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Trek MT 220: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Cyclists

October 30, 2023

Trek MT 220: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Cyclists | PedalChef

‍ Key Takeaways

  • The Trek MT 220's adjustable features make it an ideal long-term investment for growing children.
  • Regular maintenance and understanding wear patterns ensure the MT 220 delivers a consistently smooth ride.
  • The MT 220 stands out among other kids' mountain bikes with its reputation and unique features.

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‍ As young bike riders grow, finding the perfect bike can be tricky. Enter the Trek MT 220, a highly adjustable smooth ride that adapts to their riding style.

The Trek MT 220 combines a lightweight Alpha Aluminum Fork frame, a Dialed suspension fork with 45mm travel, and responsive braking from alloy levers. These features are perfect for tackling off-road terrain. This ensures smooth gear changes when riding on bike paths or challenging dirt roads.

This mountain bike caters to kids' unique requirements, offering the perfect balance of performance and comfort. We tested this bike in numerous conditions to see how it handles different terrains. This review includes everything you need to know about this bike to decide whether it's a perfect fit for what you need.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Trek MT 220 Overview

The Trek MT 220 is a fantastic choice for young cyclists looking for their first mountain bike. As a part of Trek's impressive lineup of kids' bikes, the MT 220 offers a lightweight and durable construction suitable for off-road riding and bike paths.

One of the key features of the Trek MT 220 is its highly adjustable frame, making it an ideal option for growing kids. The bike's Dialed frame size offers adjustable ball components that make it possible to cater to your child's specific sizing needs.

Additionally, the Alpha aluminum fork provides a smooth ride with excellent stopping power, perfect for all types of terrain, including dirt roads.

We appreciate the MT 220's 24-inch knobby tires that provide optimal traction on a variety of surfaces, from pavement to trails. The bike also features an adjustable suspension fork with 40mm to 50mm of travel, giving riders a more comfortable experience on rough terrain.

Despite its lightweight, the Trek MT 220 is built to last with its high-quality Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, strong wheels, and durable components. This great bike will grow with your child, making it the perfect investment not just for the present but for future adventures as well.

Fundamentals of Cycling With The Trek MT 220

Understanding bicycle mechanics.

When it comes to mountain bikes like the Trek MT 220, it's important to familiarize yourself with the key components and how they function. This way, you'll be able to diagnose and fix any issues that may arise while riding.

The bike's frame is made of Alpha Aluminum, which is lightweight and sturdy, essential for a smooth cycling experience. The Dialed SR Suntour suspension fork with 50mm travel supports a comfortable ride on various terrains, absorbing shocks and vibrations.

The front derailleur and rear derailleur support the precise shifting of the bike's 21 gears

The bike's knobby tires provide excellent grip and traction on different surfaces, including dirt roads and bike paths. The padded seatpost offers additional comfort, making long rides more enjoyable.

Essential Cycling Skills

As a young cyclist, learning essential skills for safe and enjoyable mountain biking is vital. First, focus on how you use the brakes.

Be familiar with the front and rear brake levers and learn to modulate the pressure to avoid sudden stops or skids. Practicing changing gears on different terrains will help you maintain an optimal cadence throughout the ride.

Lean inwards while turning and keep your weight centered on the bike by lowering your outside foot. Develop the skill to safely ride over roots, rocks, and other obstacles commonly found on mountain bike trails.

Correct Postures and Techniques

Maintaining correct postures and cycling techniques will ensure a comfortable and efficient ride on the MT 220. You can maintain a neutral spine with a slight bend in the elbows and knees for better control and shock absorption.

Keep a firm but relaxed grip on the handlebars, preventing unnecessary tension in the arms and shoulders. Adjust the saddle height to allow a slight bend in the knee when your foot is at the bottom of the pedal stroke.

Also, you should be looking ahead. Keep your eyes on the trail, scanning for obstacles and planning your line accordingly. Understanding your Trek MT 220's mechanics and mastering essential skills and techniques will ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience in various terrains.

