Learning how to ride a bike is probably one of the most exhilarating experiences of one’s life, regardless of whether one does it during childhood or as an adult. Nothing compares to the unique freedom of biking, combined with the pleasurable physical exertion.
But if you like doing stunts and tricks, you may have discovered that a regular bike just doesn’t cut it. For that, you’re going to need the best wheelie bikes.
Bikes that are designed for doing wheelies feature better stability, a well-positioned saddle, a shorter chainstay, and a more compact wheel. You can learn more from our buying guide.
To help you find the right bike, here are our top picks, reviewed!
Reviews of 13 Best Bike for Wheelies
We know you’re excited to get started on doing those wheelies, but you can’t do it without the right bike! Here are the 13 best ones currently on the market. We hope you find the right one!
1. Dynacraft Tony Hawk BMX Freestyle Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Dynacraft |
Item Weight | 31.09 Pounds |
Load capacity | 275 lbs |
Wheel size | 2 Options (20″ & 24″) |
Frame Material | Steel |
Brake style | U Brake |
Suspension Type | – |
Number of speeds | Single Speed |
Colors | 3 Options |
Warranty | One Year |
The Dynacraft Tony Hawk Park Series 720 is built for passionate riders who seek a blend of style, comfort, and performance. It’s brimming with superb features so that you can perform your favorite stunts with ease without damaging the bike.
This 24” BMX bicycle features an elegant and stylish frame with neon green accents, giving it an authentic “Tony Hawk” profile. So, just by looking at it, you’d be able to tell it’s built for stunts! The frame itself is sturdy enough to withstand years of abuse.
The Promax rear U-brakes give you fantastic stopping power to help you pull out the trickiest stunt without any trouble. You will feel a sense of confidence the moment you place your hands on the handlebar that offers superior grip, strength, and functionality.
You will find the saddle seat to be quite comfortable. The smooth chain set, high-quality fork, and fluid paddles make your riding astoundingly enjoyable. You can feel free to go for this bike as long as your weight doesn’t exceed 275 pounds.
Pros
- Eye-catching frame design complete with Tony Hawk graphics
- Super-easy and comfortable to ride
- Ready for all sorts of BMX stunts
- Features exceptionally reliable brakes
- Ensures smooth and stable ride on almost any terrain
Cons
- Wheel bearings can seem somewhat sloppy
2. Mongoose Legion Freestyle BMX Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Mongoose |
Item Weight | 8 Kilograms |
Wheel size | 3 Options (16, 18 & 20 Inches) |
Frame Material | Steel |
Brake style | U Brake |
Suspension Type | Rear |
Number of speeds | Single Speed |
Colors | 3 Options |
The Mongoose Legion Freestyle Sidewalk BMX bike is the perfect BMX ride for your children as it offers a smooth riding experience. It’s built with top-notch components and boasts smart engineering to help them break their limits!
This model comes with a stylish design complete with aluminum mag wheels and bearings that are neatly sealed, making it an absolute head-turner! At its core is Mongoose’s own premium-grade Hi-Ten steel frame and a robust fork that make it outstandingly durable.
Besides, these components ensure your children get to ride in complete comfort. For offering a steady and fun ride, this thing comes packed with high-quality 40x16T gearing, and sturdy 170mm cranks made with steel material.
The wheelset and hubs are nothing short of incredible as they are both stylish and functional. Thanks to the cable detangler, the handlebar will spin a whole 360-degree, allowing your children to perform the trickiest tricks possible!
Being so easy and enjoyable to ride, this one is obviously one of the best BMX bikes you can get for your kids! Both beginners and advanced riders will love it.
