JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike or JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike? Which JOYSTAR Model to Buy
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Choosing between the joystar 20 inch kids bike vs fantasy 18 inch kids bike depends on your child’s age and riding style. Both models feature durable steel frames and single-speed drivetrains for simplicity. They also include training wheels to support new riders. The main difference lies in wheel size and braking systems. One offers a larger 20-inch wheel with a foot brake, while the other provides an 18-inch wheel with hand and coaster brakes. This affects fit and control for growing children.
Key differences
| Aspect | JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue | JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 20 Inch | 18 Inch |
| Brake Type | Foot brake | Front hand caliper and rear coaster brake |
| Weight | 22.8 pounds | 29.6 pounds |
| Tire Width | Not listed | 2.125 inches |
| Target Audience | Kids, Girls, Boys | Kids, Girls |
Which one should you choose?
Choose JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue if
- You need a lighter bike that is easier for smaller hands to lift and maneuver.
- Your child prefers a simple foot brake system that requires less hand strength.
- You want a model suitable for both boys and girls with a classic blue color option.
Choose JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike if
- You want more stopping power from hand-operated caliper brakes.
- Your child is on the taller side of the 5-9 age range and needs wider tires for stability.
- You prefer a retro design with included accessories like a basket and kickstand.
Verdict: The 20-inch model is better for younger or smaller riders who benefit from a lighter frame and foot braking. The 18-inch Fantasy model suits slightly older or heavier children who need hand brake control and added stability from wider tires. Choose based on your child’s height and comfort with brake types.
Specs: Size, Brakes, Weight, Tires
Wheel Size
The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue features 20-inch wheels, while the JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike uses 18-inch wheels. Wheel size dictates how the bike fits your child. Larger wheels generally offer a smoother ride over bumps and better momentum. The 20-inch model suits older or taller kids, typically ages 7 to 10. The 18-inch model targets younger riders, roughly ages 5 to 9. You should choose based on your child’s height and current riding ability. Smaller wheels are easier to handle for beginners. Larger wheels provide more stability at higher speeds. This difference is the primary factor in sizing your next bike purchase.
Brake Type
Braking systems differ significantly between these two models. The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue uses a foot brake. This is suitable for young riders who may not have enough hand strength to manipulate a hand brake effectively. In contrast, the JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike offers dual braking. It features a front hand caliper brake and a rear coaster brake. This combination provides ample stopping power and safety for little riders. The hand brake allows for precise control, while the coaster brake acts as a backup. If your child is ready for hand brakes, the Fantasy model offers superior stopping versatility.
Tire Width
Tire width affects stability and comfort on various surfaces. The JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike is equipped with wide 2.125-inch pneumatic tires. These wider tires add more stability and cushion the ride over rough terrain. The data for the JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue does not specify the tire width, only noting puncture-proof tires. Wider tires generally provide better grip and shock absorption. If you ride on uneven paths or gravel, the wider tires on the Fantasy model may offer a smoother and more secure experience for your child. Standard narrow tires can feel harsher on bumps.
Weight
Bike weight impacts how easy it is for a child to maneuver. The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue weighs 22.8 pounds. The JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike weighs 29.6 pounds. The 20-inch model is significantly lighter by nearly seven pounds. A lighter bike is easier for a child to lift, carry, and control, especially when starting out or stopping. The heavier weight of the Fantasy model may make it slightly more cumbersome for smaller riders. However, the extra weight might also provide a feeling of solidity. For ease of handling, the lighter 20-inch model has a clear advantage.
Target Audience
Each bike is designed for specific age groups and demographics. The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue targets kids, girls, and boys aged 7 to 10. It is a versatile option for a broader range of children. The JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike specifically targets kids and girls aged 5 to 9. It features a retro design with bright colors, appealing to younger children. If you have a daughter in the younger age bracket, the Fantasy model’s design and sizing may be more appealing. For older children or mixed-gender households, the 20-inch model offers a more neutral and age-appropriate fit.
Which JOYSTAR model suits your child
Parent of a 7-10 year old learner
The 20-inch wheel size matches older kids better. It includes a foot brake, which helps young riders who lack the hand strength for standard brakes. The steel frame offers durability for learning bumps. This model supports riders aged 7 to 10 years, making it a practical choice for growing children.
Parent seeking a comfortable retro-style bike
This 18-inch model features wider 2.125-inch pneumatic tires for added stability and a softer seat for comfort. It combines a front hand caliper brake with a rear coaster brake for ample stopping power. The retro design and included basket appeal to younger riders, specifically those aged 5 to 9 years.
Buyer wanting lighter assembly effort
At 22.8 pounds, this bike is significantly lighter than the 29.6-pound Fantasy model. The lighter steel frame makes it easier for you to handle during the 20-minute assembly process. Both bikes are 85% pre-assembled, but the reduced weight of this 20-inch model simplifies setup and transport for novice assemblers.
