NICA MTB decision tree.png
Entry level Hardtail
Race Ready Hardtail
Entry Full-Suspension
Race Ready Full-Susp.
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What to look for when buying a youth bike (grades 6-12):

​

  • Lightweight (30 lbs or less)

  • Narrower tires (2.4 in wide or less)

  • Lower travel in the fork and shock (130mm or less)

  • X-country instead of downhill geometry

  • Make sure the frame is the correct size for  the rider (see sizing chart)

  • If you are not able to buy a brand new bike look for a used version of the bikes listed below at your local bike shop or online marketplaces

XC (Full-Suspension)

Neuron 5 2022.webp

Really Good

Canyon Neuron 5

See a Review
Marin RZ 29 1.jpg

Better

Marin Rift Zone 29 Carbon 1

See a Review
TopFuel8NX_21_32985_B_Portrait.webp

Best

Trek Top Fuel 8

See a Review

Cross Country Bike Manufacturers

Trek

  • Top Fuel 8

  • Superfly 26

  • Pro Caliber

  • X Caliber

Specialized

  • Epic

  • Chisel

Giant

  • XTC

  • Fathom

  • Trance

  • Anthem

Marin

  • Rift Zone 2

  • Nail Trail

Scott

  • Spark 900 Series

  • Scale

  • Contessa (W)

Pivot

  • Mach 4

  • LES

Canyon

  • Exceed

  • LUX

Santa Cruz

  • Highball

  • Blur

XC (Hardtail)

DB OD Carbon.jpg

Really Good

Diamondback Overdrive 

See a Review
Marlin 6.jfif

Better

Marlin 6 or 7

See a Review
XCaliber7_21_33194_A_Portrait.jfif

Best

Trek X-Caliber 8 or 9

See a Review