Youth Cross Bike

Brian Terwilliger

My youngest (11 yo, 5' tall) wanted a road bike.  Then discovered cyclocross crash videos on YouTube, so now he wants a cross bike. If its not a Tri bike, I am pretty clueless and I know nothing about cyclocross.  

He also wants to do triathlons or duathlons as he isn't a strong swimmer.  Yet.  What would be some good options to look at for a kid to ride cross and road?  He isn't opposed to women's bikes as they may also be more readily available in the size he would need.  For sizing reference, the Specialized Dolce in 48 fits him pretty darn good.  I think a 24 inch is likely on the too small side.  Not looking to break the bank here but willing to spend a few dollars for a quality ride.  

Is there a good bike that I could just swap road tires and cross tires?  I'm at a loss here as this stuff is way out of my realm of knowledge.  Thanks!

Mike Westover

Maybe look at Islabikes? My daughter is younger but we've been very happy with their bikes so far. They spec their own kid-sized brake levers, seats, cranks, etc. rather than put adult parts on a smaller frame. The Luath 24 / 26 / 700 models are made to work for both road and cross by changing out the tires.

https://www.islabikes.com/road-and-cyclo-cross-bikes/