24-inch bikes are designed for pre-teens and young teenagers, typically those aged 8 to 12 years, and represent a more mature stage in a child's cycling journey. These bikes are a step closer to adult bicycles, offering advanced features and a wider range of capabilities.

In terms of gearing, 24-inch bikes often come with multiple gears, both at the front and rear. This setup provides a broader range of gear ratios, allowing young riders to handle varied terrains, from steep hills to flat roads, more efficiently. The gear systems are designed to be user-friendly, often with intuitive shifters that make changing gears smooth and easy.

The frame and geometry of 24-inch bikes are tailored for growing riders. They offer a more stretched-out posture compared to smaller bikes, which helps in developing proper riding form and endurance. Despite the larger size, these bikes maintain a balance of lightweight design and durability, essential for both ease of use and longevity.

Safety features like effective hand brakes are standard, and at this size, coaster brakes are usually phased out. This shift to hand-only brakes prepares young riders for adult bikes, which exclusively use hand brakes.

Many 24-inch bikes also start to incorporate features found in specialized adult bikes, such as suspension forks for mountain biking, drop handlebars for road biking, or reinforced frames for BMX and trick riding. These bikes not only cater to the diverse interests of young riders but also help in honing their cycling skills and preferences.

Overall, 24-inch bikes are about fostering a sense of adventure and independence in young riders, providing them with a bike that can meet their growing skills and enthusiasm for more challenging rides.