We’re building this Kids section from the ground up – just for you! What are you most curious about? Which bikes, gadgets or pieces of gear should we absolutely put to the test?
Tell us in the Kids Bikes Survey!
Contents
- Buying Kids’ and Balance Bikes: What Really Matters!
- How To Find the Right Size Kids’ Bike
- How to measure inseam length
- Check out our Quick Guides Here
In our view, high-quality kids’ bikes aren’t luxury items, they’re tools for more fun, more safety, and less stress. They’re easier to ride, easier to repair, and easier to pass on. And that’s something both kids and parents can get excited about.
Whether you’re looking at kids’ bikes or balance bikes – here are a few general tips to consider before diving into the group tests.
Buying Kids’ and Balance Bikes: What Really Matters!
- Child-friendly ergonomics: The grips shouldn’t be too thick, and the brake levers must be adjustable and easy to use with small hands.
- Low weight: The lighter, the better – unless it’s a true mini bike built for the bike park.
- The right size: Even the best bike is no fun if it doesn’t fit.
How To Find the Right Size Kids’ Bike
Age and height recommendations merely serve as rough guidelines. The most important factor is your child’s inseam length, which has to match the bike.
If the saddle is still too high in its lowest position, your child won’t be able to pedal properly. On the other hand, if the seatpost is too short, they’ll soon be riding with their knees up to their chin – and that’s no fun either.
Our tip: Look out for the recommended inseam length listed for each bike in our tests. If it says something like “26–33 cm”, your child’s inseam should fall somewhere within that range.
How to measure inseam length
Check out our Quick Guides Here
Full Reviews: Quick Guide Balance Bikes – 10 Balance Bikes on Test
Full Reviews: Quick Guide Kids’ Bikes up to 16” (approx. 2–5 Years) – 8 Kids’ Bikes on Test
Words: Jonny Grapentin Photos: Lars Engmann
