Kids Bike Buyer’s Guide
How to find the right kids bike
Finding the right kids bike can be challenging. Every child is different, and between age, height, and skill level there’s a lot to consider.
That’s why we’ve created a kids bike buyer’s guide to help you navigate the different sizes and styles out there.
We’ll also list some of our best-selling brands and accessories so you can find something you both will love. Let’s dive in!
Kids Bike Sizes
While adult bikes are measured by how big the frame is, kids bikes are measured by wheel size. When figuring out which bike size to get, age is only one factor to consider.
You'll also want to take into consideration how confident your child is on a bike. Age is a great place to start, but if you can, it's always best to have them try out a bike in person.
If you're looking to teach your child how to ride a bike, check out all our tips we've accumulated after years of giving parents advice.
Here are the different sizes and styles:
Balance Bikes
Balance bikes are perfect for teaching kids to ride. Balance bikes have 12 inch wheels and don’t have any pedals, because the idea is to help children gain confidence by allowing them to scoot around with their feet at first.
Naturally they’ll want to go faster and faster and will begin to coast, at which point you know they’ll have the balancing skills and the confidence to switch to a bike with pedals. You’ll likely get to skip the training wheel phase all together!
12 Inch Kids Bikes (2 - 4 year olds)
12 inch bikes are often the first bike that 2-4 year olds will ride. These models are great for building confidence and helping associate riding bikes with having fun.
Most models feature a coaster brake for easy stopping as well as easily removable training wheels so if they progress quickly you can keep up.
16 Inch Kids Bikes (3 - 6 year olds)
16 inch kids bikes are perfect for 3-6 year olds. These models are a bit bigger than the 12 inch kids bikes but have mostly the same features, like removable training wheels and coaster brakes. They’re perfect for building confidence and practicing balance.
20 Inch Kids Bikes (5 - 8 year olds)
20 inch kids bikes are where the models start to vary. Because kids will progress at different speeds, there are typically two kinds of 20 inch bikes available.
The most basic models keep things simple with a single speed and coaster brakes, although they may or may not include a set of training wheels and a front hand brake so kids can start practicing.
The more advanced model is for kids who are more comfortable on two wheels, and they feature hand brakes and multiple speeds.
24 Inch Kids Bikes (7 - 12 year olds)
Most 24 inch kids bikes will come with hand brakes and gears, and they typically fit a wide age range.
Like the advanced version of the 20 inch bikes, these models help prepare kids for the kinds of bikes they’ll be riding when they get older.
26 Inch Kids Bikes (12+ year olds)
26 inch kids bikes are perfect for preteens and kids who are growing out of their 24 inch bikes but maybe aren’t quite tall enough for the smaller adult bikes. The 26 inch wheels give them better stability and capability without being too much to handle.
Check Out All Our Kids Bikes
Best Kids Bike Brands
Here are some of our best-selling brands that our customers love:
Kids Bike Accessories
Looking for kids bike related gear? Check out all the great options below:
Kids Bike Helmets
Every child needs a helmet, so check out all our great kids bike helmets and find a super safe and fun looking helmet that you both will love.
Kids Bike Trailers
Want to take your little one along for a ride? These bike trailers for kids are lightweight, easy to attach, and super comfortable for children.
Kids Bike Seats
Kids bike seats are a great way to bring the children along without towing a trailer. Check out all the cool ways to travel as a family.
Bike Bells
No one loves bike bells more than kids, and they’re a fun accessory that will add some style and joy to their ride.
Bike Baskets
Kids bike baskets are another great accessory for young riders who want to bring some toys or snacks along for a cruise.
Training Wheels
Looking for more a set of training wheels for a bike you already own? We’ve got plenty of options that are sure to help your young one stay balanced.