The frame, which has been pulled down considerably, measures just 29 centimetres in height at the seat tube. The standover height is correspondingly low at 62 centimetres. This means that children who usually ride 20-inch bikes should be able to cope with the MAX24. With a weight of 9.2 kilos, the MAX24 is the only bike in the test field that clearly undercuts the 10-kilo mark. Of course, as a hardtail it has an advantage over the fullys. Sören Zieher offers the option of a carbon rigid fork, which even saves another kilo. This makes the MAX24 one of the few children's bikes with a relatively healthy weight-to-weight ratio. The basis is a 1200 gram lightweight frame in combination with tuning parts such as quick-release skewers, cranks and chainring bolts. The modern cross-country style of the MAX24 is also continued in the drivetrain: the single chainring at the front (32 teeth) saves young racers from having to operate a front derailleur. And with the wide range of the sprocket package (up to 42 teeth!) there are no more excuses, even on steeper climbs. For absolute tuning dads, VPace also offers the MAX24 as a frame/fork set (€ 590). Prices may change slightly at the start of the season as this is a prototype.
Conclusion The nimble weasel among children's bikes is a thoroughbred cross-country racer. In terms of weight and equipment, the price/performance ratio is superb.
PLUS Child-friendly weight, price/performance ratio
MINUS Somewhat sluggish response behaviour
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