Some kids’ bikes, called balance bikes, come with no pedals or gears. These are intended for the youngest children and allow them to enjoy riding a bike while learning balance and using their feet to propel the bike.

Training wheels keep the bike upright so your child can learn to pedal without having to balance. Balance bikes help negate the need to have training wheels if you get your child started young enough, but if they are starting a bit later this will be the best option.

Coaster brakes are common on smaller children’s bikes and best for when kids are too small to safely grab the brake lever. They are engaged when the child pedals backward.

Rim brakes are the most common on kids’ bikes, and squeeze the outside of the rim to slow down.

Disc brakes allow riders to stop more consistently in rain and mud, and are common on kids’ mountain bikes.

Some kids bikes come with one gear, and some come with many. Bikes with no gears are simpler to use and easier to maintain, but harder to ride on a variety of terrain. Bikes with gears are easier to ride up hills.

Shocks help absorb bumps and vibrations allowing your little one more control and comfort on a variety of terrain. If he or she is spending nearly all their time on smooth paved roads then they may not need them but if they are planning on taking their bike off road, this is a worthy investment.