Comment by a_f

This is one of the biggest hurdles to getting kids to enjoy riding bikes too. If you think about the weight of many cheaper kids department store bikes they are a significant weight compared to the child. Having a lighter bike makes it much more enjoyable for the kids.

Also recommend Islabikes and Frog bikes for two companies that offer lighter offerings. Again you have to pay for it, but they can often be resold and a decent value later. Especially if you keep the bike clean and loved.