Buying a kids’ bike should be exciting, not confusing. With so many sizes, styles and options available, it can be tricky to know which bike is best for your child. The right fit is key not only for safety but also to help build confidence and make cycling fun.
This guide breaks it down step by step so you can easily choose the right size bike for your child based on their age, height and inseam (inside leg measurement).
Why Fit Matters
A properly sized bike helps kids:
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Ride safely - with feet able to touch the ground when needed.
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Build confidence - easier to balance and control.
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Grow skills - as they transition to bigger bikes.
Too big and the bike feels intimidating. Too small and they’ll outgrow it quickly. The sweet spot is a bike that fits now but still allows room to grow.
Kids’ Bike Sizing Made Simple
Unlike adult bikes (measured by frame size), kids’ bikes are sized by wheel diameter (inches). Here’s a quick guide:
|
Wheel Size |
Approx. Age |
Height Range |
Inseam (Inside Leg) |
Best For |
|
2–4 years |
85–100cm |
35–42cm |
First bikes, balance bikes, training wheels |
|
|
3–5 years |
95–110cm |
40–48cm |
Confident beginners, balance-to-pedal transition |
|
|
4–6 years |
105–120cm |
45–55cm |
Learning to pedal, still lightweight & easy to control |
|
|
6–8 years |
115–135cm |
55–63cm |
Gears may appear, more independence on longer rides |
|
|
8–11 years |
130–145cm |
60–70cm |
Great for older kids, multi-gear bikes, junior MTB/road bikes |
|
|
11+ years |
145cm+ |
70cm+ |
Ready for entry-level adult bikes depending on fit |
👉 Tip: Always measure inseam as it’s the most reliable way to check fit.
Step 1: Balance or Pedal Bike?
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Balance bikes (no pedals): Ideal for ages 2 to 4. Helps develop balance and coordination before moving to pedals.
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Pedal bikes (with/without training wheels): Start at 12” or 14”. Training wheels can be added for extra stability if needed.
Step 2: Features to Consider
When comparing kids’ bikes, keep an eye on:
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Weight: A lighter bike is easier for small riders to control.
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Brakes: Coaster (back-pedal) brakes are common for smaller bikes; hand brakes prepare kids for bigger bikes.
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Gears: Single-speed for younger riders; gears on 20”+ for hills and longer rides (pictured).
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Adjustability: Seats and handlebars should raise as your child grows.
Step 3: Growing with Confidence
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Safety gear matters - always pair a new bike with a properly fitted helmet.
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Room to grow - aim for slight room in seat height adjustment but not so big they struggle to ride.
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Test if possible - if shopping in-store, let your child sit on the bike. Their feet should touch the ground comfortably on smaller bikes and just the balls of their feet for larger, geared bikes.
Final Tip: Match the Bike to Their Riding Style
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Cruising & neighbourhood rides? Go for lightweight single-speed bikes.
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Trail adventures? Junior mountain bikes (20” or 24” with gears).
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Racing or long rides? Youth-specific road bikes start around 24”.
The Takeaway
Choosing the right kids’ bike comes down to wheel size, inseam measurement and rider confidence. Get these right and your child will have a safe, comfortable and fun ride that encourages a lifelong love of cycling.
Explore our Kids’ Bikes range
Balance Bike | Pre School 12" - 16" | 5-9 Years 20" | 7-12 Years 24" | 10+ Years 26"+ | BMX