How to Choose the Right Kids Bike

Whether it's your kids first bike, or they've outgrown their old set of wheels; buying a kids bike can be difficult if you don't know how to pick the right one.

First things first, kids bikes are sized according to their wheel size, not their frame size like adult bikes. Size is the most important consideration when choosing bicycles for kids. The right size bike will help keep your child safe, comfortable and get the most enjoyment from their bike.

Another important consideration is the frame weight. A lightweight frame that places the child in a stable, comfortable riding position will be easier to pedal and more enjoyable to ride, meaning it will get ridden much more! Bikes made with alloy frames are typically more expensive than bikes with steel frames. The benefits of alloy are that it is lighter and easier for the child to ride, as well as being less prone to rust.

An alternative for older kids are BMX bikes. BMX frames are generally more heavy duty, but this does make them slightly heavier so they're better suited to more experienced riders.

All kids bikes at 99 Bikes are professionally assembled by a trained bike mechanic according to a rigorous safety checklist. This ensures both a safer and less frustrating experience than assembling the bike yourself.

KID'S BIKE SIZING

The height of the child is more important than the child's age, however, for simplicity this guide refers to the suitability of the bike relative to approximate age groups.

BALANCE BIKES - TODDLERS

Balance bikes all come in a 12 inch wheels size and are suitable for kids up to 2 years old. Balance bikes are two wheeled bike without pedals that allow children to sit and coast, helping them develop the balance and skills required to ride a bicycle.

• The perfect introduction to bikes
• Balance bikes come with a 12 inch wheel
• Suitable for kids up to 2 years old
• No pedals, so they help develop important balance and skills required for riding

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12" KIDS BIKES

(AGES 2-4 YEARS OR 75-94CM)

12 inch bikes are generally suitable for kids 2-4 years old. These bikes come with training wheels, and may feature a push steerer so the child can be assisted or directed when needed.

• 12 inch kids bikes are best suited to young children ages 2-4 years old
• These bikes come with training wheels
• May feature a push steerer so the child can be assisted or directed where needed

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14" KIDS BIKES

(AGES 2-5 YEARS OR 80-108CM)

A 14-inch kids’ bike is a great step up from balance bikes or smaller trainer models, offering young riders their first experience with pedals while maintaining stability and confidence. Designed for kids aged 2 to 5 years old (with a height range of 80cm to 108cm), these bikes come with features that help them learn and enjoy their ride safely.

• Lightweight frames and smaller grips ensure little hands can steer comfortably.
• Many models include removable training wheels, making the transition from assisted riding to two wheels smooth and stress-free.
• Coaster brakes (pedal backward to stop) or child-specific hand brakes help young riders develop control and stopping confidence.
• Low stand-over heights, stable wheelbases, and soft-touch saddles provide comfort and security for growing riders.

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16" KIDS BIKES

(AGES 3-6 YEARS OR 84-112CM)

16 inch bikes are generally suitable for kids aged 3 – 6 years old. Typically bikes this size will have training wheels and no gears. Around this age children may not have developed a lot of the strength required for riding, so the bike’s weight will be an important consideration. For older children you may want to consider a 16” BMX for a stronger, heavier duty bike.

• 16 inch kids bikes are suited to those aged between 3 and 6 years old
• These bikes will typically come with training wheels and no gears
• Bike weight is an important consideration as some kids will not have developed a lot of strength required for riding
• For older children you may want to consider a 16” BMX for those kids wanting a stronger or more heavy duty bike
• Comes with rear 'coaster' brakes (pedal backwards to brake), and front hand brakes. 

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20" KIDS BIKES

(AGES 5-8 YEARS OR 108-129CM)

20 inch bikes are generally suitable for kids aged 6 -10 years. 20 inch is also the standard size for a BMX wheel, and given they both have no gears the 20 inch kid’s bike and BMX share a lot of similarities.