Detailed Trek MT 220 Bike Features

Gear system.

The Trek MT 220 has a 21-speed gear system that allows young riders to transition smoothly between different terrains. With a front Suntour XCM derailleur and an SRAM 3.0 rear derailleur, handling hills and flat surfaces is a breeze for most kids.

Its SRAM 3.0 Dialed shifters are easy to use and provide an efficient and accurate gear change. This system is a standout feature for bikes in this class.

Safety is a top priority for kids' bikes, and the Trek MT 220 delivers with its responsive braking system. The alloy levers ensure excellent stopping power, giving riders more confidence while navigating dirt roads and bike paths.

Wheels and Tires

The Trek MT 220 is fitted with 24-inch wheels and Bontrager SX 2.0-inch knobby tires. These tires offer a strong grip on dirt trails, providing young cyclists with stability and control during their off-road adventures.

The MT 220 features a lightweight Alpha White Series Aluminum frame that is sturdy and durable. In addition, the bike's Dialed suspension fork with 50mm of travel ensures a smooth and comfortable ride on various terrains, from pavement to rugged trails.

The adjustable cranks make the bike highly adaptable, accommodating growth spurts and ensuring a dialed frame size for a more personalized fit.

Trek MT 220 Bike Maintenance

Keeping your Trek MT 220 in top shape isn't tricky with the right guidance. Let's dive into some handy maintenance tips to ensure smooth rides for years to come.

Routine Checkup

As parents, we understand that keeping our kids' bikes in prime condition is essential for a safe and enjoyable ride. We suggest conducting routine checkups to ensure the Trek MT 220 remains a reliable choice.

Start by inspecting the brakes, tires, and gears for any signs of wear. It's important to keep an eye on the suspension fork and front and rear derailleur to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Bike Cleaning and Storage

Keeping your child's Trek MT 220 clean and stored properly prolongs its lifespan and helps maintain its performance. After rides on dirt roads or muddy trails, gently hose down the bike, focusing on removing debris from the chain, gears, and tires.

Once it's dry, store the mountain bike in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to prevent rust.

Understanding Wear and Tear

A certain amount of wear and tear is expected as your child takes their Trek MT 220 for long rides and challenging trails. However, understanding when wear starts affecting performance is necessary.

Keep an eye out for frayed cables, worn brake pads, and stretched chains. If your child complains of a stiff ride, inspect the suspension fork or the front suspension for any stiffness or damage.

Long-Term Bike Maintenance

Besides regular checkups and cleaning, the Trek MT 220 may require more in-depth maintenance. Since kids grow fast, it's important to ensure the bike remains adaptable to their size and skills.

The Alpha Aluminum fork on the Trek MT 220 is designed to endure, but it may need servicing or replacement after significant use.

How Long Does The Trek MT 220 Last?

If we're trying to provide a general timeframe for the longevity of a Trek MT 220 with moderate use and regular maintenance, we could say that the bike, as a whole, could last anywhere from 3-5 years before major components might start to show significant wear or require replacement.

However, keep in mind that within those 3-5 years, certain parts like brake pads, tires, chains, and cassettes might need more frequent replacements depending on usage. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, kids might outgrow the bike within this timeframe.

Overall, this bike provides a highly adjustable smooth ride. The platform components' saddle position can also be adjusted to help with comfort. Plus, the padded seatpost steel design makes it last even longer.

A heavier rider or a rider with an aggressive style can wear out a bike faster than a lighter rider or one with a more conservative style. The MT 220 is light weight and designed for children. As they grow, they might need a larger bike to ride comfortably. So typically, this is a solid bike for about three years.

Is The Trek MT 220 Worth Buying?

The Trek MT 220 is popular among parents and young riders looking for a dependable and versatile kids' mountain bike. Let's examine whether it's worth buying, especially in comparison to other bikes.

One of the standout features of the Trek MT 220 is its two pedal positions. This design allows the bike to grow with the child, offering a closer pedal position for younger riders and a farther one for them as they grow.

