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Trying to teach your child to ride a bike for the first time can take a lot of patience and practice. However, it can be a little easier if you have the right bicycle for your child’s size and ability.
We have put together some information on the best 12 and 14-inch bikes for kids so that you can narrow down your search and find the right one for your child. We’ve also looked at some of the features that you might want to check out, as well as some tips on how to choose.
Top Picks:
- Cannondale Trail 12 Kids’ Bike (Best Overall)
- Segway Ninebot 14 Inch Kids’ Bike (Best For Small Girls)
- RoyalBaby 14 Inch Space Shuttle Kids’ Bike (Best For Small Boys)
- Raleigh MXR Kids Bike (Best Value 12-Inch Bike)
- Schwinn Koen 12 Inch Bike (Best Budget Bike)
- Woom 2 14 Inch Bike (best runner-up)
Top 15 Best 12 And 14 Inch Bikes Reviewed
1. Cannondale Trail 12 Kids’ Bike (best overall)
- Min/Max Seat Height: 19 to 22 inches
- Weight: 15 pounds 9 ounces
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
The Cannondale Trail 12 can be a good pedal bike for small kids because it’s lightweight so can be easy for kids to handle. It also has a durable aluminum frame, meaning it’s built to last.
It has 1.75-inch tires that can be ideal for riding on neighborhood trails and paved paths. Another good feature is that it’s brightly colored for added visibility and it features a chain guard to help protect ankles and help prevent the chain from coming loose.
However, this one only has rear coaster brakes, which may not be for everyone.
Features
- Lightweight – easy for kids to handle
- Multi-use tires – ideal for different terrains
- Bright color – for visibility and safety
2. Segway Ninebot 14 Inch Kids’ Bike (best for small girls)
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18.1 to 20.5 inches
- Weight: 19.3 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
This Segway Ninebot 14 can be a great option for shorter girls because the minimum seat height is a little lower than some of the other 14 inch bicycles. This can make it easier to get on and off and can feel a little more reassuring for new riders who might prefer to be closer to the ground.
It also has a low crossbar, typical of traditional girls’ and women’s bikes, which can make it easier for little legs to step over.
This one comes with training wheels, front and rear fenders to stop mud splashes, and it has the benefit of a front hand-controlled brake. It also has rear coaster brakes.
Features
- Low seat position and crossbar – for shorter legs
- Hand-controlled brake – for improved safety
- Front and rear fenders – prevents mud and puddles splashing up onto clothes
3. RoyalBaby 14 Inch Space Shuttle Kids’ Bike (best for small boys)
- Min/Max Seat Height: 19.7 to 22 inches
- Weight: 19.2 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
The RoyalBaby Space Shuttle Bike is a lightweight, durable 14-inch bicycle with a compact magnesium frame. It features an adjustable seat and adjustable handlebars, which can be great for smaller kids.
A great feature of this one is that it has two handlebar-controlled brakes – one operating the front wheel brake and the other operating the brake on the rear wheel. This can be safer and can allow your child to readjust the pedals more easily if they lose balance.
The 2.4 inch wide tires can also be beneficial when riding over rugged terrain. This comes with training wheels and a bell for added safety.
Features
- Dual hand brakes – easy to use for improved safety
- Thick tires – for better handling over different ground surfaces
- Adjustable handlebars – adjusts to suit the height of your child
4. Raleigh MXR Kids Bike (best value 12-inch bike)
- Min/Max Seat Height: 17 to 20.5 inches
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
The Raleigh MXR is a 12-inch bike with a compact frame that has a low seat height for younger or smaller kids up to a maximum of 40 inches tall. It is a durable bike with a steel frame that can be best suited for kids learning to pedal using the included training wheels.
It features a chain guard to protect little legs and it is pretty lightweight for its more affordable price range.
However, this little bicycle only has coaster brakes, so there are no hand brakes. This might make it less easy for kids to balance when the training wheels are removed, as they may instinctively pedal backward to readjust. But this may not be as much of an issue while using the training wheels.
Features
- Steel frame – strong and durable
- Affordable – ideal for tight budgets
- Compact frame – better for smaller kids
5. Schwinn Koen 12 Inch Bike (best budget bike)
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18 to 21 inches
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
This Schwinn Koen Bike is a budget-friendly bicycle with 12-inch wheels and a solid steel frame. It comes with a set of training wheels for kids learning to balance and pedal at the same time. The training wheels can be easily removed when your child has mastered balancing.
A nice feature of this one is that it has SmartStart technology, which means all the components are designed to better fit a child’s proportions, so it can be easier for them to handle.
The Koen 12 has a front hand brake but also has rear coaster brakes.
