How to Buy a Children's Bike as a Gift

Check out children's bikes with 20 inch wheels, most of which are set up like mountain bikes. Twenty inch bikes usually have six or seven speeds and hand brakes, which allow for practice with these components before moving on to a bigger bike with more gears.

Get a bike with aluminum rims instead of steel or alloy. In addition to being stronger and lighter, they're more abrasive. This allows the brake pads more gripping traction, which makes for less slipping and quicker stopping.

Watch the different sizes in the different brands of bikes; children's bikes measure only the wheel size and not the frame size. Your child needs to be able to stand over the top tube with their feet flat on the ground for balance.

Think about the color and style that would most suit your young cyclist - your choices are endless. There's also a lot of gear out there that kids can add to personalize their bike. Don't forget to buy a helmet while you're at it.

Be careful about buying the bike at larger stores; their assembly is not always the best. Sometimes it's better to check out local independent bike shops to ensure proper assembly.

Consider checking out used bike shops. Kids are always growing out of bikes and you might be able to find a bike for half the price you would pay new.

Keep in mind that the move from a bike without gears and backpedal brakes to one with more advanced components can take a little practice. A bike with 24 inch wheels and eighteen gears might be a little daunting.