Is Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 A Good Bike? [Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 Review]

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2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 

• MSRP: $615
• Frame: Aluminum
• Tires; 24 x 2.6″
• Rider Height Range: 4’0″-4’9″ (7 to 12 years)
• Drivetrain: 1×8

What we like about it: Even though it is a mountain cross-country bike, it gives the best experience for children in terms of both comfort and handling while ensuring fun.

What we don’t like about it: As a children’s car, if the color is a little bright and bold, I believe that children will like it more.

Rating (4.7/5)

Introduction

If you want your child to have a more exciting childhood, give him a 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 and let it help their child explore this beautiful world.

If you have also read child psychology, you must have learned that children between the ages of 7 and 12 have developed a lot of muscle movement, but not enough solid endurance. Therefore participating in cycling can effectively help your child improve this.

The Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 has oversized 24×2.6″ tires and the Kenda Slant Six material adds great grip to keep your child safe on the trail. At the same time, powerful disc brakes with light-action 8-speed shifting make the whole riding process easier and more relaxed. In addition, the Light, durable SmartForm C3 Alloy frame and fork are really strong and durable enough.

I believe your parent-child relationship will be closed when you take your children to the countryside and the park to ride this bike on weekends.

Here we break down the ride, key features, components, and specifications of the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 and other versions. Remember to follow us if you want to learn more.

Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 General Riding Review

When I first bought this bike as a gift for my son Oliver’s 8th birthday, it was my colleague Lucas who suggested it to me. According to Lucas, his 10-year-old daughter Delia has been riding the 2018 Cannondale Trail 24 Girl’s for three years and still loves cycling. And goes to the park with Lucas every weekend to enjoy parent-child time. To review this bike, I invited them to go to Snowmass Bike Park in Aspen, USA together on the weekend.

For the actual evaluation, Delia was given a test ride because she was more experienced in riding. The girl boarded the bike and rode past like she was flying, accompanied by her touching smile.

On the flat concrete road of the park, I could feel that the car did not take much effort from the child. Because she told us with her smiling face and “wow” sound of joy, relaxation and joy are the most direct feelings.

During Delia’s ride, I observed that she maintained a more upright posture. This is due to the geometry of the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24, which is tailored to the needs of growing children. We parents don’t have to worry about our children hunching over as opposed to riding in a bent-over position.

After riding a lap, she gladly accepted my interview. “The faster, easier, more comfortable, and more flexible operating system are the biggest benefits of the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24. I already prefer the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 to my 2018 Cannondale Trail 24 Girl’s.”

Indeed, the technically upgraded SmartForm C3 Alloy frame is not only sturdy but also lightweight enough to be friendly to children with little strength.

Secondly, the microSHIFT, 8-speed trigger shifter is not only easy to operate but also ensures a fast and safe enough speed for children.

In addition, the minds of children from 7-12 prefer what is called control, control of riding speed by changing the size of their grip. Therefore Tektro Mechanical Disc is well suited to meet their needs to control riding speed through the grip.

Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 Toddler Riding Review

After hearing her description, my 8-year-old son Oliver couldn’t wait to get into the car with his protective gear on.

To be honest, I was a little worried at first. Because the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 is a plus size with 24″ tires, and my 4’1″ son looked a little weak. But when Oliver steadily held the handlebars and pedaled without slowing down, looking so relaxed and happy, I knew I was overly worried.

Oliver told me that the Cannondale Kid’s Comfort saddle on the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 is very soft. And the Cannondale Kid’s Comfort grips feel great and are very comfortable to ride. “Thank you, my dear dad, this is the best birthday present I’ve ever received!”

Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 Off-road Riding Review

After the fun of riding on the flatlands, the kids were eager for the mountain sports on the park trails.

Delia proved with masterful handling that the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 is up to snuff as a trail bike.

According to Delia, the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 has more grip on the Kenda Slant Six, 24 x 2.6″ tires than the 2018 Cannondale Trail 24 Girl’s. The 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 has more grip than the 2018 Cannondale Trail 24 Girl’s. During the ride, the ride was exceptionally stable even on the steeper dirt roads.

To its credit, the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 also gives a more relaxed and comfortable feel on the climbs. It seems that the KMC Z8.1, 8-speed chain, and Sunrace, wide range 8-speed gears played a good match.

In addition, the feel of the operation is also smoother and smoother. This is because the microSHIFT, 8-speed trigger shifter is easy to operate and is the right size for children’s small hands.

At the same time, the kids riding I also noticed that fender mounts are a very friendly accessory. During the ride effectively blocked a variety of flying mud and rocks, to ensure the safety of the ride, but also more hygienic.

Main Features

Frame

Cannondale, known as the “King of Aluminum Frame”, is confident in its technology, Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 still uses the SmartForm C3 Alloy frame and fork to ensure that the body is light and strong, and durable.

