Getting the right size bike is always a really important consideration, and it's even more important when it comes to kids' bikes. Children need their bikes to be the perfect fit so they can learn to cycle safely and comfortably - and develop that all-important love of cycling.
Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to understand how bike sizes for kids work, so you can find the perfect bike for your kid. We've put together a handy guide to get the right bike size for your little ones and children who are growing up too soon!
Kids' Bike Size Chart
Use our child bike sizing chart to figure out how to choose the right fit for your kid.
| Wheel Size | Min Rider Height | Max Rider Height | Min Inside Leg Length | Max Inside Leg Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12" | 85 cm | 98 cm | 33 cm | 41 cm |
| 14" | 88 cm | 104 cm | 36 cm | 51 cm |
| 16" | 95 cm | 114 cm | 41 cm | 51 cm |
| 20" | 114 cm | 129 cm | 53 cm | 63 cm |
| 24" | 128 cm | 143 cm | 57 cm | 68 cm |
| 26" | 135 cm | 150 cm | 61 cm | 81 cm |
How to measure a child for a bike
We always recommend measuring your child before buying them a new bike. Having the wrong size bike can be uncomfortable and will make learning to cycle more difficult. Age isn’t always the best indicator for a straightforward bike measurement, as children are all different sizes and grow at different rates.
Because kids come in all shapes and sizes (much like bikes), there is no “normal” leg length or height for each age category. It’s difficult to suggest the “average size bike for an 11-year-old”, or “the right bicycle size for a 9-year-old boy”, because everyone is shaped differently!
To find the right size bike, inside leg measurement is usually the easiest way to figure out fit. Here are a few super simple steps to follow to ensure accuracy when figuring out the right bike size for kids:
Step One
To measure the inseam or inside leg, stand your child up with their back against a wall.
Step Two
Have them hold their legs together, and then place a book between their legs, as high as comfortably possible.
Step Three
Use a pencil or tape to mark the top of the book. Move them away from the wall and measure from the top of the book to the floor.
Then, measure their height…
Step One
Stand your child in their socks against a wall.
Step Two
Measure them from the floor to the top of their head.
You can then use the table above using these measurements to find the perfect size bike for your child based on their height and age. Of course, there may be some slight differences between the two - sometimes kids are tall or short for their age, which is why it's so important to take actual physical measurements.
The minimum inside leg length refers to the saddle being at its lowest setting and the maximum inside leg length is the highest setting. By choosing the minimum leg length, your child can grow with the bike and it may last a little longer in regards to fit. By ensuring you’ve got the correct sizes, your child will safely and comfortably be able to get their feet on the ground.
How to work out kids' bike size
Kids' bike sizing is determined by the wheel size, or diameter to be more precise, whereas adult bikes are sized by the frame size and seat height. The smallest kids' bikes - so likely the first bike you'll be looking at for your little one - start at 12-inch for balance bikes, and our Raleigh kid's bikes go up to 26-inch wheels, which are generally the right size for kids aged 9-11.
There are also different bikes that suit different stages. Balance bikes - bikes without pedals - are ideal for a kid's first experience on a bike to get them used to the posture and experience. After they get the hang of it, you can then think about moving onto a junior bike with stabilisers.
Bike sizes for children by their age
Although it can be difficult to judge buying a children’s bike based on their age, their ability to ride a bike also varies as they grow up. Children develop at a different rate to one another, so we have summarised the type of kids' bikes suitable, based on their age group. Of course, as they grow they'll likely need to move up to the next size bike, but measuring will help make sure you choose the right one for the best comfort and safety.
Bike sizes for 2 to 4 year olds
For the little ones you're likely wanting a bike that comes with stabilisers that can be removed when they're more confident. The Raleigh Pop 12 and Pop 14 would be perfect for early riders. These sizes each come in two adorable colours with all the safety features you can expect from the Pop range - anti-slip pedals, internal cables, an up-right riding position , and more.
Bike sizes for 5 to 6 year olds
Wondering what size bike is best for your 5 or 6 year old? It goes without saying, but typically the older the child, the bigger the bike they need. However, it's always really important to take accurate measurements to make sure the wheel size is correct for your child. Our Pop 16 children’s bike is a likely fit but check those measurements first. Each bike size is designed with an adjustable saddle to accommodate your child as they grow.
Bike sizes for 7 to 9 year olds
Moving up to a 20 inch wheel can be a big step up as it generally marks the transition into junior bikes - essentially the step between kids' bikes and adult bikes. Again, bike size will depend on height, so make sure to check the inseam measurement. Typically, the right bicycle size for 7-year-old cyclists is usually something with an 18-20 inch wheel. If your child is in between sizes it might be worth thinking about opting for a larger wheel size for when they grow.
Bike sizes for 10 to 12 year olds
As your child grows taller you'll notice them needing larger bike sizes to fit. 24 inch and 26 inch wheels are still classified as junior bikes and are usually the last transition size before tweens and teens move into adult bikes.
