Best Budget Mountain Bikes under £500 in 2023

Best Budget Mountain Bikes under £500 in 2023

by | Nov 3, 2023 | Adult bikes, Kids bikes

Mountain biking is an exhilarating and adventurous way to explore the outdoors. It’s also a sport that can often be quite the investment! High-end mountain bikes can cost thousands of pounds, making it seem like an inaccessible hobby for some. However, fear not! There are plenty of budget-friendly options available that will still provide an excellent riding experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the best budget mountain bikes under £500 available from Cycle King & Hawk Cycles.

 

TYPES OF MOUNTAIN BIKES:

Rigid: These have no suspension and are good for day-to-day cycling. They’re especially good for those of you who are new to cycling, as they require minimal maintenance.

Hardtail: These have a front suspension allowing for absorption of bumps in the track. We recommend these for those starting out in off-road cycling. They don’t require lots of maintenance but do ensure comfort in your ride.

Full suspension: These are fully equipped with front and rear suspension, and are perfect for anyone who loves a thrill and adventure. If most of your riding will be off-road, these are the best for you.

 

ASPECTS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN BUYING A MOUNTAIN BIKE: 

Frame materials: Most budget mountain bikes feature aluminium frames. Which means they are lightweight, durable, and comfortable to ride.

Suspension: Rigid and Hardtail bikes are usually more affordable and suitable for lighter trails.

Wheel size: The most common wheel sizes for mountain bikes include 26”, 27.5” and 29”. They all come with an array of advantages, so if you’re unsure which is right for you, get in touch with your local Cycle King & Hawk Cycles’ store.

    • If your main use will be short, fast-flowing trails, 26” wheels are best for you. They’re often lighter and offer better acceleration.
    • Alternatively, for a faster, strong and more comfortable ride, opt for 27.5” wheels.
    • For sturdier wheels, the 29” size will support you better over rough terrains.

Gears: Mountain bikes can have single, double, or triple chainring setups. A single chainring system is simpler and more common in budget-friendly bikes.

Our Top Picks

PRICES  CORRECT AS OF 03/11/2023. PLEASE CLICK BIKE TO SEE CURRENT PRICE.

GT Palomar Mountain Bike Gunmetal Grey – WAS £425, NOW £297.50 (SALE ENDS SOON)

Whether you’re riding on bike paths, dirt tracks or just around the block, the GT Palomar is the perfect hardtail for any cyclist! It’s made from an aluminium frame, meaning it’s lightweight and easy to transport.

 

 

Ammaco Montana 29″ Wheel Mountain Bike Grey –  WAS £429.99, NOW £269.99 (SALE ENDS SOON)

Perfect for the off-roading–enthusiast. The Ammaco Montana is equipped with 29” wheels, ensuring that can experience a smooth and steady ride across those trails.  The bike also features powerful disc brakes, front suspension forks and shimano revoshift 21 speed gears! With this bike, you’re completely in control of your ride.

Ammaco Santos 26″ Wheel Mountain Bike – WAS £379.99, NOW £259.99 (SALE ENDS SOON)

The Santos bike is perfect for light trails and day-to-day cycling. It features a lightweight aluminium frame, wide mountain bike tyres, double wall alloy rims and a powerful v type brake system. You’ll be riding in style!

 

Barracuda Draco 100 mountain bike – WAS £240, NOW £199.99 (SALE ENDS SOON)

The Draco is an amazing budget mountain bike! With mountain bike style solid geometry, front suspension forks, 18 speed running gears and powerful v-brakes – you won’t be missing out on any of the thrills!

 

 

Mountain biking doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby, and is in fact, available to everyone! Our everyday low prices mean that we can provide bikes without breaking the bank. You can browse our selection of mountain bikes here. With a range of options, you could be riding your dream mountain bike in a matter of hours! Choose click and collect or home delivery or visit us in one of our stores where our friendly staff will help you find your perfect bike.

 

Prices correct as of 03/11/2023.