Trek is a well-established brand known for producing reliable bicycles, and the MT 220 is no exception. However, while it may offer certain advantages, other bikes might be in the market with additional features or a different price point that could also be appealing.

For many, the MT 220's adaptability and Trek's reputation make it worth buying. So we highly recommend this bike.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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Is the Trek mt 220 A Good Kids Mountain Bike? [Trek 220 MT Review]

Table of Contents

When it comes to the eve of the holiday season, children always look forward to a one-of-a-kind gift. This is something that adults have a harder time appreciating.

But how do you do it in a practical way that also makes the children happy? My suggestion is that you give a mountain bike. This is a thorough review of the Trek mt 220, and we will explain what the Trek 220 has to offer, including the pros and cons, step by step.

Trek 220 Boys

Because this bike is not available in all areas, I will also provide alternatives to assist parents who are purchasing mountain bikes for their children.

Features of Trek mt 220

Alpha aluminum frame.

Trek mt 220, Alpha Aluminum Frame

The Trek MT 220 is available in two frame styles: MT 220 Boys and MT 220 Girls. The new models available today are the Trek mt 220, which was produced between 2014 and 2015, and both frames come in a variety of great colorways.

The Trek MT 220 Boy’s frame has a triangular shape and a quick-release rear fork, making assembly and maintenance simple for hands-on parents.

3X7 drivetrain

Trek 220 mountain bike 24 inch

The Shimano Tourney is a low-cost accessory, but as a regular mountain bike, parents will not allow their children to go on dangerous mountain rides, and with 21 gears, it’s a good way to get kids comfortable with mountain biking.

When compared to the same price point of children’s mountain bikes, it still has a number of advantages in the drive train. When you take your child on outings, they will naturally learn how to be most comfortable with the gearing and may be able to ride more difficult racing mountain bikes in the future.

Dialed suspension

Trek mt 220 Mountain bike

The Trek mt 220 is outfitted with a Dialed suspension with 45mm travel. We can’t compare it to an adult mountain bike, but the damping effect reduces the impact of rough roads and allows for riding on cobblestone roads in the park. Because it has a 24-inch rim, it can only have a shock fork with so much travel, which is a reasonable design.

A mountain bike like the Trek mt 220 provides more peace of mind for growing boys and girls who are always curious when riding terrain they haven’t ridden before.

Alloy linear-pull brakes

The extremely simple Alloy linear-pull brakes can reduce the weight of the body and at the same time, the Trek mt 220 brakes have good braking power in general terrain, which is again different from adult mountain bikes. A great kids mountain bike will give your child more confidence riding over rough terrain, and the Trek mt 220 brakes do just that.

24×1.85″ Tires

Trek mt 220 Mountain bike, 24x1.85" Tires

The small 24″ inch tires are able to roll smoothly over rough ground. And the 1.85″ wide mountain tires also have great grip and are more responsive, with nimble steering and easier riding that kids love to ride. XR1 tires are perfect for kids to provide plenty of off-road traction while offering low rolling resistance, making it easy for kids to keep up with the sidewalk.

Adjustable cranks

The adjustable crank length of 127mm – 152mm is a modification designed to help smaller children who can’t reach the pedals while riding. Because it is adjustable, the height at which it can be ridden can be increased, making the Trek 220 a more cost-effective option.

Trek mt 220 specs

  • What is the weight of the Trek mt 220?

About 27.3 pounds, which is one of the lightest mountain bikes in the same price range for kids.

  • How much weight can the Trek mt 220 handle?

The Trek mt 220 has a weight limit of 160 lbs.

  • What body colors does the Trek mt 220 come in?

Trek MT 220 Girl’s: Rage Red, Seeglass Trek Black/Flaming Ro Trek MT 220 Boy’s: Trek Black, Lime Green

  • How much is the Trek mt 220 worth?

Current used Trek mt 220’s are selling for $68 when in relatively good condition.

