​Giant STP 24 FS children’s bike: An affordable fun machine for young MTB riders

​Conclusion from the BIKE editorial team

The STP 24 is a specialist in trails, jumps and off-road riding. Hardly any other children’s hardtail offers such durability. However, its heavier weight does limit its suitability for longer rides. A robust bike for keen trail and bike park kids.

Giant describes the STP 24 as a dirt bike, yet it is designed and equipped more like a classic trail hardtail. Whatever you call it, its purpose is clear. With chunky tyres, a long-travel suspension fork, hydraulic disc brakes and a dropper post, this 24-inch bike is a great companion for proper off-road riding, jumps or even the bike park. Giant’s aim is to offer young riders with trail ambitions a more affordable alternative to high-priced full-suspension bikes. At 1,200 euros, the bike sits pretty much in the middle of the range for sporty MTB hardtails with suspension forks for children.

Not without compromises

A glance at the scales makes it clear: you can’t get this level of performance without making compromises. At least not in this price range. 12.25 kilos is a lot for a high-quality 24-inch children’s hardtail. Long rides and climbs aren’t quite so easy on this bike. However, the STP proved thoroughly impressive during trail testing. The air suspension fork responds sensitively and can be perfectly adjusted even for riders weighing around 20 kilos or more. That in itself is a rarity on the market and one reason why the STP cannot compete on price with the very cheapest children’s bikes. However, you really need proper terrain and an ambitious riding style to make full use of the suspension fork’s generous 100 mm travel.

Facts about the Giant STP 24 FS

• ​Wheel size: 24 inches
• Suspension travel: 100 mm suspension fork
• Recommended sizes:
• Weight: 12.25 kg (weighed in the BIKE laboratory)
• Price: 1,199 euros >> available here

Shredder or bike kid?

It’s important to make a realistic assessment of the young rider and their intended use of the bike. Are real trails the main focus, perhaps even regular use of a bike park with a lift? And is the child a little Jackson Goldstone who likes to hone their jumping technique on berms and jumps? Then the STP 24 is just the ticket. On gentle rides and with a more cautious riding style, however, it’s hard to make full use of the reserves provided by the fat tyres and the great suspension fork. Nevertheless, the 24er bike offers plenty of safety and confidence even on those first, gentler rides over roots.

Highs and lows in terms of features

The telescopic seat post is a feature that every child will love. It can be operated intuitively and effortlessly, even by small hands, and the 100 mm of extra travel offers real added value. Very few children’s hardtails come with this luxury as standard. The brakes also bite well, although slightly shorter levers would suit small children’s hands even better. The gear range of the 9-speed drivetrain isn’t particularly generous. Combined with its heavy weight, this means steep or long climbs aren’t the STP 24’s strong point. So: if an expensive full-suspension bike isn’t an option, but you still need full off-road capability on the descents, the STP 24 FS is in its element.