Choosing a bike for 11yr old girl.

[orkneyblues]

Hi, I am trying to find a decent lightweight bike for my 11yr old daughter for xmas. I have looked at a raleigh Venture which she quite likes. Does anyone have any knowledge or experience of any other similar bikes at around the £2-300 mark. Thanks.

 

[Globalti]

A women's frame like that is a weak structure in engineering terms as the forces will be trying to fold it up. At that price it will be made from a heavy high-tensile steel so will be extremely heavily built to resist the forces and will weigh a ton.

Have a look at Islabikes, they are built for kids and the resale value will always be high.

 

[Doseone]

I've got exactly the same decision to make for my 11 yr old daughter for xmas. I think I've decided on one of these. I've got same budget as you but they will give me a bit part ex for her current bike which is a trek in nice condition. I've not gone for the step through version so it can be handed on to younger brother in a couple of years.

 

[david k]

http://www.google.co.uk/products/ca...a=X&ei=ndeZTrisPMiw8QP12-2_BQ&ved=0CD4Q8wIwAA


got my daughter this one

 

[cyberknight]

If you want a bike from a reputable company .......

http://www.islabikes.co.uk/bike_pages/beinn26lrg.html

 

[Bromptonaut]

Our daughter is now almost 19 but I remember the same dilemma. The problem at that age is how fast/soon they grow up. Until the growth spurt stage is past it's probably not worth spending too much.

Unless she needs to ride in a skirt/dress I'd discount lady's frames. They flex too easily and waste pedal effort. Get the smallest men's frame in a decent brand (thinking alu MTB here) and make sure she rides regularly.