5 Best Bikes for Teens in 2024 Updated Buyer’s Guide

Every once in a while, teenagers need to get the heck out of the house.  Getting fresh air is indispensable for a healthy mind and body, whether it’s just for some peace, exercise, or a routine errand.  But it becomes difficult if you don’t live in a walkable neighborhood or can’t drive yet.  Our solution?  Hop on a bike!

Below is our selection of the best bikes for teens.  So, whether you’re considering a bike for the daily commute, exercise, competitive sports, or just as a new way to explore the area, there’s a suitable bike on this list. 

Note: These bikes are sized for younger riders.  However, some teenagers are the size and weight of adults.  Therefore you must take this into consideration as well when choosing a bike. 

Top 5 Bikes For Teens 

1.  Schwinn High Timber Youth

• Bike Type: Mountain Bike
• Brand: Schwinn
• Wheel Size: 24, 26, 27, 29 inch versions available 
• Specific Uses: Trail
• Suspension Type: Dual
• Special Feature: Lightweight
• Number of Speeds: 21

Schwinn High Timber is a testament that this leading bike manufacturer has always got something incredible up its sleeve.  It’s very well built, looks & feels smooth, and performs exceptionally well for a beginner’s mountain bike. 

Assembly takes less than an hour. After that, it’s a smooth ride.  Undoubtedly the biggest standout feature is its steel frame.  It’s rust and damage resistant, which means you will get far more use out of it than others.  Its downside is that bikes with steel frames are slightly heavier. 

Like most Schwinn models, High Tower uses SR Suntour dual forks.  So, expect a lot fewer shocks and bumps when you take this bike out for a whirl.  The disc brakes also work great. 

Overall, we would highly recommend the High Timber to anyone looking for their first mountain bike.  It’s an affordable model that you can try before taking a plunge with a more premium version.  

2.  Mongoose Status Mountain Bike 26 Inch

• Bike Type: Mountain Bike
• Brand: Mongoose
• Wheel Size: 26 Inches
• Specific Uses: Trail
• Suspension Type: Dual
• Special Feature: Aluminum Frame, Mountain bike
• Number of Speeds: 21

The Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike 26 inches offers you a ride that won’t hold you back.  Featuring a quality aluminum frame with hydroformed tubing and a powerful suspension fork, Status MTB is ready for any adventure you take it on. 

This bike arrives mostly assembled. You just have to make some adjustments as per your requirements.  According to the trail, it has a 21-speed rear derailleur for quick shifting and right gearing.  Moreover, the light yet strong alloy rims add to the overall durability and support of the bike. 

Furthermore, its wide tires roll over anything that comes your way without any problem.  And the classic front and back v-brakes ensure maximum control over speed and stop at your whims. 

Overall, the Mongoose Status 2.2 is an adult mountain bike suitable for teens who want to get the hang of a men’s bike.  Its price is a bit expensive, but its quality far exceeds the value. 

3.  Schwinn Wayfarer

• Bike Type: Hybrid Bike
• Brand: Schwinn
• Specific Uses: Comfort, Fitness / Transportation
• Suspension Type: Front
• Number of Speeds: 7
• Size: 16-Inch Frame
• Color: Light Mint
• Frame Material: Steel

The Schwinn Wayfarer is a retro-inspired bike.  It’s just as functional and comfortable as it looks cute and stylish.  The steel frame adds a bit of weight to the bike but not much. 

The 7-speed twist-shift drivetrain and Schwinn rear derailleur offer some gear variation for everyday rides. Still, we wouldn’t recommend it for bumpy mountain rides. 

Brakes are alloys that does the job just fine.  It also has nice fenders to protect you from splashes, and the rear rack allows basket attachment for daily groceries.  You can also put your books, bags, or any other takeout if you want in it. 

The only problem is that the Wayfarer comes in only one 16 inches size.  Schwinn recommends it as ideal for riders who are 5 foot 4 to 6 foot 2 inches tall.  Not to forget, this bike comes with a limited lifetime warranty.  So, if anything goes wrong, you can contact Schwinn’s helpful customer service. 

