Trek Roscoe 24
- Price：$569.99
- Category: Children’s mountain bikes
- Suitable height: 51-59˝
- Tire: 24×2.80”
What we like about it: 1 x drivetrain and 2.8” tires for more fun and confidence in your child’s childhood, allowing families to enjoy endless hours of riding together.
What we don’t like about it: At 25.58 lbs it can be a bit bulky for kids.
Rating:（4.7/5）
Introduction
As parents, you always want to give your children great childhood memories and happy times as they grow up. When your child has started to explore the world more; when you as a parent want to develop your child’s skills and confidence; the interest of children in riding will increase when he or she becomes older. I think you will have more worries for them, at this time, we need a stable and reliable children’s bike to protect their childhood.
When this Trek Roscoe 24 children’s mountain bike appeared before our eyes, we were impressed by its subdued appearance.
After two months of testing, this children’s mountain bike took our little reviewer through the trails of the park, accompanying us on our regular mountain rides.
In this review, the excellent Roscoe 24, with its 2.8” Chen-Shin tires, 1× drivetrain and equipped with a wide range of gears and Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc brakes, showed us not only the joyful riding experience it brings to the kids, but also its excellent impact resistance, and relatively good climbing ability.
Below we review the Trek Roscoe 24 for park riding, general riding, key features, components, and specifications as well as other versions. Do you want to pick the right kids’ bike for your child? Stay tuned with us.
Park Rides
In fact, we rarely review children’s bikes, not only because we have difficulty finding suitable child riders, but also because it is a matter of safety for the children.
It also happens that Alison from our team has a son Perry who has been interested in cycling since he was very young for family reasons, has been riding balance bikes for a long time, and is now old enough to ride children’s mountain bikes. In order to give our colleagues the best option, We spent a lot of time picking out the Trek Roscoe 24
For the actual ride, Alison’s son volunteered to be our reviewer (more because he wanted to ride the bike, of course), so for safety reasons, at first we chose to start the ride in a nearby park.
We were a little worried about Perry’s performance as the park trail we chose started off gently and then climbed a little up and over a cobbled path, but Perry and the bike did not disappoint.
Based on the bike’s high-quality alpha aluminum frame, it is not only extremely resistant but also relatively light, making it easier for the child to handle; the quick and easy Shimano Tourney TX80 1×8 drivetrain had Perry shouting “wow” with excitement.
In addition, the comfortable Bontrager alloy handlebars ensure comfort and control during the ride, and the relatively large diameter increases strength and reduces the overall weight of the lever.
On the cobbled trails, we were worried that Perry would struggle with the bumps, but the 24×2.80” Chen-Shin tires absorb some of the vibrations and the comfortable saddle provides some support and rebound.
All in all, this kids’ mountain bike performance in the park is to be admired.
General Riding
In order to have a more comprehensive review, we took Perry on more rides over a period of four weeks, during which time his riding skills improved considerably.
With its 2.8” tires and unique tread pattern design, it provided incredible traction and cornering ability on winding patio paths. Not only that but on relatively flat dirt roads, Perry rode it to show excellent ability.
In addition, when Perry needed to brake when faced with a descent, the Trek Roscoe 24 brought itself to a halt with the steady and precise Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc brakes.
It’s worth noting that the bike’s steep seat tube angle (72°) gives Perry easier pedaling and also allows him to maintain a comfortable upright riding position, and the standard mountain bike head tube angle (70°) allows Perry to keep smiling even when facing a drop.
All in all, a comfortable and scientific geometry, Perry has not only become braver and dared to face more difficulties during this review period, but has also grown taller.
Yes, Perry’s progress has been evident during this review period, but this Trek Roscoe 24’s components with its high-strength alpha aluminum frame and excellent 1× drive impressed us and made Alison a firm choice for this kids’ mountain bike.
Main Features
Frame
A colorful childhood always needs a variety of colors to make it better. This Trek Roscoe 24 with its three paint color options seems to be relatively large, but these three colors are not enough in a child’s colorful world, so I wonder if it would be better if there were more color options available?
First of all, this Trek Roscoe 24 has a frame of Alpha Aluminum, which makes it stronger and more durable. The child-friendly geometry has an angled top tube, which makes it easier for kids to get on and off. Next to the clean internal cable set-up, you can not worry that the cumbersome cables cause difficulties in cleaning and maintenance.
In addition, a water bottle mounting hole in the front triangle allows your child to take the necessary water with them to keep them hydrated during the ride.
All in all, the Trek Roscoe 24’s frame design is thoughtful and scientific.
Geometry
I have always believed that great geometry is essential for a comfortable ride, so when it comes to kids’ bikes I look more at whether its geometry is detrimental to kids’ development.
