Mountain Bike

The Cube Aim SLX is a good value, mid-range hardtail mountain bike perfect for teenagers and smaller adults looking to tackle mixed terrain cycling and gentle off-road paths.

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.

Built around a lightweight Aluminium Lite frame, it features a 100mm Rockshox Judy suspension fork.

The bike is equipped with reliable Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for consistent stopping power in all weather conditions, a key safety feature for confident riding.

A wide-range Shimano Cues 1×11 gearing system simplifies shifting, providing a good selection of ratios to handle both steep hills and fast flats without the complication of a front derailleur.

The Cube Aim SLX comes with grippy Schwalbe Smart Sam 2.25″ tyres on tubeless-ready rims, offering good traction for those exploring trails.

The Carrera Blast 24 is a great entry-level mountain bike for kids aged around 8 to 12 who are looking to tackle mixed terrain.

It’s a good value option that won’t break the bank, offering key features like front suspension and a wide range of gears.

The bike comes equipped with 14-speed Shimano Revoshift gears, which are easy for small hands to operate by twisting the grip.

Its mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power, even on wet trails, giving parents peace of mind about safety.

The Carrera Blast 24 is a budget-friendly way to get your child out on some gentle off-road paths, but remember that at 14kg, it is heavier than some premium alternatives.

The Carrera Luna 24 is a Budget 24-inch wheel mountain bike for young riders aged 8 to 11.

It is offers much better quality than the cheaper options found at Halfords and your child will appreciate this.

Its lightweight aluminium frame and front suspension are good for family rides and gentle off-road paths. While the bike is quite heavy at 14kg, it should be manageable on easier terrain.

Dependable mechanical disc brakes will give your child confidence and reliable stopping power, especially in the wet.

The 14-speed Revoshift gearing is more complex to operate than a single chain ring found on more expensive bikes, but the shifters are designed to be easy for kids hands to use.

The Btwin Rockrider 24 Expl 500 is an excellent entry-level mountain bike that offers great value for money and will perform well on the trails. Designed for children aged 9 to 12, it is a much more capable bike than others in its price range that may come with heavy full suspension and complicated gearing. It is a reliable option for families where budget is a priority, as Decathlon’s in-house brand is known for durable and accessible bikes.

The bike focuses on the features that matter for this age group, with a simple yet effective 7-speed drivetrain and an Easytrigger shifter that is designed to be easy to operate. The sturdy steel frame and 50mm of front suspension are perfect for tackling mixed terrain like paths, trails, and gravel. It also comes with all-terrain lugged tires for good traction and control.

For parents, a great feature is the quick-release front wheel, which makes the bike easier to transport in the car. It’s a bike that gives children a gentle introduction to off-road riding without being overly complicated or heavy. We are impressed with the quality of bikes in the BTWIN range, and this is a great option if you’re looking for a good off-road bike that won’t break the bank. You can also Read our comprehensive guide to Btwin kids’ bikes to learn more about the brand.