
Kulana Girls’ Makana 24” Cruiser Bike
- The Kulana Girls’ Makana 24’’ Cruiser Bike offers a coastal-kick back feel with a colorful, fun cruiser style. It features a comfortable cruiser spring saddle, a layback seatpost, and coaster brakes. The 24” wheels have steel fenders for the complete classic look, while protecting from mud, rain, and sand. The cruiser handlebars are easy to reach and simple to steer.
Are you looking for a high-quality bike to get your child started on two wheels? The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is an excellent choice for young beginners learning to ride. With its durable yet lightweight frame and kid-friendly features, this bike provides a smooth, stable, and comfortable riding experience.
This buying guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Kulana 24 Inch Bike to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your child. We’ll cover the key features, pricing, sizing information, reviews from other buyers, and tips on where to purchase this popular kids bike. Let’s get started!
Key Features of the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is packed with features to make learning to ride enjoyable and safe for kids. Here are some of the most notable elements of its design:
- Lightweight aluminum frame – The bike weighs just over 21 pounds, making it easy for young riders to handle and maneuver. The durable aluminum frame supports kids up to 105 pounds.
- Single-speed drivetrain – The single-speed design eliminates the need for hand brakes and shifters, simplifying operation. It allows kids to focus on pedaling and balancing.
- Coaster brake – The coaster brake is activated by pedaling backward, providing a safe and familiar braking method for beginners. It brings the bike to a smooth stop.
- Upright handlebars – The swept-back handlebars allow for an upright riding position. This gives kids better control and visibility.
- 24-inch wheels – The medium 24-inch wheels provide stability and comfort while not being too big for younger riders.
- High-traction tires – Wide street tires with durable treads enhance traction on various surfaces, from sidewalks to trails.
- Adjustable seat – The seat can be easily adjusted as your child grows to provide the ideal fit.
- Training wheels – For added stability, the bike comes equipped with two removable training wheels. These can be taken off once your child is ready to balance solo.
- Kid-friendly accessories – The bike includes coordinating streamers, bell, and a rear safety reflector for visibility.
With these features providing stability, safety, and simplicity, the Kulana 24 Inch Bike allows kids to quickly gain confidence on two wheels!
Sizing Recommendations for the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is designed to fit kids in the approximate age range of 5 to 9 years old. Here are more detailed guidelines on sizing:
- Ideal rider height is 3’10” to 4’8″
- Minimum inside leg length is 18.5 inches
- Fits kids weighing up to 105 pounds
Keep in mind that the minimum height is just a guideline. The most important factor is your child’s inseam measurement to ensure they can comfortably reach the pedals.
The bike is available in one standard size. However, the adjustable seat height provides plenty of flexibility. It can be raised or lowered between 26 inches to 30 inches to customize the fit.
Standard training wheels provide extra stability if needed for shorter riders. As your child grows, the bike seat can be adjusted upward to accommodate their increasing height.
Review the size chart and measure your child before purchasing to ensure the Kulana 24 Inch Bike will be a great match. This will allow the bike to grow with them in the coming years.
Where to Buy the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is sold through select online and local bike retailers. Here are some of the best places to find it:
- Amazon – Amazon offers hassle-free shipping and regularly has the lowest prices on Kulana bikes. Often available with Prime free shipping.
- Walmart – Kulana bikes can be purchased online or in-store at Walmart. Frequent sales and rollbacks make this a budget-friendly option.
- Target – Target sells the Kulana 24 online and in retail locations. Expect low everyday pricing.
- Local bike shops – Visit specialty bike stores in your area to test ride and purchase the Kulana bike. Expert assembly and tune-ups are often included.
For convenience and savings, we recommend buying online through major retailers like Amazon. But you can’t beat evaluating the bike in person at a local bike shop. Shop around for the best deal!
How Much Does the Kulana 24 Inch Bike Cost?
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike provides excellent value at a mid-range price point. It is a very budget-friendly option compared to many kids bikes.
The standard MSRP for this model is $229.99. However, the bike is frequently available for less than the list price.
Here are some examples of current pricing:
- Amazon price: $194 with free shipping for Prime members
- Walmart price: As low as $159 during Rollbacks & Special Buys events
- Target price: Around $210 for everyday low pricing
- Local bike shops: Anywhere from $180 – $250, depending on sales and tune-up packages
For the quality, features, and brand reputation, the Kulana 24 is very reasonably priced between $160 – $230. Buying at the start of biking season will provide access to the best deals.
Many retailers offer extra discounts on the bike when purchased as part of a set with a helmet, lock, training wheels, and other cycling accessories. Take advantage of these bike bundle sales to maximize savings.
Age Recommendations for the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is designed for elementary and middle school aged children. The ideal age range is approximately 5 to 10 years old.
