A decent specification mountain bike is essential for an older child or teenager wanting to explore a variety of terrains, and the Cube Aim SLX is a good value, mid-range option that delivers performance without breaking the bank. It is available in XS and S sized frames, making it a good choice MTB for both still-growing youngsters and smaller adults.
DEAL OF THE WEEK: The Cube Aim SLX is currently reduced at Wheelbase, down from the RRP of £699 to just £549 which is worth snapping up early if you’re looking for a decent MTB for a Christmas present.
This hardtail mountain bike is built up around a lightweight aluminium frame that’s robust enough to handle challenging trails but light enough for comfortable everyday riding and climbing.
The Cube Aim SLX is designed for mixed terrain cycling, from urban commutes to trail centre blue routes, and is well equipped to give a confident start in mountain biking.
It features a reliable Rockshox Judy suspension fork with 100mm of travel, providing effective shock absorption on rough ground, whilst also having a fork lockout, which allows the rider to instantly stiffen the suspension on smooth roads or climbs for more efficient pedalling.
Safety and control are paramount when your youngster is out riding, and the bike is fitted with powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. These offer superior stopping power and modulation in all conditions, which is especially important for growing riders who are still developing their control skills.
The internal cable routing keeps the bike looking clean and protects the cables from mud and damage, extending the life of the components.
Gear changing is simplified with a modern Shimano Cues 1×11 speed drivetrain. By removing the front derailleur, there’s less to go wrong and a wide-ranging cassette at the back provides all the gears needed for conquering steep climbs and maintaining speed on flats. This simplified setup makes gear changes intuitive, allowing your child to focus more on the ride ahead.
To ensure grip on varied surfaces, the Cube Aim SLX rolls on grippy Schwalbe Smart Sam 2.25″ tyres, which are mounted on tubeless-ready rims. These are a great all-rounder tyre, offering low rolling resistance on the road but plenty of bite when the trail gets loose.
If you are still weighing up your options or want to see what other models are available for this age group, take a look at our Best mountain bikes for teenagers and small adults.