Kids' Bikes

Kids' Bikes

With so many options, finding the right bike for a child can be challenging. Simplify the process by focusing on the most important factor-fit.

Kids' Bike Sizing

Kids' bike models are measured by the size of the wheel rather than the frame, running from 12" through 24." After that, bigger kids can choose from adult-sized bikes, which start at 26" wheels.

• 12 inch and 14 inch: Approximate age: 2 to 4 (12"-20" inseam)
• 16 inch: Approximate age: 5 to 8 (18"-22" inseam)
• 20 inch: Approximate age: 6 to 10 (21"-25" inseam)
• 24 inch: Approximate age: 8 to 12 (24"-28" inseam)

Your Child's Bike Size

To find the exact right size, you'll need your child's inseam measurement:

• Have the child stand up straight against a wall.
• Put a book (spine up) between their legs, as if they are sitting on a bike seat.
• Mark where the book's spine meets the wall and measure from that mark to the floor.

Note: Bike inseam measurement differs from pants inseam, which is from the crotch to pant cuff.

Now you can check any prospective bike's sizing specs for the standover height: the distance from the ground to the bike's top tube. On a correctly sized bike, a child's inseam will be about 1" (25 mm) more than the standover height. Don't buy a bigger bike, where standover height and inseam are the same or the standover height is greater, with the idea that your child will grow into it. A properly sized bike is easier for a kid to handle and therefore more fun to ride.

Fit Checks

A child should be able to grip the handlebars without fully extending their arms. (A slight elbow bend is ideal.) Steering and squeezing hand brakes (if the bike has them) should be easy to do. They should be sitting comfortably, with legs slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke.

Kids' Bike Styles

Kids' bike styles are similar to those for adults, like cruiser bikes and mountain bikes. One exception for younger kids is a balance bike, which has no pedals or chain. Kids power it by scooting along with their feet, gaining coordination to aid the transition to a pedal bike. Styles with removable training wheels can also help kids transition to a bigger kids' bike.

Shop Kids' Bikes at REI

We offer a large variety of children's bikes brands like Co-op Cycles, Electra, Strider and more.