What Size Bike Should I Get for My Child?

If your child is ready for his or her first bike or they’re in need of an upgrade, you might find yourself browsing longer than expected. There are numerous things to look for when choosing the perfect bike for your little one, ranging from wheel size to aesthetics. Our team has provided a guide to make the bike search an easy one!

Bike Chart

Go for a Test Ride

Using a bike chart is an excellent jumping off point but we recommend taking your child for a couple test rides. 

Sitting: When your child sits on the bike, are the balls of the feet touching the ground? If not, the seat could be too high making it difficult for your child to control the bike. 

Pedals: If the bike is too small then you’ll notice your child’s knees hitting the handlebar when pedaling. Hyperextending the legs is an indication that the bike is too big. 

Middle bar: Have your child stand with one leg on either side of the bike and feet flat against the ground. The bike should be about 1”-2” inches under your child’s legs. If you notice your child tilting the bike to get it to fit, consider a smaller size bike. 

Handlebar: Steering the handlebars with the arms slightly bent means the bike is the perfect fit! If you notice your child overextending to reach the handlebars, the bike is likely too big.

Adjustable Bike Parts

If you’ve spent hours shopping for bikes and you haven’t found one you’re set on, see if any of the bikes have adjustable parts. Some of these adjustable parts are: 

• Handlebars

• Seat Height

• Seat Angle

• Pedal Position

Having adjustable parts will also be beneficial in the long-run as your child grows.

Other Helpful Tips

• Have your child pay close attention to the hand brakes when testing out the bike. Does the brake require a lot of grip strength? If so, this could be an issue when your child is riding around the neighborhood and needs to use the brake abruptly. 

• If your child is new to riding, you’ll want to make adjustments over time to ease him or her into it. For instance, at the beginning stages you’ll want the bike low enough where both feet are able to catch themselves if your child falls. 

• Consider accessories for the bike, especially ones that provide extra safety such as a horn, bell, or lights.
  
  

Browse Bikes at Mr. Bike & Ski

Stop into our bike shop in Escanaba, MI, to check out our wide range of kids bikes. We also provide an exciting kids buyback program. If you buy a kids bike at Mr. Bike & Ski and they outgrow it within three years, we'll buy it back at up to half the retail value towards your next purchase!