The steep seat tube angle (72°) on this Trek Roscoe 24 not only makes pedaling easier for the kids, but also allows them to keep riding comfortably upright without causing hunchback problems from prolonged bending.
In addition, the standard mountain bike head tube angle (70°) not only allows your child to climb effectively at low speeds, but it also keeps the ride stable even when faced with a descent.
The seemingly relatively low BB Height (269mm) is standard enough on a child’s bike. It allows the child to have a relatively low center of gravity and can remain stable.
All in all, it seems that the scientifically thoughtful geometry data will not only make children more interested in riding and exploring nature but will also promote their healthy development.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Tourney TX80 1 x 8 Drivetrain
As you know, the TOURNEY TX is the basic component of an entry sport bike, so this is perfectly adequate for children.
For one, the 1× drivetrain is not as complicated as a 2× or 3× and the simpler 1× shifters allow kids to have more freedom to ride. Further, the Shimano Tourney TX80 is durable, stable, and trouble-free, allowing children to ride for longer periods of time.
Not only that, but the Shimano Tourney TX80 can be assembled quickly, which allows you to show off your skills in front of the kids.
Tektro MD-M280 Mechanical Disc Brake
Many people argue that since brakes are important and it is a kid’s bike, is it more desirable to use more advanced hydraulic disc brakes. I don’t deny this, after all as parents you always want better for your kids, but I must state the obvious, mechanical disc brakes are not less powerful, on the contrary, they are lighter in weight.
This Trek Roscoe 24 has Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc brakes, which are cable-actuated mechanical disc brakes. It levers will be designed to be more child-friendly, so that even with relatively little force, children can brake steadily and precisely.
You can also think about the fact that the ride will not be smooth and there will always be bumps and bruises, so this is where mechanical disc brakes, which are less expensive to maintain than hydraulic disc brakes, will be what you need.
Chen-Shin Tire
It’s hard to imagine a children’s bike with tires as wide as 2.80”, which seems a bit huge and would make many people think it’s not suitable for children. Firstly, let’s be clear that this bike is a kids’ mountain bike and there is no excuse for wider tires, and they will give kids a more stable ride.
Secondly, the large-capacity tread design provides incredible traction and cornering ability. However, it must also be admitted that wider tires are not as fast as slim tires when it comes to speed.
Other Versions of Trek Roscoe
For this review, we’ve put the Trek Roscoe 24’s Alpha Aluminum frame, Shimano Tourney TX80 1×8 drivetrain, Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc brakes, Chen-Shin tires, and other components through their paces on a real ride. To give you a more complete picture, we have found other versions of the Trek Roscoe.
There are six versions in the Trek Roscoe range, but apart from the Trek Roscoe 24, which is a kids’ mountain bike, there is also the Trek Roscoe 20, which retails for $499.99. In terms of braking and drivetrain, there is very little difference between the two bikes.
The Trek Roscoe 20 is a little smaller in terms of geometry though, and it fits little riders in the 45-52˝ height range, so if your baby is in that range, you could try the Trek Roscoe 20.
We notice that the other four Trek Roscoe versions are not children’s bikes, they are more for young people. These are the Trek Roscoe 6, the Trek Roscoe 7, the Trek Roscoe 8, and the Trek Roscoe 9, which also have aluminum frames and relatively advanced hydraulic disc brakes.
While we were also impressed by these bikes, the price tag also determined whether their respective components, or not, were excellent. The Trek Roscoe 6, which retails for $1,199, has relatively few speed options. The $2799 Trek Roscoe 9, of course, not only has a relatively larger selection of speeds, but the hydraulic disc brake and its damping fork have been upgraded.
In short, if you’re looking for a bike for your little one, Trek has something for that too; if you’re looking for a bike for yourself or an older child, Trek Roscoe has plenty of models to choose from.
What do we like about it?
- Sturdy and durable Alpha Aluminum frame that you can pass on to younger children.
- Lightweight and low-maintenance Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc brakes, so you can let your kids ride more freely.
- Careful and scientific geometry for healthy development.
- Comfortable grip for more comfortable handling.
- 1 x drive system for quick and easy shifting.
What we don’t like about it?
- Relatively poor choice of paint colors.
- Relatively large tires can be a little heavy for some people.
FAQs
- What is the frame material of the Trek Roscoe 24?
The frame material of the Trek Roscoe 24 is Alpha Aluminum.
- What height range is the Trek Roscoe 24 suitable for?
The Trek Roscoe 24 is suitable for riders between 51-59˝.
- What is the crank length of the Trek Roscoe 24?
The crank length of the Trek Roscoe 24 is 152mm.
