As an introduction to riding with gears, the Ridgeback Dimension 20 inspired our six-year-old tester with confidence

Riding with gears, the Ridgeback Dimension 20 enthralled our six-year-old tester, instilling confidence in him. Confidence and enjoyment go hand in hand during early years of riding, and this bike ticks those boxes. Its design accommodates growth and removes technical complexity for parents unfamiliar with cycling. While striking a balance between price and features is challenging, the Dimension 20 manages it well.

It inspired the young rider to explore new routes and challenges, while maintaining a cheerful demeanor. The 20-inch wheels on this bike were perfect for a child who was growing out of a 16-inch wheel bike, as the size guide on Ridgeback's website indicated. The bike had a dropped top tube, providing extra standover height when standing over the saddle.

Despite being a bit big initially, the rider found it comfortable and continued using it instead of his previous Woom 3 bike. The bike featured a solid aluminium frame, wide, round tires, and a dropped top tube, all contributing to the rider's confidence. The brakes, though slightly challenging to set up, required regular adjustments.

The wide, round tires with a diamond tread provided excellent grip on various surfaces. The handlebar grips were soft and comfortable, with a protective lip to prevent slipping. The bike's drivetrain, while exposed, had protective guards around the chainring. Overall, the Ridgeback Dimension 20 offered adequate components without unnecessary features, making it an ideal choice for young riders seeking confidence and enjoyment while cycling.