The Best Bikes For Teens 2020
When it comes to purchasing a great bike for any developing teenager you will want to ensure safety and comfort. The choice can be overwhelming, so we have put together a list of the best bikes for teenagers that are considered affordable and high quality. Check out our list of the best bikes for teenagers and read on to learn more about choosing the best bike and the right size. Here are our 3 key tips when shopping for a bike for your teenager:
3 key tips:
1 – Size: The size of the bike (see our chart included below) to make sure the size you choose is the best match for your teenager.
2 – Wider Tires: They offer better grip and stability.
3 – Frame: A bike constructed with an aluminum frame will make for a lighter ride and will be easier for teenagers to transport and carry.
BMX – Popular with teenagers and adults, a BMX bike is well known for stunt riding and tricks. The BMX bike will provide your teenager with the ability to learn new skills or even join a BMX club to take it to a new level.
Road – Designed primarily for pavement and pathways they are built with a slimmer tire and are an easy beginner bike for teenagers who want to ride around town with their friends. This is not an all-terrain bike for off-road adventure.
Mountain – As the name suggests, a mountain bike for you teenager is just what to get them if they are searching for an off-road experience. Perfect for the trails and tracks, mountain bikes can handle the terrain with more stability and have better support with added shock absorption.
Trike – A one of a kind bike that is packed with features for teenagers, the trike is definitely unique! Commonly referred to by teens as a drift trike, they have the ability to drift downhill on paved surfaces.
Cruiser – The cruiser is much like a Hybrid bike or Cross bike in that they are known for both on and off road riding. However, most cruiser bikes are better suited to smooth rides like paved roads. For teenagers, the cruiser style is ideal as they are available in different styles, colours and price tags.
If your teenager has developed a keen interest in biking, you may be concerned about the price tag. Thankfully, there are many quality products on the market. A general road bike is often cheaper than a mountain or BMX bike and a cruiser bike is a popular choice at a mid-range price for teenagers looking to simply ride around town with friends.
You can expect to pay anything from $200 – $1000 on average for a bike. There is the additional cost of safety gear such as a helmet and a bike lock. Remember, it is okay to start with a bike in the lower price range as teenagers continue to quickly outgrow their first bike and may require regular upgrades.
The Roadmaster Granite Peak For Girls and the Gravity 2020 FSX are listed as two of the best mountain bikes for teenagers. The Roadmaster Granite Peak is especially designed for entry level riders and for teenage girls it is the perfect option for an affordable mountain bike. The Gravity 2020 FSX is suitable for all riders, though at a high price of under $400, this bike has features that more experienced riders may benefit from.
The DiamondBack Wildwood Classic and the Vilano Shadow are the two chosen bikes in this list of best bikes for teenagers. The Diamondback Wildwood Classic and the Vilano Shadow are both recommended for riders over the age of 14 years and sit around the same price range under $300.
The right size bike depends on the height of your teenager. In general, each brand will have a size guide available for you and you will need to know your teenager’s height and also the inseam measurement to choose the best frame. Check out our size chart information below for further information.
It is advised that teenagers have a professional measurement when purchasing a bike. Whilst it is common for parents to be concerned about their teenager growing out of their new bike too soon, it is important that the bike is not too big to ensure it is safe and stable.
Using a Bike Height Chart is a simple way to choose the right size bike. The most important part of fitting the correct bike is the inseam or the inside of the leg in order to get the frame size correct. A road bike or cruiser bike should be comfortable for the rider ensuring maximum comfort between the seat and the handlebars.