Christmas gifts for cyclists

Christmas gifts for cyclists

by | Oct 2, 2023 | Adult bikes, Cycling advice & tips, Kids bikes

Choosing the right Christmas gift can be tricky, and it’s even harder when your loved ones are all out of ideas! Whether you’re looking for the perfect Secret Santa present, or a cycling gift to surprise that special someone, our gift guide is sure to help. We’ve rounded up our top cycling gifts and stocking fillers, the best bikes for surprising your kids this Christmas, and a guide to our top picks of Men’s and Women’s bikes and e-bikes for an adventure filled 2024.

Cycling stocking fillers & Christmas gifts

If you’re looking for gift ideas for your loved ones or struggling to find the perfect gift for a cycling enthusiast who has everything, fear not. There are plenty of accessories and additions that we’re sure they’ll love, which will make the perfect stocking fillers this Christmas.

Helmets

Wearing a helmet is a key part of safe cycling, which is why this is a great gift to protect your loved ones this Christmas. It’s important that a cycling helmet is well fitted. If you are unsure about sizing, our expert in-store team can offer advice as to the most suitable size. Feel free to visit us in store for more information.

Oxford F15 Helmet in Blue

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Oxford Urban BMX 53-59cm Green

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Clothing

Whether you are buying for a stylish cyclist, or someone looking for comfort and safety, specialist cycling clothing can make an ideal gift. For those who cycle regularly, base layers and cycling trousers offer warmth and protection from the bad weather. Cycling jackets and sunglasses are both practical and stylish, and our range of reflective and hi-vis cycling clothing are perfect for those dark winter days and worthwhile buys for any commuter.

Our top picks for cycling wear:

Giant cycling long sleeve Jersey

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Lycra cycling shorts coolmax padding

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M-WAVE rayon sunglasses grey

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Pumps & Accessories

For the avid cyclist, a CO2 cylinder refill or and compact hand pump is an essential tool to have on-hand should they get a flat tyre. Our top picks include:

Genuine innovations small saddle bag tyre inflation CO2 kit
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Raleigh travel workshop kit

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Locks

For cyclists at any level, a secure bike lock is sure to be a useful and practical gift. There are many different varieties, such as cable, hoop, and U-locks to name a few, which all offer different storage and compatibility options. View the full range of bike locks here or check out our top picks:

Oxford hoop 4 cable lock 4mm x 600mm red
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Oxford sentinel plus 14mm X 320mm U-lock in black

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Water bottles

Water bottles and bottle racks can be an ideal stocking filler, whether you’re looking for a more stylish upgrade, or simply a replacement for a well-used bottle, we have a wide range of styles to choose from. View the full range here, or check out our top picks below:

XLC BC-S06 side loading bottle cage

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Zefal sense soft 80 bottle 800ml black

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Kids’ accessories

There are plenty of add-ons to kids’ bikes that any little elf would love for Christmas. Why not gift a fun addition to a kids bike, such as a bike bell or horn, or even one of our special electric varieties which make 3 different sounds.

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If their stuffed animals like to come along for the ride, a cute seat for their little friends would make for a really nice addition to their bike. Imagine the fun they’d get out of going on an adventure with their favourite toys this Christmas. View our full range of kids bike accessories here.

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For the loved one who has everything

If you’re still not certain as to what would be the perfect gift for Christmas, then maybe a gift voucher is the way to go. Pick the value of your gift card from £10, £20, and £50 vouchers, redeemable both in-store and online.

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The best kids’ bikes for Christmas

Balance Bikes (£39.99 – £119.99)

If you’re buying for a young child (2 – 4 years old), a balance bike is sure to light up their Christmas morning. The perfect “first bike”, balance bikes are great for toddlers, as they are a great way of getting them ready to move onto a peddle bike once they get a bit bigger. You can view our full range of balance bikes here – Our top picks for balance bikes are:

Hawk scoot balance bike green

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Ammaco flow magnesium balance bike

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Scooters 
(£39.99 – £169.99)

We stock big wheel and mini scooters that are sure to encourage any child to get outside and explore. From brushing up on pro tricks, to cruising around the park, a scooter is sure to bring a lot of fun throughout the year. Check out our full range of big-wheel and mini scooters here.

