SMARTSTART

Kids’ bikes are sized by height, not age. All kids grow at slightly different rates, so height is the most reliable way to determine the right size. Check out our interactive Kids’ Sizing Guide to determine the right size for your child.

Use our interactive Kids’ Sizing Guide to determine the right size for your child. Start by measuring your child’s height, then use that measurement to find the right wheel size in the table.

If your child is between sizes, it’s a good idea to buy the smaller size, as they will be able to control it better. A bike they can control will be safer to ride. Keep in mind you can fine-tune the fit by adjusting the seat height as your child gets taller.

Even though height is the best way to determine what size bike your child needs, their age can get you in the right ballpark. Check out popular age-to-size questions below.

What Size bike for a 3 year old? Depending on height most 3 year olds ride a 12 inch bike

What Size bike for a 5 year old? Most 5 year olds ride a 16 inch bike

What size bike for a 6 year old? Most 6 year olds ride an 18 inch bike

What size bike for a 9 year old? Most 9 year olds ride a 20 inch bike

What size bike for a 12 year old? Most 12 year olds ride a 24 inch bike

Teaching a child to ride a bike can be tough but we have resources to make it easier! Check out our Learning to Ride blog series for tips and tricks from our experts. But in the meantime, here are the basic steps no matter whether your child is using a balance bike, a bike with training wheels, or just a bike on its own:

1. Push: Have your child sit on the bike’s seat, with their feet flat on the ground (you may need to adjust the height of the seat). Then have your child push themselves along with their feet, as if walking. Use this stage to work on steering as well.

2. Stride: Encourage them to take longer strides, as if running.

3. Glide: Once your child is comfortable with long strides and steering, encourage them to pick both feet up off the ground so they can glide. Once they’ve mastered gliding, they’ll be ready for using the pedals.

A helmet that’s the right size and fit’s your child properly will be more comfortable and more effective at protecting your child’s head.

First, you’ll want to find the right size. Start by measuring the circumference of your child’s head. Simply wrap a tape measure around your child’s head one inch above their eyebrows. Compare this measurement to the Schwinn Helmet Size Chart to find the right size helmet for your child.

Once you’ve found the correct size, make sure it fits them correctly. Place the helmet squarely on your child’s head so that the front of the helmet sits one finger-width above their eyebrows.

Next, use the rear dial to find a snug fit - right to tighten, left to loosen. They should be able to shake their head without the helmet slipping off, while still feeling comfortable.

Now you’re ready for the straps. Adjust the side clasps to hit just below their ears, forming a “V” shape. Then buckle the chin strap and tighten it so that no more than one finger fits under the strap.

Note: Be sure to check your child’s helmet regularly to insure it still fits correctly. Adjustments may be needed now and then due to use.

Schwinn offers a wide range of bike sizes, one for every stage of childhood. But how do you know your child is ready to get started? Well, it depends on them.

18 – 24 months: Maybe. Some children may be ready for a balance bike at this age. If they can walk confidently, with a good sense of balance and strong motor skills you can try introducing a balance bike. However, if a balance bike is still too big for them, or they have trouble controlling it, then it’s probably too soon. Consider a child carrier or passenger trailer if you want to bring your child along for the ride.

2 – 3 years: Most children will be ready for a balance bike by this age. Their improved motor skills and balance will make it easier to operate a balance bike. Balance bikes provide a very intuitive method for learning to ride.

4 – 5 years: Most kids will be ready for learning to ride a bike. With pedals and everything. If your child is confident on their feet with a good sense of balance and strong enough to operate bike pedals, then they’re ready to embark on the learning process. Check out our learning to ride blog series for more information on how to teach your child to ride.