Both the Mantis and Deep Teal frames with solid black accessories, plus the Cannondale signature on the frame are very beautiful and cool. If Cannondale combines the preferences of 7-12 children and gives children more color options, I believe they will be more popular.

Geometry

The Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 is loved by parents and children alike, and I believe its geometric structure is inseparable.

First of all, the small enough fork rake (4.0cm) with a 72° seat tube angle allows the child to maintain a relatively upright position while riding. As the child’s arms and shoulders are given a greater degree of stretching space, it is more comfortable and free.

At the same time, the upright position not only helps children’s bones grow but also promotes lung breathing. And children also get a wider range of vision, increasing their sense of security when riding.

Plus, the bottom bracket height (24.8cm) is so kid-friendly! It allows the whole body’s center of gravity, as well as the rider’s center of gravity, to be in a lower position. This is certainly a layer of “double insurance” for the safety of children.

Components and Specifications

MicroSHIFT, 8-speed Drivetrain

Considering the excessive difficulty of operation will make the child distracted in the process of riding. And a lighter vehicle is easier for the child to ride. Therefore Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 is specially designed with a 1×8 drivetrain, which is easy enough to operate and very light at the same time.

To its credit, the microSHIFT, 8-speed trigger shifter does exactly what its name describes – it triggers gear changes with the flick of a finger. Therefore, the child does not have to be distracted from shifting gears.

Speed, not to mention, is fast enough for both climbing in low gears and descending in high gears. Children can choose the right speed and experience more fun in various road sections.

Kenda Slant Six Tires

With this in mind, Cannondale chose the Kenda Slant Six, 24 x 2.6″, to protect the children’s happiness.

Considering that great grip and traction are especially important when riding off-road on hilly terrain, it is clear that the Kenda Slant Six is also qualified. The wide tires with Cannondale, lightweight alloy rims ensure that the bike is stable enough to absorb the vibrations caused by bumps.

“Big tires, big fun” is also the reason why Cannondale designed the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24. The 24 x 2.6″ gives kids enough confidence to take on the challenge of mountain riding. The large tires make it easier to jump over rocks of all shapes and sizes, making the whole trip more fun.

I’m sure you’ll be proud the next time you go for a park ride with your kids and watch them float along in the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24.

Tektro Mechanical Disc

I have to admit that Cannondale still understands the psychology of children, and the Tektro Mechanical Disc may not feel as easy and fast for adults as the Hydraulic Disc. But enough sense of control can give children more security and confidence. Because children between the ages of 7-12 have slowly developed a sense of self and self-improvement.

In addition, Tektro Mechanical Disc has a cheaper price and is easier to maintain daily. After all, children may not be as careful as adults when using various equipment. If you switch to Hydraulic Disc, I believe you have to spend more bills to maintain it from time to time.

Other versions of Cannondale Kids Trail

I have to say that the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail series of cars are designed for the characteristics of children of all ages.

If your kids are a little smaller or younger, but also want to have fun riding, the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail 20 deserves to be on your radar. First, the 20 x 1.95″ wheelset is designed to fit 3’7″ and 4’2″ kids ages 5-8. Secondly, the Light, durable SmartForm C3 Alloy frame and bump-smoothing front suspension fork are designed to develop children’s riding skills and give them more confidence. Finally, the Wide range 7-speed gearing with light-action 7-speed twist shifter is also sufficient to meet the speed needs of children aged 5-8.

Next time you can give your child one of these bikes for Christmas, I’m sure the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail 20 will accompany him to a memorable childhood. The Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 will also be ready when the child is older.

There are many more models for the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail. You can go to the official website Cannondale for more details depending on your child’s situation.

What we like about it

• Children’s riding first choice, the price is pro-people.
• Fast, light, agile and comfortable is the general evaluation of the children.
• The aluminum alloy frame and fork of the premium SmartForm C3 are light enough, strong enough, and durable enough.
• The microSHIFT, 8-speed drivetrain with Tektro Mechanical Disc is simple enough to give your child a more enjoyable riding experience.
• Perfect geometric construction, in line with the needs of children’s growth and development, upright riding is more comfortable.
• It doesn’t pull downhill and has an uphill advantage over similar bikes.

What we don’t like about it

• Not enough colorful body color, a little less attractive for children.
•  Big tires are not very suitable for young children under 7 years old.

FAQ

• What is the tire size of the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24?

The Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 has a tire size of 24×2.6″.

• What are the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 brakes?

The 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 brakes are  Tektro Mechanical Discs.

• What is the height of the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 fit child range?

The height range is 4’0″-4’9″ (about 7 to 12 years).