Our top picks for this Christmas are:

Sullivan lean and glide tri scooter rocket fuel

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Professional scoot-x 10 inch wheel scooter orange

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Invert supreme 1-7-12 stunt scooter black/neon purple

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Boys’ and Girls’ bikes (£89.99+)

From cycling to school, to family bike rides and adventures with friends, a new bike is sure to keep them fit and healthy whilst having fun! Suitable for 4 to 10 years+, we have a great selection of kids’ bikes for both boys’ and girls’ that are sure to delight and bring joy this Christmas. Our top picks are below:

Salcano Cherry girls bike 16 inch (suitable for 5-6 years)

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Professional Rock Face 20 inch bike (suitable for 7 years+)

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Top Men’s bikes for 2024

Ammaco Axxis Mountain Bike

The Ammaco Axxis is perfect for those looking for an easy-to-ride bike. The single speed feature means you can simply get your helmet and go. The bike also offers all standard mountain bike features such as good suspension, a nifty kickstand, and disc brakes.

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Salcano XRS077 Road Sports Bike Green

If your loved one is more of a road bike enthusiast, the Salcano XRS077 is a great choice. Coming equipped with 14 speeds, this incredibly versatile bike is great for exploring.

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Chill-e Low Step Folding Electric Bike Orange

A good bike for commuting is essential, so why not add some oomph with an electric folding bike. A folding electric bike is perfect for saving space and energy, making the daily commute that little bit easier.

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Top Women’s bikes for 2024

Worchester Lifestyle Bike Mint Green

The Worchester lifestyle bike is perfect for leisurely rides, combining comfort and effortless style. From visiting the seaside and cycling along the front, to taking a leisurely ride around town, this bike ticks all the boxes. The front basket and pannier rack are handy additions, too. University students really gravitate towards this bike for the style and convenience it offers.

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Ammaco pathway X1 sports hybrid bike grey

If you’re looking for an all-rounder, the Ammaco Pathway is a fantastic investment. This sports hybrid bike is ideal for road cycling and mountain biking, perfect for a simple commute or for getting muddy in woodland bike tracks!

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Ampere tourer s electrical bike teal

This bike’s very powerful motor certainly can deliver, with a range of up to 75 miles on a single charge. In addition, the whole frame is very lightweight coming in at 22kg – it’s sure to provide both comfort and performance on any road or trail.

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These are just some of our top picks, so be sure to check out our to full range of men’s and women’s bikes here.

Visit us in any of our 23 stores nationwide so that we can tailor your recommendations and get the right gift ready for the big day.

Bike size guide

For kids, we have an easy way of determining what size would most likely suit them best by segmenting our catalogue into age ranges.

In addition, every kids’ bike product includes the wheels size in the description, making it easier to navigate and find the best fit. You must remember that kids are always growing, but this doesn’t mean you should buy a bike that is far too large for them. It’s unsafe for them to cycle around on a bike larger than they should ride, so keep this in mind when purchasing.

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For adults, and kids reaching the 10 –11 age range, it’s the frame size that is measured instead of the wheel size. The frame measurement is typically taken from the centre of the bottom bracket, right to the top of the seat tube for reference.

Instead of the general assumption of age, a person’s height is considered to find the right bike. Our products in-store and online clearly highlight the frame size.

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Top Bike Accessories & Spares for 2023

Top Bike Accessories & Spares for 2023

by | Sep 26, 2023 | Adult bikes, Cycling advice & tips, Kids bikes

Locks

If you frequently cycle in public and need to leave your bike unattended, then a secure bike lock should be a top priority. At Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, we stock three different types of lock to keep your bike safe and sound when unattended.

Cable locks, sometimes called chain locks, are usually composed of a large cable and a combination code or lock and key. If you’d rather not carry around a key, combination code variations such as this Oxford Combi Chain are perfect!