Pros
- Comes with the popular Mag wheels for style and performance
- Features premium-grade frame and fork for enhanced durability
- Sports multiple freestyle pegs and a cable detangler for ensuring smooth stunts
- Fitted with alloy rear U-brakes that offer faster and secure stops
- Provides a nice combination of balance and stability
Cons
- The cranks come a bit too tight out of the box
3. Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Schwinn |
Wheel size | 4 Options (24, 26, 27.5 & 29 Inches) |
Frame Material | 2 Options (Steel & Aluminum) |
Brake style | 2 Options (Disc & Linear Pull) |
Suspension Type | Front |
Number of speeds | 7-21 Speeds Options |
Colors | 10 Options |
Our top pick today is from one of the most trusted names in bikes: Schwinn. The High Timber mountain bike is one of their most popular creations, and it’s quite easy to see why.
If you’re looking for a dependable aluminum bike that will allow you to do tricks as easily as it will convey you to your commute destinations, this bike is a good place to start. It’s sturdily built, yet lightweight, allowing you ultimate control over your ride.
This bike has been optimized for smooth and easy riding, which can be seen in its integration of an alloy crank that not only makes for easier maintenance but steady, stable gearing.
Furthermore, the bike’s wheels have been fitted with knobby tires of considerable width to ensure stability and consequently, your safety. Speaking of which, there’s no doubt that you will also appreciate the ease with which the seat’s height can be adjusted, enabling you to perform wheelies more smoothly.
Although this bike is certainly primed for doing wheelies, however, it’s more suitable for those of you who are also looking for a dependable regular riding bike. It might not stand up well to heavy or continuous tricks.
Pros
- Available in a number of attractive colors to suit your aesthetic
- Crank made from sturdy alloy to ensure steady gearing
- Low maintenance and easy to clean
- Integrated with 21 different speeds and twist shifters for easy stunts
- Sturdy yet lightweight aluminum construction
Cons
- Some of the components are poorly made
4. Huffy Stone Mountain Women’s Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Huffy |
Package weight | 42.68 Pounds |
Wheel size | 3 Options (20, 24 & 26 Inches) |
Frame Material | Steel |
Brake style | Linear Pull |
Suspension Type | Front |
Number of speeds | 21 Speed |
Colors | 6 Options |
Who said boys should get to have all the fun when it comes to doing bicycle stunts? This next pick has been selected especially for the ladies. Available from Huffy, this is one of the most sought-after women’s mountain bikes currently on the market. Here’s why.
Available in a wide variety of frame and wheel size specifications, this bike sports a strong and long-enduring steel construction that promises to see you through all of your adventurous trail rides as well as your commutes. Its wheels, constructed from robust alloy, are painted matte black to provide a sleek aesthetic.
With 21 speeds available, this bike will allow you to achieve all of your stunt dreams. This is facilitated by the bike’s efficient suspension system, which lets you take on bumps in the road with grace and confidence.
We love the knobby quality of the tires on this bike as well; combined with the micro-shift twist shifter, they make for a more stable wheelie experience. Meanwhile, the ATB saddles come with padding to keep your feet feeling comfortable on the trail.
Pros
- Equipped with 21 speeds to fulfill all your mountain biking dreams
- Outfitted with a Shimano rear derailleur and micro-shift twist shifter
- Wide, knobby tires allow you to do tricks with ease
- Available in 6 attractive colors for every kind of aesthetic
Cons
- The gear system might not be up to par for some users
5. Mongoose Status 2.2 Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Mongoose |
Package weight | 44.3 pounds |
Wheel size | 26 Inches |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Brake style | Linear Pull |
Suspension Type | Dual |
Number of speeds | 21 |
Colors | 2 Options (Black, Red) |
No matter how long you’ve been riding bikes or researching them, there are very low chances that you haven’t already come across Mongoose.
With nearly 5 decades of experience in producing tough, high-efficiency bikes, this is a brand that is understandably trusted by many. The Status, designed for both women and men, is the ideal choice for daily commuting and light stunts.
This bike boasts a durable and powerful aluminum frame that works with a full suspension system to ensure that you have a smooth yet thrilling ride.
The rear shock and suspension fork work together to protect you from the road’s vibrations, while the 21-speed Shimano rear derailleur combines with the SRAM twist shifters to allow you to enjoy effortless quick shifting.
