It is a bit difficult to talk about beginner friendly bikes because bikes are not necessarily designated that way. They are designated more so by function, cost, and number of speeds. But that said, there are still some characteristics you can look for in a bicycle that make them in one way or another somewhat more suitable for beginners than advanced bikers. Let’s take a look at some of these characteristics:

Number of Speeds

Chances are beginning bike riders will not be very familiar with changing gears as they ride. Thus it could be argued that bikes with fewer speeds are better for beginners. These would be your 10 and 12 speed bikes. The lower number of speeds will allow the biker to get acclimated to the various gears and with the shifting action as they ride without getting bogged down by too many possibilities.

Easy Shift Gears

Many bikes today feature more easily shiftable gears than the bikes of the past. They may sport, for instance, numbered gear markings and spring assisted shifting levers. These will also be easier for a beginner to use while riding. Less attention will have to be devoted to the gear shifting and more can be placed on the riding itself.

Child Bikes

Many beginner bike riders are, of course, children. Thus a beginner bike is often a small child sized bike. Small bikes for children aged, say, 5 to 14 fall into the beginner bicycle category. These bikes are sized to fit a particular age group and are available in a wide variety of price ranges.

Tricycles and Bikes with Training Wheels

Tricycles and bikes with training wheels could be considered beginner friendly bicycles in the truest sense. These bikes assist younger children (and possibly disabled people) in maintaining balance while they ride. Again, they can be found at many different locations and prices. If there is any sense that a child or other individual may fall repeatedly on a regular bike, tricycles and training wheels are a good option which will allow them to develop balance and confidence.

A Word about Safety

Safety is important for all bike riders, but it is especially important for beginners. Beginners should wear bike helmets and if possible and either clothing that is not too loose and baggy or specially designed bicycle clothing. In the event of a fall a helmet protects the head, and the tight fitting clothes guard against the possibility of clothing getting caught in the quickly turning wheels.

The above characteristics and attributes are ones to consider if you are looking for beginner friendly bicycles. Protect the safety and well being of beginning bicycle riders and foster their biking skill development by selecting a bicycle and safety gear that is appropriate for their level.