The second type of lock are shackle locks, or D-locks, a sturdy and secure option. Many of these, such as this OnGuard Bulldog lock, are on the larger side but many come with mounts so you can attach them to your bike. If you prefer to travel light, the Masterlock Mini D-Lock, at 15cm is of a more compact size to ensure easy transport.

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Finally, we also stock heavy duty chains. These tend to provide the utmost protection for your bike which we’d recommend if leaving it for a long period of time. If your local area is prone to bike thieving, we’d also suggest that you consider using more than one type of lock for additional safety. Check our of full range of bike locks here.

For more information on our bike lock options, feel free to message us on Facebook or visit your local Cycle King & Hawk Cycles store to discuss with one of our expert staff members.

Helmets

Protecting your head while cycling is extremely important and strongly advised. In the potential occurrence of a crash or fall, you are significantly less likely to experience any serious head injuries. Wearing a helmet doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or look unsightly. At Cycle King we’ve got helmets to suit all styles, here are some of our top picks for 2023:

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Ammaco Road Helmet & LED Light in Grey/Blue

This Ammaco road helmet, in the matt grey and blue colourway, is perfect for both men and women. It comes in three sizes, meaning it can cater to all and includes a rear dial adjustment to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The star of the show with this helmet is it’s LED light at the back. The light includes 3 functions: constant, flashing, and strobe lighting. These lighting features ensure you’re safe and seen while cycling at night but also enable you to signal to other road users if required.

Lights

In these darker, winter months, ensuring you are seen while riding your bike is crucial. According to the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations (RVLR), it is illegal to cycle on a public road after dark without lights and reflectors. This includes a white light showing from the front of your bike and a red light showing from the rear.

At Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, we stock a large range of lights that can be easily installed on your bike at home. These include white front lights, red rear lights, and complete light sets. Visit our website or your local Cycle King & Hawk Cycles store to shop our full collection of lights so you can find the perfect match for your bike!

Cycle Computers

A cycle computer could be the perfect addition to your next bike ride! Many of our cycle computers include a large number of functions that provide valuable information about your bike ride. Some of the stats often featured include speed details (e.g. actual speed, maximum speed and average speed), cadence, trip distance, time cycling, and calories burnt. Our cycle computers are mostly compatible with any type of bike, meaning it could be the perfect accessory for you and your bike!

Some of our favourite cycling computers include these green and pink wireless Giant Continuum computers which come complete with a replaceable rubber case and backlight to ensure you can read them in the dark! At only £24.99 they’re an affordable way of taking your cycling to the next level.

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Guide Your Child to Cycling Success: Ditch Stabilizers Confidently

Guide Your Child to Cycling Success: Ditch Stabilizers Confidently

by | Sep 18, 2023 | Kids bikes

Learning to ride a bike becomes a core memory for many children. It’s an exciting milestone, not only for children but also for parents. It’s a skill that brings a sense of independence, especially when the stabilisers are removed. Knowing when to remove the stabilisers and understanding the right bike size is crucial in making this transition smooth.

We’ve put together this guide to help you introduce the idea of cycling without stabilisers and building your child’s confidence on a bike.

 

Why is it important to ditch stabilisers?

Stabilisers offer stability and balance, making them a key attribute when children are first learning to ride a bike. They help build confidence, encouraging children to continue learning. However, if used for too long, they can hinder a child’s ability to develop balancing skills.

 

When should I remove my child’s stabilisers?

Deciding when to remove stabilisers depends on the child’s individual progress. Typically, most children are ready to have stabilisers removed between ages 4 and 6. Look out for these signs to see if your child is ready:

  1. Balancing: If they can balance on their bike while coasting, with their feet off the ground, they’re likely ready.
  2. Confidence: Are they willing to try riding without stabilisers? If yes, then try it!
  3. Basic pedalling: They should be comfortable pedalling, starting and stopping on their own.

 

How can I make the transition to no stabilisers easier?

  1. Choose the right location: Find a safe, flat and open area to practice riding.
  2. Lower the saddle: Adjust the saddle to a height where the child’s feet can touch the ground comfortably.
  3. Keep it slow: Begin with short, gentle pushes and focus on balance. Take breaks if they need to!
  4. Encourage steering: Introduce steering and turning as they gain more confidence.
  5. Practice makes perfect: Regular practice will help a child to master riding without stabilisers.