Here is a closer look at recommending this bike model by age:
- ** Ages 5-6** – The bike may be too large for most 5 to 6 year olds. Consider the Kulana 16 Inch Bike instead. If your child is on the taller side, the 24 inch model can work with training wheels.
- Ages 7-8 – This is the ideal age for transitioning to the Kulana 24 Inch Bike, either as a first bike or upgrade from a smaller size. Kids are ready for the adult-looking styling.
- Ages 9-11 – Kids in this age range can comfortably ride the 24 inch Kulana at its maximum seat height. The bike will last for years through age 10+.
Keep in mind that height, inseam length, and coordination are more important than age. Carefully check the sizing recommendations. The Kulana 24 can work for tall 5-6 year olds and is a great pick for the 5’ to 5’4” range.
Is the Bike Suitable for Beginners?
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is an excellent starter bike for beginners. The single-speed design, coaster brakes, and training wheels make it very user-friendly for new riders.
Here are some key reasons why it works well for beginners:
- Minimal hand brakes/gears simplify the riding process
- Low 21 pound weight is easy to balance and maneuver
- Upright body positioning for comfort/control
- Wide tires provide stability and prevent tipping
- Adjustable seat supports growing kids at early stages
- Removable training wheels build confidence before solo riding
- Durable and forgiving aluminum frame for handling minor bumps/falls
The Kulana 24 transitions well from training wheels to independent riding. As skills improve, kids will be prepared to advance to more complex bikes.
While suitable for the 5+ age range, keep in mind that body size is more important than age. Ensure your child meets the minimum height requirements. The ease of use makes it a top choice for younger beginners.
Materials Used in the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike provides a lightweight yet sturdy construction to support new riders. It utilizes quality materials across the frame and components.
Here are the key materials used:
- Aluminum alloy frame – The aluminum keeps the bike lightweight at 21 pounds while still providing durability. It won’t rust and resists wear and tear.
- Stainless steel handlebars – The steel bars add stability and absorb vibrations on bumpy terrain. They are strong but flexible.
- Rubber bike grips – Durable rubber grips improve comfort and control while steering. They provide cushioning and slip resistance.
- Alloy rims – Aluminum alloy rims are highly responsive when pedaling and braking. They hold up well to demanding riding conditions.
- Double-walled tires – The tires have thick sidewalls for puncture resistance and stability. The rubber tread enables excellent traction.
- Plastic fenders/chain guard – These accessories are made from flexible plastic polymers to shield from splashes, mud, and grease.
Parents can feel confident the Kulana 24 is made with high-quality materials from the sturdy frame to the thick tires. It is built to safely support kids during the early learning process.
Putting Together the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
Assembling the Kulana 24 Inch Bike out of the box is a straightforward process. All of the required tools and hardware are included.
Here is an overview of the assembly steps:
- Use the multi-tool to loosen and remove any pre-installed bolts and bindings.
- Insert the handlebar stem into the frame and align it with the front fork. Tighten bolts with included Allen wrench to secure in place.
- Attach each pedal to its crank arm, threading the left one counterclockwise and the right clockwise. Use the pedal wrench to fully tighten.
- Inflate the tires to the PSI marked on the sidewalls using a pump with pressure gauge.
- Install the seat post at the desired height per your child’s measurements. Adjust the saddle angle and tighten securely.
- Replace any loose bolts on racks, fenders, etc. and verify components are attached sturdily.
- Snap on the streamers and bell. Ensure the reflector bracket is fixed properly.
With an adult’s mechanical aptitude, the assembly process takes less than 30 minutes. Having a tune-up done at a bike shop is recommended to ensure safety. But the bike comes with clear instructions for DIY installation.
Color Options for the Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike is available in three fun color choices. This allows kids to pick a stylish ride that fits their personality:
- Lime Green – The signature Kulana color has a bright green frame with yellow and white accents. This vibrant option adds kid-friendly flair.
- Purple – Featuring a deep purple frame with white and pink details, this color is perfect for girls.
- Blue – A blue frame coupled with black and grey accents gives this a cool, sleek look. Great for boys.
All models share the same components and features. The only difference is the main frame color and matching accents on the rims, handles, seat, etc.
With colorful options like these, it’s easy to find a Kulana 24 Inch Bike to match your child’s taste. The lime green is most common, but check for availability of the purple or blue bikes.
Reviews of the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike earns very high marks in customer reviews across top retailers. It consistently receives 4+ out of 5 star ratings for its quality, value, and ease of use.
Here is a sampling of the positive feedback shared online:
- “Easy for my 6 year old to ride right away. She loves it!”
- “ Sturdy but not too heavy. My son took off riding without the training wheels the first day.”
