How to Select a Bicycle for a Child

Buying a bicycle for a child is very rewarding. It can lead the child to a lifetime of enjoyment and fitness. Getting the right bike can make all the difference. Children can be taught to ride small bikes at about 3 years old. Most children learn to ride bikes at about 5 or 6 years of age, but some don't learn until they are 10. It depends on the child's self-confidence and abilities. The most important thing is getting a bike that fits the child to give him the confidence he needs.

Instructions

    • 1

      Check the child's inseam. If it is 17 inches or less, the wheel size of the bike should be 12 inches. If the inseam is 17 to 22 inches, the wheel size should be 16 inches. If the child's inseam is longer than 22 inches, the wheel size should be 20 inches, the size of a typical BMX bike. If the child's inseam is longer than 22 inches she can ride a mountain bike with a wheel size of 26 inches.

    • 2

      Check the bike's brakes. If the bike has hand brakes let the child attempt to compress the brake while sitting on the bike as you are holding it. If the child has any problems compressing the brake, do not buy the bike. Buy a bike with foot brakes only.

    • 3

      Check the child's balance. If the child is younger than 4 years old, training wheels should come installed on the bike. Place the child on the bike. Lower the seat so that the child's feet are flat on the floor. Let the child scoot around on the floor using his feet for balance. If the child is confident and her handling of the bike seems satisfactory, then you do not need a bike with training wheels. For older children, it is better to learn to ride a new bike without training wheels.

    • 4

      Check the bike for guards over the chain. If there are none, don't buy the bike. Check the bike for loose metal parts that can hook the child's clothing. Look for sharp edges that can cut or scrape. If you find any of these detractions don't buy the bike.

    • 5

      Lift the bike. If it's as heavy as an adult bike, it's probably solid steel. Steel is heavy. Look for a bike that is aluminum. Look for a bike that looks like a bike. Don't buy bikes that look like scientific experiments with springs, odd configurations or unessential parts.

    • 6

      Buy a bike that signifies your child's personality. For girls, look for pink or pastel colors with colorful Disney characters that the child likes to look at. For boys, get bright red with superhero logos or popular action figures.