This is the basic guideline for a standard road bike, though depending on the style (bmx, mountain, road) it may vary:
| Rider Height | Rider Height (cm) | Suggested Frame (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 4.10 - 5.0” | 148 - 152 | XX Small |
| 5.0 - 5.3” | 152 - 160 | X Small |
| 5.3 - 5.6” | 160 - 168 | Small |
| 5.6 - 5.9” | 168 - 175 | Medium |
| 5.9 - 6.0” | 175 - 183 | Large |
| 6.0 - 6.3” | 183 - 191 | X Large |
| 6.3 - 6.6” | 191 - 198 | XX Large |
| Wheel Size | Age (years) | Height (inch) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20” | 9 - 11 | 4.0” - 4.5” | 120 - 135 |
| 24” | 11 - 14 | 4.5” - 4.9” | 135 - 145 |
| 26” | 15 + | 5” + | 145 + |
| NAME: | AGE: | TERRAIN: | STYLE: | PRICE: $ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DiamondBack Wildwood Classic | 14 years & over | Paved Roads | Road Bike | $350.00 |
| Roadmaster Granite Peak For Girls | 12 years & over | Mountain, Dirt or Paved Roads | Mountain Bike | $105.00 |
| Vilano Shadow | 14 years & over | Paved Roads | Road Bike | $ 200-300 |
| Gravity 2020 FSX | 13 years & over | Paved, Gravel or Dirt Roads | Mountain Bike | $380.00 - $400.00 |
| Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser | 13 years & over | Paved Roads | Cruiser Bike | $220.00 |
| DynacraftVertical Alpine Eagle | 14 years & over | Paved, Gravel or Dirt Roads | BMX Bike | $150.00 |
| Razor DXT Drift Trike | 14 years & over | Paved Roads | Trike | $120.00 |
| Redline Pro 24 | 12 years & over | Mountain, Dirt or Paved Roads | BMX Bike | $350.00 - $670.00 |
Diamondback Wildwood Classic Bike
Ideal for urban commuting, daily routine exercise and everyday use, the Diamondback Wildwood Classic bike is perfect for both teenage boys and girls.
It is easy to handle and rides well on paved roads and can even manage some dirt terrain with its 26-inch tires and Shimano 21-speed gear settings. It has durable alloy-rims and comfortable rubber grips.
Affordable and practical, the modern classic of the Diamondback Wildwood Classic is a family favourite packed with plenty of added values for safety.
- 6061 Heat-treated durable alloy frame is lightweight
- Linear pull brakes
- HL Zoom suspension fork
- Padded seat for comfort
- User-Friendly
- Shipped 95% pre-assembled
- Available in 4 sizes (S, M, L, XL)
- Only available in Green
- A city road bike it is not practical for off-road terrain
Bottom Line:
A comfortable bike that can take you anywhere around town, with modern features and a sleek design. The Diamondback is a reliable brand that is ideal for city living and weekend adventures.
Roadmaster Granite Peak Mountain Bike – For Girls
The impressive Roadmaster Granite Peak Mountain Bike is a dream bike for any teenage girl. It sports a 24-inch steel frame with alloy rims that offer an 18-speed shift for ultimate performance on the trail.
The Granite Peak has front and rear hand brakes and can easily navigate the bumpy terrain for off-road exploration. This bike also has an 18-speed twist shifter, both front and rear linear pull brakes and alloy wheels.
Mountain bike tires are suitable for all terrain and the brakes allow for better control and safety. This makes it a great choice for any teenage girl who wants to detour from the city roads and explore the tracks. At just over $100 it is fantastic value for money.
- Front suspension fork
- Tool-free adjustable seat post for easy adjustment
- Difficult to assemble – must install front wheel, handlebar and pedals
Bottom Line:
This is an excellent all-rounder purpose built for girls to provide safety and style. A perfect entry level mountain bike at just over $100.
The Vilano Shadow Road Bike
This Vilano Shadow Road Bike has impressive Shimano STI Integrated Brake Levers and Shifters which offer precise and controlled braking and shifting in a convenient single unit designed for the road. The road bike is a perfect option for beginner teenage cyclists or for anyone who wants to ramp up their training.
