- E-bikes are becoming more popular for kids, so it’s good to know the different types out there and how you can pick the best electric bikes for kids.
- From balance bikes to eMTBs to cruisers, kids of varying ages have options now when it comes to their own electrified bikes.
- Make sure you keep in mind factors like e-bike class, weight, and safety concerns before investing in a kid’s electric bike.
As e-bikes become more popular with adults, they’re now making their mark among young riders, too. Whether they’re for adventure, commuting, or just pure fun, e-bikes have something to offer every young rider. Here, we’ll explore the top 5 best electric bikes for kids, each tailored to different age groups and riding preferences. Whether you have a budding cyclist or an adventurous young rider in your family, our list has you covered.
What To Consider When Choosing an E-Bike For Your Child
Local Laws and Regulations
Before diving into the world of children’s e-bikes, you have to be aware of your local laws and regulations. Laws can vary significantly from one area to another, so make sure you understand the restrictions and requirements regarding e-bike usage for kids.
E-Bike Classes
E-bikes are classified into three main categories, each with distinct features:
| E-Bike Class | Maximum Speed | Motor Activation | Suitable Age Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | 20 mph | Pedal-only | Generally considered safe for kids; Kid-specific models may have lower speed limits for added safety |
| Class 2 | 20 mph | Throttle and Pedal | Suitable for kids with caution due to the throttle |
| Class 3 | Varies (up to 28 mph with pedal, 20 mph with throttle) | Throttle and Pedal | Reserved for older teens and adults; Not recommended for kids |
Weight and Size
Depending on the size of e-bike you want and how big your child is, the best electric bikes for kids can range from around 20 lbs to 40 lbs or more. Make sure you’re getting something your youngling can handle and still pedal around on easily, especially if they’re out riding for a while and their battery runs out.
Along with weight is size. Some bikes classify their sizes by simple metrics like Small, Medium, or Large. Others are more exacting and have you use your child’s height and leg inseam to determine the best size for them via their own sizing chart. You’ll want to think about your kid growing and still being able to use their e-bike, but you also don’t want to get them one that’s too big and they’ll struggle to ride.
The Top 5 Best Electric Bikes for Kids
Now, with that out of the way, here’s our list of the best electric bikes for kids. We look at a range of ages and styles of e-bike, so your kiddo can get the best ride for their needs.
STACYC 16 Drive
Built for kids ages 5 to 7, the STACYC 16 eDrive is a fun little balance bike with a bit of electrified oomph. It’s great if you want to get your kiddo eventually onto a dirt bike, allowing your little ripper to scoot and balance without pedals but still use a throttle. With its lightweight aluminum frame and steel BMX-style fork, it’s a safe and exciting ride that bridges the gap between training wheels and full-fledged motorcycles.
Powered by a brushless electric motor and a 20 V Max lithium-ion battery, the bike provides up to an hour of continuous ride time. But one of its standout features is the three programmable speeds: Training mode gets up to 5 mph, Standard mode goes to 7.5 mph, and Advanced mode can go as fast as 13 mph. The twist throttle and easy-to-operate rear drum brake make it a breeze for kids to learn and improve their riding skills. The bike’s durability, with its high-quality parts and enclosed chain drive, ensures it can withstand frequent use.
What makes STACYC e-bikes special are their ability to build confidence and balance skills in young riders, making them an ideal stepping stone to pedal bicycles or motorcycles. The removable battery and quick 60-minute charging make the STACYC 16 eDrive pretty convenient for parents, and weighing just 20 lbs with the battery, it’s easy for your kid to handle on their own.
For all those features, you can get the STACYC 16eDrive for $1,049. Whether you have a cautious toddler or an adrenaline-seeking youngling, this electrified balance bike guarantees grins and excitement, making it a must-have for any outdoor-loving family.
Mondraker F-Play 24
The Mondraker F-Play 24 is a dream e-bike for young adventurers. This stealthy ride packs a punch with a Mahle hub motor and a 250 Wh battery seamlessly integrated into its sleek frame, providing a maintenance-free, long-lasting power source for riders ages 8 to 10.
But it’s not just about looks; this bike means business. With 120 mm of rear wheel travel and 100 mm up front, custom-tuned fork and shock, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes, and a Shimano Deore drivetrain, it’s got the goods to tackle any terrain. At a quite respectable 36 pounds, it’s durable but your kid should still be able to handle it okay.
The aluminum Stealth evo and ZERO suspension system frame give it the edge, offering stability, control, and power efficiency for those uphill grinds and downhill thrills, plus a top pedal-assist speed of 15.5 mph. Plus, the Mahle-Ebikemotion display on the handlebar lets them track their stats without losing focus on the trail.
With the Mondraker F-Play 24, kids can ride like the pros. At $3,999, it’s a fully integrated eMTB that’s as rad as it gets for the young trailblazers.
woom UP 5
The woom UP 5 is the ultimate electric bike for kids ages 8 to 12, offering a blend of fun and functionality that’s hard to beat. Built on a high-quality aluminum frame, it combines tried-and-tested components with child-specific features. The removable battery and motor set it apart from the crowd. When your young rider doesn’t need the motor’s assistance, simply take it out, transforming the UP 5 into a conventional bike.