What we like about the Trek mt 220

  • The aluminum frame is very light in weight
  • Available in both male and female frame types and in a variety of paint colors
  • 3X7 drivetrain allows kids to learn everything about mountain biking
  • Adjustable cranks to accommodate small riders of all heights
  • Easy and convenient Alloy linear-pull brakes allow kids to ride with more confidence on the mountain

What we didn’t like about it

  • The paint job is not very strong
  • Alloy rims need to be maintained so that they don’t rust and become unusable
  • Plastic pedals, easily damaged

Comparison Table

Trek wahoo 24 vs trek mt 220.

Trek Wahoo 24

The Trek Wahoo 24 is the most formidable rival to the Trek 220. It has an Alpha Silver Aluminum frame, the most popular 1X8-speed drivetrain, and 1.95-inch wider mountain tires.

However, it lacks a shock-front fork. As a result, it’s a compromise to use a lighter aluminum frame at the same price point. If you live in an urban area, the lightweight Trek Wahoo 24 would be an excellent mountain bike for your child’s first foray into mountain biking.

Despite the fact that it is, by definition, a hybrid bike, it is unaffected by minor road imperfections. It also has a very light weight of 20.11 lbs. It’s simple for kids to gain confidence while riding the Trek Wahoo 24, and they can still commute on a versatile kids’ bike.

Mongoose Argus ST vs Trek mt 220

Mongoose Argus ST

Mongoose is well-known for their Fat Tire Mountain Bike, as well as their children’s mountain bikes. As a result, the quality of Mongoose Argus ST is also very high. In addition, the 24 x 4 inch knobby mountain fat tires offer excellent stopping power and traction in sand and snow.

Furthermore, the Trek mt 220 tires are only 1.85″ wide. A mountain bike that can be ridden in the snow and still get you around in the winter. The maximum load capacity is 250 lb. This is a colossal figure for other children’s mountain bikes. However, it is not the ideal child’s mountain bike; it is heavy, and this is something that many parents complain about.

Allow your child to ride the Mongoose Argus ST Youth Fat Tire Mountain Bike if you want him to lose weight by riding a mountain bike.

Learn more: Mongoose Kong Fat Tire Mountain Bike Review – Best Kids MTB

CLEARY Meerkat Kids’ Bike vs Trek mt 220

CLEARY Meerkat

Known for its sturdiness and safety, the CLEARY Meerkat Kids’ Bike is more about its durability and the use of brakes. No matter which bike you choose for your child this is something to consider. With the CLEARY Meerkat Kids’ Bike, you get: 1020 alloy steel frame, sturdy alloy 3-piece Crankset, Sturmey Archer DLC-50 Trigger shifter shifters, hydraulic disc brakes.

Because of these well-known in high-end accessories, this children’s bike is not in the low price range. But, to my surprise, it’s not cheap: just under $600 to get the job done. When compared to the Trek mt 220, the 5-speed is easier to grasp and provides the child with more riding confidence.

Despite the steel frame, the overall weight is very light at only 25lb 3oz. Finally, the high-quality brakes make for a more secure ride. Try the CLEARY Meerkat Kids’ Bike if you want your child to have a better riding experience.

Diamondback Cobra 20 vs Trek mt 220

Diamondback Cobra 20

Can my child ride a mountain bike if he is younger?

Yes, the Diamondback Cobra 20 is appropriate for young riders ranging in height from 44″ to 54″ and ages 4 to 9. And the Diamondback Cobra 20 comes with a popular accessory package that will delight boys looking for a high-quality mountain bike.

You will receive: DB Shimano 6-speed drivetrain, HL Zoom 40mm travel fork, Hi-Ten steel frame powerful brakes, and 6-speed transmission will get your child started exploring the neighborhood range. There is 5mm less fork travel than on the Trek mt 220, but this isn’t the most noticeable difference.

Your child will quickly learn how to use the trigger shifter with 1X6 speed numbers. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your child, the Diamondback Cobra 20 is also a great mountain bike worth checking out.

