Kids Bike
Size Guide

How Do I Measure My Child For a Bike?

We always recommend measuring your child before buying them a new bike, age isn’t always the best indicator as children are all different sizes and grow at different rates – however, there is no “normal” leg length or height for each age category. There are a few simple steps to follow to ensure the correct size:

Step One

Stand your child in their socks against a wall.

Step Two

Place a book between their legs, as high as comfortably possible.

Step Three

Move them away from the wall and measure from the top of the book to the floor.

Then, measure their height…

Step One

Stand your child in their socks against a wall.

Step Two

Measure them from the floor to the top of their head.

You can then use the table below or our calculator using these measurements to find the perfect size bike for your child based on their height and age.

The minimum inside leg length refers to the saddle being at its lowest setting and the maximum inside leg length is the highest setting. By choosing the minimum leg length, your child can grow with the bike and it may last a little longer in regards to fit. By ensuring you’ve got the correct sizes, your child will safely and comfortably be able to get their feet on the ground.

Can my child sit on a bike before buying to check the size?

If you'd like your child to have a quick sit on a bike to see how comfortable they find it and if it's the correct fit for them, take a look at a local store near you on our Raleigh store locator and get in touch with them to see if they have the bike size you require. It's worth noting that even if the design isn't the same, it may be worth sitting on the size you think they need, as it will be a similar fit just in a different style.

Bike sizes for children by their age

Although it can be difficult to judge buying a children’s bike based on their age, their ability to ride a bike also varies as they grow up. Children develop at a different rate to one another, so we have summarised the type of kids bikes suitable, based on their age group.

Bike sizes for a 6-year-old

Typically, the older the child, the bigger the bike they need. Our POP children’s bike range has a selection of frames suitable for a 6-year-old, ranging between 18-20 inches.  Each bike size is designed with an adjustable saddle to accommodate your child as they grow.

Bike sizes for a 5-year-old

For a five-year-old child, the Raleigh Molli and POP range are all suitable. These styles of bikes cater to children who need a frame sized between 14-16 inches. If your child needs additional support riding to help improve their confidence and balance, the Molli and POP 14 styles both come with stabilisers, which are easy to remove once your child feels more coordinated.

Bike sizes for a 4-year-old

For the little ones, based on their ability, there are three types of bikes suitable, Molli, POP and Balance Bikes, built at either 12 or 14 inches. If you’re not sure what balance bikes are, they’re designed without pedals to help your child focus on balancing on a bike and riding without assistance. Again, the Molli and POP 14 range both come with removable stabilisers so the bike will grow with them as their ability develops.