How to measure bike size for kids

How to Choose the Right Bike Size for Kids

At Giant, we have a collection of bikes for kids in our ARX range. It has four sizes and various colour options to accommodate boys and girls aged 4 to 11+.

ARX 16: Designed for children aged 4-6 years, the bike has 16” wheels.
ARX 20: Designed for children aged 6-9 years, the bike has 20” wheels.
ARX 24: Designed for children aged 9-11 years, the bike has 24” wheels.
ARX 26: Designed for children aged 11+ years, the bike has 26” wheels.

Our ARX kid's bikes are among the lightest in their category. They feature a lightweight ALUXX aluminium frame, lightweight components, youth-specific features such as a low bottom bracket for a better centre of gravity, and short-reach brake levers for control and comfort.

a child riding the giant arx 20 down a bike path

Why Kid's Bike Size Matters

As a parent, you want to ensure your child’s safety and enjoyment while riding a bike. One crucial factor to consider is the bike size, here's why:

Control: An ill-fitting bike can compromise your child’s balance and control. A bike that’s too big can be difficult to manoeuvre, while a bike that’s too small can cause discomfort and lead to knees hitting the handlebars or toes catching the front wheel.

Comfort: A bike the correct size ensures a comfortable riding position, reducing strain on the body, particularly on the wrists, back, and knees.

Confidence: A well-fitted bike boosts your child’s confidence, making them more likely to enjoy riding and explore new places.

Skill Development: The right bike size allows children to develop proper riding techniques, such as braking, steering, and shifting gears. It also helps them build strength and coordination.

image of the kids bikes display at giant store lincoln that includes kids bikes, kids bike helmets and a display for measuring height

How to Choose the Right Bike Size for Kids

To ensure you find the bike that is the correct size for your child, we strongly advise you to visit your local Giant retailer. Our experts will measure your child accordingly to find the best-suited model, (not all children of the same age will be the same height). More importantly, they can make slight adjustments to the bike to provide your child the best comfort and control, keeping them smiling when riding a bike. Here are ways in which our expert retailers may measure.

Standover Height: Your child should be able to stand flat-footed over the bike’s top tube with a few inches of clearance. This ensures they can safely mount and dismount from the bike.

Reach: Ensure your child can comfortably reach the handlebars without stretching. A bike that’s too big will require them to reach too far, making it difficult to control.

Seat Height: The seat should be adjusted so that your child can easily touch the ground with their toes. This allows them to balance and stop the bike easily.

image of a child sitting on his giant arx bike smiling

Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Bike Rides

Regular Bike Fit Checks: As your child grows, their bike may no longer fit them properly. It’s important to check the fit regularly and adjust the seat and handlebars as they grow. The three tips above are guide on how to adjust the bike accordingly. However, its always best to visit your local Giant retailer who can help and advise whether it’s time to get the next size up.

Proper Helmet Fit: A well-fitted helmet is essential for protecting your child’s head. It should sit level on the head, covering the forehead and the back of the head. To accompany Giant's kid's bike range, the Hoot ARX kids bike helmets are lightweight, well-fitted, and secure to ensure your child is comfortable and extra safe. They are available in various colours to complement our fun kid's bike colours.

Ride Together: Join your child on bike rides to model safe riding behaviour, spend quality time together, and create lasting memories.

By ensuring your child has the right bike size and teaching them bike safety, you can help them develop a lifelong love for cycling.