Marty’s Reliable Cycle (Three locations)
With three locations throughout The Garden State (in Morristown, Randolph, and Hackettstown), Marty’s really caters to kids of all ages. They sell bikes that really fit young, growing, active bodies (and take measurements of body-to-bike) and sell bikes for kids of all ages—from kickstarter bikes that teach balance to beginners to BMX bikes for teen dirt jumping enthusiasts. Marty’s bike trade program for kids and teens allow parents to trade in their youngster’s bikes as they grow in height and in skill level. Inventory varies from store to store. Staffers are avid cyclists and for young racers over the summer Marty’s sponsors a 2014 Tri Harder Kid's Triathlon Series throughout the state.

The Bike King (Clinton)
The Bike King’s Website kindly outlines helpful hints moms and dads should know before buying their child a bike: Today, there are more types of two-wheelers available, from a wider variety of retailers than ever before. While this means you have a better selection, it also increases the possibility of purchasing the wrong bike or one that is lesser quality or poorly assembled. Thankfully, the Bike King’s showroom has a plethora of bikes that are the perfect fit for your child, and they are safely measured for the best two-wheeler. Styles that caught my eye include the Trek Jet and Trek Mystic, which come in a variety of colors for boys and girls. (But looks aren’t everything—it’s always safe fit first, of course!) FYI—there is an on-site repair department which services all bicycles or trikes, regardless of make, model, color, or posture of the rider(s).

Planet Bike (Matawan, East Brunswick)
There are many places to purchase bikes for kids, however, bicycles purchased at independent shops tend to last longer and hold their resale value better—so keep that in mind when purchasing the next size for your child as they grow. Instead of discarding their old bicycle, you'll be able to pass it down to another child or sell it and make money towards the new one. Storefronts such as Planet Bike, which has two NJ locations, are important for these reasons, plus Planet Bike has knowledgeable staffers, offers repairs and tune-ups, and is THE place for BMX (bicycle motorcross) bikes and custom BMX orders. With more than 300 bikes in their showrooms, you’ll easily nab a wonderful, safe bike for your child at either storefront. Note: A BMX bike is an off-road sport bicycle used for racing and stunt riding.

Erlton Bike Shop (Cherry Hill)
With more than 600 bicycles in stock, Erlton carries kid’s bikes, tricycles, BMX, and even unicycles (Man, did I love watching clowns and performers on those as a kid!) It’s a popular location in South Jersey for those seeking a new bike, hoping to fix an old one, or wanting a specific bike accessory. Brands carried on-site include Haro, Fit, Sun, Raleigh, Giant, KHS and more. All customers can take a test ride on a new bike or get a free repair estimate on an old bike. Erlton also hosts group rides throughout the year, sells helmets, child carriers that attach to adult bikes (child carriers are lower to the ground for stability with a bright orange safety flag for visibility), and much more.

Cycle Craft (Various locations)
Their slogan is ‘Great Rides Start Here’ and with four locations throughout our great state, well, that must hold true. Cycle Craft is located in Parsippany (the main, and original, storefront), Long Valley, Andover, and Jefferson. They have a wonderful trade program for kids: Basically, Cycle Craft will let you trade in good condition bikes that your children outgrow for a new one. You can then pick a bike from the trade pool for free or get $50 off of a new bike. Cycle Craft even accepts trade-in bikes purchased from another bike store. Popular brands carried by Cycle Craft (and traded) include Trek, Specialized, Fisher, Scott, Giant, Jamis and Fuji. Note: The trade in bike must be less than 3 years old and in ride-able condition.

REI (Various locations)
With many locations throughout New Jersey, including Marlton and Paramus, REI is a nationwide sporting goods store which serves the needs of outdoor adventurers through innovative, quality products. They sell a variety of bike brands for kids all experience levels, including Marin, Weehoo, Novara and more, along with helmets and cycling accessories.What really caught my eye was REI's  video about bike safety for kids and advice on teaching kids how to ride. You can watch it here. Check Web site for NJ store locations and for a listing of outdoor beginner bike lessons hosted by REI in the Tri-State area for both kids and adults.