Buyers Guide - Kids' Bikes

Kids’ bikes are designed to help young riders build confidence, develop skills, and most importantly—have fun! From balance bikes for the littlest learners to pedal bikes with or without training wheels, there’s a perfect fit for every age and stage.

Built with safety, durability, and kid-friendly features in mind, these bikes come in a variety of sizes and styles to match your child’s growth and riding needs—whether they’re cruising the sidewalk, hitting the park, or riding to school.

How to Choose the Right Kids’ Bike

The first step to finding the right bike for your child is knowing their age and height—these help guide you toward the correct wheel size, which is how kids’ bike sizes are typically categorized. For a more precise fit, take a quick inseam measurement to ensure they can easily get on, stand over the frame, and ride with confidence.

Next, think about where they'll be riding. Will they stick to paved paths and neighborhood streets, or explore dirt trails and parks? This will help you decide between a hybrid bike for smooth, everyday riding or a kids' mountain bike designed for rougher terrain and more adventurous outings.

A bike that fits well and suits your child’s riding environment not only boosts comfort and confidence—it also makes learning to ride safer, easier, and a whole lot more fun.

Wheel Size

Unlike adult bikes, which are sized by the frame, kids’ bikes are sized by the diameter of the wheels. Wheel sizes typically range from 12” for toddlers all the way up to 26” for older or taller kids getting close to adult sizes.

Age and Height

Your child’s age and height are key to finding the right size range. Once you’ve got their measurements, use the sizing guidelines below to see which wheel sizes are likely to be the best fit.

Inseam

Want an even better fit? Measure their inseam! Once you’ve got a wheel size in mind, knowing your child’s inseam helps you pick a bike they can comfortably straddle, making it easier (and safer) to get on and off.

Sizing Guidelines

Choosing the right size bike for your child mostly comes down to their age and height. Our top tip? Avoid sizing up with the idea that they’ll grow into it. A bike that’s too big can make learning harder and knock their confidence. A properly sized bike helps your child feel more in control, making riding easier and more enjoyable as they build their skills.

We offer a Kids' Trade Up Program that lets you trade in outgrown bikes, which brings the cost down so you can always have a bike that fits your child.

Ages 2 - 4 years

12" wheels are just what they need to get started on two wheels. You can find push bike models or bikes equipped with coaster brakes and training wheels in this category.

Height: 3'0" - 3'3"
Inseam: 15" - 18"
Wheel/Bike Size: 12" (balance bike or training wheel bike)