 

How to choose the correct bike for your child?

Childrens’ bikes are measured by wheel size, rather than by frame size. Children do grow very quickly, so this will need to be taken into consideration when choosing the right bike. If the bike is too big for the child, their safety will be compromised and will most likely discourage the child from cycling. Check out our handy guide on kids bike sizing here.

Important points to consider when choosing the right bike for a child:

 

  1. Comfort and feel: Ensure your child feels comfortable on the saddle, can easily get on and off, can reach the handles and breaks, and that they can reach the pedals without stretching.
  2. Adjustability: Look for bike with adjustable saddles and handlebars to accommodate your child’s growth.
  3. Test ride: If possible, have your child test ride the bike to check comfort and fit.

 

Kids’ bikes for those starting off

We have a large selection of kids’ bikes, with 12-inch wheel bikes starting from £199.99. If you’re stuck on which bike is best for you child, visit your local Cycle King store and our friendly staff will assist.

Boys’ bikes

 

Professional Spider Boys 12 Inch Wheel Kids Bike Black – £199.99 (on sale for £109.99)

The spacious large rear basket and low step frame makes it easy to operate and carry your shopping back home or if you are heading into work with a rucksack and laptop bag, you won’t have to carry it all the way on your back, thanks to the large basket at the rear.

Ammaco Rocky 14 Inch Wheel Kids Bike Green and Black – £219.99 (on sale for £129.99)

This starter bike really packs a punch! With a hi-tensile steel frame and forks, powerful V-brakes, BMX style handlebars, your child will be the coolest kid in the village! It’s worthwhile noting safety features such as enclosed chainguards, to keep those little fingers away. Stabilisers are easily removeable, whenever you are ready.

 

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Ammaco-Rocky-14-Inch -Wheel-Kids

Girls’ Bikes

Professional Miami Miss 12 Inch Kids Bike Pink and Purple – £199.99 (on sale for £119.99)

The perfect bike for any princess! You can ensure safety and durability with this bike’s steel frame, calliper breaks and enclosed chain guard. Equipped with adjustable stabilisers, so you can raise them or remove them whenever your little lady is ready! The best part? There is a rear dolly seat to keep her favourite dolly safe at all times.

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Ammaco Misty Girls 14 Wheel Kids Bike White and Purple – £219.99 (on sale for £114.99)

The Ammaco Misty girls’ bike is perfect for any little girl, keen for an adventure. It’s lightweight but built just like an adult bike, to ensure durability. With steel frames, front and rear v-brakes and adjustable stabilisers.

 

 

Riding without stabilisers can be daunting at first, for both children and parents. By understanding when to make the transition and ensuring your child’s bike is right for them, you can make the experience much more enjoyable. Remember, patience and encouragement are key in helping your child become a confident and skilled cyclist. Try to pick a flat route to keep everyone happy, bring snacks and take lots of breaks. The most important thing is to have fun cycling! Before you know it, you’ll be cycling to the school runs instead of driving.

 

Pop into your local Cycle King store, where your child can try out different bikes, and our friendly expert staff will be able to help you in finding the perfect bike for your child. We even have an in-store height chart! Also check out our blog on keeping your child safe on their bike for more tips and information.

 

Prices correct as of 18/09/2023.

 

Best budget hybrid bikes in 2023 for under £500

Best budget hybrid bikes in 2023 for under £500

by | Jun 22, 2023 | Adult bikes, Kids bikes

In the ever-expanding world of cycling, navigating the vast array of hybrid bikes to find the perfect one can be a daunting task. Budget-conscious enthusiasts are seeking the ideal hybrid bike that seamlessly blends versatility, performance, and affordability. Let’s explore the best budget hybrid bikes in 2023 for under £500 available exclusively from Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, your local family bike shop.