The Vilano Shadow is great for fitness and exercise, club and event rides, sprint triathlons and the daily commute. With Fourteen speeds it will tackle both hills and flats with ease making it a suitable option for teenagers as they start their adventures.
The Shimano A070 STI Integrated brake levers and Shimano derailleurs, the Shadow is a well-equipped choice and even includes a braking band plus shifting gear all in one accessible place.
- Great entry-level option for teenagers
- Double Butted Aluminum Aero Frame
- 700c 1 1/8″ threadless brakes
- Wheelset 700c doubled walled
- Free pedals included
- Easy to assemble out of the box
- May require air to be replaced in the tires often
- Some difficulty in handling and control
Bottom Line:
Ideal for daily life, road biking or cycling, it is great value for money for a decent bike. Recommended as a solid entry level bike.
Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser
The Firmstrong Urban Beach Cruiser is a classic curve design that has a 13.5-inch durable steel frame and features a three-speed bike shift for easy transitions when riding.
With white-wall balloon tires for a cushioned ride, pedal-backwards coaster brakes for easy stopping and wide handlebars with foam grips; it is an ideal choice for any teenager looking for comfort and quality in a bike. The brake system is a coaster brake, which means the rider pedals backward to stop making it even easier to learn how to ride.
This is a great bike that is ideal for the recreational rider who wants to cruise around casually with a bicycle that is fun and easy to operate.
Firmstrong offers an Urban Girls Cruiser (Fits most girls 3’2″- 4’4) and an Urban Lady Cruiser (Fits Most Women 5’ – 6’ Tall).
- Oversized seat for additional comfort
- Fits Most Girls & Women 4’ – 5’2” Tall
- Classic Cruiser Steel; Chrome Plated Handlebar
- Tires Kenda White Wall 24″ x 2.125
- The Seat and Handlebar Height and Tilt can be adjusted to properly fit the rider
- Bike comes 80% Assembled, Assembly is easy and fun!
- Color Matched Fenders not included – can be Purchased Separately for $29.99.
Bottom Line:
The Urban Cruiser is a fun, quality, popular road bike that is perfect for teenage girls. Due to high demand this item may be out of stock at times. The Cruiser is available in a variety of styles and colours.
Dynacraft Vertical Alpine 24 Eagle Bike
This sleek ride features a bright Yellow BMX frame with custom graphics and blue, white, and Black accents throughout the bike. Any teenager will love the look of this bike!
This 24-inch bike is equipped with front and rear linear pull brakes, Shimano derailleur, 18-speed index shifter, a quick release seat post, and a padded seat.
This rugged ride is safe, comfortable, and fun! Get out and have a blast riding the vertical alpine eagle bike off-road on the dirt terrain.
- Dual suspension mountain bike.
- 18 speed Shimano derailleur with Shimano grip shifters.
- Adjustable seat post
- Only available in bright yellow
Bottom Line:
The Dynacraft Vertical Alpine 24 Eagle is a cool and fun design that offers a great range of performance options for a low price. If you are searching for a good place to start for your teenagers BMX rider then this is a good option.
Razor DXT Drift Trike
The Razor DXT Drift Trike is a Best-Seller on Amazon. This is where Downhill Meets Drift – according to the Razor DXT Drift Trike, it is built for edge-of-your-seat action. The Steel trike style frame has been combined with Super Slider rear wheels so that riders can easily slide through corners.
The Razor DXT includes front free-wheel with BMX style platform pedals, alloy crank, moto-style handlebars, pro-style grips, triple crown fork, adjustable bucket style seat. It has a full size steel frame, moto-style construction and 10-inch slick surface rear wheels. It is a dream for any teenager who wants to have some serious fun at a great price!
