The main criteria for choosing a bike

Over time, bicycles have undergone numerous design advancements, introducing new equipment and technologies. Modern models differ significantly from the traditional ones still preferred by older generations. These new bikes come with various features that prioritize comfort and safety for both children and adults. Choosing a bike can be compared to selecting sneakers — finding the right size and ensuring a comfortable fit. To accomplish this, it is crucial to understand the essential criteria for bike selection:

  • Bicycle type
  • Frame size and design
  • Wheel diameter
  • Shift system
  • Brake system
  • Accessories

Next, we will study each criterion in detail and give practical advice on selecting the right bike.

Bicycle type

In addition to being categorized for children, teens and adults, bicycles are also classified into different types based on their intended purpose and riding style:

  • Mountain(MTB — Mountain Bike). These bikes are widely recognized as the most popular due to their versatility. While they are designed for off-road conditions with difficult terrains, they are commonly used by both adults and children for everyday city rides, commuting to work or picnic. These bikes come with features such as suspension (although there are models without it), a sturdy frame and wide wheels with different treads, including deep treads for off-road riding and medium treads for general versatility.
  • City bikes. These bikes are specifically designed for urban transportation and short family outings. They are suitable for smooth surfaces like asphalt and pavement, as well as moderate terrains without steep slopes. These bikes are characterized by their simple frame design, minimal or no gears, and easy maintenance. Some models may also be foldable for convenient storage and transportation.
City Bikes

  • Highway or sport, high-speed. These bikes are favored by professional athletes for long-distance cycling on asphalt tracks. They are capable of reaching high speeds (more than 50 km/h), making them a popular choice for commuting to avoid traffic jams and queues for public transport. These bikes share similarities with touring models, featuring a larger frame, specialized handlebar shapes and wheels designed for minimal friction. They excel at swiftly covering long distances, while certain touring models can also handle light off-road conditions.
Highway Bikes

  • Road. These bikes can be seen as a combination of highway, city, and mountain models, offering a versatile riding experience. They are well-suited for swift long-distance travel on roads, thanks to their multi-speed transmission, large frame and wheels. However, they may not be as maneuverable and have slower acceleration dynamics compared to other bike types. These bikes are particularly suitable for riding on the streets of large cities where frequent stops at intersections and pedestrian crossings are not necessary.
Road Bikes

  • Stunt (BMX — Bicycle Motocross). This special type of transport is known for its durability, compact size, and suitability for performing tricks. The discipline of BMX bikes has been included in the program of the Olympic Games since 2008, so they are very popular among teenagers and are not inferior to stunt scooters. These bikes typically feature a reinforced one-piece frame and 20-inch wheels. They are not equipped with shock absorbers or attachments.
  • Enduro, downhill, freeride. Another specialized type of bike is designed for extreme mountain downhill riding. These bikes are characterized by a compact to medium-sized dual suspension frame (16 ‒ 19''), large wheels (27.5 ‒ 29'') and impressive equipment customization options.

Frame size and design

One of the most important factors that must match the height of the rider in order to avoid health problems. The size and design of the frame are selected individually to ensure the correct fit, avoid harmful stress on the back and legs. Mismatched parameters can lead to loss of control, injury, spinal curvature overall discomfort.

There is a universal size chart that can assist in making the correct bike selection. However, these parameters generally apply to low-cost-class mountain, sport and city bikes and may not be applicable to BMX bikes, as they typically have smaller frames by default. Brand models usually have their own classification, making the size chart more advisory in nature rather than absolute.

Frame size (inches) Recommended height (cm) Purpose
Up to 12'' up to 120 For children from 3 to 10 years old
11.5 ‒ 14'' 130 ‒ 150 For children from 10 to 14 years old
15 ‒ 16'' 145 ‒ 160 For teenagers from 13 years old and women of small stature
17 ‒ 18'' 155 ‒ 178 For adults with average height
19 ‒ 22'' 170 ‒ 185 For tall adults
23 ‒ 24" 180 ‒ 210 For very tall adults

You can learn more about the features of the selection of the frame in the article

The maneuverability of a bike also depends on the size of the frame. Smaller frames allow for faster and sharper turns, while larger frames are typically found in sports models where speed is prioritized. The best option for teenagers will be 13 — 14 inches, and for most adults — 17 — 18 inches. Tall people should choose frames starting from 20 inches.