- “Assembly was quick and uncomplicated. The directions were clear.”
- “Very smooth and steady on our neighborhood sidewalks. My daughter feels in control.”
- “It looks sharp and the soft seat is comfortable for my granddaughter.”
- “Great beginner bike for the price. I would recommend it to anyone starting kids off biking.”
From impressively easy assembly to comfortable, exciting rides, buyers agree this is a top-notch bike for younger beginners. The quality and performance are as good as the low price.
Warranty Information for the Kulana 24
Kulana offers a standard limited lifetime warranty on the frame and fork of the 24 Inch Bike. This protects against defects in materials and workmanship.
The bike’s components and parts are covered by a more limited 1 year warranty. This covers manufacturer defects from the original purchase date. Normal wear and tear is not included.
Proof of purchase is required for any warranty claim. The bike must have been assembled by an authorized retailer. Damage from accidents, improper use, or neglect void the warranty.
Replacement parts can be requested through Kulana’s website. They will ship directly to you for DIY repair. For full bike replacements, contact the original seller.
The lifetime guarantee provides peace of mind. Inspect tires, brakes, wheels and handlebars periodically for safety. Overall, the bike is made to outlast normal use with proper maintenance.
How Does It Compare to Other Bikes?
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike stands out from competitors for its very lightweight aluminum frame, single-speed ease of use, and overall value.
It compares favorably to popular bikes from leading brands like Huffy, Schwinn, and Roadmaster. Key advantages include:
- Lighter weight than most steel frames
- Beginner-friendly coaster brakes
- Higher quality components than big box brands
- More durable and responsive than bikes half its price
- Sportier styling than typical kid bikes
While not as sophisticated as premium brands like Prevelo and Cannondale, the Kulana 24 provides an impressive 90% of the performance at 50% of the cost.
It strikes a great balance of quality, simplicity and affordability. This makes it ideal for cautious parents starting their kids off biking. It delivers everything needed for success.
Riding Long Distances on the Kulana 24
While best for neighborhood rides, the Kulana 24 has the durability to handle moderate distance trips on flatter terrain. The lightweight frame makes it easier for kids to ride a few miles without getting exhausted.
It performs best for joyrides of 1 to 3 miles at a time. This allows kids to explore the neighborhood and build endurance. The single speed is less ideal for extended climbs.
Consider these tips for longer rides:
- Inflate tires to maximum recommended PSI for lower rolling resistance
- Tighten handlebars and seat to limit vibrations
- Use thicker padded saddles and grips to increase comfort
- Equip with bottle cage and hydration pack for water
- Bring snacks to refuel during mini breaks
- Start with flat areas before tackling small hills
- Plan the route to avoid unsafe roads and intersections
With preparation, the Kulana 24 can capably handle medium-distance trips for confident young riders. Just be sure to gradually work up to avoid overexertion.
Maintenance Tips for the Kulana 24 Inch Bike
Simple preventative maintenance is the key to keeping the Kulana 24 bike running smoothly for years. Follow these tips:
- Lubricate the chain monthly with bike chain oil or lube
- Check tire pressure weekly. Inflate to the PSI marked on the sidewalls.
- Inspect brake function by spinning the wheels and activating the coaster brake
- Wash gently with soap and water to prevent dirt buildup. Avoid high-power hoses.
- Check for loose bolts and tighten hardware as needed with basic tools
- Replace worn brake pads annually or as friction decreases. A bike shop can help.
- Watch for wheel/handlebar alignment and contact Kulana for replacement parts if bent.
- Store indoors when not in use to prevent rust, sun damage, etc.
- Consider professional tune-ups every 6 months to spot issues
With routine care, your child’s Kulana 24 Inch Bike will maintain that smooth new feel. The longevity equals the value.
Finding Discounts on the Kulana 24
While already very reasonably priced, it is possible to save extra on the Kulana 24:
- Shop end of season sales in fall and winter months as retailers discount inventories.
- Sign up for email alerts to receive special coupon codes and sale announcements directly from Kulana and leading retailers.
- Buy bundled packages that include helmets, locks, and other riding gear alongside the bike to maximize savings.
- Consider gently used bikes via classified ads and resellers to save over 50% off retail pricing.
- Negotiate at local bike shops to match or beat prices from online vendors. Many offer discounts on accessories with purchase.
- Use credit card points and rewards to secure statement credits on large sporting goods purchases.
With some smart shopping tactics, you can potentially buy the reliable Kulana 24 Inch Bike for under $150. Invest the savings into assembly, safety accessories, and tune-ups.
Accessories Included with the Bike
The Kulana 24 comes with several helpful accessories right out of the box:
- Set of training wheels – Provide stability for new riders until ready to balance solo. Easily removable.
