Are V brakes better than disc brakes on a kids' bike?
- 11 Feb 2025
Why Frog Bikes choose V-brakes for our first pedal and hybrid bikes
We are passionate about creating high-quality bikes that are designed specifically for children. From our first pedal bikes for little riders just starting, to our hybrid bikes for kids ready to tackle more diverse terrains, and our city bikes perfect for cruising around town, we believe in making bikes that offer both safety and fun.
Best brakes for kids’ bikes
One feature that appears on these models is the V-brake. We’re here to tell you the advantages of V-brakes on kids' bikes:
What is a v-brake?
A V-brake is a type of rim brake used on bikes, designed to provide strong stopping power. It consists of two arms mounted on the frame or fork, with brake pads that press against the rim of the wheel when the brake lever is pulled.
1. Simplicity for young riders
You’re probably wondering, why are V-brakes used on kids' bikes? When it comes to kids' bike brakes, simplicity is key. Our first pedal, hybrid bikes, and city bikes are designed for young riders who are still building their skills and confidence. V-brakes for children provide a simple, easy-to-understand braking system that delivers smooth, responsive performance, making it easy for young riders to master. This is ideal for kids who are just starting, allowing them to focus on building their riding skills without being overwhelmed by complex braking systems.
- Straightforward braking system which is easier to adjust
- Easy to operate and master
- Offers responsive, smooth braking
2. Lightweight and easy to control
We know how important it is for kids to feel in control of their bikes, and weight plays a significant role in this. Choosing a bike with bike brakes for young riders is key. V-brakes are lighter than disc brakes, which means the overall weight of the bike is reduced. A lighter bike is easier for kids to handle, manoeuvre, and stop effectively. This makes the experience of riding more enjoyable and boosts their confidence as they learn how to ride and stop with ease.
- Lighter brakes make for a lighter bike
3. Affordable and accessible maintenance
As parents, you want a bike that’s easy to maintain without breaking the bank. V-brakes on bikes are not only more affordable than disc brakes, but they also come with a simpler maintenance routine. The V-brake pads are easy to replace, and the cables can be adjusted with minimal tools. V-brakes are a great choice for families who want to keep their bikes in good shape without having to visit the bike shop frequently. Plus, the parts are widely available and cost-effective, so you won’t have to worry about expensive repairs down the line.
- More affordable to maintain
- Easy maintenance routine
- Brake pads are easy to replace
- Cables can be adjusted with minimal tools
- Parts are widely available
4. Effective performance on most surfaces
Our first pedal and hybrid bikes are designed for everyday use on a range of terrains, from the smooth pavement of your local park to dirt paths in the countryside. V-brakes on bikes provide strong stopping power in these conditions. While disc brakes excel in more extreme weather or muddy environments, V-brakes are more than capable of providing excellent stopping performance for the vast majority of rides young kids will experience. Their reliability is why we trust them on our bikes, especially for younger riders who may not yet be navigating more technical terrains.
- Strong stopping power for young riders
5. Building confidence in braking
We believe in creating bikes that help children build confidence in their abilities. For young riders, learning how to brake effectively is one of the first big milestones in their cycling journey. With V-brakes, kids can experience predictable and controlled stopping power, making the learning process smoother and less intimidating. The instant feedback they get from V-brakes when they squeeze the brake levers helps them understand how much pressure is needed to stop, without being too harsh or jarring. This controlled braking allows children to gradually gain the confidence they need to master the skill of braking.
- Predictable and controlled stopping power
- The learning process is smoother
Best braking systems for kids’ bikes
While V-brakes are ideal for younger riders, there are a variety of braking systems designed to cater to more experienced cyclists and different types of riding.
Here’s a quick bike brake comparison of the options available:
- V-brakes (First pedal, hybrid & city bikes): Simple, reliable, and easy to operate, V-brakes are perfect for entry-level bikes where ease of use and low maintenance are essential. They’re lightweight, cost-effective, and provide excellent braking power for everyday riding.
- Mechanical disc brakes (Gravel & road bikes): Mechanical disc brakes are a step up from V-brakes, offering better performance in a wider range of conditions, especially on gravel or rougher roads. They are lighter and simpler than hydraulic disc brakes and offer longer service intervals, making them an excellent choice for kids who are ready for more endurance-focused riding, such as longer distances or more rugged paths. This makes them an excellent choice for gravel and road bikes where reliability and performance are key.
- Hydraulic disc brakes (Mountain bikes): For those who are venturing into more technical riding, like mountain biking, hydraulic disc brakes are the gold standard. They provide more power and better control, especially on steep descents or challenging terrains. However, they are heavier and require more maintenance than mechanical discs or V-brakes, making them better suited for experienced riders who need high-performance braking on demanding trails.
A perfect fit for young riders
Our mission is simple: to design bikes that kids love to ride. V-brakes are a natural fit for our first pedal bikes, hybrid bikes and city bikes because they combine ease of use, affordability, and reliable performance. We carefully consider every aspect of our bikes to ensure that they are safe, fun, and comfortable for children, and V-brakes are a key part of that equation.
So, the next time you're shopping for a bike that your child will cherish, you can feel confident knowing that Frog Bikes’ choice of V-brakes is all about supporting your child's growth and making their riding experience the best it can be.
