Getting your hands on the right girl's bike is about something more than just colour and size. It’s about helping your child feel safe, confident and genuinely excited to ride. When a girl's bicycle fits the way it should, learning feels easier, control comes naturally and riding becomes something they’re sure to fall in love with.
Here at Ivanhoe Cycles, our team has been helping families choose the right girls bikes for decades. We’ve got a huge selection of bikes that suit different ages, heights and riding styles. Our girls' bikes are designed for everyday adventures, from footpaths and parks to school rides and light off-road trails, giving young riders the confidence to explore wherever they like to ride. We listen, guide and make sure every child leaves with a bike that feels just right.
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A Girls Bike for Every Age Range
The right bike size is needed for comfort, safety and complete confidence.
At the same time, most families want a bike that allows for some growth without feeling too big.
It’s a delicate balance, but it’s one we know all about. Let’s take a look at the sizing options.
12-inch Girls Bikes
12-inch girls bikes suit riders from 80cm to 100cm.
These bikes use a coaster (foot) brake only, keeping things simple for first-time riders.
Some of the most popular options include the Liv Adore 12 and Mongoose Lil Goose 12.
14-inch Girls Bikes
Designed for girls between 85cm and 105cm, 14-inch bikes are a great step up option.
The slightly larger wheels make for a stable, controlled ride so kids gain confidence faster.
ByK’s 14-inch girls bikes stand out for their lightweight, ergonomic design, alongside a coaster brake and hand brake to improve braking skills gradually.
16-inch Girls Bikes
16-inch girls bikes suit riders from 90cm to 110cm.
While all use 16-inch wheels, the frame sizes will differ between brands.
The taller riders out there often suit bikes like the Mongoose Missygoose 16 and GT Siren 16, which have taller frames and longer reach for all-important extra growth.
For average-height riders, the Liv Adore 16 is a solid lightweight, well-balanced option.
18-inch Girls Bikes
18-inch bikes are made for riders between 95cm and 115cm, making them a popular choice for many five-year-olds.
This size works well for kids who feel too big for a 16-inch bike but aren’t quite ready for the step up to 20-inch.
Models like the ByK E350 Street and E350 MTB are at home on paths, dirt and gravel.
20-inch Girls Bikes
20-inch girls bikes suit riders from 110cm to 130cm and are the first size to introduce proper gearing. There are three common styles:
- Single-speed with a coaster brake and hand brake, often compatible with training wheels
- 3-speed bikes combining gears with a coaster brake and hand brake
- Multi-speed bikes using front and rear hand brakes with 6 to 9 gears
20-inch bikes can come in both street and mountain bike styles so it’s down to the rider what they’d prefer. Street bikes are usually simpler, while MTB versions are geared up for every terrain type.
24-Inch Girls Bikes
Designed for riders between 125cm and 150cm,24-inch girls bikes will be fitted with multiple gears and hand brakes.
Smaller-frame options like the Liv Tempt 24 and GT Stomper Prime 24 are better for younger or shorter riders.
Taller riders often prefer bikes such as the Mongoose Rockadile 24 or Haro Beasley 24, because they offer more reach and room to grow.
26-Inch Girls Bikes
The final step before adult sizing.
26-inch girls bikes are available in street and mountain bike versions, they suit confident riders ready for longer rides.
Street bikes like the ByK E620 Girls are lighter, while girls MTB bikes add suspension for calmer, more controlled handling.
Popular choices include the GT Stomper and Link Aurora 26.
For advanced riders, the Liv Faith offers a high-performance dual-suspension option.
Understanding the Key Features
Modern girls bikes prioritise comfort, confidence and safety. Colour and style are often what kids notice first, but it’s the features underneath that make the biggest difference to how the bike rides.
Frame Materials
Most girls bikes are built using either steel or aluminium frames.
- Steel frames are strong and budget-friendly which is why they’re a popular choice for younger riders or first bikes. They are heavier, but very durable.
- Aluminium frames are lighter and easier for kids to handle. A lighter girls bike is easier to balance, steer, and push, which builds confidence faster and makes for a less tiring ride.
Braking Systems
Brake systems change as bikes get bigger and riders gain confidence.
- Coaster (foot) brakes are common on smaller girls bikes and are simple and intuitive for beginners.
- Hand brakes are introduced as children grow and develop coordination. Larger bikes use front and rear hand brakes for better control, preparing riders for future bikes.
Getting the Sizing Right for Girls Bikes
The correct sizing is always one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing a girl's bicycle.
How to Measure for the Right Size
Start by measuring your child’s height and comparing it to the recommended height range for each wheel size. Leg length and confidence also play a part, which is why two children of the same height may be better suited to different bikes.
Allowing for Growth
While it’s tempting to buy a bike your child can “grow into”, a bike that is too big can feel intimidating and slow skill development. The better option is a bike that fits well right now, with just enough seat and handlebar adjustment to allow for growth over time.
The Proper Care and Maintenance
Our girls bikes are made to be simple and straightforward, with minimum upkeep needed to keep them moving. Still, a bit of simple maintenance always goes a long way.
- Wipe down the frame after dirty rides to remove grit
- Keep tyres inflated so the bike rolls smoothly
- Look over any accessories like bike bells and check they’re properly attached
- Check brakes regularly to ensure they engage cleanly
- Store the bike in a dry place to prevent rust
If something doesn’t feel right, it’s not worth the risk. Bring it into our workshop teams who are always ready to help with any adjustments or servicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size girl's bike should I get for my child?
What size girl's bike should I get for my child?
Bike size is best determined by height rather than age. Each wheel size suits a height range, but leg length and confidence also play a role.
How do I know if my child has outgrown their girl's bike?
How do I know if my child has outgrown their girl's bike?
If the seat is at its highest setting and your child looks cramped or uncomfortable while pedalling, it’s usually time to move up a size.
Are training wheels necessary for beginners?
Are training wheels necessary for beginners?
Some children benefit from training wheels, while others move straight from a balance bike to pedals. It depends on balance and confidence.
What is the difference between a balance bike and a pedal bike?
What is the difference between a balance bike and a pedal bike?
Balance bikes teach steering and balance without pedals. Pedal bikes introduce braking and pedalling once balance skills are established.
How can I tell if a girl's bicycle suits my child’s riding style?
How can I tell if a girl's bicycle suits my child’s riding style?
Smooth paths suit lighter street-style bikes, while dirt and gravel riding is better suited to mountain-style girls bikes with wider tyres and suspension.
Do girls' bikes come assembled?
Do girls' bikes come assembled?
Bikes purchased in-store or click and collect are fully assembled and safety-checked before pickup. Online orders require assembly, and our team is always happy to help.