Frame design is another important choice. There are 3 main types:

  • Without suspension (rigid)
  • With front suspension (hard tail)
  • Full suspension

One-piece rigid frame is the simplest and most cost-effective option commonly found on city and road bikes. It is suitable for riding on asphalt surfaces where there is no need to absorb bumps on off-road terrains. However, it may not provide sufficient comfort when encountering curbs or uneven surfaces. This type of frame lacks vulnerable joints, so all BMX models are equipped with one-piece frame for safe jumping.

Hard tail is a type of bike that offers a compromise between city riding and off-road capabilities. In low-cost models, the suspension is spring-elastomer without the possibility of adjustment or lockout features. It helps to smooth out rides over rough terrains and overcome small obstacles, but it may not be sufficient for intense off-road racing. More advanced options include spring-oil and air-oil forks, which allow riders to adjust the rigidity level. These forks are designed for off-road and extreme sports, require regular maintenance and can be relatively expensive.

Hardtail Bikes

A frame with two suspensions provides enhanced ride comfort but may sacrifice acceleration dynamics and overall bike speed compared to other types. This option is commonly chosen for extreme mountain downhills (enduro, downhill, freeride), where maximum control over the bike is crucial. While it is also suitable for regular city rides, it tends to be more complex and expensive to maintain.

Wheel diameter

There is a wide range of available wheel sizes to choose from. When it comes to children's bicycles, 4 main sizes are commonly used:

  • 12 inches ‒ from 3 years old with a height of 70 ‒ 85 cm
  • 14 inches ‒ from 5 years with a height of 85 ‒ 100 cm
  • 16 ‒ 18 inches ‒ from 6 years old with a height of 100 ‒ 120 cm
  • 20 inches ‒ from 8 years old with a height of 120 ‒ 130 cm

The norm for older children and teenagers is 24 inches. This size serves as a transitional option between teenage and adult bikes, suitable at the age of 8 to 16 years with a height ranging from 130 to 155 cm. Several wheel diameters are popular among adults:

But the ratio of wheel diameter and rider height is not an absolute rule but rather a guideline primarily intended for beginners selecting their first bike. Experienced cyclists choose their bikes more carefully, taking into account the riding style and terrain. The most widely used and versatile size is typically 26 inches with a frame size ranging from 15 to 17 inches. This format is suitable for teenagers and adults, both women and men, who just want to ride.

The size of the wheel also plays a significant role in the maneuverability of the bike. Larger wheel diameters, similar to larger frame sizes, are commonly found in road models. Trick BMX bikes use 20-inch rims, which are suitable even for adults and allow for impressive freestyle tricks. Smaller wheels, with a reduced contact area with the road and minimal friction, are designed for quick acceleration and moderate riding. Conversely, larger wheels may be more challenging to accelerate, but they offer excellent speed and rolling capabilities. Once again, average wheel diameters of 24 to 26 inches stand out, providing a balance of nimbleness and speed.

Shift system

At first glance, the bicycle drivetrain may appear intricate and technically complex, especially when it comes to tuning, repairing or replacing components. Understanding the specific characteristics of each equipment series from different brands is crucial, as even manufacturers may not always provide exact compatibility information for analog components. However, for the average user, selecting the necessary parameters for their riding needs is relatively straightforward and does not require an in-depth understanding of the technical intricacies.

Undoubtedly, the bicycle drivetrain plays a crucial role in ensuring a comfortable ride, regardless of the terrain. With a wide range of available gears, riders can adjust the traction force to make pedaling easier (for uphill climbs) or more difficult (for increased speed). This enhances overall pedaling efficiency and helps prevent excessive strain on the legs, reducing the risk of injuries, particularly to the joints. The ability to distribute pedaling force across different surfaces and terrains through the drivetrain contributes to the overall health of the muscular system and promotes muscle development.

There are 2 main types of bicycle drivetrain systems: planetary hub (internal) and external transmission (sprockets). The first is used only in leisure bikes, offering ease of operation and durability. However, it is limited in terms of the number of available speeds. The second is universal, has a huge range for any purpose and low-cost.

When choosing a transmission, you need to pay attention to the main parameters:

  • Number of speeds
  • Attachment class (basic, mid range, pro)
  • Brand

Having a large number of speeds is not always necessary or justified, much like buying a high-performance gaming computer for office work. When it comes to leisurely rides around the city on both adult and children's bikes, a complex gear system may not be required. Such rides typically involve smooth surfaces without steep slopes and do not require frequent changes in gear ratios. Therefore, many bikes designed for urban commuting or leisure purposes, including those for children up to 8 years old, often feature a single-speed configuration.

