REI Co-op Cycles REV kids’ bikes are known for providing budget-friendly yet quality options for children transitioning from balance bikes to larger rides. From 12-inch models perfect for toddlers to 24-inch bikes for older kids ready to explore more challenging terrains, REI aims to cater to a wide range of young cyclists. The standard REI Co-Op Cycles REV series is designed for neighborhood adventures, while the REV Plus models (available in 20” and 24” wheel sizes) are built as recreational mountain bikes, featuring wider, knobby tires suitable for beginner trails or adding a cool, rugged look for street riding.
This in-depth review focuses on the REI Co-op Cycles REV neighborhood line, specifically examining the 12”, 16”, 20”, and 24” models from their updated 2022 collection. While the redesign brought notable improvements to the 16” and 20” bikes, our evaluation reveals that the 12” and 24” models still require further enhancements to earn our full recommendation. Continue reading our comprehensive review to discover the aspects we appreciated and the areas where these bikes fall short.
If you’re considering a recreational mountain bike for your child, don’t miss our detailed REI REV Plus Kids Mountain Bike Review.
REI Co-op Kids Bikes: An Overview
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL: In June 2024, a recall was issued for all 2022-2024 REV 12, 16, and 20 bike models used with training wheels. Announced by the CPSC, the recall addressed a potential hazard where training wheels could detach during riding, posing a risk of falls and injuries. This issue has since been resolved by REI.
The Co-op REV 12”, 16”, and 20” models are all single-speed bikes equipped with a coaster brake, smooth street tires, and training wheels included. The 20” bike also adds a rear hand brake in addition to the coaster brake, offering an extra level of control.
The Co-Op Cycles REV CTY 24” bike differs from the smaller models by featuring gears and dual hand brakes, omitting the coaster brake and training wheels. This model is designed for kids ready for more advanced riding.
Our recommendations lean towards the 16” and 20” bikes. We advise against the 12” and have reservations about recommending the 24” bike.
| Size | 12″ | 16″ | 20″ | 24″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recommendation Status | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | 🟡 |
| MSRP | $199 | $229 | $279 | $399 |
| Age Recommendation | 3-4 | 4-6 | 5-8 | 7-11 |
| Seat Height | 17.5″-20.5″ | 20.1″-24″ | 21.9″-27″ | 25.5″-31.5″ |
| Weight | 15.75 lb | 18.3 lb | 22 lb | 25.2 lb |
| Brakes | Coaster only | Coaster only | Coaster, Rear Hand | Dual hand |
| Gears | No | No | No | Yes |
Perks of Choosing an REI Co-op Kids Bike
For the 16” and 20” Co-Op bikes, which we confidently recommend, purchasing from REI offers several significant advantages beyond just the quality of the bike itself:
- Complimentary Professional Assembly: When you order any REI bike online and choose to pick it up at your local REI store, you receive free, professional assembly. Your bike will be ready to ride when you pick it up.
- One Year of Free Adjustments: REI provides free bike adjustments for a full year after purchase. Note: This covers adjustments, not repairs or replacement parts.
- REI Membership Benefits: With a $30 lifetime REI Membership, you unlock 20% off bike shop services and free flat tire repairs, offering long-term savings and support.
REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Inch Bike Review
MSRP: $199
SEAT HEIGHT: 17.5” – 20.5”
WEIGHT: 15.75 lb.
BRAKES: Coaster brake only
TRAINING WHEELS: Standard inclusion
RECOMMENDATION: Not Recommended – Due to overly short crank arms that compromise braking effectiveness.
While the REI Co-op REV 12” bike demonstrates commendable overall quality for its price point, we cannot recommend it due to a critical flaw in its braking system. Our testing, involving 3 and 4-year-old riders, revealed a significant challenge in engaging the coaster brake effectively and safely.