- Kickstand – Keeps bike upright for stopped parking. Made of durable steel.
- Bell – Lets kids get attention and announces them on paths. Attaches to handlebars.
- Streamers – Colorful additions to the handlebars for fun decoration and visibility.
- Reflectors – Rear reflector improves visibility in low light. Critical safety feature.
- Fenders – Prevent splashes and mud from spraying kids while riding in wet conditions.
- Full chain guard – Keeps clothing from catching in the chain while pedaling.
These useful add-ons come standard with the bike. Several accessories can also be purchased separately for customization.
The Durability of Kulana Bikes
Kulana constructs the 24 Inch Bike to be extremely durable for daily use by active kids. It is built to last through years of rides.
Key elements that boost its longevity include:
- Durable aluminum alloy frame that resists dents and bending
- Steel handlebars that maintain integrity if dropped
- Double-walled rims for added wheel strength
- Thick puncture-resistant tires that prevent flats
- Sealed cartridge bottom bracket for smooth pedaling
- Full length chainguard that protects moving parts
- Rust-resistant components that withstand outdoor storage
- Powder-coated paint for extra protection from chips and scratches
While kids should care for the bike properly, the Kulana 24 is made to withstand occasional minor bumps, scrapes and falls without issue. The quality ensures you’ll get an excellent return on investment.
Riding on Rough Terrain
The Kulana 24 performs admirably on most surfaces, from sidewalks to dirt paths. The wide tires provide plenty of stability and traction.
It can handle mild to moderate trails with some key considerations:
- Lower tire pressure slightly to absorb impact on bumpy ground.
- Shift child’s weight back when descending and keep a stable center of gravity.
- Use extra caution on loose surfaces like gravel, sand or mud.
- Equip with upgraded puncture-resistant inner tire tubes.
- Clean dirt from frame and components after off-road use to prevent wear.
- Tighten bolts regularly as vibrations can loosen hardware over time.
While the Kulana 24 has off-road capabilities, stick to smoother beginner trails. Technical single-track mountain biking trails exceed the bike’s design limits.
Weight Capacity of the Bike
The Kulana 24 Inch Bike has an excellent weight capacity of 105 pounds. This allows the bike to grow with kids for years as their size and abilities progress.
Weight recommendations by age:
- 5 to 7 years old – Ideal for average weights of 40 to 75 pounds
- 8 to 10 years old – Safely supports weights up to 105 pounds
- 11+ years old – Children exceeding 105 pounds require a larger bike
The bike is engineered with a durable aluminum frame, steel handlebars, and double-walled rims to provide stability for heavier kids within the limits.
Always reference the height chart instead of age recommendations to confirm a proper fit. Carefully consider maximum weight guidance as exceeding it poses a safety risk.
Comfort for Daily Rides
Several smart design choices make the Kulana 24 Inch Bike a very comfortable option for regular neighborhood rides:
- Upright geometry – Promotes natural positioning without needing to hunch over handlebars. Reduces strain on back, shoulders and neck.
- Padded saddle – Wide cruiser-style seat with ample foam cushioning for superior comfort on longer trips. Easy to adjust angle and height.
- Ergonomic grips – The rubber grips allow a relaxed hand position for steering. They prevent hands from slipping off the bars.
- Smoothed welds – No protruding joints or brackets contact the rider. Prevents irritation and discomfort.
- Built-in suspension – The lightweight aluminum frame and sturdy steel fork provide flex to absorb vibrations in the arms and body.
- Narrow Q-Factor – Keeps pedals aligned closely to eliminate knee strain during pedaling.
While exercising and building fitness, kids won’t even realize it because the Kulana 24 Inch Bike promotes such an easy, natural and fun riding position for hours of enjoyment.
Models for Boys and Girls
Kulana designed the 24 Inch Bike to appeal to both boys and girls with its gender-neutral geometry and components.
The bikes roll off the assembly line identical with no differences in sizing or quality. The only variation is the trio of color options:
- Green – Unisex primary color suitable for boys or girls
- Purple – Traditionally feminine color perfect for girls
- Blue – Bold tone fits boy’s preferences
Since the frames, tires, brakes and other mechanics are identical, there is no performance advantage to choosing one color over the other.
Let your child’s personal style and preferences guide the color selection between the green, blue and purple choices. Then enjoy years of quality riding on their new Kulana bike!
Conclusion
From its kid-sized durable aluminum frame to beginner-friendly features like coaster brakes and training wheels, the Kulana 24 Inch Bike checks all the boxes for an ideal starter bike. It provides a high-quality experience that will build skills and last for years.
Following this comprehensive buying guide, you can make an informed decision and buy with confidence. The Kulana 24 is ready to deliver countless smiles and memories as your child masters the exhilaration of two wheels!