2–4 years: balance bike or 12 inch
First steps on two wheels. A light bike with a low step-through gives children confidence.
Kids’ bike guide by Karaarslan Bike
Which kids’ bike for which age? size chart & calculator.
12, 16, 20 or 24 inch: what matters is not only age but above all height and inside-leg length. Our chart and calculator help you find the right wheel size — and at our shop in Lünen, the right bike, new or used.
- 12 to 26 inch
- New & used
- Test ride, no appointment
- Advice for parents
Calculate the kids’ bike size
Enter your child’s height — or, if you don’t have it to hand, their age.
Recommended wheel size
Please enter height (80–170 cm) or age (2–14).
Guide value — children of the same age differ in height. When sitting on the saddle, your child should reach the ground safely with the balls of both feet.
Chart: kids’ bike size by age and height
Wheel size in inches is the most common size for kids’ bikes.
| Age | Height | Inside leg | Wheel size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–4 years | 85–100 cm | 35–42 cm | 12″ |
| 3–5 years | 95–110 cm | 40–48 cm | 14″ |
| 4–6 years | 105–120 cm | 45–55 cm | 16″ |
| 6–8 years | 115–135 cm | 52–62 cm | 20″ |
| 8–11 years | 130–150 cm | 60–70 cm | 24″ |
| 10–13 years | 145–160 cm | 66–75 cm | 26″ |
| from 12 years | > 155 cm | > 72 cm | 27,5″ / 28″ |
Overlaps are normal: if in doubt, go by height and inside leg rather than age.
The right bike for every age
4–6 years: 14 to 16 inch
The first “real” bike — often with coaster and hand brake. Stabilisers only as long as needed.
6–8 years: 20 inch
School starts. Lights, reflectors and a bell are now a must, often gears too.
8–11 years: 24 inch
More gears, more range — for family rides along the Lippe.
10–13 years: 26 inch
Almost an adult bike. A youth bike or XS frame keeps growing with them for a while.
Used saves the most
Children outgrow their bike every one or two years — an inspected used bike is the smart choice.
Used kids’ bikes →Buying checklist
- On the saddle, your child reaches the ground safely with the balls of both feet.
- Brake levers are easy to reach and light to pull for small hands.
- The bike is as light as possible — children have to push and lift it themselves.
- For the road: lights, reflectors and bell (road-legal under German StVZO).
- Adjustable saddle and handlebars so the bike grows a little.
- And always: helmet on!
Questions about kids’ bikes
Message us on WhatsAppWhat bike size for a 5-year-old?
Usually 16 inch, 14 inch for smaller children. Height decides: about 105–120 cm fits a 16 inch bike.
When is a 20 inch bike right?
Usually from about 6 years, or from a height of around 115–120 cm.
What size for an 8-year-old?
Usually 20 or 24 inch — at around 130 cm the switch to 24 inch begins.
From what age a 26 inch or adult bike?
26 inch usually fits from 10–11 years (approx. 145 cm). From about 155 cm an adult bike with a small frame is an option.
Is a used kids’ bike worth it?
Yes, especially: children outgrow their bike quickly. Our used kids’ bikes are inspected and come with a 3-month warranty.
Can my child test ride at your shop?
Yes. Just bring your child to Alstedder Straße 5 in Lünen — no appointment needed.
The first big bike? We can help.
Come by with your child — together we will find the right size.
Karaarslan Bike · Alstedder Straße 5 · 44534 Lünen · +49 163 7390 301