Looking for an in-depth SE Basher 24″ BMX bike review before spending $400 on your kid’s next bike?
The Basher 24″ brings back one of SE Bikes’ early BMX names, but this modern version is built specifically for growing kids.
Its biggest highlight is the lightweight 6061 aluminum frame.
You also get a low standover, classic Looptail rear end, retro dropouts, 24″ x 2.4″ knobby tires, and a simple rear V-brake.
The recommended rider height is 4’6″ to 5’4″, which should suit many kids around ages nine to twelve.
However, this is not a serious freestyle or race bike.
The hi-tensile steel fork and bars, one-piece cranks, single-wall rims and basic 33/16 gearing show that the Basher is designed for recreational riding.
Wheelies and manuals? Sure! Light tricks, like hops and 180s? It’s possible.
But don’t go hard on this bike because it won’t las long.
So, is the SE Basher 24″ worth $399 for kids?
Or are you mainly paying for the aluminum frame, retro looks and SE name?
Let’s find out.
This post covers:
- SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Review
- What Makes The SE Basher 24″ Bike Stand Out?
- SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Specs, Weight & Price
- SE Basher 24″ Frame Geometry
- How The SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Rides
- Can You Do BMX Tricks On The SE Basher 24″?
- What I Like About The SE Basher 24″ (Pros)
- What I’d Improve (Cons)
- Who Should Get The SE Basher 24″?
- Conclusion: Is The SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Worth $399?
- FAQs About The SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike
SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Review
1. What Makes The SE Basher 24″ Bike Stand Out?
The SE Basher 24″ stands out because it combines kid-friendly sizing with classic SE styling.
Its lightweight 6061 aluminum frame is the biggest highlight.
Many affordable kids’ bikes use heavier steel frames, so the Basher is easier to control, lift and move around.
Moreover, the heavily sloping top tube also creates a low standover.
That gives younger riders more clearance when stopping, stepping off or putting a foot down.
SE then adds several retro details from its BMX history:
- Legendary Looptail rear end
- Retro-style dropouts
- Classic BMX frame shape
- Wide 24″ x 2.4″ knobby tires
- Lightweight alloy wheels
The larger tires should add comfort and grip on pavement, packed dirt and rough neighborhood surfaces.
However, the Basher 24″ does not stand out because of premium components.
Its appeal comes from the light frame, low fit and recognizable SE look.
That gives growing kids something more fun and distinctive than a basic department-store bike, without turning it into a serious race or freestyle machine.
Also, the available colorways are just TOO RAD!
GET YOUR SE BASHER 24″ BMX BIKE NOW!2. SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Specs, Weight & Price
- Frame: 6061 Aluminum (20.4″)
- Fork: High-tensile steel fork
- Headset: Standard threadless (1-1/8″)
- Stem: Alloy top load stem (50mm)
- Bars: Hi-Ten bar (7″ rise, 25.5″ width)
- Grips: Mushroom flangeless grips
- Cranks: One-piece steel cranks (165mm)
- Bottom bracket: American BB
- Pedals: Resin platform plastic pedals
- Sprocket: Steel sprocket (33T)
- Chain: KMC S1 chain
- Front hub: 3/8″ axle
- Rear hub: 16T freewheel (3/8″ axle)
- Rims: Alloy single wall rims (36 hole)
- Tires: Speedy Knobby (24″ x 2.4″)
- Seat: SE Racing railed seat
- Seat post: SE straight post, Steel (27.2mm)
- Seat clamp: Alloy (31.8mm)
- Brake lever: Alloy 2-finger
- Brakes: Alloy V-brake
- Brake mounts: Welded
- Extras: SE Handlebar Pad
- Color: Silver Streak, Outrageous Orange, Black Lightning
- Weight: TBA
- Price: $399.99
3. SE Basher 24″ Frame Geometry
- Toptube length: 20.4″
- Chainstay length: 15.9″
- Headtube angle: 74°
- Seattube angle: 72°
- Bottom bracket height: 12.4″
- Standover height: 10.7″
4. How The SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Rides
The SE Basher 24″ should ride stable, smooth and easy to control.
Its 24″ wheels roll over cracks, rough pavement and packed dirt more easily than smaller BMX wheels.
Also, I like that SE Bikes added the 24″ x 2.4″ knobby tires, which add grip and a little extra cushioning.
