The Islabikes Cnoc 14 is a true gem. Unfortunately, it is no longer sold in the N. American market. If you live in Europe, or are lucky enough to find one used, read on…..
Islabikes, the bike brand of choice for in-the-know parents, has a cult-like customer base. And for good reason. The company’s top-notch customer service, thoughtful design, and high-quality build make these kids bikes winners.
The Cnoc 14, the smallest pedal bike in the Islabikes line-up (and the one that we tested), actually comes in two sizes—the Cnoc 14 small, and the Cnoc 14 large. This makes the Cnoc 14 suitable for many sizes of kids in the 3-4 year old age range.
My small, nearly 4 year-old was just barely large enough to pick the 14 large rather than the small. Other 4-year-olds might be ready for the Cnoc 16, which is why Islabike helps you pick the correct bike based on your child’s actual measurements instead of their age (more on this later).
If you can afford a £400 bike for your child (or if you are lucky enough to find one used), the Islabikes Cnoc 14 should be on your shortlist. While I’ve made note of a few (minor) cons, the list of pros on this bike make it a very solid choice.
Review in a Nutshell
Pros:
- Stellar customer service
- High-quality construction and components
- Dummy-proof assembly
- Lightweight build
- Child-appropriate geometry
- High resale value
Cons:
- No freehub option
- High price
Specs (for the Islabikes Cnoc 14 Large):
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Minimum Inseam: 15”
Price: £399
Islabikes Cnoc 14 Video Review
To switch things up a bit, I asked my husband Blair to do the video review. Wait until the end for a special guest cameo by our son (it’s pretty cute).
Keep scrolling for my full written review below.
Dummy-proof assembly
Even the most mechanically-challenged parents will be able to assemble the Cnoc 14 in no time. Thanks to dummy-proof stickers on the bike providing direction, and the inclusion of long-armed allen wrenches, this was the easiest bike I’ve ever assembled.
Dual hand-brakes
If you’re looking at a used Islabikes Cnoc 14 in the U.S., the bike was sold with both dual hand-brakes (front and rear) AND a coaster brake. To some parents, this may truly be the best of both worlds. Dual hand-brakes allow children to become comfortable braking, and a coaster provides increased peace of mind.
For me personally, I prefer kids bikes with NO coaster brake. A coaster is generally frustrating for kids as they learn to ride a pedal bike and it adds weight. For more on this topic, read this article I wrote on the pros and cons of coaster brakes.
If you’re in Europe, the Cnoc 14 is sold with dual Islabikes brand short reach brake levers and NO COASTER.
Enclosed drivetrain
I usually loathe bikes with a chainguard, but surprisingly, I love the design of the cover on the Cnoc. It is a flexible rubbery plastic cover that is lightweight and looks sleek. If you still don’t like it, it is easily removable.
Personalized decals
Islabikes offers a personalized decal for your child’s bike. Ours says “Little P,” and P of course loves that. This is just another reflection of the level of attention and detail put into making great kids bikes. It also means that an Islabike makes for a great gift from a doting grandparent or other family member.
Skinny tires
The tires on the Islabike are some of the skinniest I’ve seen on high-quality kids bikes. For kids that are going to be primarily riding bike paths and road, this is ideal. They are fast-rolling–but still stable.
For the much smaller percentage of parents who are looking to buy a bike for riding off-road as well as pavement, the Islabikes Cnoc 14 is a legit option, but needs a fatter tire for any serious riding on dirt. Luckily, this is an easy upgrade.
Upright position
For kids at this age, I so much prefer a bike that provides an upright and less-aggressive riding position. The Islabikes Cnoc 14 fits this bill. The wide and upright handlebars allow kids to easily maneuver the bike as well as keep their eyes straight ahead.
Long wheelbase
When comparing the geometry of kids bikes, the one thing you always want to look for is a long wheelbase (i.e. the distance from the front wheel to the back). The Cnoc 14 has one of the longest wheelbases I’ve seen, which makes the bike stable and easy to learn on.
14” Wheels
While kids this age may also be able to fit on a 12” bike, I personally much prefer the 14” wheels. They make it significantly easier to ride up and over obstacles, and once at speed, provide a faster ride as well.
There are some kids who are ready to pedal at a very young age (2), and in those cases go with the 12” bike. But for a 3 or 4 year old, choose the 14” wheels instead.
Weight
There is nothing worse for a child than a heavy bike. Consider that many kids bikes may weigh half as much as the child’s body weight (or more)! This is quick way for kids to get tired, hurt, and discouraged about biking.
Islabikes knows this, and their bikes are light enough for even the youngest riders to confidently maneuver. At just under 12 lbs, it is on par with the Woom 2 for one of the lightest 14 inch bikes around.
Quality frame and components
What isn’t there to love about the construction of the Cnoc 14? Just about everything on the bike is aluminum (the frame, brake levers, wheels, handlebars, etc) which means it is both lightweight and durable.
Both the headset and bottom bracket have sealed bearings to keep water and grime out and provide long-lasting performance. The brake levers are small and easy for little hands to operate.
I could go on, but the message is simple. Islabikes has created a high-quality bike that will run smoothly and be enjoyable to ride for a long time.
Cost and resale value
While it can be difficult to convince a parent that they should spend £400 on a bike that their child will outgrow quickly, if there is any way you can swing it, I guarantee you it is worth the money. There is just no comparison between a bike that you get at a big box store and a well-designed child-specific bike like the Cnoc 14.
The Cnoc has child-specific geometry that makes it easy to learn to ride, and is light enough for kids to pedal long distances without getting frustrated or tired.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the Cnoc is a bike that will last a long time and will last through multiple children. If you have several kids you can pass it down to, it is totally worth the investment. If not, consider the resale value. Islabikes go fast on sites like Ebay.
Bottom Line
All the rabid mom fans can’t be wrong. The Islabikes Cnoc 14 is a high-quality, fast-rolling bike that holds it value well. It is a Top pick in this size group and price range.