Buying a kids bike is an important decision - you want to make sure your child has the best experience possible. But with so many different types and styles out there, which one is best for your child? As Edmonton’s #1 bike shop, we have a few tricks to help you get started.
Below are some general guidelines for fitting your child for the right bike.
|
Child age |
Child height |
Bike size |
|
2-4 years |
3”-3’3” |
12 inch (or run bike) |
|
3-6 years |
3’3”-3’8” |
14/16 inch |
|
5-7 years |
3’8”-4’4” |
20 inch |
|
7-9 years |
4’4”-5’ |
24 inch |
|
9+ years |
5’+ |
26 inch (or adult XS) |
Our process:
First setting foot into a store with a ton of kids bikes to choose from can be a daunting process. It’s tempting as a parent to just let your child pick the bright pink bike or the neon yellow bike and be done with the process - but trust us, your child can get an even better experience with some extra help. Our experts go through an extensive process to make sure your child leaves the store with the bike that fits them best.
1. Find the right style and size
The first step in the process is getting a complete picture of your child. Knowing a child’s age, height, and level of riding skill is key to getting them fitted for the proper bike!
PRO TIP: Kids bike sizes are determined by the size of the wheel, not the frame - unlike adult bikes.
2. Ride on the test track
Once we get a sense of your child’s fit requirements, we can move to the test track. Our store features an indoor test ride area where kids can discover which bike fits them best. Our experts make sure the bike is set up properly for your child right off the bat.
PRO TIP: Bike seat height matters. Too high, and your child will feel too unstable and will have a difficult time controlling the bike. Too low, and they won’t be able to use the proper pedaling technique and will struggle to get the bike up to speed.
3. Pick training wheels and other accessories
Once the test ride is complete and the bike has been chosen, it’s important to outfit both rider and bike properly. If your child is still a bit unsure about riding on two wheels, we offer attachable training wheels that screw on to the rear axle of our 16” bikes.
PRO TIP: Training wheels for bikes 20” and larger need to be mounted to the frame of the bike itself, not the rear axle. Parents are encouraged to get their kids riding without training wheels if they’re riding 20” or 24” bikes.
4. Don't forget a helmet
But the bike is just the beginning of the journey. Chances are if your child has outgrown their bike, they might have outgrown their helmet as well. With a new bike comes new opportunities for your kids to express themselves: deck out the bike with a bell, some streamers, or a basket if they want!
PRO TIP: Make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your child’s bike safe. Purchasing a lock along with the bike can encourage your child to always make sure they’re locking up their bike after a ride.
5. The fun part
Now, it’s time for the fun part: riding the bike and making memories! But we can still take care of your child’s riding experience after they leave the store. We offer extensive tuning packages and a trade-in program for kids bikes as well. Happy riding!