The mid-mounted motor and battery are seamlessly integrated into the down tube, controlled via a color display on the top tube. Green means light assistance and red means full power – easy for kids to understand. The bike features a 250 W FAZUA drive system, SRAM NX 11-gear drivetrain, adjustable air suspension fork, and hydraulic disc brakes. The Fazua Rider app offers real-time data on speed, mileage, battery charge, and more.
The UP 5 is comfortable and safe, with a low standover height, ergonomic brake levers, and reflective pedals. It can handle rides for up to two to three hours with ease and has 11 gears for tackling various terrains. It also tops out at just 12 mph, meaning you don’t have to worry about your kid turning into a speed demon. With all of those features packed into the bike, it is a bit heavier at 35.6 lbs, but that is still manageable.
While the price tag might be a bit steep at $3,799, the woom UP 5 offers quality, performance, and resale value that make it a worthwhile investment. It’s a fantastic choice for young riders, providing an exhilarating outdoor adventure on and off the trails. Whether conquering hills or cruising around town, the woom UP 5 is the go-to e-bike for adventurous kids.
Commencal Meta HT 24 Power
The Commencal Meta HT 24 Power is not your average kid’s bike; it’s a powerhouse on two wheels designed to introduce young riders ages 8 to 12 to the world of electric mobility. This scaled-down version of the brand’s popular Meta HT model is equipped with a SHIMANO E7000 engine and a 500 Wh battery, providing youngsters with a taste of pedal-assisted adventure.
The bike boasts top-tier components, including a MANITOU Junit 24 120 mm fork that minimizes friction, a KS dropper seat post tailored for little legs, and an SRAM GX 10-speed transmission for seamless gear changes. Even the grips are designed with small hands in mind, with 27 mm Diameter PROTAPER grips.
The Meta HT 24 Power weighs in at 41 pounds, making it even heftier than the Mondraker F-Play 24 or woom UP 5 – but remember that it comes stacked with great features. Also of note is the 418 Wh battery, which, when combined with a child’s low weight, offers an impressive range. Whether tackling steep climbs or long journeys, the SHIMANO E7000 engine and multiple assistance modes have them covered.
The Commencal Meta HT 24 Power is a game-changer for young adventurers, and it’s currently priced at $2,800. It not only encourages them to explore off the beaten track but also provides a taste of the future of electric biking, ensuring that no hill is too steep.
JOYSTAR Harlion 20”
The JOYSTAR Harlion 20″ is a retro-inspired, chopper-style electric bike that combines style, safety, and performance in one package. With its design reminiscent of the vintage Schwinn Stingray, it features a comfortable banana seat, upswept handlebars, and chrome fenders that can appeal to anyone ages 10 and up.
The JOYSTAR Harlion 20″ offers a smooth and effortless riding experience, perfect for leisurely rides or small commutes. It’s powerful with a 250 W electric motor that can reach speeds of up to 20 mph. Equipped with a removable 36 V, 7 Ah lithium battery, this bike offers up to 22 miles per charge using pedal assist. Recharging is a breeze with a standard household outlet, taking only four hours.
It caters to various riding preferences with three modes – electric bicycle, assisted bicycle, and normal bicycle. You can choose to activate the motor using the thumb throttle or pedal, giving your kid flexibility with their ride. And the bike’s chopper design is not just about aesthetics; it’s built for adventure. With 3-inch wide puncture-resistant fat tires and front suspension, it offers excellent grip and shock absorption on diverse terrains.
Because it is designed for 10-year-olds all the way to adults, the JOYSTAR Harlion 20″ is heavy like a standard e-bike at 54 lbs, so make sure your kid can handle that before dropping $699.99 on this (that’s the current price as of this writing, anyway). But if you want to get your older kid a stylish, comfortable, and reliable electric bike, this electric chopper bike delivers a memorable experience on two wheels.
E-Bike Safety for Kids
For a lot of safety concerns regarding kids on e-bikes, the rules are going to be the same as riding a standard bicycle. These include:
- Wear a helmet with the chin strap fastened.
- Know the laws of the road in your local area.
- Stay visible while riding with reflectors and bright lights for riding after dark.
But you also need to think about speed. E-bikes are definitely faster than standard bicycles, so think about what speed you believe would be safe for your kiddo. Maybe get a bike with programmable speeds you can set on your own, and make sure you invest in a proper e-bike helmet that’s rated for higher speeds.
Which E-Bike Is Right For Your Child?
While there still aren’t a ton of e-bikes out there designed specifically for children, there are enough to give you some options for the best electric bikes for your kids depending on how old they are and what type of ride they want. From electric balance bikes to electric mountain bikes (eMTBs), you should be able to find something that fits your family’s needs and instill a love of e-mobility in your young one.
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