Adding to this are the bike’s knobby, strong wheels, which are equipped with sturdy alloy rims for enhanced durability. Meanwhile, the riser handlebars give you greater control while riding.
Whatever kind of trail you’re on, or whatever tricks you’re interested in performing, Status 2.2 comes to fulfill your needs and wishes at an affordable price.
Pros
- Suitable for use by both male and female riders
- Long-enduring yet lightweight and easily maneuverable aluminum MTB frame
- Fitted with both rear and front V-brakes for quick, easy stops
- Attractively designed riser handlebar with prominent end plugs
- Comes in teal and black/red color options
Cons
- Some parts are likely to have lower durability
6. Mongoose Title 24 BMX Race Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Mongoose |
Item Weight | 22.7 Pounds |
Load capacity | – |
Wheel size | 24 Inches |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Brake style | Linear Pull |
Suspension Type | Rigid |
Number of speeds | Single Speed |
Colors | Red |
The Mongoose Title 24 BMX race bike is perfect for both beginners and returning riders. It comes at a surprisingly affordable price, allowing you to enjoy premium features and quality without spending a fortune! With this bike, you can push yourself and reach newer heights.
Featuring a Tectonic T1 aluminum frame, this is one of the lightest BMX bikes out there, weighing only 3.44 pounds. That doesn’t mean it’s any less durable than others because it’s strong enough to last a long time. Furthermore, an integrated headset along with internal cable routing gives this thing added protection.
Thanks to the excellent drivetrain with 175mm cranks and 42T chainring, you will love how smoothly this bike rolls on the road. The riding comfort is further enhanced by the outstanding wheelset and hub featuring Arisun XLR8 24’’ tires.
Aided by the alloy v-brakes, you’ll have total control over the speed whenever you take this model out for a ride. The Hi-Ten Chromoly handlebar combined with an amazing fork offers superior handling so that you can pull off any stunt you want to impress your peers! All in all, it’s a great ride on a budget.
Pros
- An affordable bike that comes with Mongoose’s premium features and quality
- Incredibly lightweight thanks to the Tectonic T1 aluminum frame
- Offers a smooth riding experience ensured by a high-quality drivetrain
- Comes with reliable v-brakes for offering quality speed control
- Offers superior handling thanks to the superb handlebar and fork
Cons
- Unfortunately, the seat isn’t adjustable at all
7. Schwinn Bonafide Mens Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Schwinn |
Package weight | 39 Pounds |
Wheel size | 29 Inches |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Brake style | Disc |
Suspension Type | Front |
Number of speeds | 24 |
Colors | 2 Options (Matte Black, Red) |
Warranty | 5 Year |
If you liked the sound of our first Schwinn pick, you’ll certainly get excited when you read about the Bonafide men’s MTB. This 24-speed bike, with its super strong yet lightweight aluminum frame, figures as the perfect bike with which to begin practicing your wheelies.
Boasting Schwinn’s renowned suspension fork, this bike incorporates Shimano derailleurs for smooth and easy gear-shifting while on the trail. The mechanical disc brakes in both the front and rear allow you to enjoy dependable and strong stopping power no matter what kind of terrain you’re on.
We love the knobby wheels on this thing, which are optimal stunt aids. Their alloy rims are built for ultimate durability, but you wouldn’t be able to guess it from how lightweight they are.
Plus, maintenance is also easier with this bike, thanks to the integration of Schwinn alloy cranks. All that being said, it’s also true that this bike is somewhat overpriced.
Pros
- Knobby wide tires are ideal for mountain and trail riding
- Shimano derailleurs and EZ Fire trigger shifters allow you to perform stunts with ease
- Highly efficient rear and front mechanical disk brakes make for dependable stopping power
- Schwinn suspension fork and 24-speed system combine for perfect wheelie conditions
Cons
- Some of the parts might wear out sooner than others
8. SAVADECK Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | SAVADECK |
Package weight | 12.5 Kg |
Wheel size | 3 Options (26, 27.5 & 29 Inches) |
Frame Material | Carbon fiber |
Brake style | Disc |
Suspension Type | Hydraulic Suspension Fork |
Number of speeds | 27 |
Colors | Black Grey |
After looking at a crop of some of the best aluminum and steel bikes on the market, it’s time to move on to one of the most highly-rated carbon fiber models out there.
