Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 on Test

The Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 immediately makes one thing clear: this one’s built for the trails! With burly features you’d usually only find on full-size mountain bikes, it delivers real-deal MTB vibes for the youngest shredders. But how does this mini mountain machine fare against the competition on the test?

This individual review is part of a group test of ten balance bikes. Head this way for our
buyer’s guide and an overview of the test field.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 DOWNTOWN WEB 1 — **Kids Ride Shotgun** Dirt Hero 14 | **Weight:** 4,56 kg | **Price:** € 360
**Recommended inseam length:** 34,5–41,5 cm | Manufacturer’s Website

Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 Balance Bike on Test

The Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 doesn’t just look like a mini mountain bike, it rides like one too. And the high-quality build backs up its off-road ambitions. Thanks to chunky tires, a disc brake, and clever details like a front mudguard, frame protectors, and textured footrests, it gives little trail shredders a truly authentic taste of things to come, far off from the smooth urban bike paths.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 8813

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 DOWNTOWN WEB 8 600x400 — Great brake – but the levers aren’t ideal for tiny hands.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 DOWNTOWN WEB 5 600x400 — If it must be a disc brake, then like this: covers protect little fingers from nasty injuries.

But all that off-road cred comes at a cost. Weighing in at 4.56 kg, it’s one of the heaviest balance bikes on test. That’s fine for rough trails, but on smoother terrain, the knobby tires and the powerful (but heavy) disc brake slow things down noticeably. Moreover, the brake rotor can bend if knocked, causing annoying rubbing – or worse, getting fingers pinched. The Magura brake lever is adjustable, yet it’s still hard to reach for very small hands, which limits the bike’s usability for younger riders.

On the plus side, it’s built to grow with your kid: the frame can run 12″, 14″, or even mixed wheels, meaning it’ll serve its purpose from ages two to five.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 DOWNTOWN WEB 3 600x400 — The grippy footplate matches the Dirt Hero’s off-road focus perfectly.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 DOWNTOWN WEB 4 600x400 — Grows with your child: 12″, 14″, or a mix of both wheel sizes (MX) are possible.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 9049

Conclusion

The Kids Ride Shotgun Dirt Hero 14 delivers on its off-road promise, not just in terms of looks, but also thanks to its sturdy design and high-quality build. For future shredders who can comfortably reach the brake lever, this balance bike offers a legit entry into the MTB world. However, if you’re after a more versatile everyday option, there are lighter and more affordable options available.