If you’re in the market for a kids’ bike, you might be wondering about the differences between the two styles we offer: sidewalk bikes and trail bikes. Understanding the differences between these two styles can help you choose the perfect bike for your child’s needs and preferences.
Park Bikes = Sidewalk Bikes
Our Park bikes are designed for cruising on relatively flat surfaces like sidewalks, paved bike paths, and hard-packed dirt paths. They have a component spec that is matched to the type of riding they are used for. Sidewalk bikes usually have gearing that is suitable for cruising and are fitted with rigid front forks. This is because there isn’t much need for suspension on smooth, hard-packed surfaces. The tires on sidewalk bikes usually aren’t too knobby, which helps to reduce rolling resistance.
Our PARK Series Sidewalk Bikes are designed primarily for urban use but are definitely capable of hitting the trails and getting off-road. They come in a range of colors and sizes to suit your child’s needs.
See all PARK Series Sidewalk Bikes
X Bikes = Trail Bikes
If your little rider is ready to step it up a notch and tackle more challenging terrain, then a trail bike might be more suitable. Our X1 & X2 bikes come with knobbier tires, wider bars, and disc brakes to add to the riding experience. Knobby tires help grip the path, especially on turns and riding over rocks and roots. Wider bars add stability to the riding position, helping the front of the bike feel less “twitchy”. Disc brakes offer more stopping power with less required pull-force.
Our X1 Series Trail Bikes are a great place to start if you’re looking to get more single-track seat time with your little rider. They feature a front air fork on the 20 X1 and 24 X1 to add some squish and increase the comfort for your rider on uneven terrain.
Building on the X1 Series bikes, the X2 Series Trail Bikes take things to the next level, with the addition of hydraulic disc brakes and a few other carefully spec’d components. The 20 X2 and 24 X2 feature wide ratio microSHIFT drivetrains to help with the ups and downs of trail riding.
Choosing the Right Bike
The type of bike you choose for your child will depend on their skill level and the type of riding they’ll be doing. Sidewalk bikes are great for younger kids who are just starting out and are comfortable cruising on flat surfaces. Trail bikes are designed for more advanced riders who are ready to tackle more challenging terrain.
When choosing a bike, it’s important to consider your child’s size and height, as well as their skill level and riding preferences. If you’re not sure which type of bike is best for your child, feel free to reach out to our team for expert advice.
In summary, the main differences between sidewalk bikes and trail bikes are in their component specifications, tire types, and brake types. While sidewalk bikes are designed for cruising on flat surfaces, trail bikes are built for more challenging terrain. Whatever style you choose, make sure it’s the right fit for your child’s needs and preferences.