2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 Specs

Build

Frame	SmartForm C3 Alloy, IS disc mount, rack/fender mounts Colors: Mantis; Deep Teal
Fork	SmartForm C3 Alloy, 1-1/8″ steerer, IS disc mount
Bottom Bracket	Cartridge, square taper
Headset	FSA, Alloy, 1-1/8
Stem	Forged and machined aluminum, 30mm w/ fitted stem cover
Handlebar	Lightweight Alloy, 25.4mm, 580mm
Saddle	Cannondale Kid’s Comfort
Seatpost	One-piece, clamp-less, Alloy, 25.4mm
Pedals	Wellgo Composite Platform w/ reflectors, 1/2″
Grips	Cannondale Kid’s Comfort

Wheels

Rims	Cannondale, lightweight alloy, 24″, 28h
Spokes	Steel, 14g Black
Front Hub	(F) Sealed Alloy, QR / (R) Sealed Alloy , QR, 8-speed freehub
Rear Hub	(F) Sealed Alloy, QR / (R) Sealed Alloy , QR, 8-speed freehub
Tires	Kenda Slant Six, 24 x 2.6″

Groupset

Rear Derailleur	microSHIFT M21S
Crank	Prowheel, Pro-V30, 145mm length, 30T
Shifters	microSHIFT, 8-speed trigger shifter
Cassette	Sunrace, wide range 12-32, 8-speed
Chain	KMC Z8.1, 8-speed
Brakes	Tektro Mechanical Disc
Brake Levers	Alloy, linear pull

Video

Comparison Table

Bicycles	Price	Gear	Brakes	Tires	Click view
Trek Wahoo 26	$559	1×8	Alloy linear-pull	26×1.95”	Click view
Diamondback El Oso Nino 20	$675	1×7	Apex Mechanical Disc	20×4.0″	Click view
Liv Enchant Disc 24	$530	1×7	mechanical disc	24×2.1″	Click view
Cannondale Kids Cujo 24+	$580	1×8	Tektro mechanical disc	24 x 2.6″	Click view

2022 Trek Wahoo 26 vs 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24

If you’ve been looking at kids’ bikes lately, I’m sure the 2022 Trek Wahoo 26 has been on your radar as well. The same aluminum frame and fork, with a 1×8 drivetrain, is also very light and fast and does count as a quality kids’ bike. But I have to say, the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 probably impressed me more with its details.

First, the Tektro Mechanical Disc is easier to use and maintain than the Alloy linear-pull for careless children. Second, the 24 x 2.6″ tires are also more friendly than the 26 x 1.95”. Because children 7-12 may not have enough balance to control larger and narrower tires. Finally, the presence of fender mounts eliminates the need for mud and gravel to interfere with riding.

If your child prefers a more challenging ride, I believe the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 is the best choice.

2022 Diamondback El Oso Nino 20 vs 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24

When it comes to kids’ mountain bikes, the 2022 Diamondback El Oso Nino 20 is also worth mentioning. The most impressive thing about the Diamondback El Oso Nino 20, known for its “fat” size, is indeed its 20×4.0″ tires.

I have to admit that wider tires are easier to pass and safer for children riding in the mountains when they encounter challenging terrain.

But at the same time, it means that children need to exert more effort in exchange for a longer distance. And with a 4.0″ ground contact size, it brings more friction in exchange for a stronger grip.

Therefore, during the ride, children are less likely to experience the joy of riding because they tend to feel tired.

So if your baby cares more about the fun of riding than the difficult challenge of breaking a sweat, the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 might be a better fit for him.

2022 Liv Enchant, Disc 24 vs 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24

If the little princess in your family also likes to ride, the 2022 Liv Enchant, Disc 24 is also a good choice. The aluminum frame is light enough for girl-specific models and shock-absorbing trail tires. This gives the girl more than enough confidence but is also relatively more conservative in speed.

I have to say, Liv Enchant, Disc 24 vs 2022 cares a lot about the girl’s feelings. But if your daughter prefers a more challenging sport, the Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 may be more suitable for her. Because the 24×2.1″ tires do not support the Liv Enchant, Disc 24 vs 2022’s ability to perform well on hills.

2022 Cannondale Kids Cujo 24+ vs 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24

2022 Cannondale Kids Cujo 24+ is also another sincere work of the Cannondale family. Both are the same, whether it’s the frame or the basic accessories. But the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 shows a little more attention to detail.

It is commendable that whether it is easier to operate the microSHIFT, 8-speed trigger shifter, or rack/fender mounts, Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 are in a variety of small but affect the comfort and operation of the feeling of doing a little more perfect.

If you want to give your baby a more comfortable riding experience, the 2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 may be more popular with kids. I believe it’s worth it even if you pay the extra 35$.

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Learn more : Is Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 A Good Bike? [2022 Cannondale Kids Trail Plus 24 Review]