10 Best Affordable Bikes 2025 in the United States

The Royalbaby Freestyle Kids Bike is an 18-inch BMX-style bicycle designed for children aged 5-8. Its alloy steel frame ensures durability, and the bike is equipped with a kickstand and mudguards, making it practical for everyday use. The bike’s sporty design is inspired by BMX, which could appeal to young riders looking for a fun and stylish ride. The single-speed gearing simplifies riding, which is perfect for beginners, and the included training wheels on smaller sizes (though not specified for the 18-inch model) are a great aid for new cyclists learning to balance.

The bike features both caliper and coaster brakes, providing reliable stopping power suitable for small hands. The 2.4-inch wide tires offer good stability and grip on various surfaces. Assembly is straightforward, with the bike arriving 95% pre-assembled and all necessary tools and instructions included, making it convenient for parents. The adjustable seat and handlebars accommodate growing children, adding to the bike’s longevity. Safety is a key focus, with features like a short travel distance brake lever and compliance with CPSC standards.

Additionally, the bike is backed by a robust warranty and customer service, including a lifetime warranty for the frame and front forks. On the downside, the rigid suspension might not offer the smoothest ride over rough terrain, and the bike’s weight of 25 pounds may be a bit heavy for some younger children to handle.

The Schwinn Elm and Koen bike is a solid choice for young kids learning to ride, fitting children roughly between 2 and 13 years old thanks to wheel sizes that range from 12 to 20 inches and an adjustable seat. Its alloy steel frame offers good durability without being too heavy, while the single-speed gearing and twist grip shifter keep things straightforward and easy for beginners. The bike includes both caliper and coaster brakes, allowing kids to stop safely with intuitive controls.

The rigid suspension is typical for kids' bikes at this price point and keeps the ride stable on paved surfaces like sidewalks or parks, though it may not absorb bumps well on rougher terrain. The SmartStart ergonomic design means the bike is built to suit kids’ proportions, helping with comfortable handling and building confidence. Training wheels are included, which is great for early learners, and the bike grows along with your child due to easy seat adjustments.

The bike is a bit on the heavier side at around 20.6 pounds, which might make it a little tougher for the smallest kids to maneuver. Also, while the single speed is simple, it limits the ability to ride on varied terrain or slopes easily. For those seeking an affordable, reliable starter bike that focuses on safety and ease of use, the Schwinn Elm and Koen are strong contenders. Families looking for more advanced features or lighter weight might need to explore higher-end options.

The RoyalBaby Freestyle Toddlers Kids Bike is an affordable and well-designed option for children aged 3 to 4 who are just beginning to learn how to ride a bike. One of its key strengths is the durable carbon steel frame, which provides a sturdy and reliable structure for young riders. The inclusion of training wheels makes it easy for beginners to maintain their balance, while the adjustable seat and handlebars ensure that the bike can grow with your child, offering extended usability.

Additionally, the bike features a BPA-free water bottle and a sporty design inspired by the BMX spirit, which adds to its appeal for young children. The 12-inch wheels and 2.4-inch wide tires offer stability and good traction, which is essential for new riders. The brake system is designed to be easily operated by small hands, providing safety for young riders. Assembly is relatively simple, with the bike arriving 95% pre-assembled and the necessary tools included.

However, the rigid suspension may not provide the most comfortable ride on rough terrain, and the single-speed gearing limits the bike's versatility as the child grows older and more experienced. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RoyalBaby Freestyle bike holds strong customer reviews and complies with CPSC standards, ensuring safety and reliability. It is a great choice for parents looking to buy their child's first bike, supported by a high-level warranty and responsive customer service.