Even in this time of virtual-reality gaming and 4k TVs, when kids have adapted to play without moving, few gifts can electrify children the way a bike can. Just days ago, I witnessed my five-year-old son unwrap a bike for his birthday, and I still have a headache from the squeal of joy he let loose. It pierced the air like the whistle of the Polar Express and caused his grandmother spill her coffee on the floor.
You can’t go wrong buying a child you love a new bike or cycling gear this holiday season. But if you really want to impress the little ripper, consider any of the gifts below. Each has been evaluated by our editors, and many are products we’ve purchased for our own children.
There are some badass bikes and helmets the small shredder in your life will want to wear. We also include fun products that will keep them safe, plus a few items that will get them stoked to ride on days when they can’t make it outside. (Then when you’re done, consider getting yourself a pair of noise-canceling headphones to protect your ears from the screams of joy these products are bound to produce.)
Early Rider Trail Runner
We’ve tried more than a dozen balance bikes, and this one from Early Rider stands out. It’s got a lightweight aluminium frame, grippy rubber tyres, and a sweet retro saddle that make it worth every penny.
Buy it: $240
Troy Lee Air Gloves
Gloves might not elicit shrieks of joy like a new bike, but when I gave these to my son, he was stoked. To him, they looked like something a superhero would wear, and he couldn’t wait to slip them on for his next ride. They come in six colours and five kids sizes – perfect for any young rider or budding superman.
Buy it: $40
Nutcase Retro Bell
You and I may ambivalent about bells, but kids love them on any bike. Maybe two or three of them. Why not? They’re shiny and joyful and trill out “Here I come!” This one from Nutcase comes in 10 fun designs, has a classic ding-riiiing sound, and attaches easily to most handlebars.
Buy it: $20
Eric’s Big Day
Life will lead you to amazing and unexpected places – even to a Tour de France podium – if you’re open to adventure and ready to help others. That’s the message behind this cute, whimsical story illustrated with colorful images. It starts when a young boy named Eric sets off to meet his friend Emily for a picnic, but he soon finds himself caught up (and then leading!) the “big race”. The story is sweet and exciting, and sure to please younger kids who love to ride.
Buy it: $30
Lazer Nutz MIPS
The brand’s Autofit retention system makes it easy for kids as young as three to put on their own helmet. It also expands as the child’s head grows, meaning you might get several years out of this lightweight XC-style helmet.
Buy it: $90
100 Percent Status Youth Full Face Helmet
Spend a minute scanning @thebikedads on Insta, and you’ll see why full-face helmets are a good idea. It’s not uncommon to see 10-year-olds hitting drops, tricking jumps, and sending huge bike-park features. Full-face helmets provide extra protection, so those inevitable spills become teachable moments, not trips to hospital. The Status has a low price, is reasonably light, and its venting system should keep kids’ heads cool on warm, summer days.
Buy it: $205
Strider Knee and Elbow Pads
Strider’s balance bike changed the game for getting kids to ride, providing a safe, economical way to teach kids balance without training wheels. Still, crashes happen. These affordable pads are easy to slip on and protect vulnerable knees and elbows while toddlers (recommended age is two to five) practice their skidz and wheelies.
Buy it: $26
G-Form ProX Knee Pads
G-Form’s kid-sized pads are light, flexible, and look like they were designed by Batman. If your shred monster is hitting singletrack, bike parks, or building dirt jumps in the backyard, these comfy-but-protective pads will keep them safe and scar-free. They slip on easily, and conform to smaller joints without restricting movement.
Buy it: $97
Nutcase Baby Nutty
Kids’ helmets should be comfortable, easy to adjust, and look fun. Nutcase nails it with the Baby Nutty. It comes in six cool designs and has a magnetic chin strap with soft cover that makes it easy to snap securely without pinching your little one’s chin. Plus, the helmet’s sleek retention system expands as you slip the helmet on, so you don’t need to fuss with any dials or buckles.
Buy it: $99
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