woom2 and Vitus… you say Woom has the slackest head tube angle, but Vitus seems to be even slacker. Also, it has a longer wheelbase, which would in theory increase the high speed stability, with the stem height to be even better.

    Thanks for your help.

    Reply
    1. ColinJuly 29, 2019

      How old is your kiddo, what’s their inseam and what type of terrain do you typically ride with said kiddo? Also, does your child know hoe to pedal?

      Reply
    2. ColinJuly 30, 2019

      Hi Art,
      Yes, the Vitus is 67.5 HA compared to 68 for woom. We recently added the vitus to the list as a good price point bike. These are essentially learn to pedal bikes that will last a year before kiddo outgrows. The criteria we look for is weight, geometry as a whole (not just HA and wheelbase), free wheel, and minimum seat height for a good first pedal bike. We like upright riding position for learning to pedal..this changes to more aggressive as they get older and start riding trails. A long, slack bike, that has aggressive riding position will be floppy at slow speeds and make it hard to learn to pedal. Cheers.

      Reply
  36. Robbie KDecember 17, 2018

    My little guy just turned 4. He is 41″ and 17″ inseam and a little small for his age. I just ordered the Woom 2. But after reading on this site, I’m wondering if I bought a bike that is too small. We have an old 16 inch bike I converted into a balance bike for our older (and super big for his age) son and I can’t imagine our 4 year old on that bike -way to big. This is why I ordered the 14 inch. Not here yet, but wondering if you all have comments given his size. Thanks

    Reply
    1. ColinDecember 18, 2018

      Hi Robbie, You bought the right size bike…don’t worry. With just a 17 inch inseam he would not fit the 16 inch. Always size bikes according to inseam and minimum/max seat heights or recommended inseam. 14 inch bikes usually only last a year unfortunately. But fortunately for you, a woom 2 will resell for 60-80% of its value depending on how good condition it is in.

      Reply

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