To determine the correct bike size for your child, you need to consider their height and inseam. The inseam is the length from their crotch to the ground.
Here’s a general guideline for bike sizes based on child’s height:
| Height (cm) | Wheel Size (inches) | Bike Type |
|---|---|---|
| 80-90 | 12 | First balance bike or small toddler bike |
| 90-105 | 14 | Toddler bike |
| 105-115 | 16 | Kids’ bike |
| 115-125 | 18 | Kids’ bike |
| 125-135 | 20 | Kids’ bike |
| 135-145 | 24 | Kids’ mountain bike or hybrid bike |
| 145-155 | 26 | Youth mountain bike or hybrid bike |
| 155+ | 26″ or 700c | Full-size mountain bike or hybrid bike |
Inseam:
You can also measure your child’s inseam to get a more precise bike size. To do this, have your child stand barefoot against a wall with their legs straight down. Place a book horizontally between their legs, just above their crotch. Measure the distance from the bottom of the book to the ground.
Once you have your child’s height and inseam, you can use a bike size chart to find the best fit. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a bike:
- Seat height: The seat should be adjusted so that your child can comfortably sit with their feet flat on the ground.
- Handlebar height: The handlebars should be adjusted so that your child can reach them comfortably without having to hunch over or reach too far.
- Top tube length: The top tube is the horizontal bar that runs from the seatpost to the head tube. It should be long enough so that your child can sit comfortably without their knees hitting the handlebars.
It’s always a good idea to have your child try out a bike before you buy it to make sure it fits them properly. They should be able to comfortably reach the handlebars and pedals, and their feet should be able to touch the ground when they are sitting on the seat.
Here are some additional tips for choosing a bike for your child:
- Consider your child’s riding ability: If your child is a beginner, you may want to choose a bike with training wheels or a balance bike.
- Think about where your child will be riding: If your child will be riding on paved surfaces, you may want to choose a road bike. If they will be riding on trails, you may want to choose a mountain bike.
- Get your child a helmet: A helmet is essential for safety. Make sure the helmet fits your child properly and that it is certified by a safety organization.