A minimum set of speeds, typically ranging from 3 to 7 depending on the type of drivetrain system (internal or external), is beneficial for riding on terrain with small slopes and moderate distances. Similarly, children aged 8 — 12 years old often benefit from a similar range of gears, which provide both quick acceleration and good speed. For off-road riding, an optimal range of speeds is typically between 18 and 27. This is achieved by having 3 chainrings at the front and 6 — 9 at the back.This wide range of gear combinations allows riders to confidently tackle steep hills, various-sized obstacles, perform high-speed descents over rough terrain, and even transport goods such as bags of potatoes or shopping items. However, it's important to note that such drivetrain systems require appropriate care and maintenance, so it is essential to ensure proper upkeep.

Specialized bikes such as downhill, freeride, enduro and BMX have specific gear requirements based on their intended use. Stunt-oriented bikes, like BMX, often do not have a transmission system due to the frame design and the nature of the riding style. Instead, the focus is on installing front and rear sprockets that provide the desired driving dynamics for the rider. Similarly, extreme riding disciplines such as downhill riding require careful consideration of the gear setup. Due to the intense vibrations experienced during downhill descents, a single chainring is typically installed at the front, while a suitable 6 — 8 speed system is employed at the rear to ensure optimal performance and minimize the risk of chain derailment.

It is important to choose the appropriate level of equipment based on the intended purpose of the bike. Installing a professional-level system for casual rides would be unnecessary and a waste of money. The basic level of equipment does not mean cheap or of low quality; it is designed to be easy to set up and maintain, which is beneficial for beginners. The mid-range class of equipment is suitable for various activities such as high-speed rides, off-road excursions, and entry-level extreme tracks. On the other hand, professional equipment is specifically designed for specialized applications like enduro, downhill, and competitive road cycling.

When it comes to choosing a specific brand, it depends on the user's personal preference, similar to any other technology. There are various manufacturers that offer different classes of equipment. Some of the most well-known brands in the global market include Shimano, Campagnolo, SRAM, microSHIFT and Sunrun.

You can learn more about speeds, the principle of operation of the system, brands and equipment in the article.

Brake system

While opinions may vary, there are a few braking systems that have remained popular and widely used over the past decade. Each system has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Brake type Advantages Disadvantages
Pedal (Drum) No setup or maintenance is required
Not affected by weather conditions 		Not suitable for off-road
Low maintainability
Requires effort for fast braking
Do not work when the chain is disengaged / broken
Causes wear on the hub and spokes over time
Rim mechanical Low price
Ease of maintenance
Rapid replacement of brake pads
Damage resistance 		Low efficiency, which reduces to almost zero during rain
Suitable only for the city
Rim wear
Depends on the Figure-Eight Drive
Mechanical disc Average price
High performance in any weather
Doesn't wear out the rim
Reliability
Damage resistance
Suitable for city, off-road and extreme
Doesn't depend on the Figure-Eight Drive 		Requires periodic cleaning of brake pads
Expensive components
Low maintainability
Hydraulic disc High efficiency
Effortless braking with extreme precision
Suitable for city and off-road
Doesn't wear out the rim
Doesn't depend on the Figure-Eight Drive 		High price
Potential malfunction or decreased performance in case of damage
Requires regular maintenance and consumables
Expensive components

The selection of brakes depends on the type of bike, its intended use, and the terrain. Children's and many city bikes are typically equipped with a pedal brake, which is housed within the rear wheel hub. This design eliminates the risk of damage or breakage caused by impacts, falls, or exposure to adverse weather conditions. Pedal brakes are effective for leisurely rides where precise maneuverability and emergency braking are not critical. They provide a hassle-free riding experience, requiring minimal tuning and maintenance over the years.

The rim mechanical brake, located above the wheel on the bike frame, is activated by pressing the brake pads against the rim. This type of brake is commonly found on low-cost mountain bikes, considered standard for road bikes, and often serves as an additional front brake on children's and city models. It is suitable for family rides in the city and light off-road trails such as gravel or forest paths. However, there are some considerations regarding its limitations and potential safety concerns. When the brake pads become wet, the friction between the pads and the rim decreases, reducing braking efficiency. In such situations, more force is required on the brake handles, which may strain the cable and potentially lead to cable breakage. Excessive braking can also cause cable breakage. Therefore, this brake option is not recommended for fast-paced and extreme racing. Additionally, frequent braking can wear out the brake pads, necessitating their replacement over time.

Rim Brake Bikes

Mechanical disc is widely used in mountain, road, and extreme bikes. It offers a balanced performance in all aspects. This braking system is known for its reliability and efficiency, although repair costs can be high in case of breakdowns. Disc brakes are available on bicycles across various price ranges, ensuring that there is an option for every rider. They are not affected by weather conditions, but the presence of dirt or dust may cause a squeaking or squealing sound, so periodic cleaning is recommended. The combination of front and rear disc brakes provides quick and reliable stopping power, which is particularly useful in situations when the child jumps out onto the bike path.