The REV 12’s coaster brake operates on the same mechanism as many standard kids’ bikes; braking is initiated by pedaling backward. However, the REV 12 is equipped with exceptionally short crank arms and small pedals. This combination results in an insufficient base for children to generate the necessary leverage for effective backpedaling and braking. During our test rides, our young testers found it exceedingly difficult to apply enough backward pedaling force to stop the bike reliably. Without a dependable braking system, we cannot endorse this model for safety reasons.
For context, our measurements indicated that the crank arm length on the REV 12 is 5mm to 20mm shorter than comparable 12-inch and 14-inch bikes. Longer crank arms provide greater leverage, making coaster brakes easier to activate. The crank arms on the REV 12 are, in fact, the shortest we have encountered on a child’s bike.
If you’re seeking a budget-friendly 12 or 14 inch bike, our sole recommendation remains the Btwin 100 14.
REI Co-op REV 16 Inch Bike Review
MSRP: $229
SEAT HEIGHT: 20.1” – 24”
WEIGHT: 18.3 lb.
BRAKES: Coaster brake only
TRAINING WHEELS: Standard inclusion
RECOMMENDATION: Highly Recommended – Excellent quality and design for its price range.
The market is saturated with affordable 16” bikes, but finding one that combines ease of riding with the durability to last through multiple children is rare. REI has successfully engineered a 16-inch bike that promises enjoyable neighborhood cruising for years to come.
Reasons to Love the REI REV 16
- Exceptional Quality and Lightweight Build for the Price: The REV 16 stands out for its robust construction and light weight, typically found in higher-end models.
- Improved Design for 2022: The updated geometry offers a more comfortable and adaptable riding experience for a broader range of children.
Important Considerations Before Purchasing
- Coaster Brakes are Standard at This Price Point: While coaster brakes (back pedal brakes) can complicate the initial learning phase, they are a common feature in this price category.
- Grip Size May Be Small for Some: The grips are notably small, which might be a concern for some children. However, they are easily replaceable if needed.
Enhanced Geometry for a Better Fit
The 2022 redesign of the REI Co-op 16 inch bike marks a significant improvement over previous versions. Addressing past geometry issues, REI has implemented subtle yet effective changes that make this bike a better fit for more young riders.
Featuring higher handlebars and a lower minimum seat height, the 2022 REI REV 16 accommodates a wider range of sizes more naturally. Its lower bottom bracket and shorter crank arms are designed to optimize pedaling comfort and efficiency by reducing excessive knee lift during pedaling.
Sizing Insights
The REI REV 16 offers a seat height range of 20.1” to 24”. Below, you can observe two 4-year-olds of different heights fitting comfortably on the bike.
On the left, our tester measuring 42.75” tall has the seat set at 21.1”. On the right, a 44.75” tall rider has their seat at 22.75”. Both riders are positioned to touch the ground with their tiptoes, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
While the taller rider on the right remains comfortable on the REV 16, the handlebar position is lower relative to their waist and closer to their knees, altering their posture slightly. This results in a slightly perched riding position with arms extending more downwards than forward. Despite this, the fit remains adequate for continued use over several months. However, for children of this size, the REV 20 would be a more proportionally appropriate upgrade.
The optimal fit window for the REV 16 is somewhat narrower than ideally desired, a common characteristic among budget-friendly kids’ bikes. Overall, the REV 16’s design and fit are superior to most other 16” bikes in the same price range.
Lightweight Frame Benefits Young Riders
The Co-op Cycles REV 16 kids bike boasts a high-quality aluminum frame, similar in construction to premium bikes. This aluminum frame is key to the REV’s significantly lighter weight compared to most 16” bikes with heavier steel frames.
Given children’s lighter body weight, bike weight is a critical factor. Ideally, a bike should weigh no more than 30% of a child’s weight. Lightweight construction is typically costly, making the REV series exceptional for achieving weights comparable to or even lighter than more expensive bikes.
| Bike Model | REV 16″ | Schwinn Elm 16″ | Commencal 16″ |
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