Features
- SmartStart technology – built for smaller body proportions
- Front hand brake – for improved safety
- Lightweight – easier for kids to use
6. Co-Op Cycles REV 12 Kids’ Bike
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18 to 21 inches
- Weight: 16 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
The Co-Op Cycles REV 12 is a lightweight kid’s bike with a durable aluminum frame and a low standover height of just under 14 inches. It comes with removable training wheels, making it ideal for little learners who haven’t quite mastered balancing.
It has rear coaster brakes, which can be fine for pedaling with the training wheels installed, but for first-time pedalers balancing without the stabilizers, it might not be as easy to master.
This also has chunky tires and a built-in handle behind the seat, which can be useful when you’re teaching your kids to ride, as it can give you something to hold on to.
Features
- Lightweight frame – easier for kids to handle
- Training wheels included – good for first-time pedalers
- Integrated handle – convenient for teaching
7. Segway Ninebot 14 Inch Bike
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18.1 to 20.5 inches
- Weight: 19.8 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
This Segway Ninebot is a sleek-looking 14-inch bike that is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, which helps to keep its overall weight low while maintaining durability. A handy feature of this is the discreetly placed handles on the frame, which can make it easier for you to carry the bike when your child has had enough.
It features wide, shock-absorbing tires for a comfortable ride and has the added benefit of having a front hand brake. The Ninebot also has rear coaster brakes and comes with a set of larger-sized training wheels.
Features
- Carrying handle – more portable and easy to carry
- Front hand brake – for added safety
- Large-sized training wheels – can handle bumpy ground more easily
8. Huffy 12 Inch Spiderman Bike
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18 to 21 inches
- Weight: 19.6 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
This Huffy Spiderman Bike can be a great option for your little budding superheroes, with fun Spiderman graphics on the frame and saddle. This 12-inch bike benefits from QuickConnect technology – designed to make it easier for you to assemble.
A great feature of this budget bike is that it has both front and rear hand brakes for increased safety. However, it also has rear coaster brakes.
It has a durable steel frame and comes with training wheels included.
Features
- Front and rear hand brakes – for increased safety while learning
- QuickConnect technology – quick and easy to assemble
- Spiderman graphics – appealing to kids
9. Woom 2 14 Inch Bike (best runner-up)
- Min/Max Seat Height: 16 to 19.1 inches
- Weight: 12.3 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: No
The Woom 2 is a very lightweight and durable aluminum frame bike with 14-inch wheels and great safety features. With a low minimum seat height, it can be ideal for smaller kids as well as those who are graduating from a balance bike, letting them feel more comfortable closer to the ground.
The Woom 2 has dual hand brakes that are color-coded so that kids can quickly learn which lever operates the front brake and which one operates the rear brake. There is also a reflective trim on the tires for added visibility and increased safety.
Features
- Very lightweight – easy for kids to handle and start pedaling
- Front and rear brakes on handlebars – color-coded for quick learning and safety
- Low seat height – great for small kids learning to ride
10. Frog 40 Kids Bike
CHECK PRICE AT READY SET PEDAL
- Min/Max Seat Height: 16.5 to 20 inches
- Weight: 13.9 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: No
The Frog 40 is a tough, lightweight 14-inch bike that can be ideal for kids learning to pedal after mastering a balance bike. It has a durable aluminum frame and is built to last so that it can easily be passed on to younger siblings.
It features front and Tektro brakes on the handlebars that are designed for small hands to operate. It also benefits from having chunky off-road tires that are built to handle all types of trails and paths.
Features
- Low seat height – great for kids learning to pedal
- Lightweight – easy for kids to get started pedaling
- Handlebar-controlled front and rear brakes – for improved safety
11. Cleary Gecko 12 Inch Freewheel Bike
CHECK PRICE AT READY SET PEDAL
- Min/Max Seat Height: 15 to 18 inches
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: No
This Cleary Gecko 12 can be a great option for little riders moving up from a balance bike. It is lightweight, making it easy for kids to start pedaling from a stopped position. It’s also durable and crafted with a steel frame, so it’s built to last and be passed on to younger family members.
This is a pretty cool-looking gender-neutral bike that can be great for smaller kids, thanks to the low seat height of just 15 inches. This can give reassurance to young kids learning to pedal for the first time.
Another great feature of the Gecko is that it has front and rear brakes on the handlebars, making it easier for kids to learn the art of pedaling without a coaster brake interrupting them.