The main difference between the two is that a kid’s bike will be lighter and easier to ride, and a BMX will be heavier and more durable. Kid’s bikes are designed in a mountain bike style, whereas BMX are designed more for street and skate park riding. A kid’s bike may be a better option if the child is still learning to ride, while a BMX will be more suitable if the child is already confident - or if they have a tendency to be rough with things.

Some 20 inch bikes also come with gears, which can be beneficial if the child is a bit more experienced and coordinated, as well as suspension for better comfort and handling.

• 20 inch kids bikes are best suited for kids aged between 6 to 10 years old
• This size is also the standard size for BMX
• Kids 20 inch bikes are designed as a mountain bike style, so they’re easier to ride and lighter
• Kids bikes are the best option if they are newer to riding
• BMX bikes are more durable and designed for street or skate park riding
• BMX are great for the more confident rider or if they tend to be rough with things!
• Some 20” kids bikes come with gears so are a great options if your child is more experienced and wants to build on their riding skills
• Comes with hand brakes. 

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26" KIDS BIKES

(AGES 10-13 YEARS OR 145-160CM)

26 inch mountain bikes are suited for kids that are 10-13 years old. 26 inch bikes typically feature gears and suspension forks. 26 inch bikes are the largest of kids bikes with the next progression in bikes being an extra small adult bike.

• Taller kids above 148cm now have an option to go for a 26” kids bikes as opposed to a small adult’s frame
• These 26 inch kids bikes offer great value for older kids
• The junior frame stye features an easy reach brake lever and other child-friendly features, making them a preferred choice over an extra small adult’s frame for children

See All 26" Bikes

How to Pick the Perfect Kids' Bike

Step 1: Find the Right Size

The most important factor when choosing a kids’ bike is size. Unlike adult bikes, which are sized by frame, kids' bikes are measured by wheel diameter.

Use our handy size chart above to match your child's height to the correct wheel size. If your child falls between sizes, consider their experience and confidence level:

• More experienced riders can handle a larger frame, which they’ll grow into.
• Less confident riders will find a smaller bike easier to control and manoeuvre.
  

Step 2: Match the Bike to Their Riding Competency

Once you’ve found the right size, consider your child's riding ability and skill level:

Training Wheels: If your child is just learning to ride, look for a bike that comes with training wheels, or purchase them separately. We can help with installation!

Single-Speed vs. Geared Bikes:

• Single-speed bikes are great for beginners still learning balance and braking.
• Geared bikes help with tackling hills and longer rides but require more skill to use properly.

Step 3: Let Them Choose Their Favourite Colour

This might just be the most important step! A bike in your child's favourite colour makes for an even more exciting gift. When they love the look of their new bike, they’ll be eager to ride it.

Understanding Key Features Based on Budget

Once you've covered the basics, your budget will determine the frame material, braking system, and extra features that suit your child's needs.

Frame Material: Alloy vs. Steel

• Alloy frames are lighter and slightly more expensive, making them easier for kids to ride and handle.
• Steel frames are more affordable but heavier, which can make riding more challenging for younger kids.

Braking Systems: V-Brakes vs. Disc Brakes

• V-brakes (rim brakes) are more affordable and found on most entry-level kids' bikes.
• Disc brakes offer better stopping power and are typically found on premium models.

Comparing Kids' Bike Options

Here’s a breakdown of three great kids’ bikes at different price points to help you decide:

Budget-Friendly Kids' Bike ($) – Pedal Chomp - $299

• Steel frame
• Rim brakes
• 7-speed Shimano twist shift gears

All-Rounder Kids' Bike ($$) – Pedal Crush - $399

• Lightweight alloy frame
• Rim brakes
• 7-speed Shimano trigger shift gears
• Upgraded grips and saddle for comfort

Premium Kids' Bike ($$$) – Pedal Renegade - $549

• Lightweight alloy frame
• Mechanical disc brakes
• 8-speed trigger Microshift gears
• Upgraded grips and saddle for a premium riding experience

Picking the perfect kids' bike comes down to size, competency, and personal preference. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-performance bike, there’s a perfect match for every young rider. Visit us in-store or online to explore our full range and get expert advice on the best choice for your child!