JOYSTAR Fantasy 18 inch Kids or JOYSTAR Contender 20” Kids Bike? Which JOYSTAR Model to Buy
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The joystar fantasy 18 inch kids vs contender 20 kids bike comparison helps you pick the right ride for your child. Both models share a steel frame, single-speed drivetrain, and 2.125-inch tires. The main difference lies in the wheel size and suspension. The Contender features a full suspension system for smoother rides on rough terrain. The Fantasy uses a rigid fork but includes training wheels for beginners. Both offer safety features like reflectors and reliable braking systems.
Key differences
| Aspect | JOYSTAR Contender 20" Kids Bike | JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 20 Inch | 18 Inch |
| Suspension Type | Full suspension | Rigid fork |
| Brake Type | Linear pull handbrakes | Front hand caliper, rear coaster brake |
| Target Audience | Kids (Boys & Girls) | Kids, Girls |
| Weight | 26.5 pounds | 29.6 pounds |
| Frame Material | Hi-ten steel | Steel |
Which one should you choose?
Choose JOYSTAR Contender 20" Kids Bike if
- You want a bike with full suspension for better comfort on bumps
- You prefer a lighter frame for easier handling
- Your child is taller and needs the stability of 20-inch wheels
Choose JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike if
- You need training wheels for a beginner rider
- You prefer a coaster brake for simple stopping
- You want a retro design with included accessories like a basket
Verdict: Choose the Contender if your child is ready for off-road adventures and needs suspension comfort. Pick the Fantasy if your child is just learning to ride and benefits from training wheels and a coaster brake. Both bikes offer durable steel frames suitable for growing kids.
Fantasy 18 vs Contender 20 Specs
suspension type
The JOYSTAR Contender 20” Kids Bike features full suspension, including a front suspension fork and a rear spring shock. This setup absorbs bumps for a smoother ride on uneven terrain. The JOYSTAR Fantasy 18 inch Kids Bike has a rigid steel fork and no rear suspension. It relies on its wide tires for comfort. If your child rides on rough trails or bumpy paths, the Contender’s suspension provides better control and reduces fatigue. The Fantasy is better suited for smooth pavement or flat park paths where suspension is less critical.
brake type
Braking systems differ between the two models. The JOYSTAR Contender uses front and rear linear pull handbrakes. This gives you consistent stopping power using hand levers. The JOYSTAR Fantasy combines a front hand caliper brake with a rear coaster brake. The coaster brake activates when you pedal backward. Some young riders find the coaster brake intuitive, while others prefer the direct control of hand brakes. The Contender offers dual hand brakes for uniform operation. The Fantasy offers a mixed system that may require learning two different braking methods.
target audience
Both bikes target kids, but the Contender is marketed for boys and girls aged 6 to 10. The Fantasy is described as a Princess bike for girls aged 5 to 9. The Contender’s pink color option and rugged design appeal to a broad range. The Fantasy’s yellow color, basket, and decals target a specific aesthetic preference. If your child prefers a classic, utility-focused look with a basket, the Fantasy fits well. If you want a versatile mountain bike style that works for any child, the Contender is the broader choice.
wheel size
Wheel size affects fit and stability. The JOYSTAR Contender has 20-inch wheels, suitable for riders 44 to 56 inches tall. The JOYSTAR Fantasy has 18-inch wheels, fitting riders 43 to 59 inches tall. The 20-inch wheels on the Contender offer better momentum and stability at higher speeds. The 18-inch wheels on the Fantasy are easier to handle for smaller or less confident riders. Choose the Contender if your child is taller or rides faster. Choose the Fantasy if your child is on the shorter end of the age range.
weight
Weight impacts how easy the bike is to maneuver. The JOYSTAR Contender weighs 26.5 pounds. The JOYSTAR Fantasy weighs 29.6 pounds. The Contender is lighter by over three pounds. A lighter bike is easier for a child to lift, carry, and accelerate. The Fantasy includes a basket and training wheels, which add to its weight. The Contender’s lighter frame makes it more agile for quick turns and climbing small hills. If you want a bike that feels nimble and easy to handle, the Contender is the better option.
training wheels
Learning to balance is a key step for young riders. The JOYSTAR Fantasy comes with removable training wheels included. This helps beginners learn pedaling and braking before balancing. The JOYSTAR Contender does not include training wheels. It is designed for riders who can already balance. If your child is just starting out and needs extra support, the Fantasy provides a smoother learning curve. If your child already rides a balance bike or trike, the Contender is ready for immediate use without training wheels.
Which JOYSTAR Model Suits Your Child
Rider who needs training wheels and simple brakes
The Fantasy 18 includes removable training wheels to help your child learn balance safely. It uses a front hand caliper brake and a rear coaster brake for straightforward stopping power. The single-speed drivetrain is simple and reliable. This model fits riders aged 5 to 9 years with heights between 43 and 59 inches.
Rider who wants suspension for rougher terrain
The Contender 20 offers full suspension with a front fork and rear spring shock to absorb bumps. It uses linear pull handbrakes for consistent stopping action. The 20-inch wheels suit taller riders aged 6 and up, with heights from 44 to 56 inches. This setup provides a smoother ride on uneven trails.
Rider who prefers a lighter bike for easier handling
The Contender 20 weighs 26.5 pounds, which is lighter than the Fantasy 18 at 29.6 pounds. A lighter frame is easier for smaller children to maneuver and control. Both bikes feature hi-ten steel frames and 2.125-inch tires for stability. The reduced weight helps young riders build confidence and skill more quickly.
