Early Rider Hellion 16 on Test

Mini downhiller vibes: the Early Rider Hellion 16 is built like a park bike for the youngest riders. Considering the disc brakes, chunky tires, and generally rugged spec, it’s clearly made for shredding, not school runs. But how does it actually perform on test?

This individual review is part of a group test of eight kids’ bikes up to 16”. Click here for the buying guide and an overview of all the kids’ bikes we tested.

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Early Rider Hellion 16 DOWNTOWN WEB 1 — **Early Rider** Hellion 16 | **Weight**: 7.5 kg | **Price**: € 799 | **Recommended inseam length**: 37.5 – 46 cm | Manufacturer’s Website

“Small but mighty”, that sums up the Hellion 16 perfectly. It may look like a dirt jumper, but it’s specced like a mini enduro: 140 mm disc brakes, chunky 2.25″ tires and a full-on Sixpack cockpit help kids stay in control when pump track lines get fast and landings get rough. The sturdy aluminium frame shrugs off crashes, but at 7.5 kg, the Hellion isn’t exactly a featherweight. For little shredders, that can be a big ask. The virtually silent singlespeed drivetrain demands either strong legs or a handy tow rope on the climbs.

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 8761

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Early Rider Hellion 16 DOWNTOWN WEB 6 600x400 — Gravity, baby! The sleek aluminum frame is a hit (with parents) – and available in green or purple (for the kids).

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Early Rider Hellion 16 DOWNTOWN WEB 3 600x400 — Vee Tires and disc brakes match the bike’s intended use perfectly.

Because of its niche focus, the resale value isn’t quite as high as with other Early Rider models, though still better than average.

The freewheel hub and derailleur hanger make it easy to convert to a geared setup, which is a smart touch and helps with uphill pedaling. The short chainstays add agility, but don’t expect commuter vibes here. What about everyday accessories like mudguards or a kickstand? Not included – and rightly so. The price and the components make that clear: the Early Rider Hellion 16 is built for bike park kids, not preschool commutes.

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Early Rider Hellion 16 DOWNTOWN WEB 12 600x400 — If needed, you can upgrade from singlespeed to a cassette with gears.

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Early Rider Hellion 16 DOWNTOWN WEB 7 600x400 — Top-notch: Ritchey bars and a chunky stem bring serious MTB vibes.

kinderfahrrad bis 16 zoll test quick guide Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 9443

Conclusion

For little bike park and pump track heroes, the Hellion 16 hits the mark: tough, quiet, and can even be upgraded to gears if needed. When it comes to quality and spec, it barely has any real competition among 16” bikes built for rough terrain. Sure, it comes with a hefty price tag, but the high resale value softens the blow. Just don’t buy it for sidewalk spins or kindergarten commutes – it’s wildly overbuilt for everyday life.