Finding the Right-Sized Bike for Your Child

Learning how to ride a bike is one of the great joys of childhood. After all, there’s a reason the phrase “it’s like riding a bike” is so famous. It’s because learning how to ride a bike is something you never forget, no matter how old you become. To make sure your child gets the most out of this experience you need to make sure you buy the correct bike.

The most important factor to keep in mind while buying a bike is the size of the bike. If you get a bike that is too small, their knees could hit the handlebars making it feel cramped and hard to maneuver properly. On the other hand, if they try to ride a bike that is too large for them, they could have difficulty stopping, which will decrease their confidence and make riding a bike not an enjoyable activity.

Bike sizes in the U.S. are not measured by their frame, but by their tire size. The correctly sized bike for your child will vary depending on the age and height of your child, as well as their experience level. For young children just starting to learn how to ride a bike, they should have a smaller, thicker tire size and be able to put their feet flat on the ground while sitting on the bicycle seat. If you’re buying a bike for older, more advanced riders, they should have a larger tire size and be able to stand on their tiptoes from a seated position.

Learning to ride a bike will be a memorable and life-long memory; however, just like any learning process, there will be a few bumps and falls along the way, so make sure to buy a helmet to keep you child safe.