Academy Grade 6 Belt 26" Youth Bike

Academy Grade 6 Belt: a clean, quiet 26 inch bike for teenagers on the move

The Grade 6 Belt is the last step before an adult bike, designed for teenagers between roughly 140 and 165 cm. Its 26 inch wheels, wide 640 mm handlebar and Shimano Nexus 7 speed hub with belt drive deliver a smooth, quiet ride that needs almost no maintenance, ideal for daily commutes and longer weekend rides.

Like every Academy bike, it follows a simple rule: the bike should weigh less than 40 percent of the child's body weight. Academy developed its geometry with the German Institute for Orthopaedics, Osteopathy and Sports Medicine (DIOOS), with a low, narrow bottom bracket, short cranks and an upright riding position that keeps knees aligned and lets children put their feet down at any moment.

Belt drive and hub gears

Instead of a chain, a belt drives a Shimano Nexus 7 speed hub. There is no oil, no grease on trousers and almost nothing to adjust, and gears can be changed with a simple twist shifter even when standing still at a traffic light. Front and rear aluminium V-brakes with three finger levers give strong, easy to dose braking.

Size and fit

The Grade 6 suits children 140 to 165 cm tall, usually aged about 10 to 14 years. The saddle height ranges from 830 to 950 mm. Body height matters more than age: if your child sits between two Grades, the smaller size is usually easier to control at first. Our team in Meppel is happy to help you choose.

Specifications

• Wheel size: 26 inch
• Rider height: 140 to 165 cm
• Recommended age: 10 to 14 years
• Weight: 9.7 kg
• Maximum load: 80 kg
• Frame: Triple butted aluminium, low step over, frame height 45 cm
• Fork: Aluminium
• Drivetrain: Belt drive with Shimano Nexus 7 speed hub (SG-C3001), Shimano SL-7S31 twist shifter
• Brakes: Front and rear aluminium V-brakes, child sized levers
• Tyres: VEE Tire 26 x 1.50 inch with reflective sidewalls
• Saddle height: 830 to 950 mm
• Handlebar: 640 mm double butted aluminium, 20 mm rise
• Crank length: 152 mm
• Colours: Olive, Red, Blue, Ocean, Purple, Yellow
• Delivery: Delivered almost fully assembled, without accessories

Frequently asked questions

Which size should I choose for my child?
The Grade 6 is designed for children 140 to 165 cm tall, roughly 10 to 14 years old. Body height and inside leg length matter more than age. If you are unsure, visit L'Hirondelle Bike Shop in Meppel and your child can try the bike before you decide.

Does the belt drive really need no maintenance?
The belt needs no oil and does not stretch like a chain, so a quick wipe now and then is enough. The Shimano Nexus hub is sealed against weather and dirt. We recommend a yearly check of brakes and belt tension, which our workshop in Meppel can do for you.

Can I add a kickstand, mudguards or a rack?
The matching Academy kickstand and mudguard set are available in our shop, and a rear rack can be fitted as well. Ask us when you order and we will tell you exactly which parts fit your version.

Where is Academy from, and can the bike be repaired easily?
Academy is a German brand from Bielefeld, part of coolmobility. Its bikes use standard, widely available parts such as V-brakes, tyres and bearings, so any good workshop can service them, including ours in Meppel. A well kept Academy also keeps its value when your child moves up a Grade.

How is the bike delivered?
Academy bikes arrive almost fully assembled: you straighten the handlebar, fit the pedals and set the saddle height. You can also collect your bike ready to ride at L'Hirondelle Bike Shop in Meppel.