Here is a new series about a multi-speed kids bike, as my kid has outgrown the previous Early Seeker 14 kids bike.
It is impossible to find a stock 16 inch kids bike with multi-speed, as all have single speed drivetrains. Therefore, any bike that I get needs to be modified in order to have more speeds.
After much research, I decided to get the Bestrider Pump Pro 16, which has some pretty nice components and is also lightweight. It is relatively expensive compared to most other kids bikes, but I am willing to spend more for a good bike. There is also the non-pro specification which is cheaper, but the component spec is not so good and it is heavier.
This bike frame is quite standard, so it will be easier to upgrade the components on it. I tried to upgrade the Early Seeker 14 with a 3 speed internal hub drivetrain, but the frame was incompatible, so I could not do so.
After about a month of shipping via Taobao, here it is! Let's check out the stock condition before deciding what to upgrade.
Out of the box!
These are the stock pedals, which I will not be putting on. They are actually not too bad, but not as good as the smooth spinning pedals that came with the Early Rider bike.
Just for reference, the stock plastic pedals are 245 grams per pair.
With the handlebar set up. The grip position looks way too high!
Standard cable routing for V-brakes.
This handlebar looks too wide as well, not proportionate to the bike frame.
Width from end to end is 560 mm including grips, which is far too wide for kids, who have shorter arms and narrower shoulders.
The handlebar rises up a lot, like a Brompton M-bar. Personally, I don't like this look.
Good quality Tektro short reach brake levers for kids. Same as found on the Early Rider. Very hard to find aftermarket.
Handlebar is of a standard diameter (nominal 22.2 mm).
Short stubby MTB stem, looks way too chunky.
Saddle is appropriately small, but there is no angle adjustment or fore/aft adjustment.
Seat post diameter is standard diameter as well (nominal 27.2 mm).
Frame looks good, with the silver logos.
Rear brake outer casing is routed along the top tube externally.
I love the paint job, which is a beautiful red with lots of glitter in it. It's like the paint job on my Cervelo Aspero.
Big B logo at the front of the head tube.
Another picture showing the nice paint job.
Aluminium frame makes this bike lightweight.
Claims to be optimally sized for kids.
Tektro short arm V-brakes.
Lots of tire clearance!
Same V-brakes used at the rear as well.
This is just the 1st part of the introduction, as there are so many features to highlight. Check out the main page for part 2 of the introduction and subsequent posts!
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