In a world where technology and screens jostle to captivate young minds, it has never been more essential to expose our kids to outdoor play and physical activity. Luckily, a remarkable transformation is underway in the kids’ bikes domain, enticing kids to get outside and ride. These developments, which are evolving at an astonishing pace, include vibrant designs that ignite imaginations and cutting-edge materials that ensure durability. Here, we’ll explore some notable trends in 2023 to help guide you in your purchase of the best bikes out there.
Table of Contents
Kids’ bike market outlook for 2023
Top 5 trending bikes in 2023
How to choose the best kids’ bikes
Final thoughts
Kids’ bike market outlook for 2023
According to a report, the global kids’ bicycle market is expected to reach a valuation of US $18.7 billion in 2023 and register a compound annual growth rate of 4.7% to hit US $29.64 billion by the end of 2033.
To help propel growth, bike manufacturers are introducing innovative features to fit kids’ preferences. Furthermore, parents continue to introduce bikes to their kids because of the benefits that they can provide to their health and mobility. Recognizing this, some countries’ governments have also launched programs to distribute bikes to school children. In addition, cycling clubs are also becoming increasing popular, introducing different promotional strategies, attracting patronage from parents who want to impart a healthy lifestyle to their children. Factors like these are all influencing the market growth.
Top 5 trending bikes in 2023
The following are the top five trending bikes in the US in 2023:
Mountain bikes
There is no better feeling for a parent than watching their little ones light up with excitement when on a thrilling adventure. Mountain bikes therefore offer the perfect means for athletic kids to get out and explore.
The demand for mountain bikes has surged over the past few years among people of all ages. In 2022, the worldwide market for mountain bikes was worth approximately US $9.27 billion. It is predicted to grow to more than US $13.42 billion by 2031, with an average annual growth rate of 4.2% from 2023 to 2031, according to Growth Market Reports.
Mountain bikes are primarily designed for scaling on rough terrain, with. different types of bikes being available for varying purposes. Similarly, prices of these bikes is likely to vary according to their size, design, and performance capabilities.
One of the biggest factors contributing to the level of enjoyment that a rider will gain from their bike is how well it performs. Note that not all parents can afford fancy and expensive bikes, and the majority may simply be looking for lightweight, well-fitted, and functional models. It’s perhaps best then to stock brands and models that are at the more affordable end of the spectrum.
Balance bikes
A balance bike is a learner bike with no pedals, and are designed to help children learn steering and balancing. Balance bikes make the transition to larger, pedaling bikes easier, escalating their market demand.
Balance bikes are often made from aluminum, which is lightweight but not easily twisted or bent, as well as affordable.
Google Trends shows that after June 2010, the popularity of balance bikes in online searches surged ahead of terms like stabilizers and training wheels, which had traditionally been used to help children learn how to ride. Therefore, having balance bikes in stock can give you a competitive edge, attracting learners to your store from a young age.
BMX bikes
Older kids who are into dirt jumping, downhill mountain biking, or tricks are likely looking to ride something more akin to a BMX bike. These simple but rugged bikes are built around a small frame, 16 to 20-inch wheels, and a single gear.
The BMX bike market was worth US $230.2 million in 2020, and is expected to grow to US $381.8 million by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 5.1% from 2021 to 2030. The resilience and adaptability of the BMX market remains evident, and wholesalers who invest in this segment are likely to ride the wave of future growth in the industry.
Electric bikes
The world is facing a massive pull towards clean and renewable energy, and e-bikes are increasingly in demand due to their environmentally-friendly qualities and ease of use. The global e-bike market was worth US $49.1 billion in 2021, and is expected to grow to US $86 billion by 2028, according to Vantage Market Research.
Teaching kids to use e-bikes can instill eco-friendly habits from a young age. While e-bikes provide motorized assistance, they still require pedaling effort, helping riders to develop physical fitness and stamina.
Furthermore, improvements in e-bike battery technology are constantly providing extended riding ranges. This makes them practical for longer rides and commutes to school or recreational areas. In all, the growing market for e-bikes represents a significant sales opportunity for wholesalers.
How to choose the best kids’ bikes
It’s advised that bike wholesalers first keenly research market trends before they make investment decisions. Some factors to consider before investing in kids’ bikes are:
Age range: Determine the age group of your target market. Different age groups have varying preferences when it comes to bike sizes, features, and styles. For example, beginners need bikes with training wheels, but teenagers want more complex designs, such as a mountain or BMX bike.
Safety features: Ensure the bikes meet safety standards and have essential features like sturdy frames, effective brakes, and reflectors.
Price range: Provide various budget ranges to accommodate customers with different budgets.
Seasonal considerations: Prepare for seasonal fluctuations in demand, such as higher sales during spring and summer.
Durability: Choose bikes made from durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of children’s use. Steel frames, for instance, are known for their strength and durability, while carbon fiber is both strong and lightweight, making it a popular material for high-performance bikes.
Final thoughts
2023 promises to be a bumper year for kids’ bikes sales, seeing an integration of smart features and eco-friendly designs, as well as a resurgence in timeless designs. It would be prudent for bike wholesalers to proactively adapt to these trends, diversifying their products to include e-bikes, customizable options, and safety-focused models.
Stay informed about these trends and adjust your inventory and marketing strategies accordingly by browsing the thousands of available bike models on Alibaba.com.