This pick of ours is specifically for those of you who are serious about your mountain bikes and are looking to do some hardcore stunts (including wheelies!).
The Toray T800 is one of the most lightweight bikes we have come across. This is somewhat in contrast to how strong the bike is, thanks to the excellent quality construction and the integration of premium fittings and parts.
This includes the sought-after Shimano M200 Deore derailleur system, which is one of the main reasons why riding this bike is such a smooth experience.
We also love the internal cable routing of this bike, which allows for reliable airflow over the entire bike and works with the disc brake to allow for dependable stopping power.
The bike’s hydraulic fork suspension, moreover, allows you to enjoy a smooth ride and efficient stunting. Is it expensive? Yes. But good bikes usually are, if you haven’t noticed!
Pros
- Equipped with some of the most high-quality Shimano parts and fittings
- Hydraulic fork suspension and disc brake system combine for smooth stopping power
- Super strong yet ultra-lightweight carbon fiber construction for serious mountain bikers
- Designed for smooth and easy usage by both men and women
Cons
- One of the most expensive mountain bikes on the market
9. Roadmaster – 26 Inches Men’s Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Roadmaster |
Package Weight | 40.8 Pounds |
Wheel size | 26 Inches |
Frame Material | Steel |
Brake style | Linear Pull |
Suspension Type | Front |
Number of speeds | 18 |
Colors | – |
Next on our list is an efficient and powerful men’s mountain bike from Roadmaster that will fulfill the needs of the daily commuter as well as the thrill-seeker. Equipped with a strong and durable steel frame, the Granite Peak is a great budget choice.
So, let’s look at some specs. This bike comes with 26-inch wheels, making it ideal for riders with a height between 5’4″ and 6’2″- clearly, a versatile bike. We also love the unit’s suspension system, which combines with the 18-speed twist shifters to give you a smooth ride and an enjoyable time on the trail.
It’s worth noting that the parts on this bike might not match up to your expectations if you’re hoping that it will last many years. Given the price, however, we think that’s unsurprising. At this range, the Granite Peak is one of the best mountain bikes you can find.
Pros
- Rear and front linear pull-brakes allow for smooth and quick stopping power
- The 3-piece mountain crank and sturdy alloy wheels enhance the bike’s durability
- Fully adjustable, tool-free seat height
- The seat is equipped with premium padding for your comfort
- Knobby tire treads are ideal for stunts and tricks
Cons
- Not the most durable mountain bike out there
10. Hyper Shocker 26″ 18-Speed Men’s Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Hyper Shocker |
Package Weight | 48.2 Pounds |
Load Capacity | |
Wheel size | 26 Inches |
Frame Material | Steel |
Brake style | Linear Pull |
Suspension Type | Dual |
Number of speeds | 18 |
Colors | – |
While we’re on the topic of affordable yet efficient mountain bikes for men, we would be remiss to skip this selection from Hyper Bicycles. This 26″ bike is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a good model to start practicing your stunts and do daily commutes with, without breaking the bank.
The frame of this bike has been constructed from steel, and it has been outfitted with highly capable linear-pull rear and front brakes that give you dependable stopping power on any kind of terrain.
Riding this bike is also super comfortable, thanks to its padded MTB seat and ergonomically designed resin pedals. The rear derailleur does leave something to be desired, but it works perfectly for the purpose of performing or practicing light stunts.
On the whole, you shouldn’t expect too much from this bike (consider its price!); however, if you’re looking for a good starter bike, this is a great choice.
