Bikes for toddlers, teens and everyone in between.
We have a huge range of kids’ and teenagers bikes in stock here at Wheelbase from some of the world’s best brands including Marin, Woom, Frog, Scott, Cannondale, Trek, Orbea, Whyte and Cube. Kids Bikes are all about fun and freedom, that first bike as a child will be remembered for years to come. All kids’ bikes now come with size specific frames, wheels and components that cater for children of all ages, from toddlers to teenage riders. A next day delivery option is available and all our Kids Bikes are delivered ready to ride. Unsure of what to buy and needing some direction? Check out our best selling bikes of the year here
What Size Bike Does My Child Need? – Kids Bike Size Guide by Age & Height
Choosing the right size bike for your child is key to building confidence, comfort, and safety when learning to ride. From balance bikes for toddlers to trail-ready mountain bikes for older kids, finding the perfect fit makes all the difference. Use our kids bike size guide to help you match wheel size to your child’s age and height—before you buy.
How Are Kids’ Bikes Sized?
Unlike adult bikes, which are sized by frame dimensions, children’s bikes are sized by wheel diameter. The most common sizes include 12”, 14”, 16”, 20”, 24”, 26” and 27.5” wheels, each suited to a specific age and height range.
Use the chart below as a quick reference to find the best fit for your child.
For toddlers and first-time riders, balance bikes are the perfect introduction to cycling. These pedal-free bikes focus on developing key skills like balance and steering, giving your little one the confidence to ride solo.
Once your child masters a balance bike, it’s time for their first pedal bike. Bikes in this category are simple and sturdy, usually single-speed with easy-to-use brakes, ideal for riding on pavements, park paths and light trails.
As your child’s confidence and strength grow, 20” wheel bikes offer more range and control. Often equipped with gears and front suspension, they’re perfect for exploring rougher terrain and longer rides.
With 24” wheels, bikes begin to closely resemble smaller versions of adult bikes. Built for pre-teens, these bikes cater to specific riding styles, whether it’s commuting, trail riding or leisure cycling.
Ideal for: Ages 7-10 or heights of 127–150cm
Gearing suited for hills and mixed terrain
Suspension forks and wider tyres on MTB models
Rigid forks and hybrid geometry for pavement and paths
For older children and young teens, 26” and 27.5” wheel bikes offer a near full-size riding experience with youth-specific geometry. These bikes support longer rides, more aggressive terrain and specialised disciplines like road cycling or mountain biking.
Final Thoughts – Finding the Right Size Bike for Your Child
The right size bike ensures your child can ride confidently and safely, whether they’re just learning or tackling forest trails. Always measure height and consult a size chart before buying. If your child is between sizes, consider their experience level -beginners benefit from a smaller, easier-to-handle bike.
Wheelbase have 3 stores across the north of England where you can try Childrens bikes for size. If you order a childrens bike online at Wheelbase, it will arrive ready to ride, having been built and inspected by our Cytech Mechanics. On larger bikes you may need to add the front wheel.
