Kids' Bike Buying Guide

Kids’ bikes are about fun, making memories, and giving your child the kind of freedom only found on two wheels. It's amazing to watch your child ride for the first time, go on family rides together, and watch them grow as a cyclist. Whether your little one is ready for their first bike or a larger size, our guide will help you make the right choice. Happy riding!

What size bike does my child need?

In general, the right size for your child depends on their age and height. Our most important tip? Don't buy a bike that's too big for your child thinking they'll grow into it. It can slow their learning and affect their confidence. The right-sized bike makes your child feel comfortable and is much easier to handle, so they can quickly pick up skills. Some companies even offer programs that allow you to trade in outgrown bikes, which makes it more affordable and ensures you always have a bike that fits your child. Here are some tips to help you find the most suitable (and fun) bike for your child.

Kids' bikes are measured by wheel size, not frame size

Adult bikes are measured by frame size, but children's bikes are measured by wheel diameter. Sizes range from 12" to 26", from the smallest to the tallest.

Age and height help determine the size range

Your child's age and height will help determine the correct wheel size. Measure your child and consult the sizing guides below to find possible wheel sizes.

Knowing the inseam helps to find the perfect fit

Once you have an idea of the wheel size, consider measuring your child's inseam as well. Knowing this will help you find a bike that is comfortable for them to get on and off.

Kids' Size Chart

Sizing forks are broad and tend to overlap, plus each bike has a different fit (even with wheels of the same size), so we recommend visiting our stores with your child to try out some bikes.

Tip: If your child is over 12 years old or taller than 1.42 m, you can start looking for adult bikes.

Bicycles for 2 and 3-year-olds

Height: 90 cm - 100 cm
Inside leg: 38 cm - 45 cm
Wheel/bike size: 12" (balance bike or with stabilizers)

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Bicycles for children aged 4, 5, and 6

Height: 1.06 m - 1.22 m
Inseam: 40.64 cm - 56.88 cm
Wheel/Bike Size: 16"

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Bicycles for 5, 6, 7, and 8-year-old children

Height: 1.15 m - 1.48 m
Inseam: 48.26 cm - 63.5 cm
Wheel/Bike Size: 20"

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Bicycles for 8, 9, 10 and 11-year-olds

Height: 1.35 m - 1.40 m
Inseam: 58.86 - 71.12 cm
Wheel/bike size: 24"

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Adult bikes for older children

Many older, taller children can ride smaller adult bicycles. When looking for an adult bike, remember that they are sold by frame size, not wheel size.

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How should a child's bicycle be adjusted?

A properly fitted bike makes learning easier and ultimately more fun for your child from day one. You’ll generally know it’s the right fit if your child feels safe and excited about the bike. Here are some visual fit cues to help you decide if a bike fits your child properly. Be sure to look for these fit cues not only when trying bikes at the store, but also as your child grows and gains skills.

Seat height

It’s important that your child’s seat is at the correct height. You’ll continue to adjust it as they gain proficiency and confidence. Generally, on balance bikes and their first pedal bike, your child’s feet should be flat on the ground while seated. On bikes with training wheels and for riders who are comfortable on pedal bikes, only their toes should touch the ground.

Knee position

Knee position is directly related to seat height. When children are learning, their knees should be more bent so they can easily put their feet on the ground. This gives them more confidence on the bike. As they get more comfortable, you can raise the seat so they can fully extend their legs and pedal better.

Inseam height

Make sure your child can easily stand over the bike with both feet on the ground and 2.5 to 5 cm clear of the top tube. This will help them feel confident when stopping, getting on and getting off the bike.

Foot position

When children are learning to use a balance bike, their feet should touch the ground to propel it. On bikes with training wheels or pedal bikes, your child will be more comfortable with the balls of their feet fully on the pedals.

What's the best kids' bike for my son?

There are so many kids' bikes to choose from, so narrowing down your options can be tough. The main thing is to make sure the bike's purpose and features match your child's skill level. For instance, most young children will likely only be riding short distances around the neighborhood. They benefit from a simple, hybrid-style kids' bike without unnecessary features. As children grow and develop more skills, they can choose from several types of bikes with varying features.

Tip: Girls' and boys' bikes are essentially the same, they may just have different colors or designs.


Are you ready to shop for your child?