Features
- Front and rear hand brakes – for easy pedaling and added safety
- Durable construction – great for passing down to younger siblings
- Low seat height – ideal for nervous or first-time riders
12. Early Rider Belter 14
- Min/Max Seat Height: 15.7 to 19.7 inches
- Weight: 12 pounds 5 ounces
- Training Wheels Provided?: No
The Early Rider Belter 14 can be a great bike if you’re looking for quality construction and ease of use. This is a very lightweight 14-inch bicycle that can be easy for kids to pedal and is crafted with sealed bearings for a maintenance-free appeal.
It has a stylish appearance that can be ideal for both boys and girls and it has a low seat height to encourage smaller or more nervous kids to start pedaling. Another nice feature is the child-sized components, designed for improved comfort for little hips and little hands.
It also benefits from 2-inch tires for off-roading and it has the advantage of front and rear hand brakes.
Features
- Gender-neutral – ideal for boys and girls
- Durable construction – great for passing down to younger kids
- Very lightweight – easier for kids to handle
13. Huffy Glimmer 14 Kids Bike
- Min/Max Seat Height: 19 to 22 inches
- Weight: 25.5 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
The Huffy Glimmer 14 is a brightly colored pink bike aimed at little girls who like all things sparkly. This one has cute streamers on the handlebars for added fun. It features 14-inch wheels and a padded seat with a quick release for easy height adjustment.
Another great feature of this one is the Quick Connect technology, designed to make it quick and easy to put together in just four steps.
This bicycle comes with a set of training wheels and has a handy storage bag at the front. It also benefits from having a front hand brake for safety. However, it also has a rear coaster brake.
Features
- Brightly colored – appealing to little girls and highly visible
- Easy to build – quick for adults to assemble
- Front hand brake – for improved safety
14. RoyalBaby Freestyle 12 Bike
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18.5 to 21.6 inches
- Weight: 21 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
The RoyalBaby Freestyle 12 is an affordable 12-inch option that can be ideal for boys or girls learning to pedal.
A great benefit of this one is that it has front and rear handbrakes, making it easier for kids who are learning to pedal for the first time with or without training wheels, as the wheels are free spinning with no coaster brakes.
This one also has wide tires and it comes with training wheels that are designed as one-piece to prevent bending. Additionally, there is a handle on the seat for you to grab hold of while you’re teaching your child to ride.
Features
- Front and rear hand brakes – safer and easier to pedal
- Affordable – budget-friendly option
- Grab handle – for teaching
15. Joystar Whizz 14 Kids Bike
- Min/Max Seat Height: 18 to 22 inches
- Weight: 19.2 pounds
- Training Wheels Provided?: Yes
This Joystar Whizz 14 is a budget-friendly 14-inch bicycle that comes with a set of training wheels for kids to learn to balance and pedal.
This one features a front hand brake as well as rear coaster brakes, so your child can get used to using hand brakes as they learn to pedal. This is a sturdy little bike with durable steel construction and thick tires for handling off-road trails.
It also benefits from having a chain guard to prevent the chain from snagging, and there’s a discreet grab handle behind the seat for easy teaching.
Features
- Grab handle – easier for you to hold the bike while your child learns
- Training wheels included – ideal for first-time riders learning to balance
- Handlebar-controlled front brake – increased safety
How To Choose A Bike For 3 & 4 Year Olds
Size
The size of the bicycle your child needs will generally depend on a few factors. Firstly, their height can play an important role in determining the right size of bike and can be more important than your child’s age for suitability.
Your child’s inseam is also a good indicator of suitability for a bike, as this can give you a good idea of whether they’ll be able to stand over the bike and touch the ground while sitting on the seat.
If you’re choosing a first pedal bike for your child, you might want to opt for a minimum seat height that’s no more than an inch greater than your child’s inseam. This is so that they can comfortably touch the ground while they’re learning. If the seat is too high it can put them off wanting to learn.
If your little one already knows how to pedal you can opt for a minimum seat height that’s a little higher but generally no more than three inches higher than the length of their inseam so that they can still touch the ground with their toes.
Kids’ bikes will usually have recommended heights and inseams. If your child is at the taller end, you might want to size up. However, if your child doesn’t yet know how to pedal and balance, it can sometimes be better to stick to the smaller wheels until they gain confidence.
12-inch wheels tend to be better suited to kids with inseams ranging from around 14 to 17 inches, with heights between 34 and 40 inches. 14-inch wheels tend to be aimed at kids with inseams of around 16 to 20 inches and heights of around 37 inches to 43 inches.
Weight
The weight of the bike can be important, as generally, the lighter it is, the easier it should be for your child to pedal. A lightweight bicycle can also be easier for them to handle in general, such as picking it up off the ground and pedaling for longer without tiring.
Your child’s bike ideally shouldn’t weigh more than a third of your child’s body weight. However, many of them do.