Trek Roscoe Specs
| Trek Roscoe 24 | Trek Roscoe 20 | |
| Frame | Aluminum frame Colors: Trek Black; Azure; Rage Red to Dnister Black Fade | Aluminum frame Colors: Trek Black; Azure; Rage Red to Dnister Black Fade |
| Fork | Roscoe 24” alloy | Roscoe 20” alloy |
| Bottom Bracket | Sealed cartridge | Sealed cartridge |
| Headset | VP 1-1/8”, semi-Integrated | VP 1-1/8”, semi-Integrated |
| Saddle | Kid’s 24” size, padded | Kids’ 20” size, padded |
| Shifters | Shimano Altus M315, 8 speed | Shimano Altus M315, 8 speed |
| Cassette | SunRun cassette, 11-34, 8 speed | SunRun cassette, 11-34, 8 speed |
| Chain | KMC Z8.3, 8 speed | KMC Z8.3, 8 speed |
| Brakes | Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc, 160mm rotor | Tektro MD-M280 mechanical disc, 160mm rotor |
| Rims | 24” alloy, 28-hole, schrader valve | 20” alloy, 28-hole, schrader valve |
Video
Comparison Table
| BIKE | PRICE | DRIVETRAIN | TIRE | BRAKE | CLICK VIEW |
| Specialized Jett 24 | $550 | 1×8 | 24×2.0″ | V-brake w/ short reach lever Wire Pull Brake | Click View |
| Marin Bayview Trail 24″ | $579 | 1×7 | 24”x2.25” | Clark’s CMD-23 mechanical disc brake | Click View |
| Vitus Nucleus 24 Youth Hardtail | $681.74 | 1×8 | 24” x 2.0” | Tektro HD-M276 hydraulic disc brake | Click View |
| Co-op REV DRT | $529 | 1×8 | 24 x 2.6 ‘’ | Tektro | Click View |
Trek Roscoe 24 vs Specialized Jett 24
Both bikes are aluminum, but if I were to say the higher quality frame, I would give my vote to the Trek Roscoe 24. This is because Trek’s Alpha Aluminum frame would be stronger and have more impact resistance.
Even though both bikes are 1×8 drivetrains, there isn’t much difference in the ride because they are both Shimano.
We also note that the Specialized Jett 24 has a V-brake w/ short reach lever, which is not so popular these days. While these brakes would be lighter in weight and relatively simple in construction, they are susceptible to damage. So I would be more than willing to pay the extra $19.99 to get the Trek Roscoe 24 with mechanical disc brakes – after all, the weight, the consistent braking in all conditions, and the lower maintenance costs would be enough to make me pay for it.
Trek Roscoe 24 vs Marin Bayview Trail 24″
At first glance, the Marin Bayview Trail 24″ has a relatively small 1×7 drivetrain, but the same mechanical disc brake gives it plenty of braking power, and the brake levers are made of short-reach alloy levers, which are more suited to the strength of small children.
It has to be said that the Trek Roscoe 24’s 1×8 drivetrain has a relatively large amount of drive speed and the mechanical disc brakes are no less impressive. The wider 24×2.80” tires are also more in keeping with its mountain bike status, giving it more stability and more grip.
If you want a more stable bike with more shifting options, you can check out the Trek Roscoe 24.
Trek Roscoe 24 vs Vitus Nucleus 24 Youth Hardtail
There are many who believe that the Trek Roscoe 24’s tires are a bit wide, which may add extra weight to the bike, but if you notice the weight of both bikes, you will see that the Trek Roscoe 24 is about 0.9Ibs lighter than the Vitus Nucleus 24 Youth Hardtail.
Not only that, but the wider tires will give you more stability in actual riding. It is worth mentioning that this Vitus Nucleus 24 Youth Hardtail uses relatively advanced hydraulic disc brakes, which have a better feel and provide stable and precise braking in all conditions.
However, if you consider that kids’ rides are always full of unknowns, you’ll find that hydraulic disc brakes are relatively expensive to maintain and, at a bargain of $111, they offer a good enough ride in terms of both braking and drivetrain.
Learn more : Is Vitus Nucleus 27 VRS Mountain Splendid – [Vitus Nucleus 27 VRS Mountain Review]
Trek Roscoe 24 vs Co-op REV DRT
To be honest, as a kid’s bike, I thought a lighter weight might be better. So when I saw the weight of the Co-op REV DRT I was a little surprised that it was about 5.5lbs heavier than the Trek Roscoe 24, so I would give the Trek Roscoe 24 my vote when considering a lighter body.
There is also the same Shimano Tourney drivetrain as the Trek Roscoe 24, which makes little difference in practice, although I have to say that the hydraulic disc brakes on the Co-op REV DRT are relatively advanced, although I would prefer the mechanical disc brakes on the Trek Roscoe 24 if maintenance costs are a concern. After all, they are both powerful in terms of braking performance.
If you want a lighter, more stable, and relatively low-maintenance bike for your child, you could look at the Trek Roscoe 24.
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