Bikes with mechanical disc brake

Hydraulic disc designed for professional use, mainly in mountain bikes. One notable feature of hydraulic brakes is their precise braking performance, achieved through the use of fluid in the brake lines to transmit pressure to the brake pads. This principle is also used in the braking systems of motorcycles and cars. However, it is important to consider some drawbacks, such as the higher cost, loss of efficiency or complete failure if the brake lines are damaged or experience fluid leaks. Repairing hydraulic brakes can be expensive.

Bikes with hydraulic disc brakes

Accessories

Additional accessories are needed to increase comfort and control of the ride. Manufacturers provide a basic kit — reflectors on the frame and wheels, a chain guard, bicycle stand, sometimes fenders to protect against dirt. The rider can choose any additional features according to their own preferences and needs. The main accessories include:

  • Lighting equipment. It is mandatory to have a headlight on the bike when riding at night, as per road regulations. The headlight can be mounted on the frame or handlebar to provide illumination of the road ahead. There are various options available, including kits with a rear stop light that activates when braking, or a standard lamp that operates in a specific mode such as continuous glow or flashing. These lights help to increase visibility of the bike for vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Bottle holder. It can be a separate part or with a bottle included. Provides a minimum water reserve for cycling.
  • Cycle computer. Depending on the model, it enables tracking of various metrics such as speed, distance, heart rate, calories, time and more.
  • Lock. It is a vital tool for preventing theft when leaving the bike unattended. It can be either keyed or coded.
  • An anti-puncture sealant is a specialized viscous liquid that is inserted into the inner tube of a bicycle tire. It allows for automatic puncture repair without the need to stop or repair. Typically, it is applied once every 1 — 2 years.
  • Pump. Even with the use of anti-puncture sealant, there is still a chance of partial or complete loss of air pressure in the inner tubes if the sealant fails to seal the puncture. Therefore, it is always helpful to have a compact bicycle pump on hand. It is usually attached to the frame.

There are also other accessories that are not considered mandatory, used for certain purposes:

  • Equipment. A cycling gear set may include a variety of items such as a cycling suit, shoes, helmet, goggles, handhelds or gloves. These accessories are commonly used by athletes to enhance their performance by improving aerodynamics, regulating body temperature, ensuring comfort and safety. Children's equipment usually consists of a helmet and gloves to provide basic protection in case of falls.
  • Bike seat. Designed to transport children aged 1 to 4 years weighing up to 25 kg. Usually made of plastic to minimize weight. There are 2 main types — front mounted on a frame or handlebar and rear mounted on a seat frame or a rear rack. The bike seats are equipped with seat belts and footrests.
  • Luggage carrier. Can be front or rear-mounted racks, as well as standard racks or basket-style racks. Depending on their design, it can be used to carry items such as groceries from the store, harvest from the garden or camping equipment weighing about 20 — 30 kg. Some advanced luggage carriers are even capable of transporting passengers, although they require a reinforced frame to handle the additional weight and ensure safety.
  • Bag. There are different mounting options — on the frame, handlebar, luggage carrier, under the saddle. These options enable cyclists to carry essential items such as a phone and apartment keys or pack everything needed for a picnic, including a blanket, provisions, and dishes. Additionally, they can provide riders with the necessary tools for unscheduled repairs during long trips (hex keys, universal wrench, repair kit, cable).

You can learn more about bicycle accessories in the article.

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Having studied the important selection criteria, someone has already found the perfect bike for themselves, while others may still have doubts. In light of this, our experts have taken a practical approach and are ready to offer advice to assist in making the right choice.

How to choose a bike for a child

If a child is interested in active riding both in the city and off-road (trips to the forest, on a picnic, beach), it is advisable to select a mountain bike that closely resembles an adult bike in terms of capabilities and features. For children over the age of 8, with a height range of 120 — 150 cm, an appropriate frame size would be 11 — 13 inches, paired with 20-inch wheels. Opting for an aluminum frame is recommended to achieve a good balance between weight and strength. Having 7 speeds is generally sufficient for this purpose. When it comes to brakes, a mechanical disc brake is preferable. For the equipment, choosing an entry-level option is suitable, ensuring several years of use by adjusting the handlebar and saddle height.

