Buying a bike for your child is an exciting milestone, whether it’s their very first ride or an upgrade as they grow. But with so many options, sizes, and features, how do you make the right choice—without spending a fortune?
This guide will help you choose the perfect bike for your child while saving money, avoiding common mistakes, and ensuring they get a bike they love and feel confident riding.
1. Get the Right Size (Not One They’ll “Grow Into”)
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is buying a bike that’s too big, thinking their child will grow into it. While it may seem like a smart way to save money, a bike that’s too large is harder to control and can be unsafe.
🔹 How to choose the right size:
- Kids’ bikes are measured by wheel size (not frame size like adult bikes). Common sizes are 12″, 16″, 20″, and 24″ wheels.
- Your child should be able to stand over the bike with their feet flat on the ground and reach the handlebars comfortably.
- A properly sized bike gives them confidence and makes learning easier!
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying new every time they grow, consider a quality refurbished bike. You’ll get the right size at a fraction of the price, and when they outgrow it, you can trade up!
2. Prioritize Comfort & Safety Features
A good bike is lightweight, easy to ride, and safe. Avoid heavy, clunky bikes that make pedaling a struggle.
🔹 Look for these key features:
✅ Lightweight frame – Easier for kids to control. No full suspension due to the weight while learning
✅ Hand brakes vs. coaster brakes – Younger kids do better with coaster brakes (pedal backward to stop), while older kids should transition to hand brakes.
✅ Low stand-over height – Easier to get on and off.
✅ Adjustable seat & handlebars – Ensures a good fit for longer.
✅ No Gears – Unnecessary for younger children, too much weight and too complicated
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Buying a refurbished bike from a trusted provider means the bike has already been checked for safety and quality—so you get top value without paying for brand-new.
3. Choose the Right Type of Bike for Their Needs
Not all kids’ bikes are the same! Think about how and where your child will ride.
| Child Bike Size Guide | ||||
| Height | ||||
| Age | Feet | Inches | cm | Wheel Size |
| 2-4 years | 3 | 0 | 91+ | 12″ |
| 4-7 years | 3 | 6 | 107+ | 14-16″ |
| 7-10 years | 3 | 10 | 117+ | 18-20″ |
| 10-13 years | 4 | 6 | 137+ | 24″ |
| 10-13 years | 5 | 0 | 152 | 24″ |
🚴 Balance Bike (Ages 2-4): No pedals, teaches balance before moving to a real bike.
🚲 Single-Speed Bike (Ages 3-6): Simple, easy to ride, great for learning.
🌲 BMX Bike (Ages 6+): Sturdy, fun for tricks, trails, and general riding.
⛰ Kids’ Mountain Bike (Ages 7+): Gears & suspension for adventurous kids who ride off-road.
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Many kids get bored of a bike that doesn’t match their riding style. Instead of buying new every time, a refurbished option lets you upgrade affordably as their needs change.
4. Consider Buying a Quality Refurbished Bike
New bikes can be expensive, and kids outgrow them fast. Instead of paying a premium for a brand-new bike that might only last a year or two, a refurbished bike offers the same quality at a much lower price.
Why choose a refurbished kids’ bike?
✅ Same quality for less – Professionally checked, serviced, and road-ready.
✅ More sustainable – Reduces waste & gives good bikes a second life.
✅ Upgrade easily – Trade in and size up as your child grows!
5. Don’t Forget a Helmet & Accessories!
A bike is only part of the equation—safety matters too! Make sure your child has a properly fitted helmet, and consider other useful accessories like:
🔹 Bike bell – Helps them signal others.
🔹 Lights & reflectors – Essential for visibility.
🔹 Kickstand – Prevents damage when parked.
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Many refurbished bike shops offer helmets and accessories at a discount—so you can get everything your child needs in one place without overspending.
Find the Perfect Bike for Your Child Today!
At Trailnet, we offer great-value, expertly refurbished kids’ bikes that are safe, fun, and affordable. Whether it’s their first bike or an upgrade, we’ll help you find the perfect ride—without breaking the bank.
Contact either our Brentwood or Becontree loctions below to let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll match you with the best options available!
🚲 Brentwood – Thorndon Cycle Centre
Located inside Thorndon Country Park, we offer:
- Refurbished bikes & professional bike servicing
- Cycle hire for all ages & abilities
- Group rides, lessons, inclusive cycling & more
📍 The Avenue, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3RZ
📞 +44 1277 218497
📧 info@trailnet.org.uk
🕒 Open: Varies Seasonally – check here
🚲 Dagenham – Becontree Cycle Centre
Serving the local community with:
- Affordable refurbished bikes
- Expert bike servicing & repairs
- Cycle mechanic training & inclusive cycling options
