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| Like adult bicycles, the cost of bicycles for children is determined by frame size and material. Basic metal and aluminum bikes are the least expensive, while bikes made of lighter materials, like carbon, are on the high end. |
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| Typical costs: |
- Bikes in the low range cost $50 to $100. Sports Authority sells Huffy and Kawasaki models in a 12-inch wheel size for kids up to 4 and 16-inch bikes for 4 and older, for $60 to $90.
- Target sells bikes with a 10-12-inch wheel size for kids up to 4 for $50 to $100. Bikes with a 16-inch wheel size for children up to 8 cost $55 to $120 at Target.
- Higher range bikes cost $100 to $300 and often provide more safety features.
- Schwinn sells the Aerostar AL for $160, which features an aluminum frame, protection pads, hand brakes and chainguard for kids 6 to 8. The company sells a full range of models for $100 to $240.
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| What should be included: |
- Most bikes have at least a one-year warranty on the frame and a partial warranty on moveable parts, like chains and pedals. Warranties often do not cover normal wear and tear, such as paint scrapes on the frame or spoke damage.
- Bikes bought at specialty stores often include an in-house repair plan, whereas large discount sports outlets do not provide repair service or reimburse customers for it. Bikes bought online usually require self-assembly, while bikes available in stores can be bought pre-assembled and test rides are often encouraged.
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| Additional costs: |
- Only some models like Schwinn's Lil Stardust for $140 come with training wheels. For bikes that don't, Performance Bike sells training wheels for $15.
- Helmet manufacturers have made safety fun by featuring Spider Man, Barbie and My Little Pony. Target sells helmets for $20 to $25.
- For riders who aren't ready for a full-fledged bike, Sports Authority sells tricycles by Huffy and Razor for $30 to $70. The company also sells models from the classic American collection of Radio Flyer for $60 to $150.
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| Discounts: |
- Buying a used bike can be an economical choice for parents, especially since children grow out of bikes within two to three years. Bicycle Universe offers tips on buying and maintaining a used bike. eBay sells used used bikes and accessories.
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| Shopping for a kid's bike: |
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Article updated July 2007 |
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