Learn more: Best 20-Inch Bikes For 6-13 Years Old Kids Bikes (With Gears)

Final Verdict (4.5/5)

Whether it’s a boy or a girl, following their parents on a ride to an outing would be a wonderful picture. And the Trek mt 220 is a very good mountain bike with a sturdy body structure and low stand-up height, simple and easy to grasp frame geometry that will quickly increase your little one’s riding confidence. We ended up giving the Trek mt 220 a rating of 4.5/5.

In my experience, the Trek MT220 24 bike is a dependable option for kids in search of a reliable and durable mountain bike.

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trek mt220 review

trek mt220 review

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Trek MT 220 Boys Kids

trek mt220 review

  • USER REVIEWS

great durabilty. my son has beat this bike up severely and no problems yet other than proper maintenance. if properly maintained will last for years.

tubes and tires are the cheapest in my opinion , but what should you expect. upgrade asap and they will do fine.

very good to best true mountain bike for kids at a great price. my son has really learned the fundamentals of biking and beyond in this bike . he enjoys it very much. i enjoy him riding with me in the trails . we go out and test our limits together. we have confidence in trek.

Similar Products Used:

This is a nice product that has held up well. Many adjustable features on it (stem, pedals, etc).

kinda heavy...but what do I expect for $250?

Overall this a nice ride that my daughter has enjoyed and now my sons will also get to ridse and grow with it.

previous bike was a pink job purchased at a yard sale

It is very strong and durable.

The bike rattles a lot when going downhill fast.

It is a very good bike for the beginner and / or the intermediate rider. I have had it for 3 or more years and I have had no major problems. The only problem I have had was the gears becoming sticky, but proper maintenance will solve that small inconvenience. My overall rating of this bike is great.

Nice frame, and adjustability

Would love to see a decent fork on a kids bike!

Upgraded my son to this bike last year after riding a 20" wheeled Gary Fisher for a year. We swapped on some Kenda Small Block Eight tires for less resistance on hardpack and blacktop. He rode this bike in his first 15 mile charity road ride (Iron Tour) and put 30 miles on in one day in Jim Thorpe on the the Switchback and Lehigh Gorge trails. The upgraded freehub with a 34 tooth big cog gave him confidence on the hills, but he rarely uses it any more. I would reccomend that inexpensive upgrade to anyone who rides in hilly areas to help their kids learn to use their gears to their advantage. He used to hate hills but now sees them as a challenge and feels good when he tackles a tough one. The only other upgrade I would make to this bike would be a better fork, but I can't find one for a 24" wheel and threaded headset. I would highly reccomend this bike to anyone looking to start their child out on a quality montain bike.

Gary Fisher Cosmo

Bulletproof, very fit specific, excellent stsrter bike

A litle on the heavy side for kids

MY kid has been stompin this bike since day 1 and not the first mechanical problem yet. Stands up well to his constant airing it out over anything he can find. This bike is burly and well built compared to the hotrock and some of the other starter bikes.

Overall a great beginner bike. Small frame size with 24" wheels provides the best combination for a 10 y.o. 51" tall kid. Strong frame and highend components.

Rear derailer mount is a bit weak. The rear derailer twisted back when a stump was run over. This was easily fixed but now twists back with ever increasing ease. SRAM grip shifters would be nice to upgrade.

Excellent choice for a kid looking for a quality bike but cannot handle a 26" wheel. Nice light bike with an excellent very low gear.

Kona Mekena

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trek mt220 review

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

2011 MT 220 Boy's

2019 Precaliber 24 7-speed Boy's

2019 Quick 24 Boys

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Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

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Trek MT220 Chain?

trek mt220 review

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Just picked up a craigs list bike for my son - Trek MT220 - needs a chain as there is one link that has a kink and it doesn't go around the derailer well - what size chain does this use? It's a 21 speed bike.  

trek mt220 review

7-speed chain, though some others will work. Try LBS or Nashbar. Nashbar - Mountain Bike Chains  

Thanks, I thought that's what it would be but wanted to check.  