The lightweight aluminum frame should help younger riders steer, lift and move the bike around without dealing with unnecessary weight.
Its 20.4″ actual top tube length and 21.1″ effective top tube keep the cockpit fairly compact for a 24″ bike.
That should help growing kids reach the bars comfortably without feeling too stretched out.
But you can always pull the bars backward or forward if needed. Heck, even get different reach stem.
Moreover, the 74° head tube angle is steeper than what you would find on a relaxed cruiser.
This should make the steering more responsive while still remaining manageable for everyday riding.
I like that!
A 12.4″ bottom bracket height places the rider fairly high over the bike. That can add pedal clearance and make the Basher more playful when lifting the front wheel or hopping curbs.
However, 12.4″ isn’t considered high for 24″ wheels; it’s still relatively planted.
Its 15.9″ chainstay length and 37.7″ wheelbase point toward a calm, predictable ride rather than a super-responsive BMX setup.
That suits neighborhood shredding, bike paths, pump tracks and light dirt use.
The 33/16 gear ratio should also be manageable for casual riding and short climbs.
However, this is not a fast race bike or an aggressive freestyle complete.
The one-piece cranks, basic freewheel and hi-tensile fork are better suited to cruising, curb hops and playful everyday riding.
For a growing kid who wants a comfortable 24″ BMX-style bike, the Basher should be fun without becoming difficult to handle.
GET YOUR SE BASHER 24″ BMX BIKE NOW!5. Can You Do BMX Tricks On The SE Basher 24″?
Yes, but keep the tricks light.
The SE Basher 24 should handle basic moves such as:
- Bunny hops
- Manuals
- Wheelies
- Small curb jumps
- Skids
- Pump-track riding
- Light skatepark use
The aluminum frame keeps the bike relatively light, while the 24″ wheels add stability.
Its compact cockpit and higher bottom bracket should also help younger riders lift the front end and move the bike around.
However, this is not a serious freestyle BMX.
The hi-tensile steel fork and bars, one-piece cranks, single-wall rims and basic drivetrain are better suited to playful riding than repeated hard landings.
I would avoid:
- Large drops
- Stair sets
- Heavy street riding
- Big dirt jumps
- Aggressive skatepark sessions
So, the Basher 24 is fine for learning simple tricks and having fun around the neighborhood.
But if your kid wants to progress into harder BMX riding, a stronger freestyle complete would be the better long-term choice.
If you are looking for a more solid 24″ BMX bike, I recommend the following:
Keep in mind, this is a larger bike, so it may not fit your kid.
GET YOUR SE BASHER 24″ BMX BIKE NOW!6. What I Like About The SE Basher 24″ (Pros)
- Lightweight aluminum frame: Easier for younger riders to control, lift and move around.
- Kid-friendly fit: The compact top tube and low standover help growing riders stay comfortable and confident.
- Stable 24″ wheels: They roll smoothly over cracks, rough pavement and packed dirt.
- Wide 2.4″ tires: Extra volume adds grip, comfort and control during everyday riding.
- Playful geometry: The responsive front end and higher bottom bracket help with manuals, curb hops and simple tricks.
- Classic SE styling: The Looptail rear end and retro frame details give it much more character than a basic kids’ bike.
- Good for mixed riding: It works well for neighborhood cruising, pump tracks, bike paths and light skatepark use.
- Easy step up from a smaller bike: It gives kids more wheel size without putting them on a full adult 24″ cruiser.
7. What I’d Improve (Cons)
- One-piece cranks: Three-piece cranks would better match the $399 price and give the bike a stronger BMX setup.
- Hi-tensile steel fork and bars: Chromoly parts would add more strength for riders who start progressing beyond casual tricks.
- Single-wall rims: They are fine for everyday riding, but double-wall rims (at least in the back) would provide more confidence for harder riding.
- Basic loose-ball components: Sealed bearings would improve durability and reduce maintenance over time.
- Not built for aggressive BMX riding: The Basher looks like a serious BMX bike, but its parts are aimed more at cruising, light tricks and neighborhood use.
8. Who Should Get The SE Basher 24″?
- Growing kids moving up from a smaller bike: The 24″ wheels add stability without jumping straight to a full adult-sized cruiser.
- Riders around 4’6″ to 5’4″: That is the recommended height range from SE, although fit still depends on the rider.
