Hiland 20" Kids' Fat Tire Mountain Bike vs Ecarpat 20×4 Fat Tire Mountain Bike

The Ecarpat is the better first fat bike for most teens because its front suspension softens curbs, roots and gravel that the rigid Hiland passes straight to the rider. The Hiland is lighter by about 4 lb and simpler, with no fork to maintain, so it suits riders who stay on pavement and packed paths. Both are steel, 7-speed, 20x4.0 tire bikes with mechanical disc brakes, and both are heavy for a 20-inch bike. Owners of this class of bike commonly report that the steel frame holds up but the stock components are the weak point, so plan on tuning the derailleur and brakes after assembly.

• Choose the Hiland if your rider stays mostly on pavement and smooth paths and you want the lighter, simpler bike with one less part to maintain.
• Choose the Ecarpat if your rider will hit gravel, roots or curbs and you want front suspension and a mostly pre-assembled bike out of the box.