XS Frame Bikes ( 13 – 14

How to choose a bike for a teenager

During adolescence, the range of interests expands significantly compared to children, which also influences the purpose of a bicycle. At this stage, teens often develop an interest in freestyle riding, leading them to consider BMX bikes. When choosing a BMX bike, the primary factor to consider is the low-cost, as the frame and wheels are typically available in fixed sizes.

For most young riders, their primary focus is on riding with friends and having fun, without being overly concerned about the type of terrain they encounter. In this case, an ideal option for riders with a height of 140 — 160 cm would be a mountain bike (MTB) with a frame size of 15 inches and 24-inch wheels. To confidently navigate obstacles and enjoy high-speed rides on both roads and off-road trails, it is recommended to choose a bike equipped with an 18 — 21 speed transmission and disc brakes. If the majority of riding will be in urban areas, a bike with basic equipment such as Shimano Tourney or Altus would suffice. However, for off-road adventures, a bike from the middle segment, such as Shimano Deore or equivalent models from other brands like SRAM or L—TWOO, would be more suitable.

Regardless of the intended use or gender of the rider, it is important to consider the materials, geometry, and frame design when choosing a bike. The top tube should be lowered to avoid injury and make parking easier, as well as to reduce the risk of injury. If the low-cost allows, aluminium frames are a preferred choice due to their lightweight nature, but classic steel frames are also reliable, although heavier. The inclusion of fork damping is essential, especially considering the tendency of younger riders to encounter curbs at high speeds. Additionally, aluminum rims are recommended as they offer increased resistance to wheel deformation. For extreme sports, a full suspension design is necessary to provide enhanced shock absorption, ensuring better control and stability.

Bikes with 24-inch wheels

How to choose a bike for a girl

For girls over 18 years old with an average height of 150 — 170 cm, a 15-inch frame in combination with 26-inch rims is optimal. This applies to both mountain and city bikes, which are used for cycling on asphalt.

When choosing a bike for girls, it is crucial to consider the frame geometry. Options with a lowered top tube are suitable for mountain bikes, while touring bikes may have frames without a lowered top tube. In terms of materials, it may not be as significant, as most girls tend to ride in a careful and measured manner. For those planning trips to the countryside, rim brakes are preferable, as they allow for the installation of a full-fledged luggage carrier with a basket without additional costs. For urban riding, a 7-speed cassette is typically sufficient.

For off-road riding, similar rules apply as with teenagers — a full suspension, disc brakes, and a sturdy frame made of reinforced aluminum or carbon, 18 or more speeds.

A sports bike needs to be chosen more to ensure the correct fit and good speed. Most women will fit a 17 ‒ 19" frame with 28" wheels.

Bikes with 28-inch wheels

How to choose a bike for a man

Men have a wide range of bike options to choose from, depending on their specific needs and preferences. Many men opt for mountain bikes, as they provide versatility for various activities such as uphill rides, carrying heavy loads on the luggage carrier and experiencing the exhilarating feeling of freedom while accelerating.

The average height for men is 160 — 180 cm, so the universal option would be a 17-inch frame and 26 — 27.5 inches wheels. For taller ones, there is a 19 ‒ 21" frame and 29″ rims. There can be 7 — 21 speeds. Experienced riders sometimes modify their bikes by switching to a single front chainring of moderate size. When it comes to frame materials, both steel and aluminum options are available. A hardtail setup is often recommended for casual rides in the city, commuting to work, or exploring recreational areas.

For off-road riding, it is recommended to switch to a full suspension setup and opt for a frame and rims made of lightweight aluminum. Carbon or chromium-molybdenum steel can also be considered if the low-cost allows, as they offer a balance of weight, acceleration, and durability. A fork with a responsive spring-oil type damper is preferred to effectively absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride. To ensure optimal stopping power, disc brakes are the preferred choice. Hydraulic brakes offer enhanced sensitivity, but mechanical brakes are also reliable. It is advisable not to compromise on the quality of the components, as investing in a reliable body kit is essential for safety. A medium or professional grade shifting system, such as Shimano 105, Deore, SRAM GX, X1, or similar, is preferred for smooth and precise gear changes.

Fans of fast riding and cycling can look at road and touring models. They are equipped with 28-inch wheels with narrow tires that guarantee a good roll.

To ensure the longevity of any bike model and equipment, regular maintenance and safe riding practices are crucial. It is important to prioritize safety by incorporating reflective elements, maintaining proper chain and bearing lubrication, ensuring smooth gear shifting, using anti-puncture measures, and wearing appropriate safety gear. By adhering to these practices, the bike can be enjoyed for an extended period of time. How to prepare a bike for the season can be found in the article.