The products compared
JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue
Best for: beginners needing training wheels and foot brakes
- Wheel Size
- 20 Inch
- Frame Material
- steel
- Brake Type
- Foot brake, HandBrake
- Number of Speeds
- single speed
- Target Audience
- 7-10 Years Boys Girls
- Weight
- 22.8 pounds
View on Amazon: JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue Affiliate link
This JOYSTAR 20 inch bike targets kids aged 7 to 10. It features a durable steel frame and puncture-proof tires. The design includes stable training wheels and a foot brake, which suits young riders who lack the hand strength for standard brakes. It weighs 22.8 pounds. The bike comes with a DIY decal kit for personalization. It requires minimal maintenance due to its single-speed setup and simple construction.
Pros
- Includes stable training wheels for early riders
- Foot brake suitable for young riders with less hand strength
- Chain guard protects fingers and extends chain life
- 85% pre-assembled for quick 20-minute setup
- Lifetime warranty on metal frames and forks
Cons
- Heavier 22.8 pound steel frame compared to aluminum alternatives
- Single-speed drivetrain limits gear options for varied terrain
- Foot brake may be less efficient than hand brakes for older kids
Good fit if
- You need a bike for a child aged 7 to 10
- You want a low-maintenance steel frame with a lifetime warranty
- You prefer training wheels and a foot brake for safety
Skip if
- You require a lightweight aluminum frame for easier handling
- You need multiple gears for hilly terrain
- You want a hand brake system for advanced braking control
Verdict: JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike is a durable, low-maintenance option for beginners. It fits children aged 7 to 10 who benefit from training wheels and foot brakes.
JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike
Best for: Younger kids needing stable, single-speed rides
- Wheel Size
- 18 inch
- Frame Material
- Steel
- Brake Type
- Front caliper, rear coaster/foot
- Number of Speeds
- Single speed
- Tire Width
- 2.125"
- Target Audience
- Girls (ages 5-8)
View on Amazon: JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike Affiliate link
This 18-inch JOYSTAR bike suits riders aged 5 to 9. It features a steel frame and fork with a single-speed drivetrain. The braking system combines a front hand caliper brake with a rear coaster brake. Wide 2.125-inch pneumatic tires provide stability. The bike weighs 29.6 pounds and includes a rear basket and training wheels. It is designed for young girls seeking a reliable, easy-to-ride bicycle.
Pros
- Front hand caliper brake and rear coaster brake
- Wide 2.125-inch pneumatic tires for stability
- Single-speed drivetrain for simple operation
- Includes removable training wheels and kickstand
Cons
- Heavier steel frame at 29.6 pounds
- Single-speed limits gear options
- Requires adult assembly
Good fit if
- You need a bike for a child aged 5 to 9
- You prefer the stability of wide tires
- You want a single-speed bike with easy brakes
Skip if
- You need multiple gears for varied terrain
- You prefer a lightweight aluminum frame
- You want a bike for riders over 9 years old
Verdict: JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike is a solid choice for younger riders who value stability and simple mechanics. It fits children aged 5 to 9 who need a durable, easy-to-use bike with reliable stopping power.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue | JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 20 Inch | 18 inch |
| Frame Material | steel | Steel |
| Brake Type | Foot brake, HandBrake | Front caliper, rear coaster/foot |
| Number of Speeds | single speed | Single speed |
| Tire Width | not stated | 2.125" |
| Target Audience | 7-10 Years Boys Girls | Girls (ages 5-8) |
| Weight | 22.8 pounds | 29.6 pounds |
| Size | 20 Inch with Training Wheels & HandBrake | 18 Inch Wheels |
| Color | Blue | Yellow |
| Model | BIKE007 | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
Which bike is lighter for a child to handle?
The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue is lighter. It weighs 22.8 pounds, while the Fantasy 18-Inch model weighs 29.6 pounds. A lighter frame is easier for young riders to maneuver. This difference helps smaller children control the bike more effectively during turns and stops.
What type of brakes does the 20-inch model use?
The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue includes a foot brake. This allows riders to stop by pedaling backward. It is ideal for beginners who may lack the hand strength for standard hand brakes. The Fantasy 18-Inch model is noted for reliable stopping power but does not specify this brake type.
Which model is better for a 7-year-old?
The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue is the better fit for a 7-year-old. It is designed for children aged 7 to 10. The larger 20-inch wheels and specific weight make it suitable for older kids who are ready for slightly more advanced riding than the younger-focused 18-inch option.
Does the Fantasy 18-Inch bike come with training wheels?
Yes, the JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike includes training wheels. The guide notes that both models feature training wheels to support new riders. This feature provides stability for younger children who are just learning to balance on two wheels.
Is the 20-inch bike suitable for girls?
Yes, the JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike Blue is suitable for girls. The target audience includes kids, girls, and boys. The blue color and durable steel frame make it a versatile choice for any child in the appropriate age range who needs a reliable first bike.
Which bike has a single-speed drivetrain?
Both bikes feature single-speed drivetrains. The JOYSTAR 20 Inch and Fantasy 18-Inch models use simple mechanical setups. This design reduces maintenance needs and makes riding easier for beginners. You do not need to shift gears, which simplifies the learning process for new cyclists.
What is the main difference in wheel size?
The main difference is the wheel diameter. The JOYSTAR 20 Inch Kids Bike has 20-inch wheels, while the Fantasy 18-Inch model has 18-inch wheels. Larger wheels generally offer a smoother ride over bumps. The correct size ensures the bike fits your child’s height and riding style properly.