Brakes
Generally speaking, hand brakes can be better and safer than coaster brakes, especially when kids are learning to pedal. This is because kids will often adjust the pedals as they lose balance and may pedal backward. With coaster brakes, pedaling backward will cause the bike to stop suddenly, which could result in your child completely losing their balance and falling off.
With standard hand brakes, your child can adjust the pedals and “coast” freely without the bike coming to a halt. This can be easier for learning as there is less pressure to keep pedaling.
However, many kids’ bicycles will be equipped with coaster brakes, sometimes in addition to front hand brakes, due to a law requiring children’s sidewalk bicycles under a certain size in the US being manufactured with coaster brakes.
Coaster brakes may be less of a problem if your child is using training wheels, as the sudden stopping by reverse pedaling generally won’t result in the bike tipping over and your child falling off.
Training Wheels
Training wheels have been around for a long time and we probably all learned to ride a bike with them. But now there are balance bikes for little kids to learn on before they move on to using pedals. If your child has already mastered balancing on a balance bike, they probably won’t need training wheels.
Training wheels can be for kids who haven’t yet learned to balance, and older or taller kids who may be too big for most balance bikes. However, you may be able to take the pedals off of their pedal bike if you want them to learn to balance without the training wheels.
If you’re going the training wheels route, it can be better to adjust the training wheels so that they’re not both running on the ground at the same time as the main wheels. Having them raised slightly can let your child learn to balance more quickly.
Training wheels might not be ideal on rougher surfaces, as they can cause the bicycle to tip over if the ground is uneven.
Gearing
Children will probably not need gears and generally, children’s bicycles will only have a single speed gear. Teaching kids how to use gears is usually too much for them when they’re learning to pedal and balance.
Girls vs. Boys 14 Inch Bikes
Most high-end kids’ bicycles are often gender-neutral, which can make it more convenient to pass them on to younger family members. Traditionally, the frames were different, with girls’ frames being lower than boys’ frames and often without a top crossbar.
However, you’ll find there are options if you’re looking for a traditionally girly or traditionally boyish cycle, with graphics usually playing a large role.
12 & 14-Inch Bikes: FAQs
Can I Just Remove The Pedals On A Regular Bike And Let My Kid Use It As A Balance Bike?
A lot of bikes in the 12 to 14-inch range will often have pedals that can be easily removed so that they can be used as balance bikes. Some may not be entirely suitable for this and may still have parts that will remain even when the pedals are removed, such as the chain and cranks.
Are Balance Bikes Better Than Training Wheels?
They can be, as they can teach kids to balance on a bike from a much younger age, which can get them used to a pedal bike much quicker without the need for training wheels.
I Heard People Say That Coaster Brakes Are Not Ideal For A Toddler Bike; Is This True?
Kids may instinctively start to pedal backward when they feel like they’re losing their balance but with coaster brakes this action causes them to stop abruptly and potentially fall off. Without coaster brakes, your child can readjust their pedals easily without the bike suddenly coming to halt.
What Should My Child Do To Prevent Flat Tires?
Flat tires are probably inevitable but you can teach your child to avoid riding over hazards that may cause a puncture. You can also make sure your child’s tires are properly inflated to avoid friction between the outer tire and the inner tube.
What Age Is A 12-Inch Bike For?
Some 12-inch bikes are recommended for kids as young as two years old. Generally, these are for kids up to around 4 or 5 years old. But you’ll probably find that the suitability has more to do with your child’s height than their age, as they will need to be able to comfortably sit on the seat, reach the pedals, and have their feet touch the ground.
Does Your Child Really Need A Pedal Bike?
Riding a bike is a lifelong skill and something that every child should learn. It can encourage physical activity and increase motor skills development. Cycling can also improve your child’s balance and coordination.
In Conclusion
If you’re looking for a durable 12-inch bike for first-time riders using training wheels, we think the best one is the Cannondale Trail 12. It’s lightweight, gender-neutral, and has wide tires for comfort and balance.
Another great choice is the Segway Ninebot 14 because it has the added benefit of a front hand brake, shock-absorbing tires, and front and rear fenders to guard against mud splashes.
Another good runner-up, if you’re looking for a high-quality, lightweight 14-inch bike, is the Woom 2. This can be great for new pedalers who have already mastered a balance bike, with dual front brakes and a low seat height.
Remember to think about the height of the seat and the length of your child’s inseam when you choose their first bike, as this can be more accurate than using age alone.
These bicycles won’t be suitable for everyone, so it can be important to check out the products for yourself and make sure they suit you, your child, and your budget.
Read More:
- Best 16 Inch Bikes For Kids
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