Starter bikes come in a variety of models. There’s the traditional three-wheeler trike, or a pedal Bike with stabilisers that can be removed when no longer needed, saving cash on a new cycle. Some experts think that the more modern, no-pedals ‘glider’-style bikes are best for beginners, as they allow kids to gain confidence and get the hang of balancing in their own time. Some of these ‘balance bikes’ also come with footrests to help with the transition to pedals.

Kids’ bikes aren’t just scaled-down models of the adult versions. For example, they don’t usually have suspension forks, because a child has relatively low upper-body mass. This means suspension doesn’t benefit them and only adds weight. Kids also have longer legs relative to their torsos and a muscle structure that makes it harder to lean forward than for an adult. This is why the reach, or how ‘stretched’ you are when riding, has to be short for children’s bikes.

Kids’ bikes made of steel rather than aluminium tend to be heavier, and the extra weight can be off-putting for a beginner. This weight also affects handling, which is likely to complicate matters for little ones. Gears are another weight-adding feature that small children can do without. But it’s okay to introduce gears once they develop their skills.

After mastering the basics, children often develop a real passion for the independence and the adventure of cycling. They shouldn’t worry about specialising for a particular sport or hobby at this stage, as there’s a great choice of teenager bikes available for them later on that will take them through motocross, touring, road racing and mountain biking. For now, look for hybrid options like one in the Mongoose range, a Pop model or a Hoy bike. Your teenagers will be thrilled as they move to more adult-style wheels.

You can make real savings by buying second-hand, and there’s always a good supply of outgrown bikes. If you want good-quality, affordable second-hand bikes, look to brands like Carrera, Ridgeback, Squish and Vitus. They’re well-designed and have reasonable weight and child-friendly proportions. They’ll hold their value, too, so if you look after them, when they’re outgrown you can sell them on. Top-flight brands like Frog, Hoy, Islabikes and Woom can be quite expensive even when second-hand, but you might get a good deal on Gumtree.

Thanks to Gumtree, one child’s outgrown bike becomes another kid’s exciting new wheels. Cruise through our selection of bikes for kids and, while you’re freewheeling, why not check out a mountain bike for you too?