4.  Mongoose Title Elite 24

• Bike Type: BMX Bike, Freeride Bike
• Brand: Mongoose
• Wheel Size: 24 Inches
• Specific Uses: Trail
• Suspension Type: Rigid
• Special Feature: Aluminum Frame, BMX
• Color: Black

The Mongoose Title Elite is one of the best BMX bikes for teens.  It’s intended for a pro to intermediate-level racing and comes with several advanced features.  Sure, it’s a bit more expensive than other models on this list, but if you plan to enter BMX racing, Title Elite is an excellent bike. 

The Techtonic T1 hydroformed aluminum frame ensures the Bike is lightweight yet robust.  It weighs just 3.3 lbs but endures the impact like a boss.  Moreover, its drivetrain has an alloy spindle and aluminum chainring, providing instant traction whenever necessary. 

Although it’s a premium BMX bike, you have to assemble it first.  Fortunately, it comes with an owner’s manual to help you get through the processes.  Just make sure you have all the tools (pliers, Allen keys, adjustable wrench, and ahead screwdriver) necessary to assemble the bike.

All in all, the Mongoose Title Elite is a premium bike from a premium bike manufacturer.  It’s ideal for users who’re already familiar with BMX bikes and want a high-quality bike to enter pro racing competitions.  So if you are looking for one of the best mountain bikes for kids, it may not be suitable. 

5. EKN 26 inches Mountain Bike for Teens

• Bike Type: Mountain Bike
• Brand: EKN
• Wheel Size: 26 Inches
• Suspension Type: Front
• Size: 172x99cm
• Color: Green
• Frame Material: Aluminum
• Brake Style: U Brake

The EKN Mountain Bike for Teens has an advanced aviation-grade aluminum alloy body with carbon steel parts.  This makes it lightweight yet sturdy enough to prevent damage and run smoothly even on rainy days.  It has a maximum capacity of 330lbs, though. 

The U disc brakes on the front and rear wheels keep the cyclist safe when driving down sloppy terrains.  Additionally, it has 24 speed Shimano Shifter system.  This ensures the brakes provide maximum control to stop as and when necessary.

However, the bike comes disassembled.  The tires also need to be inflated before assembly.  Fortunately, it is easy to assemble and comes with all the requisite tools to get the bike ready for the ride in less than an hour. 

Overall, it’s a great option for teens and adults alike.  The price is also reasonable, and there’s plenty to keep a casual mountain bike rider happy. 

How to Choose the Right Bike for Teenagers?

It doesn’t matter how little (or more!) you spend on a bike. It won’t be worth the trouble if it doesn’t serve the purpose.  Therefore, finding the right bike that fits your size, height and needs should be your first priority.  Below is the feature you should consider before spending your money on a teen’s bike. 

1.  Size

The size of the bike is the most important factor to consider.  Teen bikes come in all-wheel sizes, but medium teens bike is always a safe option generally.  Medium-size tires work best on roads, dirt, and grass.  On the other hand, wide tires are not a good option for roads.  You should get one that makes your teen sit comfortably and ride without any problem.  Consider their height as well.  A bike with a 20 inches wheel will be too short for a teen who towers above 6 feet. 

2.  Frame

A teenager who wants a bike for everyday transport will require a steel or hybrid frame bike.  Steel frames are usually the strongest and more durable than aluminum frames.  But Aluminum frames are more lightweight.  If weight is a big consideration, go for aluminum bikes instead. 

3.  Cost 

A high-end bike that’s lightweight, sturdy, and comes with pro features will definitely cost you more.  Nowadays, teen bikes range anywhere from $240 to $1200, depending on the features.  So, consider the purpose of your bike and for how long you will be riding it. 

4.  Accessories 

What extra goodies does your bike come with?  Check the basic structure of the bike and its features.  Otherwise, you may have to spend extra cash on accessories like highlighters, locks, bells, baskets, etc. 

5.  Brand

There are several excellent bike brands in the market.  Each of them develops a variety of bikes for different purposes.  When selecting a bike, check for the brand’s reputation.  If you’re buying a specialty bike, the brand takes center stage.  Always go for reputable brands.  It will ensure quality, warranty, and service. 

Final Thoughts

With these best bikes for teens, your youngster is sure to have a great time.  Whether they want to just ride for fun, do everyday errands, or get familiar with professional biking, these excellent teen bikes will cover their needs. 

We hope this thorough buyer’s guide will help you look into all the requisite factors to make an informed decision.  Is your favorite bike on our list? 

Let us know in the comment section below!