The products compared
JOYSTAR Contender 20" Kids Bike
Best for: Young riders needing stability and suspension
- Wheel Size
- 20"
- Suspension Type
- Full Dual-Suspension
- Frame Material
- Hi-ten steel
- Brake Type
- Linear pull handbrakes
- Number of Speeds
- 1-Speed
- Tire Width
- 2.125"
View on Amazon: JOYSTAR Contender 20" Kids Bike Affiliate link
The JOYSTAR Contender is a 20-inch single-speed mountain bike for kids aged 6 to 10. It features a hi-ten steel frame and full suspension to absorb bumps. The wide 2.125-inch tires provide stability on trails. This model includes linear pull brakes and fenders for safer riding. It suits young riders who need a durable, easy-to-use bike for growing skills.
Pros
- Full suspension absorbs trail bumps
- Wide 2.125-inch tires add stability
- Linear pull brakes offer consistent stopping
- Hi-ten steel frame is durable
Cons
- Single-speed setup limits gear options
- Hi-ten steel frame is heavier
- No multi-speed transmission for hills
Good fit if
- You want a full-suspension bike for trails
- You need wide tires for stability
- You prefer a single-speed simplicity
Skip if
- You require multiple gear speeds
- You need a lightweight aluminum frame
- You want a 24-inch wheel size
Verdict: JOYSTAR Contender 20" Pink Kids Bike is a sturdy option for young riders who prioritize stability and suspension over gear variety. It fits beginners who want a durable bike for flat or gentle terrain.
JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike
Best for: beginner riders needing stability and training wheels
- 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
The JOYSTAR Fantasy 18 inch bike is a single-speed steel model for kids aged 5-9. It features a retro yellow design with a basket and DIY decals. The 18 inch wheels and 2.125 inch wide tires provide stability. You get front hand caliper brakes and a rear coaster brake for stopping. The bike includes removable training wheels and a kickstand. It weighs 29.6 pounds and comes 85% assembled.
Pros
- Dual braking system with front hand caliper and rear coaster brake
- Wide 2.125 inch pneumatic tires for added stability
- Includes removable training wheels and a kickstand
- Adjustable handlebars and seat height to grow with your child
- Enclosed chainguard protects clothing from grease
Cons
- Single-speed drivetrain limits gear options for varied terrain
- Steel frame makes the bike heavier at 29.6 pounds
- Requires adult assembly for final installation of parts
Good fit if
- You want a stable bike with wide tires for a beginner
- You prefer a traditional single-speed setup with easy maintenance
- You need removable training wheels for gradual skill building
Skip if
- You need multiple gears for steep hills or long rides
- You want a lightweight aluminum frame for easier handling
- You prefer a 20 inch wheel size for older kids
Verdict: JOYSTAR Fantasy 18" Yellow Kids Bike is a sturdy, stable option for young beginners who value safety features like wide tires and dual brakes. It suits parents seeking a simple, low-maintenance ride that grows with their child through adjustable components.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | JOYSTAR Contender 20" Kids Bike | JOYSTAR Fantasy 18-Inch Kids Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 20" | 18 inch |
| Suspension Type | Full Dual-Suspension | not stated |
| Frame Material | Hi-ten steel | Steel |
| Brake Type | Linear pull handbrakes | Front caliper, rear coaster/foot |
| Number of Speeds | 1-Speed | Single speed |
| Tire Width | 2.125" | 2.125" |
| Target Audience | Boys Ages 6-10 Years, Kids | Girls (ages 5-8) |
| Weight | 26.5 pounds | 29.6 pounds |
| Size | 20 Inch Wheels | 18 Inch Wheels |
| Color | Pink | Yellow |
| Model | BIKE061pk-20-UK | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
Is the JOYSTAR Contender 20 better than the Fantasy 18 for rough trails?
Yes, the Contender 20 is better for uneven terrain. It features full suspension with a front fork and rear spring shock to absorb bumps. The Fantasy 18 lacks this suspension system. This makes the Contender more stable on rougher ground for growing riders.
Which bike is lighter, the JOYSTAR Fantasy 18 or Contender 20?
The JOYSTAR Contender 20 is lighter. It weighs 26.5 pounds. The Fantasy 18 weighs 29.6 pounds. The lighter weight of the Contender may make it easier for smaller riders to maneuver. Both bikes use steel frames for durability.
Does the JOYSTAR Fantasy 18 come with training wheels?
Yes, the Fantasy 18 includes removable training wheels. These help young beginners learn balance safely. The Contender 20 does not mention training wheels in its specifications. If your child is just starting out, the training wheels on the Fantasy provide extra stability.
What wheel size should I choose for my child?
Choose based on your child's height and skill level. The Fantasy 18 has 18-inch wheels, which suit smaller children. The Contender 20 has 20-inch wheels for slightly older or taller kids. Both models feature 2.125-inch tires for grip and stability.
How do the brakes compare on these two JOYSTAR bikes?
Both bikes offer reliable stopping power. The Fantasy 18 uses a front hand caliper brake and a rear coaster brake. The Contender 20 also uses a similar setup. This provides straightforward control for young riders learning to stop safely on various surfaces.
Is the JOYSTAR Contender 20 suitable for flat terrain?
Yes, the Contender 20 is suitable for flat or gentle terrain. Its sturdy build and suspension offer comfort even on smooth ground. It fits beginners who want a durable bike. The single-speed drivetrain keeps maintenance simple for everyday rides.