WoomWoom 4 Wheel size: 20 inchesAs your child grows and becomes more comfortable on two wheels, they'll inevitably need a bigger bike — and one that even has features similar to an adult bike. At this stage, the best pick would be the Woom 4.
Bigger kids on bigger bikes means more speed, which means they now need better braking. Instead of a coaster brake, the Woom 4 has a freewheel (which means their feet keep turning when they pedal backwards) and front and rear hand brakes, just like most adult bikes. While it may take your child a few rides to get used to that, they'll quickly discover that being able to apply stopping force to each wheel independently requires less effort and gives them much more control over the bike.
The freewheel also means they can also adjust their pedal position when pedaling through turns without engaging a brake. The Woom 4's brake levers are sized specifically for a child's hands, and they're easy to grip and modulate.
Not only is your child going faster but they'll also going further. This means it's time for gears. Hills can be discouraging for children if they can't shift but if they can, they'll love downshifting to get up them and then upshifting so they can fly down the other side.
The shifter on the Woom 4 is integrated into the hand grip making it simple and easy to operate. All they need to do is twist it in order to find the right gear — and with 8 gears to choose from, they'll always have plenty. An easy-to-read numbered gear indicator on the shifter also means they'll quickly learn to associate which gear is best for the terrain they ride.
The unique handlebar stem and tool-free quick-release seatpost on the Woom 4 makes it easy to dial in the ideal position and change it as needed. Rugged tires with a low-profile knobby tread roll smoothly on pavement while also offering plenty of grip if your child ventures off-road. An included kickstand means they won't have to lay the bike down on the ground — assuming you're able to get them to stop riding it.
Pros: Lots of adjustability, handbrakes and gears give your child greater control
Cons: Big kid bikes come with bigger price tags