- 2-Piece welded steel frame
- 792 mm wide rear axle
- Moto-style handlebars
- Pro-style soft rubber grips
- Moto-style double alloy clamp
- Triple crown, moto-style fork with sealed bearing headset
- Adjustable (2 positions), 356 mm bucket style seat
- A custom bike that is suited for fun – not ideal for daily use as a commuter bike
- Wear and tear of the wheels due to drifting – replacement wheels from Razor are available
- Recommended for up to age of 14 years or maximum weight of 198 pounds
Bottom Line:
This drift bike is an awesome addition to any bike collection with hours of fun at your teenagers disposal it is also a good workout! Have fun riding the drift bike and building up your skill set with a quality drift trike. According to reviews it certainly lives up to the hype. Gravity 2020 FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike
Gravity 2020 FSX 1.0 Mountain Bike
This is a great quality entry level road bike that features amazing advances in technology and style. The 24-speed suspension bike has single pivot technology and a Shimano drivetrain plus an adjustable front shock. The welded aluminum frame means this is a lighter option and a perfect choice for teenagers.
The gravity offers each rider the powerful disc brakes and wide range Shimano 24 speed drivetrain for smooth shifting on rough terrain. With Tektro Novello mechanical disk brakes and a plush Suntour suspension fork for an enhanced ride the Gravity 2020 will not disappoint.
The Tektro brakes are of particular assurance when tackling downhill terrain.
- Higher performance hydroformed tubing
- Shimano EF51 24 speed
- Shimano Front Derailleur
- Shimano Rear Derailleur
- Wheelset 26-inch Double Wall Alloy
- Handlebar-Aluminum Riser
- Seatpost-Alloy 27.2
- Saddle-Comfort
Bottom Line:
An excellent choice for both new and experienced riders as it is a versatile bike. Available in stylish matt black with red wheels or matt black with green wheels, the Gravity looks impressive anywhere you go.
Redline Proline Pro BMX Bike
The Proline Pro is designed for the rider looking to get serious about racing! This is a high performance, solid, BMX ride that offers you incredible value for money. The bike is not recommended for entry-level riders though is suited for anyone who is ready to level up and continue racing.
The Redline Pro has 6061-T-6 alloy frame sealed hubs, 100 CrMo butted and tapered race fork for performance and value that is at top of the class and QR seatpost collar with alloy rims wrapped in Vee Speed Booster.
When you have some laps under your belt and you’re ready to get more serious about racing, the Redline Proline Pro will take you to the next level. Built with a top of the line Redline proprietary aluminum alloy frame with an integrated head tube, quality Euro bottom bracket, 2-piece alloy forged cranks, and sealed hubs; look no further than the Redline!
- Features a1-1/8″ Integrated Headset
- Alloy 2pc Cranks
- Pivotal Race Seat
- Tektro 930AL Linear Brakes for maximum safety
- Tektro Brake Levers
- RL Aluminum 9/16″ Platform Pedals for high performance
- 20 x 1.95″ Front / 20 x 1.6″ Rear Tires
- Fits riders 5’3”to 5’8”
Bottom Line:
The bike ranges in price depending on size and style. If your teenager is passionate about BMX riding then this bike is an investment in both safety and durability. Designed specifically for youth, the Redline Pro is a stylish and high quality choice.
The Bottom Line
Riding a bike is certainly a great way for children and teengagers to get their daily exercise routine started, it is fun and burns a high amount of energy! Studies show that riding a bike has numerous health benefits for cardiovascular health, overall strength, coordination and motor skill development. A bike for your teenager is an eco-friendly way to embrace being out in nature, another benefit for the mind, body and soul.
Having the right bike and the ability to explore can give your teenager a sense of freedom and independence whilst teaching them road safety and responsibility. A mountain bike is a great gift for any teenager! Riding with friends and family is a great way to interact and socialise outdoors.
Did you check out our best bikes for teenage boys and teenage girls? There are so many styles to choose from meaning no matter what your teenager is searching for, you can be sure to find it on the market in 2020.
Our list has shown that there are affordable options on the market that don’t compromise on safety or design. Remember to ensure the bike is the correct size by checking out our size guide first and don’t forget the addition of important safety gear.