- Kids who want BMX styling: The Looptail frame and retro details give it a proper SE look.
- Neighborhood riders: It suits cruising, school rides, bike paths and everyday fun.
- Beginners learning simple tricks: Manuals, wheelies, bunny hops and small curb jumps are all realistic.
- Riders who visit pump tracks or light skateparks: It can handle playful sessions without being a full freestyle build.
Skip it if your child wants to race, ride large jumps, hit stair sets or progress into aggressive freestyle riding.
GET YOUR SE BASHER 24″ BMX BIKE NOW!Conclusion: Is The SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike Worth $399?
The SE Basher 24 can be worth $399, but only for the right rider.
Its biggest strengths are the lightweight aluminum frame, low standover, stable 24″ wheels and classic SE look.
For a growing kid who wants a fun bike for neighborhood riding, pump tracks, bike paths and basic tricks, it has a lot going for it.
However, the parts are still fairly basic.
The one-piece cranks, hi-tensile fork and bars, single-wall rims and loose-ball components show that this is not a serious freestyle or race bike.
That is the main thing parents need to understand before buying.
I would get the Basher 24 for a child who wants a lighter, stylish step-up bike and is not planning to ride aggressively.
I would skip it if your kid wants to race, hit larger jumps or progress into harder street and park riding.
So, is it worth $399?
Yes, for casual riding and light BMX fun.
But for serious BMX progression, I would save for a stronger complete.
GET YOUR SE BASHER 24″ BMX BIKE NOW!FAQs About The SE Basher 24″ BMX Bike
Is the SE Basher 24 good for kids?
Yes. It is designed for growing riders who want a larger BMX-style bike for cruising, pump tracks and light tricks.
What height rider fits the SE Basher 24?
SE recommends it for riders around 4’6″ to 5’4″. Fit can still vary depending on leg length, confidence and riding style.
Is the SE Basher 24 suitable for adults?
Not really. Its compact 20.4″ top tube and kid-focused geometry will likely feel too short for most adults. Also, I recommend chromoly parts for an adult BMX bike.
Is the SE Basher 24 a real BMX bike?
It is a BMX-style bike with classic SE frame details and BMX-inspired geometry.
Is the SE Basher 24 a race bike?
No. It is not designed as a dedicated BMX race bike.
Can you do tricks on the SE Basher 24?
Yes, but keep them basic. It should handle bunny hops, manuals, wheelies, curb jumps and light skatepark riding.
Is the SE Basher 24 good for wheelies?
Yes. The compact cockpit and stable 24″ wheels should work well for learning and practicing wheelies.
Can you ride the SE Basher 24 at a skatepark?
Yes, for light riding. It is fine for small ramps, basic lines and simple tricks, but not repeated hard landings.
Is the SE Basher 24 good for pump tracks?
Yes. The large wheels, wide tires and predictable handling should work well on beginner-friendly pump tracks.
Is the SE Basher 24 frame aluminum?
Yes. It uses a lightweight 6061 aluminum frame.
Are the fork and bars chromoly?
No. The fork and handlebars are made from hi-tensile steel.
Does the SE Basher 24 have three-piece cranks?
No. It comes with a one-piece crankset.
Does the SE Basher 24 have sealed bearings?
The bike uses basic bearing components rather than a fully sealed setup. That means it may require more maintenance over time.
Are the SE Basher 24 rims double wall?
No. It comes with single-wall alloy rims.
What size tires are on the SE Basher 24?
It uses wide 24″ x 2.4″ tires. They add grip, comfort and stability on mixed surfaces.
What gearing does the SE Basher 24 use?
It comes with a 33T front chainring and 16T rear freewheel. This gearing is aimed at casual riding rather than high-speed racing.
Is the 20.4″ top tube too short?
Not for the intended rider. It helps keep the bike compact and easier for growing kids to control, but it will feel cramped for most adults.
Is the SE Basher 24 good for dirt riding?
It can handle packed dirt, paths and light pump-track use. It is not built for large dirt jumps or aggressive trail riding.
Is the SE Basher 24 good for commuting to school?
Yes, especially for short neighborhood trips.
The 24″ wheels roll smoothly, although the BMX-style seat may not be ideal for long rides.
GET YOUR SE BASHER 24″ BMX BIKE NOW!
