What size children's bike should I choose?
Choose by height and inside leg first, and by age second. Two children of the same age can need different sizes.
The right bike lets your child reach the ground comfortably, hold the handlebars without stretching and use the brakes easily. We sell children's bikes from WOOM, Academy and Bemoov, from the first balance bike to bikes for young teenagers.
Which stage is your child at?
To learn balance and steering, before pedalling.
14 and 16 inch bikes for the first pedal strokes.
20 to 26 inch bikes for children who already ride with confidence.
How to measure your child
- Height: standing barefoot against a wall.
- Inside leg: from the floor to the crotch, barefoot, feet slightly apart.
- Size chart: compare with the brand's recommendations on each product page, rather than relying on age alone.
Children's bike sizes by height and wheel size
Heights and ages are the manufacturers' own recommendations (WOOM, Academy and Bemoov). The ranges overlap on purpose: if your child is between two sizes, read our advice below and check the size guide on each product page.
| Wheel size | WOOM | Academy | Bemoov |
|---|---|---|---|
| First balance bike | WOW70–100 cm · 9–36 months | - | - |
| 12 inch | GO 1 (balance)82–100 cm · 1.5–3.5 years | Grade 1 (balance)from 85 cm | M12 (balance)80–100 cm |
| 14 inch | GO 1+ (balance), GO 295–110 cm · 3–4.5 years | Grade 2from 95 cm | M1495–110 cm |
| 16 inch | GO 3, GO 3 Automagic105–120 cm · 4–6 years | Grade 3105–120 cm | M16105–120 cm |
| 20 inch | GO 4, EXPLORE 4115–130 cm · 6–8 years | Grade 4from 115 cm | M20115–130 cm |
| 24 inch | EXPLORE 5125–145 cm · 7–11 years | Grade 5130–145 cm | M24125–145 cm |
| 26 inch | EXPLORE 6140–165 cm · 10–14 years | Grade 6from 140 cm | M26140–165 cm |
For young riders who love trails, WOOM also offers the OFF and OFF AIR mountain bikes in 20, 24 and 26 inch, such as the WOOM OFF 4 and WOOM OFF AIR 4, and the WOOM UP 5 electric mountain bike.
Three brands, one size: 16 inch
WOOM
WOOM GO 3
16-inch children's bike for children 105 to 120 cm tall, aged 4 to 6, according to WOOM.
View product
Academy
Academy Grade 3
16-inch children's bike for children 105 to 120 cm tall, according to Academy.
View product
Bemoov
Bemoov M16
16-inch children's bike for children 105 to 120 cm tall, according to Bemoov.
View productEvery size, from the first balance bike to 26 inch.
Explore kids' bikesFrom balance bike to pedals
Pushing along with their feet teaches balance and steering naturally. Our balance bikes include the WOOM WOW and GO 1, the Academy Grade 1 and the Bemoov M12.
Once confident, your child lifts both feet and glides a little longer each time. This is the balance a pedal bike needs.
Choose a flat, smooth area away from traffic, with the saddle low enough for both feet to reach the ground.
On the first pedal bike, start with a gentle push, look ahead rather than down, and practise braking to a stop.
Between two sizes?
For a beginner, the smaller bike is usually easier to control and gives more confidence.
A confident rider who is growing quickly may be better on the larger size, provided they can still reach the ground and the brakes comfortably. When in doubt, a test ride is the most reliable way to decide.
Adjusting the bike
- Beginners: set the saddle low enough for both feet to touch the ground.
- Confident riders: raise the saddle gradually for more efficient, comfortable pedalling.
- Brakes: check that your child can reach and squeeze the levers easily.
Helmets and safety equipment
In the Netherlands, wearing a helmet is not compulsory for children, but it is strongly recommended. Rules differ in other countries, so check them where you ride.
- Children's bike helmets, including the WOOM helmet and the Bemoov H1. Our helmet guide explains how to measure and fit a helmet.
- A bell, such as the WOOM Vienna or WOOM Bing.
- Lights such as the WOOM BEAM, and reflective details like the WOOM Glam stickers.
- A children's bike lock for school and outings.
Find baskets, kickstands, gloves and more in our kids collection.
Frequently asked questions
What size bike for a 4-year-old?
It depends on height more than age. Around 95 to 110 cm, a 14-inch bike usually fits; from about 105 cm, a 16-inch bike such as the WOOM GO 3 or Academy Grade 3 becomes possible. Always check your child's height against the table above.
At what age can a child start cycling?
Many children start on a balance bike before moving to a pedal bike. WOOM, for example, offers its WOW balance bike from 9 months. The right moment depends on your child's development and confidence.
Should I buy a bigger bike so my child can grow into it?
We advise against it. A bike that is too big is heavier and harder to control, which can discourage a child and make riding less safe. Choose the size that fits now.
What is the difference between WOOM, Academy and Bemoov?
All three brands make children's bikes in the same wheel sizes, from balance bikes to 26 inch, with very similar height recommendations. They differ in design, equipment and price. Compare them on the product pages or, better still, try them in our shop.
Can my child try a bike before buying?
Yes. Children's bikes from WOOM and Academy are available to see and try at L'Hirondelle Bike Shop in Meppel, where our team helps you find the right size.
See the sizes side by side and let your child try them.
Visit us in Meppel to compare WOOM and Academy bikes
