Introducing RASCAL Bikes
A new premium kids’ bike brand lands in the UK
This article is kindly sponsored by RASCAL Bikes. It also may contain affiliate links, which means that when you buy through links on this page, we may earn an affiliate commission.
For parents who care about the quality, weight and design of the bike their child rides, the market has shifted quite a bit over the past couple of years. With some well-known names having disappeared, we’re really pleased to see that RASCAL Bikes, a long-established European children’s bike brand, is now officially available here in the UK.
If you’re looking for something a little different from the premium bike brands other kids are riding, then RASCAL Bikes offer lightweight, thoughtfully designed children’s bikes that prioritise performance and simplicity, as well as a fun riding experience
The story behind RASCAL Bikes
RASCAL Bikes was founded by two dads from the Czech Republic, Kuba Holec and Ondra Brunecký, who wanted better bikes for their own children.
Before launching RASCAL, they had spent years working in the kids’ bike industry through their own distribution business, supplying thousands of bikes to families across Europe.
That experience gave them a clear understanding of what works (and more importantly what doesn’t!) when it comes to children’s bikes.
They saw first-hand the difference that weight, geometry and component choice can make to a child’s confidence and enjoyment on a bike.
Rather than simply rebranding or slightly tweaking existing designs, Kuba (who has a background in interior design) and Ondra (an experienced cycle racer) decided to start from scratch. Working alongside frame designer Jaroslav Juřica, they spent two years refining prototypes and developing bikes built specifically around young riders.
RASCAL Bikes officially launched in 2019 at Eurobike and since then RASCAL Bikes have grown their reputation as a premium kids’ bike brand, and are now bringing that experience and reputation to the UK market.
There are currently four RASCAL Bike models available in the UK – three sizes of pedal bike (14”, 16” and 20”) plus a balance bike.
Lightweight, child-specific design
One of the first things we look at with any kids’ bike is weight. It makes an enormous difference, especially for younger riders who are still building confidence and strength.
RASCAL Bikes use lightweight aluminium frames (AL6061), paired with carefully chosen components to keep overall weight impressively low.
This matters as a lighter bike is easier for a child to manoeuvre at slow speeds, and far less frustrating when tackling hills.
It’s also much easier for us parents when we’re lifting bikes in and out of the car, or carrying one home when little legs suddenly decide they’re done for the day.
RASCAL’s geometry is specifically designed around children, with low standover heights, an upright riding position aimed at building confidence from the very first ride, and adjustable brake levers to suit small hands.
The tyres are KENDA Small Block Eight which are commonly used on premium brands due to their grippiness on different terrains in both dry and wet conditions.
A kickstand and matching helmet are both practical optional extras which you can add at checkout, along with a useful handlebar bag for storing essentials.
RASCAL Bikes come with an automatic 6-year warranty on frame and forks, which gives peace of mind that you’re investing in a bike that will last for several children.
Clean, low-maintenance belt drive
The RASCAL pedal bikes use a Gates belt drive system instead of a traditional chain.
For parents, the benefits are:
- No oily chain to stain clothes
- Less routine maintenance
- Long-lasting durability
If you’ve ever tried to clean black chain marks off legs or clothing, you’ll appreciate how this makes everyday life easier.
Simple, child-friendly gearing on the 20″ model
The 20″ RASCAL Classic is fitted with a 3-speed Sturmey Archer internal hub gear. This is different to the 7 speed (or more) derailleur operated gears found on most kids bikes.
Again, the advantage here is about practicality and ease of use. Because the gears are enclosed inside the rear hub there’s less exposed moving parts to knock or damage and the system tends to require less maintenance.
For your child, gear changes are simple and intuitive, which is particularly helpful for younger children moving to gears who would find 7 plus options difficult to manage.
For families riding regularly, whether that’s weekend rides, cycling to school, or gentle off-road paths, this could be the difference between fun rides and lots of frustration.
The RASCAL Kids Bikes Range in the UK
RASCAL Bikes are available now in the UK in the following sizes:
RASCAL Classic 14″ £419
At just 5.5kg, this is aimed at younger children moving on to pedals, with an inside leg of 40.5cm to 49.5cm
RASCAL Classic 16″ £439
Weighing 5.8kg, this size is often a starter bike for slightly older and taller kids, with an inside leg of between 46 and 55cm, as well as those who have outgrown their first pedal bike.
RASCAL Classic 20″ (3-speed) £499
At 7.8kg, this model adds simple internal gearing for older children (inside leg 56-68.5cm) ready to tackle longer rides and more varied terrain
RASCAL Punk Balance Bike £209
RASCAL’s balance bike (the RASCAL Punk) uses what’s known as a “mullet” setup, with a larger front wheel (14”) and a slightly smaller rear wheel (12”).
Without getting too technical, the idea is simple: a larger front wheel rolls more easily over bumps, uneven paths and obstacles, combined with a low centre of gravity for stability.
Mullets tend to be popular with mountain bike riders riding over technical terrain, but the same principles can help young riders feel stable and confident as they develop their skills.
Where do RASCAL Bikes sit in the UK kids bike market?
At the premium end of the children’s bike market, parents are typically looking for the same core things: low weight, quality components, thoughtful geometry and long-term durability.
In that sense, RASCAL Bikes sit alongside established premium brands such as woom, Early Rider and YOMO, offering a similarly high-quality alternative for families who prioritise how a bike rides and feels, not just how it looks.
However, RASCAL Bikes offer belt drives across their wheel sizes, along with a mullet balance bike and 3-speed internal gearing on the 20″ model, which sets them apart.
They’re clearly pitching at parents who ride regularly, value good engineering, and want a low maintenance bike that will support their child’s confidence and enjoyment.
Who Are RASCAL Bikes For?
RASCAL Bikes are likely to appeal to families who:
- Care about keeping bike weight as low
- Want clean, low-maintenance features like belt drives
- Ride frequently, whether that’s school runs, weekend family rides, or longer adventures
- Appreciate good quality design and components and are happy to pay a price to reflect that.
They’re also a good option for parents who have perhaps owned other premium brands in the past and are looking for something a little different, without compromising on quality.
At this level, you’re not just buying a bike to “get them pedalling”. You’re investing in something that should feel easy to ride, confidence-inspiring and built to last.
Where you can buy RASCAL bikes and accessories
RASCAL Bikes are available now in the UK, in five eye catching colours (blue, pink, gold, red and orange).
At the moment they're available from the official RASCAL Bikes UK website, with a small number of bike shops getting stock soon.
Also available on the website are accessories including kickstands and luggage, plus matching helmets.
All RASCAL bikes come with a 6 year warranty, have a 60 day returns window and are shipped free within mainland UK
If you’re currently researching your child’s next bike and looking at the premium end of the market, RASCAL Bikes are certainly worth adding to your shortlist.
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