The 8 Best 20 Inch Bikes for Boys Posted in: Bikes

For most kids, one of the most exciting moments of childhood is getting your first bike and learning how to ride.

For boys around the age of six or seven, a 20-inch bike for kids is usually recommended. A quick search at the options online will leave you overwhelmed with all of the different models and styles. How can you weed out the good ones from the rest and feel confident in your decision for your kid?

We’ve taken the hard work off your shoulders and taken it on ourselves, digging deep into the internet to find the best bike for your boy. Below, we’re sharing our findings and our honest opinion on what qualifies as the best 20-inch bikes for boys.

 

Read on to find the perfect new toy for your little tyke.

1. Guardian Ethos

The Guardian Ethos offers a low center-of-gravity bike design with a lightweight frame to keep your kid safe without making their ride feel bulky and uncomfortable. Choose between a 20-inch small single-speed bike or a 20-inch large with gears based on your child’s height.

Pros:

• SureStop braking system
• Available in two sizes based on the child’s height
• Durable material, lightweight frame

 

Cons:

• Trouble shifting gears on the large model

 

Why We Liked It:

The patented SureStop braking system makes it easier and safer for kids to brake, even when going fast or riding down a hill.

 

2. RoyalBaby Kids Bike

The best kid’s bike includes features made just for kids, like this RoyalBaby Kids Bike. By shortening the brake lever by 10 percent and adding new reflectors and a bell, your kid will be safer and more confident when riding this bike.

This bike comes mostly assembled, so it’s easy to add a few bells and whistles and get riding.

Pros:

• High-quality design and construction
• Shorter brake lever
• Additional reflectors and bell attachments

 

Cons:

• The included water bottle isn’t durable.

 

Why We Liked It:

This bike is perfect for an experienced young rider who wants fun features. It’s also great for parents who still care about safety.

 

3. Tony Hawk Jargon 20” Freestyle BMX Bike

For small tykes who want adventure when they ride, this Tony Hawk Jargon 20” Freestyle BMX bike offers a lot of excitement. It was made to handle rougher terrains like gravel roads, but it also rides incredibly smooth on paved suburban roads.

If you’re looking for a well-made bike that can take your boy from the trail to the streets, check out the Tony Hawk Jargon 20” Freestyle BMX Bike.

Pros:

• Strong, durable frame for rough or smooth terrain
• Comfortable seat
• 48 spoke wheels

 

Cons:

• Challenging to assemble

 

Why We Liked It:

Just because your son is riding in the neighborhood now, that doesn’t mean that’s the only place he’ll want to ride. This bike offers flexibility to ride off the streets!

 

4. Schwinn Koen

The Schwinn Koen is a perfect 20-inch bike for riding to the park, around the neighborhood, or to a friend’s house. Thanks to Schwinn’s SmartStart technology, small riders will have an easier time learning how to ride.

This bike includes a rear coaster brake, front hand brakes, adjustable seat, and narrow pedal position, all designed to make riding a bike more comfortable.

Pros:

• Built for new riders
• Double brakes
• Adjustable seat for a better fit

 

Cons:

• Difficult to build

 

Why We Liked It:

The SmartStart technology includes a lighter frame, forward-positioned pedals, easy gearing, and smaller grips designed for small riders.

 

5. Huffy Kids Hardtail Mountain Bike for Boys

Another option for the young mountain biker, this Huffy Kids Hardtail Mountain Bike is ideal for someone who wants to create epic outdoor fun. High-grade features like a 1200 suspension fork and the Shimano rear derailleur give this bike the quality it needs to last for several years.

Pros:

• Handles gravel, dirt, and paved roads
• Six-speed options
• High-grade features

 

Cons:

• Seat is uncomfortable

 

Why We Liked It:

The manufacturers thought ahead and included high-grade features and a strong frame to last through the elements and rough riding.

 

6. Kent Full Tilt Boys Bike

If you have a taller boy, around 44-56” tall, who has outgrown his first bike and you want something that can go off-road, the Kent Full Tilt Boys Bike is a great option. Its off-road tires can handle a bumpy trail but also ride smoothly on driveways and paved roads.

As long as you have experience assembling bikes, you should be able to get this bike ready to ride quickly.

Pros:

• Durable wheels for dirt or pavement
• Coaster and hand brakes
• Single-speed

 

Cons:

• No training wheels

 

Why We Liked It:

The Kent Full Tilt is durable enough to handle taller boys that want to have more fun with their bike rides.

 

7. 20” Mongoose Ledge

If your boy has shown interest in taking their bike off the roads but isn’t the most confident rider, the 20” Mongoose Ledge is a great transitional bike for this period of time. Its suspension fork helps to smooth out bumps and makes it easier to control the seven gears, while its linear-pull brakes provide great braking power.

Pros:

• Works well on roads or gravel/dirt
• Smooths out the ride
• Easy to brake

 

Cons:

• The seating position is a bit awkward.

 

Why We Liked It:

This durable bike makes rides around the neighborhood transition into bikes on the trail seamlessly.

 

8. Huffy Ignyte

For kids who want to make a statement when they ride, be sure to check out the Huffy Ignyte. This stylish bike comes in a range of bold colors and is the perfect option after a beginner’s bicycle when your child wants something that feels more grown. As a BMX bike, it’s best for riders who are already comfortable accelerating and braking.

Pros:

• Single-speed
• Durable steel frame
• Attractive design

 

Cons:

• No training wheels

 

Why We Liked It:

We love that this bike doesn’t compromise quality for style. It’s the perfect mix between the two!

 

Final Thoughts Before Purchasing a 20″ Bike for Boys

The best 20-inch bikes for boys will change depending on who you’re asking. But if you keep these considerations in mind as you make your decision, you’re sure to wind up with the perfect bike:

• Size and fit: How tall is your boy? Will he need extra space?
• Training wheels: Is your boy confident without training wheels, or are they important?
• Gears: Single gears are best for beginners, while multiple gears are ideal for experienced bikers.
• Brakes: If they’re new to bikes, rear coaster brakes are helpful.
• If you think you need a bit little height, check these bikes.

 

What you choose is up to you. Let our recommendations guide your search to finding the best 20-inch bike.