16"-18" Kids Bikes (Ages 4-7)

Sizing. Some basics.

When we quote 16-inch (40cm) or 18-inch (45cm), we are referring to the diameter of the wheels.

However, another component of sizing is the frame.

Some brands do a smaller frame size and other frames are slightly bigger.

For example:

The Giant Animator 16 and Mongoose Mitygoose 16 are both examples of 16-inch bikes.

They have the same wheel size but the frame size is different.

The Mitygoose is better suited to taller riders because:

It uses a longer frame and a slightly taller frame.

Most 4 year olds will be on a 40cm bike. Like anything though, there are exceptions:

If your rider is younger than 4 years but taller than average:

Then bikes like the Giant Animator 16 or Liv Adore 16 will be suitable because these frames are slightly shorter and lower.

Frame Material. There are 2 types.

And these are aluminium alloy (or alloy for short) and steel.

Steel is heavier but cheaper to make bikes from than aluminium.

But, just note this:

It also depends on what the components are made from too. Are they steel or alloy?

Components are parts like hubs, rims, handlebars, cranks and seat post. Essentially all the stuff that isn't the frame.

What this means:

Although bikes can be made from alloy frames, if one bike has more alloy components then this will obviously be lighter overall.

Benefits of an 18-inch kids bike.

If your young rider is tall enough to fit an 18-inch kids bike (like the ByK E-350 range), there are numerous benefits (compared to a 16-inch bike):

Larger diameter wheels cover more distance per rotation. This means, young riders won't fatigue as quickly.

Once the wheels are rolling, they hold momentum and speed better. Less input is needed to pedal the bike because the wheels just keep rolling.

Larger wheels don't like to fall over or change directions quickly. This is perfect for kids who are learning to steer. It calms the steering response down. And delivers more control over the bike.

Choosing the right size.

With the seat all the way down, does your young rider have a slight knee bend?

If yes, that's the right seat height.

Once you've got that right, next:

When they're grabbing hold of the handlebars, is their back rounded with locked elbows?

If yes, the bike is too long and you need to downsize to a 16-inch bike.