How to Choose the Right Bike Online
Buying a child’s bike online can feel confusing, especially at Christmas when you want everything to be perfect. The key to getting the right fit is knowing how to measure your child correctly and matching it to the right bike wheel size. This guide will help you buy the correct size bike without trying it in person.
How Are Children’s Bikes Sized in the UK?
Children’s bikes in the UK are measured by wheel size in inches, not by frame size like adult bikes. The most important number to check is your child’s inside leg measurement. This tells you if they can safely stand over the bike and ride it with confidence.
Step 1: Measure Your Child’s Inside Leg
-
Ask your child to stand against a wall wearing shoes.
-
Place a book between their legs, snug to the top of the thigh.
-
Measure from the floor up to the top of the book.
-
Write this number down. This is their inside leg measurement.
Step 2: Match the Measurement to the Correct Bike Wheel Size
|
Wheel Size |
Approx. Age |
Inside Leg Length |
|---|---|---|
|
12″ |
2–4 years |
33–40 cm |
|
14″ |
3–5 years |
40–50 cm |
|
16″ |
4–6 years |
45–55 cm |
|
18″ |
5–7 years |
50–60 cm |
|
20″ |
6–9 years |
55–65 cm |
|
24″ |
8–12 years |
60–72 cm |
|
26″ |
11+ years |
70+ cm |
Tip: Always use the inside leg length first. Age is only a rough guide.
Step 3: Comfort and Safety First
It might be tempting to buy a bike your child can “grow into”, but this can make it unsafe. A bike that is too big will be harder to balance and could knock their confidence. The best choice is always the bike that fits now.
Look for bikes with adjustable saddles and handlebars. These give you some growing room while still keeping the bike safe to ride.
Step 4: Check the Weight of the Bike
A lighter bike is easier for children to control and more enjoyable to ride. Always check the weight in the product details before you buy.
Extra Help When Buying Online
If you are unsure about sizing, you can phone our Scotland store. Once you have your child’s inside leg measurement, our team can confirm which size will be best and guide you through your options.
FAQs About Child’s Bike Sizing
Q: How do I measure my child for a bike?
A: Measure their inside leg length from the floor to the top of the thigh, then use our size chart to match it to the correct wheel size.
Q: Can I buy a bigger bike for my child to grow into?
A: No, a bike that is too large is unsafe and hard to ride. Always buy the correct size for their current inside leg measurement.
Q: What if I order the wrong size?
A: Contact our team. We can help you find the right size and advise on next steps if an exchange is needed.
Q: What size bike should I buy for a 5-year-old?
A: Most 5-year-olds fit a 16″ wheel bike, but always check the inside leg measurement first as children grow at different rates.
Final Tip
This Christmas, give your child a bike that fits perfectly. It means a safe, fun, and confident ride from day one.
Check out our collections of Youth and Kid's bikes.