Holiday Gift Guide: Mountain Bikes and Gear for Kids

Long gone are the days of training wheels and scabs for a child learning to ride a bike. Balance bikes have revolutionized how a youngster learns to maneuver and steer their two-wheeler before tackling a pedal bike. Once they graduate to a bike with pedals, the options now are wide open. It's not just coaster brakes and BMX bikes anymore. Kid-specific mountain bikes with 20-, 24- and 26-inch wheels are available for the growing shredder. These youth MTBs feature multi-speed drivetrains, disc brakes and suspension combined with size-appropriate, grips and pedals that fit smaller hands and feet. We've curated a few eye-catching holiday deals for anyone looking to surprise the child in their life with a new bike!

Prevelo Alpha Zero 12" Balance Bike

Before graduating to pedals, this balance bike will help the little ones learn the basics. A rear v-brake makes stopping easy and the seatpost is adjustable from 11- to 14.5-inches.

Available at Competitive Cyclist.

Early Rider Limited Trail 24" Hardtail Bike

A 24-inch hardtail ripper for keeping up with and then passing the big kids (a.k.a. Mom and Dad) touting 100mm of fork travel, 11-speed drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes.

Available at REI.

Marin Hawk Hill Jr 24" Bike

Full suspension fun sized for kids who shred. This Hawk Hill shrunken down to a 24-inch package with 120mm travel and 11-speed drivetrain is ready for any trail. The frame is also compatible with dropper posts for later upgrades and 26-inch wheels so you can increase the wheel size as your child grows.

Available at Jenson USA.

Fox Racing Youth Launch Pro Knee Pads

Scrape-free knees will have them jumping right back on the horse after a digger. Hook-and-loop straps provide a secure fit that's easily adjustable.

Available at Competitive Cyclist.

Troy Lee Designs A1 MIPS Classic Youth Helmet

Safety third – unless we're talking about the kids. Get them a helmet with pro looks they'll like and the protective features you love. MIPS protection, adjustable fit, and plenty of breathability are offered in this classic.

Available at Jenson USA.

Troy Lee Designs Air Youth Gloves

Complete their kit and keep their hands protected from scuffs. Kids' sizes made with adult standards.

Available at Jenson USA.

Five Ten Freerider VCS Shoes

Five Ten's traction on the pedals for everyone, big and small.

Available at Competitive Cyclist.

Lizard Skins Mini Machine Lock-On Grips

A pint-sized grip for small-handed riders. Locked in place with dual lock rings, a raised, grippy texture, and short 105mm length.

Available at Competitive Cyclist.

SDG Slater Pedals

A 90mm x 90mm platform engineered for their small feet with steel pins and texture for traction.

Available at Jenson USA.

Crankbrothers Stamp 1 Small Pedals

For the older kids, these pedals have a 100mm x 100mm platform made for US 5-10 (EU 37-43) shoe sizes. A good option built to last and will continue to fit as they keep on growing.

Available at Worldwide Cyclery.

SDG Jr Pro Kit

The whole kit and caboodle. All the contact points together in one neat package sized for small hands, small feet, and all-around small humans. All you need is the bow on top.

Available at Jenson USA.

CamelBak Mini Mule 1.5L Backpack

Hydration, snacks, and room for essentials. Everything they'll need for the family ride or devo group session.

Available at Jenson USA.

A New Kit

Dress for success. Your ripper will be channeling racer confidence in some new threads like the Troy Lee Designs Youth Sprint Jersey and Youth Skyline Short.

Available at Jenson USA.

We checked out three great 20-inch mountain bikes for kids last year, too. It's a great time for groms learning to ride bikes! There are plenty of options for the bike-riding child in your life.