When it comes to the Holidays, there’s certain gifts that just evoke that feeling of a classic Christmas. A kid coming downstairs to find a shiny new bike under the tree is one of those things, but as both Santa and parents know, kids grow (and outgrow) quickly, and families want to be sure that their children have a quality bike at a price that doesn’t break the bank. The folks at Kent International have a full range of bikes for the whole family, but for my 2016 Holiday Wish Guide I’m focusing on the 2+, 5+ and 8+ range, including their 18″ Sparkle Freestyle BMX Bike… the same one that our youngest daughter has been rockin’ the sidewalk on, sent to us this Fall for review.
18″ Kent Sparkle Freestyle BMX Bike (MSRP: $79.97): Recommended for kids ages 5 and up, this bike couldn’t fit the youngest of The Rock Daughters™ more perfectly. The oversized aluminum frame is painted pure black, accented by colorful sparkly decals in highlights of pink, blue and chrome. The hot pink wheels and handlebars match the front axle pegs, while a dual hand-brakes and a matching carry bag complete the ensemble.
Training wheels are included, and are easily removed with a wrench. As your little one grows, the seat is easily adjustable with no tools required – just a simple quick-release, while the handlebars can be raised and lowered with a secure “four-bolt stem.”
They say that this bike could make a little girl become “the envy of the neighborhood,” and that’s probably true since even though big sister has her own bike (sans training wheels), she can’t resist taking this one for a spin.
Order from Walmart.
20″ MT20 Mountain Bike (MSRP: $79.97): Recommended for kids ages 8 and up, Kent’s MT20 hardtail mountain bike boasts features typically only found on adult mountain bikes. Tuned travel front shock absorbs the bumps and the sturdy steel frame keeps the bike tracking straight. Shifting is handled by industry leader Shimano with their seven-speed drivetrain featuring twist shifters, and lugged knobby tires get all that kid power to the ground and provide great traction. Front and rear linear pull brakes keep speed in check. Supple padded seat is easily adjusted with no tools thanks to a quick-release lever clamp.
Order from Walmart: Boys | Girls
KaZAM Blinki Balance Bike (MSRP: $99.99): Recommended for kids ages 2+. If you’re looking to skip the training wheels altogether, this ride for the youngest members of the family just might do the trick. The Blinki Balance Bike features a clear polycarbonate frame infused with LED lighting for a cool look, available in trim packages (wheels/seat/handlebars) of Blue, Red, Black and Pink. Kids learn balance by coasting along – no pedals, no training wheels. We actually used a balance bike here at HQ to help our oldest daughter learn to ride.
Order from Amazon.
Want to see bikes for the rest of the family? Check out Kent International’s official site!
