base bikes 20": A Lightweight, Versatile Bike for Growing Riders
base bikes is an Australian company committed to creating kid-designed bicycles that balance quality and affordability. The 20" model builds on the success of the 16" bike, offering older kids (ages 5.5–8) a lightweight, confidence-boosting ride with added versatility for varied terrain.
We tested the 20" base bike and found it to be a strong performer with thoughtful features for young adventurers. Here’s our take.
base bikes 20" Overview
MSRP: $695 AUD | Purchase at base bikes
Best For: Kids ready for a bigger bike with gears and lower front end for more assertive riding position, ideal for neighborhood rides, light trails, and growing confidence.
Key Specifications:
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Frame: aluminum alloy
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Brakes: Tektro dual hand brakes
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Tyres: Kenda Small Block 8s
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Gearing: 7-speed Shimano drivetrain with grip shifter
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Weight: 8.5 kg
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Height Range: 113 cm to 133 cm | For sizing guidance, visit base bikes' sizing chart.
Highlights:
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Lightweight & Durable: The aluminum frame keeps the bike easy to handle while standing up to rough-and-tumble riding. Quality threadless headset to last multiple kids.
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Kid-Friendly Geometry: Stable and balanced design with low bottom bracket and short cranks helps kids transition smoothly from smaller bikes.
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7-Speed Gearing: Shimano drivetrain with a clear gear window makes shifting intuitive for first-time riders.
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Reliable Hand Brakes: Tektro dual V-brakes offer strong, predictable stopping power and complemented by lock on grips
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Quality Tires: Kenda Small Block 8s roll smoothly on pavement and grip well on light dirt trails.
Weight
At 8.5 kg, the bike is lighter than many competitors, helping kids maneuver hills, sharp turns, and sudden stops with less effort.
Gearing
The 7-speed Shimano drivetrain offers good gear range and does make it much easier to tackle inclines while still reaching fun speeds on flat ground than a comparable single speed 20 inch bike. The grip shifter’s gear window helps kids equate what each gear's tension feels like.
Brakes
Tektro’s dual hand brakes are sized for small hands and use a durable v-pull design for consistent performance. Unlike coaster brakes, they won’t interrupt pedaling progress.
Tyres
The Kenda Small Block 8 tires strike a great balance—smooth on pavement yet grippy enough for dirt paths or grassy fields.
Final thoughts
The 20" base bike is a fantastic upgrade for kids ready to explore farther and faster. With its lightweight build, intuitive gears, and reliable brakes, it’s a bike that grows with young riders while keeping things fun and frustration-free.