With countless options available, our quest to discover the best hybrid bike on a budget promises to unravel a treasure trove of cutting-edge technologies and exceptional value. So, saddle up, as we embark on the adventure to uncover hybrid biking excellence, tailored for the cyclist who refuses to compromise on quality or price.

 

Why pick a hybrid bike?

  • Hybrid bikes are by far one of the most versatile forms of cycling. They can be ridden on both smooth city surfaces and low to moderately rough terrains such as gravel paths.
  • Built with comfort in mind, hybrid bikes are usually equipped with comfortable padded seats and an upright handlebar making for a more relaxed riding position than a road of mountain bike and gives the rider a better visibility and control whilst riding.
  • Many hybrid bikes will be equipped with frame mounts either to the rear of the bike or on the front fork giving you the option to add carrier racks so you can take luggage on your ride.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Types of hybrid bike

  • A classic hybrid bike is designed for general-purpose riding, providing a comfortable and versatile option for commuting, leisurely rides, and light off-road trails. These bikes typically feature a more upright riding position, wider tyres for stability, and a focus on comfort and durability. Classic hybrid bikes prioritise functionality and practicality over high-performance features.
  • Sports hybrid bikes are similar to flat bar road bikes, though the riding position is more upright. They will usually be built up on an aluminium frame which not only makes for a lightweight ride but also resistant to rust. Sports hybrids are lighter in weight, making them ideal for fitness riding, urban cycling and commuting.

Our top picks for 2023

Here are our top hybrid bikes under £500 that deliver by quality and affordability for the perfect ride! Please note that the prices quoted in this article are correct as of 22 June 2023

 

Classic hybrids on a budget

 

Professional Metropolitan Commuter Hybrid Bike – £219.99

A compelling option for riders seeking a versatile and stylish two-wheeled companion. This sturdy steel construction means it’s easy to maintain and ride and also features lightweight 700c wheels for fast acceleration with smoother tyres for more comfortable riding on both roads and bike trails.

Salcano Istanbul Commuter Hybrid Bike Cream – £479.99

A delightful blend of elegance and functionality, this sturdy construction ensures durability on urban streets. With a wide host of components included, from front and gear mudguards, a comfortable saddle, and a rear carrier with straps and ergonomic grips, this bike is designed to deliver a smooth and enjoyable commuting experience, making it an ideal choice for riders seeking both style and practicality whilst touring, commuting and running into town at the weekends.

 

 

 

Sports hybrids on a budget

Ammaco Pathway X1 Sports’ Hybrid Bike – £279.99

A firm favourite for cycling enthusiasts on a budget – this star buy is ideal for commuting or leisure, with a comfortable and easy-to-mount step through frame. This sports hybrid can be ridden on both smooth city surfaces and low-to-moderately rough terrains such as gravel paths.

Not too dissimilar to the classic hybrid, sports hybrid bikes are the ideal commuting ride with their robust construction and keen handling.

As featured on our social media.

Falcon Urban Low Step Sports Hybrid Bike Orange – £169.99

Overcome the steepest of hilly commutes with the powerful alloy v-brakes designed to keep the rider in full control. The Falcon bike is suitable for cycling on the road, or gentle off-road riding at the weekend too.

This option has basic SunRun gears hence the bargain price. Our team will always be happy to take you through the options available to you.

 

Cycle King & Hawk Cycles everyday low prices range offers a remarkable opportunity for budget-conscious enthusiasts to purchase mens and womens hybrid bikes. With a diverse selection available, customers can find the perfect blend of performance, style and affordability. By choosing Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, riders embark on their cycling adventures with confidence, knowing that they’ve made a smart investment without compromising on quality.

Are you ready to choose your hybrid bike? Choose click and collect and your bike will be ready within 1 hour for collection from your nearest local store – why wait, let’s go riding today!

5 tips for keeping your child safe on their first bike

5 tips for keeping your child safe on their first bike

by | Oct 26, 2022 | Cycling advice & tips, Kids bikes

We’re sure that you remember learning how to ride your bike for the first time, and now the time has come for you to be the teacher. Before showing them the ways of the bicycle, it’s vital that you ensure they’re safe on their cycling adventures.