Pros
- Ideal for beginners experimenting with tricks
- The rear derailleur and three-piece crank let you enjoy a smooth ride
- Alloy seat clamp offers smooth quick-release operation
- The sturdy steel frame makes for a dependable daily commuting bike
- Enhances riding comfort with padded seat and resin platform pedals
Cons
- Might disappoint you in terms of durability
11. Hiland 27.5 Inch Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | HH HILAND |
Package Weight | 39 Pounds |
Wheel size | 27.5 Inches |
Frame Material | Aluminum |
Brake style | Disc |
Suspension Type | Front |
Number of speeds | 27 |
Colors | Grey |
Next on our list is a premium-quality aluminum bike, available from Hiland. This is one of the most highly rated bikes on our list, and it’s easy to understand why that is when you consider its specifications and capabilities.
One of the determinants of a bike well suited to doing wheelies is a lightweight build that gives way to easy maneuvering.
On that front, this bike certainly exceeds expectations, with a super lightweight construction that is built to handle rough riding. Adding to this is the bike’s highly-efficient brake system, which is made up of dual hydraulic disc brakes.
Meanwhile, the 27-speed shifters allow you maximum control and efficiency while riding. Coupled with the bike’s lock-out suspension fork fitting, it lets you live your best wheelie life on any sort of terrain. Plus, the 19.5-inch frame hits the sweet spot for riders of most heights and builds.
Pros
- Comes 85% assembled, leaving you to do very little work
- Purchase includes required assembly tools and complimentary pedals
- Available in 18-inch and 19.5-inch size specifications to suit most riders
- Equipped with a high-performing dual hydraulic disc brake system
Cons
- Assembly might be difficult for inexperienced users
- Some of the bike’s components are poorly made
12. Huffy 26″ Nighthawk Men’s Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Huffy |
Package Weight | 40.3 lbs. |
Wheel size | 26 Inches |
Frame Material | Steel |
Brake style | Linear Pull, Disc |
Suspension Type | Front |
Number of speeds | 18 |
Colors | Matte Black |
Our penultimate pick in the best wheelie bikes today is our second selection from Huffy. Be it on the trail or off it, for casual rides around town, or for hardcore stunts, the Nighthawk is one of the best men’s mountain bikes on our list.
No, we’re not just saying that! This bike, with its 18-speed shifting system and hardy front suspension, is primed and ready for your wheelie adventures, allowing you to make fluid transitions from casual riding to stunt performance.
What’s more, you get to enjoy a smooth yet powerful stopping power thanks to a dual disc brake and a rear alloy linear-pull brake that work together to give you confidence while you ride.
Meanwhile, weather-resistant alloy rims enhance the bike’s overall durability. The ATB saddle is padded, giving you a comfortable ride and a quick-release binder clip for effortless adjustments.
Pros
- Front suspension fork enhances stability while doing tricks
- Resin pedals give you optimum grip while riding
- Wheel’s tires have a knobby texture for easy riding in any terrain
- Weather-resistant rims for enhanced durability
Cons
- Has a weight capacity of 250 pounds, not suitable for heavier riders
13. Tommaso Gran Sasso 29er Mountain Bike
Product Specifications:
Brand | Tommaso |
Package weight | 30.8 lbs |
Wheel size | 29 Inches |
Frame Material | – |
Brake style | Disc |
Suspension Type | – |
Number of speeds | 24 |
Colors | Matte Black/Gloss Black |
Nothing says durable and reliable as much as this mountain bike from Tommaso. Featuring a super lightweight frame, you’ll be covering distances at great speeds. Made of high-quality aluminum, the frame is sturdy and will survive wear and tear like no other.
What’s more, the 29er wheels have extra grips that allow you to speed past anything in your path. This is particularly good for cycling on mountains as it sweeps out any rocks or roots that come your way. Paired with the Shimano disc brakes, you will obtain controlled braking.
Furthermore, the lightweight Shimano drivetrain is well renowned for its ability to cover uneven grounds. Along with comfort, you get a 24-speed gearing to give you a wide range of gears to shift from and enjoy smooth tricks and stunts with.
In addition, the full group of Shimano sets includes the cranks as well. This is important as the bike sets need to be compatible with one another. Mixing components tend to drastically reduce the performance of the bike, so, Tommaso uses the full groupsets.