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Trek MT 200

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Looking at a Trek MT 200 for my 11 year olds first MTB. Looking for something a little bigger (24") and nicer than my 9 year olds Schwinn Ranger. But want to keep it under, about $350 and a 7 speed....he is very new to bike riding and not even sure he is going to pick it up like his younger brother. Any information would be appreciated  

trek mt220 review

High tensile steel frame = HEAVY for kids. Specialized Hotrock 24" 7 speed has a MSRP of $370 but that is high retail. Most bike shops will sell it for $330 Specialized Bicycle Components Just out of curiosity...are you sure your 11 year old will not fit a small frame 26" wheel bike?  

mtnbiker72 said: High tensile steel frame = HEAVY for kids. Specialized Hotrock 24" 7 speed has a MSRP of $370 but that is high retail. Most bike shops will sell it for $330 Just out of curiosity...are you sure your 11 year old will not fit a small frame 26" wheel bike? Click to expand...

Hey.. my first post here (lurked for a while and I ride a Treck 6000 hardtail) I'm looking for something to replace my almost 10yo son's hand-me-down from the neighbor kid Schwinn 20" BMX bike. We looked at some cheaper bikes at the be retailers, and the Schwinn Ranger 24 was the only one that stood out to us, but at 40lbs, it seemed heavy and I didn't read glowing reviews of it. The Trek MT 200 was also heavy and we crossed that off our list (for that price, we can get a lighter bike from another brand) Right now, for the 24" $300-350 range, we're looking at a Raleigh Scout XC, Novara Tractor and a Specialized Hotrock.  

Yeah, my 11 year old is tiny.....only about 1" taller than his 9 year old brother. He could almost get away with a 20" but I went ahead and purchased a 24". We started out heading toward the Trek....ended up with a Giant Boulder Jr., less money ($289 OTD) and I think even a little less weight than the Trek....the main thing was the fit...it will fit him good now, and allow him to grow. I am thinking (and hoping) that he will get a good couple years out of it. Thanks for the insight folks, my oldest is stoked, and I really think he has a solid bike to learn on, without spending an arm and a leg. Win-Win  

REI didn't have the Scout XC built, so they are building us one. Said they shoud have it ready tomorrow. My son liked the fender on the Novara Tractor, but I thought the Scout XC was a better bike and better value (on paper), so if we go with it, I'll get him a rear fender to make him happy.  

AWESOME!!!! Two different bikes and I think we both accomplished the same result. Good bikes, and happy kids  

So the hunt goes on for us. REI just called and someone screwed up and they actually didn't have the bike we wanted.  

Wow.. I was way over thinking, way over analyzing and whatever... In the end, we're being limited to whatever we can find... our choices wound up being the Novara Tractor ($300), Haro Flightline 24 ($on sale for $300), Trek MT 220 ($390), Scott Voltage JR 24 ($360), Diamondback Octane 24 ($270) or Kona Hula ($440). Out of these, we made our decision. We'll be going shortly to pick up a Haro Flightline 24 in Black and Green.  

If anyone is looking for one of these, and you have a Sun and Ski Sports store near you, they are on sale until Sunday. yes, I'm padding my posts so I can put up pictures later. (only 2 more to go!)  

trek mt220 review

Keep an eye on Craigs List. There are a lot of quality specialized hotrock and trek mt aluminum framed kids bikes that come up for sale, usually about 1/2 of MSRP.  

You are 100% right. I have two appointments Sunday to take looks at two bikes for the kids. Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk  

trek mt220 review

New to the single track scene myself, once I caught the bug I was dying to get my 10yo involved. My neighbor practically gave us a minty Trek MT200 that is a cheap and practical way to get my son in the woods. Can it be lighter? Sure. Can the components be "better"? Sure...but who cares? He won't be on it for long before he's on a 26er at which time I can sell it for what I bought it for and snag something for him that is more serious. I'm avoiding the trap of spending $300+ for something a kid won't notice the difference on.  

trek mt220 review

DucatiRider said: I'm avoiding the trap of spending $300+ for something a kid won't notice the difference on. Click to expand...

trek mt220 review

Huh. I was looking at these thinking no shock = lighter (and really those shocks seem virtually useless). Didn't realize it was steel. The MT60 is aluminum.  

