How to Size a Bicycle for Kids

Consider factors other than age and height when sizing a bike for your child.

When you size a bicycle for an adult, you generally consider the size of frame, as most adult bikes come with a standard tire size. While frame sizes do vary on kid's bikes, you should focus on the diameter of the wheel. When people refer to a 12-, 16-, 18-, 20-or 24-inch kid's bike, they are referring to the size of the wheel. While general guidelines exist to help determine the appropriate size for your child, you must consider other points when sizing a bike for your kid.

Instructions

1. Assess the average guidelines regarding the size bike that fits children of different ages. As Brian Fiske notes in Bicycling Magazine, generally, 3-to-4-year olds ride 12-inch bikes. Typically, a 16-inch bike fits 4-to-7-year-olds, a 20-inch bike works for 6-to-9-year-olds and a 24-inch machine does the trick for 9-to-13-year-olds. Once your kid hits 13, odds are they are ready for an adult-size frame.

2. Take your child to a bike shop. Put them on the bike they "should" ride based on their age. Put them on the larger and smaller size, if applicable. Highly coordinated and larger children can often safely handle a larger bike than the bike makers prescribe for their size. Smaller and less agile kids should stay in their age range or even opt for a smaller size bicycle. Formulas don't always work, so be sure to pay close attention to how your child reacts during the test rides.

3. Avoid buying a bike that you think your child will grow into. As Fiske points out, kids are more likely to crash on big bikes they cannot control. Opt for the smaller ride as kids are learning. Putting their feet on the ground and steering should both be easy and comfortable propositions.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a helmet along with the new bike, if you don't already have one for your child. Most states have laws requiring bicycle helmets for minors. Regardless, helmets reduce injury risk in the event of a crash.

References

• Bicycling Magazine: Buy Your Kid a Bike This Holiday Season