In this blog, we’re focusing on 5 tips for keeping your child safe on their first bike. As well as making it safer for them, it’ll also make the process a little less stressful for you.

1. Bike Sizing

The first and most important step to ensuring your child’s safety is finding them the right bike. Don’t buy a bike expecting your child to ‘fit into it’. Ask for help from one of our in-store experts or check out our guide on ‘How to choose the right bike for your child’.

In short, a bicycle is suitable when your child can sit comfortably on the seat, their feet reach the ground, and the handlebars are no higher than their shoulders. You should also consider foot brakes as well as hand brakes to give your child even more protection. Read on to learn more about the correct options for you.

2. Bike options

Your child doesn’t have to go to a bike straight away – we have other bike models on offer that can help develop their confidence on two wheels.

Balance bikes

Balance bikes are beneficial for toddlers in developing their coordination and confidence skills. These are very good starters, as it makes it a whole lot easier for your child to progress to a bike since they have developed their balance already.

Tricycle

Great for boosting children’s independence, and for people with disabilities. They are more stable than a standard bike, with the frame closer to the ground, making gathering momentum much easier.

Training wheels

We advise keeping stabilisers on for as long as it takes your child to feel comfortable when riding their bike. This will take time so be patient!

 

3. Brakes

One of the most important parts of learning to ride a bike is when and how to use the brakes. Our range of kids’ bikes come with brakes that are specially designed for their smaller hands. Here is a breakdown of the types of brakes we offer for children learning on their first bike:

Coaster brakes

Also known as back-pedal brakes or foot brakes, coaster brakes are on most kids’ bikes. They are simple in design and require zero maintenance. However, when they’re removed, they cannot be replaced.

Coaster brakes are most suitable when your child:

  • Is familiar with coaster brakes from previous bikes.
  • Has a disability that will make hand brakes difficult to use.

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Hand brakes

Much like what is on a standard adults’ bike, they’re useful when your child:

  • Has proven coordination skills, strength and confidence when riding a bike.
  • Have used hand brakes with a previous balance bike and are confident enough to use with their first pedal bike.
  • Is confident when pedalling and looking to progress.  

Whatever the final verdict, make sure your child is comfortable with braking before they take to the road.

4. Rules of the road

Before any trip out, check your child knows the rules of the road and ensure your child is accompanied by a family member. This can bring many further benefits to help your child fall in love with the outdoors. Want to explore more? Click here for some great ideas for cycling with your kids.

You should also ensure all bikes are well-maintained before hitting the road to avoid any accidents or embarrassing calls to friends and family!

5. Equipment

Lastly, but certainly not least, consider the other equipment your child needs. 

Stabilisers

These are important in helping your child gain confidence before going onto 2 wheels. Plenty of our kids’ bikes come pre-equipped with these, but you can also buy them individually should your kid need a pair.

Parent handles

If they’re still a bit uneasy but are ready to progress from stabilisers, then a parent handle could be a good option. This gives you a bit more control of their cycling efforts without stabilisers supporting them constantly. Parent handles provide a good balance of support and independence that are sure to help your child develop their confidence.

Helmets

A child should never be without head protection when riding a bike. Ensure that the helmet selected fits their head correctly, as one which is loose or in the wrong position won’t provide all the benefits a helmet gives.

Hi-vis clothing

Hi-vis vests are a good idea to equip your child with, especially if your child is beginning to ride on the main road. Make sure they’re visible to all road users, as this will help in preventing any accidents which could potentially occur.

Bells and horns

In case they need to make themselves aware of to other road users, like on a busy road, then investing in a bell and horn could be a good idea. We have quite a range, some being more practical and others more playful, but nonetheless do a good job.

You can always trust our in-store team to offer you advice or alternatively, take a look at Cycling UK for a complete list of bike riding essentials. You can also search through our vast array of equipment across our website and in-store.

Hopefully you’re now feeling confident to take the leap on your child’s new adventure with a brand new boys’ or girls’ bike. Our team are more than happy to provide additional advice to meet your needs. Let their cycling journey begin!