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Facts
Type
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Gearing Type
Weight
4.63 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Specialized Hotwalk Carbon. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
14 reasons to buy
- With an incredibly light weight of 4.63 lb, the Hotwalk Carbon is in proportion to child weights.
- This little ripper boasts a full carbon fiber frame.
- With custom lightweight carbon rims, real spokes and proprietary sealed hubs, this bike’s wheelset is made for comfort & durability.
- 2.0”-wide Rhythm Light tires hold air, for superior bump absorption. A tester described them as “really supple” and great for off-road use at lower pressures.
- This Hotwalk uses carbon handlebars with narrow 15 mm grips, made to fit toddlers’ smaller hands.
- Beefy grip-ends protect the Hotwalk, your child and your floor, when it gets dropped on the ground.
- Contrary to toddler bike standards, the Hotwalk Carbon’s components are replaceable & repairable.
- The Hotwalk Carbon’s wheels are larger (and therefore more comfy over bumps) than those of other standard 12” balance bikes.
- The Hotwalk is fitted with an integrated carbon saddle and 22.2 mm seatpost that incorporates a carry handle.
- Moderate tire tread allows kids to switch easily between pavement and dirt.
- Unlike most balance bikes, this rig sports a real threadless headset and 25.4 mm alloy stem.
- Kids are spoiled with a choice of iridescent ‘Chameleon Oil’ & ‘Gloss Red Tint’ colorways.
- A tester notes that the Hotwalk Carbon comes with a torque wrench, for stress-free, precision assembly of carbon components.
- Rounded hub bolt-heads ensure that kids won’t get their clothes or limbs snagged. Reviewers approve.
1 reasons not to buy
- The Specialized Hotwalk Carbon costs a fortune.
Bottom line
Who is the Hotwalk Carbon really for…? Well, kids will find it easy to ride and carry, but bike-nerd parents will be the ones to rip the box open. Most toddlers’ bikes weigh a lot more - in proportion to their riders’ weight - than do adult bikes. With its carbon frame, fork, rims, handlebar and integrated seatpost/saddle combo, the Hotwalk Carbon bucks this trend. It weighs in at only 4.63 pounds. It sports comfortable, pneumatic tires – not the bouncy, solid-foam found elsewhere. A luxury toddlers’ bike isn’t for everyone, but grok this: most balance bikes are made with a limited product life in mind. The Hotwalk Carbon’s components are all repairable and replaceable, just like on big bikes. So maybe the temptation looms ever closer, to buy an incomparably sick 12” bike that can be passed through your extended family for generations? Add to that the recent 50% price-drop… and maybe this doesn’t seem so insane‽Expert Reviews
94/100 based on 4 rated expert reviewsThe Hotwalk Carbon Is a Balance Bike for Toddlers. Yes, I Tested It.
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