Kids love to ride their bikes, but what about when they want to take it a little bit further? My 7 year old has been coming out with me for some time now, and whilst he is still a bit cautious, he wants to ride further and further. Dawes make an entry level road bike, perfect for kids. It looks just like and adult version but sized down for kids.
Dawes have taken into account that just downsizing components isn’t enough and have addressed this in a few ways. The Dawes Road Sprint 24 has junior specific brake levers,handlebars and frame. My son had never been on a road bike and this was his first time on one. He hopped on it and it did take some adjustment on his part to work the brakes and gears.
However once he was off, he was off. He said he loved the lightness of the Dawes Road Sprint 24, and his speed difference was notable. We have done over 100 miles over the summer together and he is still in love with it. He does still have trouble with the gears. He is the perfect size for the bike, but the gears are a little difficult for him to reach. A small glitch in the design, though he is adapting.
The handlebars were a new concept to him and changed his riding position, which he now loves. The cork tape grips are really quite padded and comfortable to hold on to.
The Dawes Road Sprint 24 has 14 speeds, which suits most bike users and they do work well. The calliper brakes are sensitive and responsive, so when we need to stop quickly to look at something he has spotted, they do their job. The saddle is pretty sturdy and he hasn’t complained of a sore rear end yet.
Verdict
A great entry level bike for the enthusiastic beginner road cyclist. The gears are tricky, but kids are adaptable. Overall it is a good solid bike that will last.
Pros
Great dimensions
Pretty lightweight
Con
Gears position could be improved
Price: £279.99, available from Dawes.
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