Dad of 3 boys here. A lot said above rings true.

Some of my personal requirements for kids bikes:
- Buy a bike that can grow a bit with the kid. The Strider was a great start early on with swappable seat posts and near infinite adjustment of the handlebars.
- Decent quality. It doesn't have to be fancy but it needs to be serviceable and strong enough to hold up to a kid...or three.
- Simple. As stated above, shocks, disc brakes, etc. seem overkill for a kid just enjoying the ride.
- Used! Honestly, kids don't care how pretty it is. Bikes are similar to cars, as soon as they leave the LBS for the first time, their value is likely cut in half. I've bought exactly 1 new bike (16" wheel) and it taught all three of my boys to pedal. It was a great bike; however, I could have saved a lot of money buying slightly used. With lots of life left in it, we recently gave it to a charity for more kids to ride.

My solution/recommendation:
- For the young kids, balance bikes are awesome. As mentioned above, Strider makes a great product.
- Once they are ready for pedals, I've found that the Trek Precaliber line meets the quality, features & simplicity criteria well.....and even the used criteria as well.

Specifics on the Precaliber line that intrigue me:
- 16", 20" & 24" tire bikes. (We have had the 16" and currently own the 20" & 24")
- 16" simple bike with a coaster brake. Has training wheels if needed. Also has a seat with a grab handle for the parents to help kids get confident on 2 wheels.
- 20" Low top/main bar for easy on off and minimal standover height. adjustable pedal position on the crank arms....the bike grows with the kiddo. Threadless headset with lots of spacers for handlebar height adjustment. Coaster and rear hand brake....best of both worlds. The hand brake in particular is very nice. It not only has end adjustment for the brake lever but also pull strength adjustment. Little hands aren't as strong as our adult hands. By adjusting the brake, you can allow for lesser force to actuate the hand brake. It took my 6 year old no time to forget the coaster brake and use his right hand.
- 24" Again, a very simple, rigid bike. Low standover height. This one is more like a small MTB. 1x7 drivetrain, adjustable brake lever stops and just overall adjustability within the bike.

As said above, used for me is key. The 16" we bought new for about $250 for our first son and all 3 boys learned on it. The 24" we purchased used for $120 and it has lasted through 2 of our kids and at least 1 prior owner. It still looks new. We recently purchased the 20" for our 6 year old. He outgrew the 16" but wasn't big enough for the 24". The 20" is perfect for him and should grow with him as he gains another 5" in height. We bought that for $80. As he outgrows that, I'll likely sell it and recoup my money.

2018 Trek Precaliber 20"