Ever since it was introduced to the cycling world over 50 years ago, the BMX bike remains popular among kids and adults. If you have a kid with their heart set on a cool new BMX, choices are plentiful in terms of performance and price.
But if you’re a parent or a relative looking to buy a gift, there are certain factors to keep in mind when choosing the best BMX bikes for kids.
In this article, we’ll review five fantastic options and give you all the necessary details to help you decide.
Comparison Chart
Schwinn Predator Team 24 Freestyle BMX Cruiser Bike, Throwback 1983 Design, Single-Speed Drivetrain, Hi-Ten Steel Frame, Rattrap Pedals, Front and Rear Caliper Brakes, 24-Inch Gum Wall Tires, Chrome
Best BMX Bikes for Kids Reviews
Schwinn Sting Pro and Predator Cruiser BMX Bike
BMX bikes have a long and impressive tradition. And companies like Schwinn still manage to innovate while preserving that familiar BMX flair.
The Sting Pro and Predator Cruiser is reminiscent of the BMX 80s era models. It’s not just about the retro colors and high-shine finishes – the entire bike just takes you back.
But even kids who know nothing about the 80s style will appreciate how much effort has gone into designing these one-speed BMXs.
The frame, spokes, fork, crank, and chain are all made from hi-tensile steel. That speaks volumes in terms of durability and the rigidity most BMX bikes require to perform well. The company offers this bike in 20-inch and 24-inch wheel sizes.
At their own recommendation, the bike is suitable for kids aged eight and up. The tires are 1.75-inch wide and come in black. The seat is not the most comfortable, but it’s easily adjustable and even replaceable.
But the seat is not the biggest concern for BMX fans anyway, as the riding is often done standing up, whether racing or performing stunts. This bike is made to withstand a lot, and the young rider doesn’t need to worry about being gentle with it.
Still, regular maintenance will go a long way to ensuring they can ride it even when they’re adults. It’s not too tricky in terms of assembly, a major plus for BMXs since they often require professional assembly.
Pros
- High-quality steel construction
- Great for taller riders
- Durable wheels
- Retro 80s design
Cons
Certain parts are not top quality
Mongoose Switch BMX Bike for Kids
Mongoose is a company that has taken building BMX bikes for all ages seriously. And with their Switch model for kids, they have proved just how much thought they’ve put into something that will impress even the youngest BMX riders.
With 18-inch wheels, this is a bike for kids aged five to seven years old. But it’s also important to point out that the Mongoose Switch has a load capacity of 160 lbs. That’s because this is an incredibly sturdy and well-constructed bike.
In fact, it’s one of the best BMX bikes for kids that you might consider, even for a kid learning how to ride a bike for the first time.
Because not only is it well-made, but it also comes with training wheels. If you’re just learning, why not do so in the famous BMX style?
Parents don’t have to worry about scrapes and cuts coming from the bike’s chain. It’s well-tucked under the added chain guard. And since this is a BMX for the youngest of riders, the bike comes with a foot brake and rear and front brakes.
When it’s time to remove the training wheels, you can do that with ease, and then the real fun starts. This BMX bike already looks like it’s made for a pro rider in the making.
It’s almost entirely black, with black grips as well, and it’s an excellent choice for kids who develop a knack for stunts and tricks.
Also, the Mongoose Switch comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you can view it as an investment.
Pros
- Comes with training wheels
- Foot brake included
- Chainguard
- 160-lb. weight capacity
Cons
Possibly too heavy for some kids
Huffy Kids Bikes 20 inches with Streamers and BMX Pegs
Huffy is well-known for manufacturing some of the best-looking and best BMX bikes for kids in general. When it comes to the younger population, they have many choices regarding budget, features, and performance.
Their BMX bikes with streamers and BMX pegs is available in just one size – 20” wheels. That covers the ages between four and eight years old. But it’s also essential to keep in mind that the rider’s weight capacity is up to 100 lbs.
You and your kid will likely love that the Huffy BMXs come in many different styles and colors, some of them very bold and fun. If your child is not yet ready to ride on their own, the training wheels are also available for the Huffy BMX.
This is a surprisingly lightweight BMX for kids, even when you consider that the frame is made of steel. This means that throwing the bike in the trunk of your car probably won’t be an issue. This BMX has both front and rear handbrakes, and your kid can choose which suits them best while riding.
The assembly process is more or less effortless, and your kid will get to ride their new bike in no time. The bike will also keep their skin safe from scrapes caused by the bike’s chain because of the plastic chain guard. Keep in mind that this BMX doesn’t come with a kickstand, so that’s an accessory you’ll need to purchase separately.
Pros
- Super-lightweight
- Suitable for the youngest
- Many colors and styles
- Easy seat adjustment
Cons
No kickstand
Hiland 20” BMX Freestyle Bike for Boys
If you were drawn to the Hiland BMX Freestyle BMX by the pictures alone, rest assured, it looks even better up close and personal. This is a no-nonsense BMX for teenage boys ready to freestyle their way into some incredible stunts.
It comes in four solid color options, but other than that, this BMX looks like a clean slate that you can choose to paint and customize any way you want. The wheel size is 20-inches, which isn’t ideal if your teenagers are on the taller side.
Still, this is one of the best BMX bikes for kids who need four pegs and two U-brakes to help them attempt even the most daring of tricks. The Hiland Freestyle BMX also has a 360° rotor that turns the handlebar completely.
In terms of construction, the steel frame is incredibly well made and durable. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee provided by the manufacturer. Overall, this is a BMX made for maximum fun and with a lot of room for testing the limits while staying safe at the same time.
Keep in mind that if you’re shopping for a BMX for a younger kid, this model will be too challenging for them, most likely. However, getting this bike for your teenager at the right time will ensure they will ride it for years to come since the bike was built to last.
Pros
- Very sturdy
- 360° rotor
- Lifetime guarantee for the frame
- Four pegs
Cons
Difficult assembly
Final Verdict
The best BMX bikes for kids will be slightly different depending on their age and skill level. That much is certain. However, the clear winner here is the Schwinn Sting Pro and Predator Cruiser BMX Bike when it comes to the quality of construction, performance, and price.
It is also a winner from a visual perspective, given that the 80s retro style is a real dealbreaker for many. Plus, the durable wheels and the fact that taller kids can ride it too makes it a popular choice.
The runner up is the Hiland 20” BMX Freestyle Bike due to its potential for turning BMX enthusiasts into future pros.