Islabikes Beinn 24
Price £439, islabikes.co.uk
Frame aluminium
Weight 9kg
Gears Sram
It’s always seemed crazy that we buy our children bicycles at Christmas – just when it’s cold and the roads are icy. With spring getting into its stride and the outdoors beckoning, surely now would be the perfect time to treat your child to a new bike – and potentially introduce them to a hobby that will last them a lifetime.
With kids’ bikes, the first hurdle is always price. Is it really worth spending money on a toy they’ll soon outgrow or lose, or have stolen? Islabikes clearly thinks so. Its Beinn range starts at almost £400. But – and I know that’s a sizable wodge – the money will be well spent. All three of my children learned to ride on the same Islabike. And when we were done with it, we gave it to some friends and their children are now learning on it. So that’s five children so far, and counting.
Your child will appreciate the fact that Islabikes are lightweight and ergonomically proportioned. Their seats are lower to the ground and the wheels are larger than usual, which makes the bikes easier to control. Brake levers are smaller to fit little hands. And the bikes are designed and built by nice people in Shropshire. Win, win win…
Cool kit
This go-anywhere cinch lock is light enough for kids to carry, yet still a tough and durable solution to keep their bike secure. Fun colour choices and easy to use make it convenient to throw in a backpack on the way to school. And the number dial means there are no keys to lose. Cinch lock £69.95, ottodesignworks.com
Email Martin at martin.love@observer.co.uk or follow him on Twitter @MartinLove166