Pros
- Rugged wheels with extra grip to climb rocky surfaces better
- Uses 3 piece Shimano groupset which ensures optimum performance
- Aluminum frame reduces overall weight while ensuring durability
- 24-speed gearing gives you more speed settings to choose from
Cons
- The crank arm tends to deteriorate faster than other components
Final Verdict
The best bike for wheelies comes with a lightweight build yet offers enhanced stability for safe and fun stunting. The Mongoose Legion Freestyle Sidewalk Bike fits these criteria and more.
Looking for a more affordable ride? The Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike should suit your needs well.
We hope your wheelies are always on point. Don’t forget to strap up!
What to Look for Before You Buy
So, you’re ready to start doing wheelies, but you’ve realized your existing bike won’t get you there. For this purpose, here’s what to keep in mind before you buy your new bike.
Bike Type
First and foremost, what kind of bike do you want to get? BMX bikes are obviously best suited for the purpose of stunts and tricks, due to their sturdy build and compact wheels. However, if you’re going to be using your bike for regular riding as well, you can look into mountain bikes and jump bikes.
Frame Material
The build quality of the frame of the bike determines the durability and smoothness of almost every other component. As such, it’s important to pay attention to what it’s made of. You can choose from aluminum, steel, titanium, and carbon.
The majority of affordable bikes these days are made from steel alloy or carbon steel. These are durable, dependable, and sturdily made.
However, they might be too heavy for the purpose of doing stunts, particularly if you’re inexperienced. Aluminum might appeal to you, as it’s not only lightweight but also affordable and long-lasting.
If you have a big budget, you can consider a bike made from carbon fiber, which is highly sought-after due to its lightweight yet substantial build and superior resistance to harmful externalities.
Titanium is also a good choice as it guards against rust and scratching while offering a highly comfortable and vibration-free ride. It will cost you a pretty penny, though.
Brakes
Brakes are a crucial consideration when buying a bike for any purpose. Generally, you can choose from mechanical disk brakes and hydraulic brakes. Due to recent innovations, however, you can also find bikes with linear-pull, direct-pull, and V-brakes. So, which one should you go for?
If you prioritize high gripping power, you’re better off sticking to a bike with a traditional brake system. However, for the purpose of smooth trail riding and doing wheelies, disc brakes might be a better option as they are more resistant to heavy movement.
If you think you’ll be using your new bike more for commuting than doing tricks and stunts, then it’s best to consider hydraulic disc brakes. These offer reliable stopping power and modulation, enhancing your bike’s overall durability.
Wheels
To do wheelies, you need a bike with lightweight yet strong wheels. As such, off-road wheels are a good place to start. If you think your bike will frequently be exposed to rough terrain, look into extra protection.
Suspension
Whether or not the bike you select is equipped with suspension greatly influences its ability to handle tricks and stunts. This is because a bike with suspension is able to move more smoothly, which comes in handy when attempting wheelies. It also ensures your safety.
Seats
You should, of course, select a bike with comfortable seats. However, this is not the only consideration.
It’s preferable, when doing wheelies, to have the advantage of being able to adjust the seat height. This allows you greater flexibility when experimenting. BMX bikes in particular are usually designed for easier seat height customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Also called a wheelstand, a wheelie is a special trick done by a motorcycle or bicycle rider where the entire weight of the bike is transferred to the rear wheel, while the rider raises the front wheel high in the air.
You need the right bike and lots of practice. Start by leaning back, allowing the vehicle to balance on your rear wheel. Then keep pedaling with the handlebars up.
Some slight damage is unavoidable. But riding bikes that are meant for heavy usage, e.g., those with higher stability and a strong suspension system, ensures lower damage.
Jump bikes are the best choice if you’re relatively inexperienced. However, if you already have some practice, picking out a BMX bike might be a better choice.
Just like every other stunt, yes, wheelies are dangerous; you might trip and fall over. So, if you’re attempting them, make sure you’re decked out in a helmet, mouth guard, and of course knee and elbow pads!