There is a guy on here that built a really light 20" MTB for his kid using a Trek MT60 as a starting point. I'm doing the same. I bought a used Trek MT60 for $70 and stripped most of the stuff off of it. The frame is pretty light, but the cranks, fork, tires, saddle and seatpost are REALLY heavy. The crank is easy to replace, but it's hard to find a fork (rigid or suspension) that is the right size. The saddle and seatpost are also really heavy but were easily replaced with lighter stuff from my used parts bin. I'm changing the drivetrain and so that means rebuilding the wheels- the challenge there is finding the right size 20" wheel spokes. When the wheels are done I may also change out the tires.  

DIY shorten an old manitou fork into a 20" suspension fork that is way lighter than any new suspension fork you can buy new; http://forums.mtbr.com/families-riding-kids/suspension-fork-shortening-932945.html For help building lightweight 20" wheels, see thread http://forums.mtbr.com/families-rid...-wheel-build-40lb-rider-need-help-891768.html 330 gram 20" Schwalbe Moe Joe tires are a worthy upgrade that can shed a bunch of rotational weight compared to OEM tires.  

Cool! Update this thread as you go. Pics are appreciated.  

I'm going to give your suggestion a try. I'm looking for a Manitou three or four. It is funny seeing people selling these things on ebay for over $100 dollars. What are they thinking? I raced on those in the 90's and even then they were terrible. Why in the world would you want one as an adult these days when there are so many better forks that were made only a few years later. Do did you modify a Manitou three?  

melchionda said: I'm going to give your suggestion a try. I'm looking for a Manitou three or four. It is funny seeing people selling these things on ebay for over $100 dollars. What are they thinking? I raced on those in the 90's and even then they were terrible. Why in the world would you want one as an adult these days when there are so many better forks that were made only a few years later. Do did you modify a Manitou three? Click to expand...

I cant figure out how to post pictures in these threads. Any one offer any help? Edit - Never mind I got it....  

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  1. Trek MT 220: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Cyclists

    The Trek MT 220 has a 21-speed gear system that allows young riders to transition smoothly between different terrains. With a front Suntour XCM derailleur and an SRAM 3.0 rear derailleur, handling hills and flat surfaces is a breeze for most kids. Its SRAM 3.0 Dialed shifters are easy to use and provide an efficient and accurate gear change.

  2. Trek MT 220 Boys Kids

    Trek Kids' MTB bikes deliver true off-road-ready features in a kid-sized package. Knobby tires, lightweight frames, quality components, and durable construction will take them where they want to go. very nice kids bike and good components. the wheels are not to good. I bought this bike used for $30.00 at church sale.

  3. Is the Trek mt 220 A Good Kids Mountain Bike? [Trek 220 MT Review]

    The Trek mt 220 is outfitted with a Dialed suspension with 45mm travel. We can't compare it to an adult mountain bike, but the damping effect reduces the impact of rough roads and allows for riding on cobblestone roads in the park. Because it has a 24-inch rim, it can only have a shock fork with so much travel, which is a reasonable design.

  4. Trek MT 220. What year to look for or avoid?

    1088 posts · Joined 2016. #2 · Dec 3, 2016. It seems the Trek mt220 is a preferred frame to start with. I wouldn't say being the most common makes it preferred.... The most important considerations are if you want disk or not... and if you want a usable fork with the bike or are just going to buy one ... Any decent aluminium frame will end up ...

  5. 2014 Trek MT 220 Boy's

    2014 Trek. MT 220 Boy's. A 24″ aluminum frame mountain youth bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. Compare the full range. Frame: Aluminum: Suspension: Hardtail, 50mm: Wheels: 24″ Aluminum: Drivetrain: 3 × 7: ... Reviews; The Best Bikes. Gravel Bikes Under $2k;

  6. 2009 Trek MT 220

    2009 Trek. MT 220. A 24″ aluminum frame mountain youth bike with modest components and rim brakes. ... MT 220. Highest gear (descending) Add custom gearing. Specs. Build. Frame: Alpha White Aluminum. Headset: ... Reviews; The Best Bikes. Gravel Bikes Under $2k;

  7. 2012 Trek MT 220 Boy's

    2012 Trek. MT 220 Boy's. A 24″ aluminum frame mountain youth bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. Compare the full range. Frame: Aluminum: Suspension: Rigid: Wheels: 24″ Aluminum: Drivetrain: 3 × 7: Groupset: ... Reviews; The Best Bikes. Gravel Bikes Under $2k;

  8. Trek MT 220 Boys Kids user reviews : 4.2 out of 5

    Trek MT 220 Boys Kids user reviews : 4.2 out of 5 - 19 reviews. Read it's strength, weaknesses, find deals and pricing - mtbr.com

  9. MT 220 Boy's

    Bontrager Approved, 25.4mm, 25 degree, quill. Headset. Adjustable ball bearing. Brakeset. Alloy linear-pull brakes, Dialed alloy levers. We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colors, materials, and pricing.

  10. MT 220

    Stem. Dialed, 65mm , 25 degree. Headset. Adjustable ball bearing. Brakeset. Linear pull front and rear w/Dialed alloy levers. We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colors, materials, and pricing.

  11. Trek MT 220 Girl's 2015

    Details. Trek took their smooth-handling mountain bikes and shrunk them to fit younger riders. Meet the MT 220 Girl's, ready for young ones to hit the dirt. This bike features a lightweight alloy low standover frame and a Dialed suspension fork. Shimano components make up the 21-speed drivetrain, and a Bontrager cockpit sized for kids is part ...

  12. Trek MT 220 Girl's 2012

    Details. Spoil your girls instead of spoiling the fun in riding. Let them have the Trek MT 220 Girls. It is made of lightweight aluminum dialed frame, dialed SR Suntour suspension, and Shimano Revo 21-speed twist shifters. The pink, flowery design of this bike will make them stand out from their bunch. See Manufacturer's Description.

  13. MT 220 Girl's

    Handlebar Bontrager Low Riser, 25.4mm, 25mm rise. Grips Dialed, Kraton. Stem Dialed, 25.4mm, 25 degree

  14. 2015 Trek MT 220 Boy's

    2015 Trek. MT 220 Boy's. A 24″ aluminum frame mountain youth bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. Compare the full range. Frame: Aluminum: Suspension: Rigid: ... MT 220 Boy's. Highest gear (descending) ...

  15. Compare: 2011 Trek MT 220 Boy's vs 2019 Precaliber 24 7-speed Boy's vs

    The Trek MT 220 Boy's, Trek Precaliber 24 7-speed Boy's, and Cannondale Quick 24 Boys are all 24″ aluminum frame youth bikes with mid-range components and rim brakes. The MT 220 Boy's has a 3 × 7 drivetrain providing a wider range of gears.

  16. Trek MT220 Chain?

    REVIEWS EDITORIAL DEALS ... Trek MT220 Chain? Jump to Latest Follow 5K views 2 replies 2 participants last post by Srode Nov 10, 2013. Srode Discussion starter 3933 posts · Joined 2012 Add to quote; Only show this user #1 · Nov 10, 2013. Just picked up a craigs list bike for my son - Trek MT220 - needs a chain as there is one link that has a ...

  17. BicycleBlueBook

    Trade up for a new bike. Trade in your old bike to put towards a new one. Get a Quote.

  18. Trek MT 200

    The Trek MT 200 was also heavy and we crossed that off our list (for that price, we can get a lighter bike from another brand) Right now, for the 24" $300-350 range, we're looking at a Raleigh Scout XC, Novara Tractor and a Specialized Hotrock. Like.

  19. MT 220 Girl's

    Dialed, 25.4mm, 25 degree. Headset. Adjustable ball bearing. Brakeset. Alloy linear-pull brakes, Dialed alloy levers. We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models, colors, materials, and pricing.