200 bikes match

Kids bikes

Buying a kids bike

Finding the perfect kids' bike can feel overwhelming - there are hundreds of options out there, across a huge range of brands, sizes and budgets.

That's where Cycle Sprog comes in.

Since 2012 we've been helping families across the UK find the right bike for their child, and we've built one of the most comprehensive independent kids' bike resources on the web.

We don't sell bikes ourselves - we independently review, test and recommend them, drawing on our panel of real young riders and their parents to give you honest, practical verdicts you can trust.

We cover everything from first balance bikes for toddlers through to mountain bikes and hybrids for older children and young teens, across all budgets - including new, secondhand and lease options.

Use the sections below to find the right bike for your child's age, wheel size and riding style.

Or use our interactive kids' bike search tool to filter by age, wheel size, budget and bike type to find the perfect match for your child.

Cycle Sprog is a reader-supported website. When you buy through links on this page we may earn an affiliate commission.

What type of kids bike are you looking for?

Kids’ bikes come in a variety of types, each designed for different ages, abilities and riding styles.

If you already know what you’re after, jump straight to our recommendations using the links below.

If you’re not sure which type of bike is right for your child, our guide to types of kids bikes explained is a great place to start.

 

Kids’ bikes by age and wheel size

Kids’ bikes are sized by wheel diameter in inches rather than the child’s age, though age is a useful starting point.

Smaller bikes with 14″ to 18″ wheels are typically suited to children aged 2 to 6 and usually come without gears, keeping things simple for younger riders.

Once your child moves up to 20″ wheels and above – generally from age 6 onwards – gears become available, making it easier to tackle hills and longer rides.

We’ve selected the best kids’ bikes at every wheel size in the buyers guides below, with new, secondhand and lease options covered across all budgets.

How to buy a kids’ bike

Buying a kids' bike involves more than just picking a size. There's budget, quality, fit, and whether to buy new or secondhand to consider too.

We've been helping families navigate these decisions since 2012, and our buying advice articles cover everything you need to know to make the right choice with confidence.

Whether you're buying your child's very first bike or upgrading to something bigger, you'll find practical, independent guidance here.

Explore kids’ bike brands

With so many kids' bike brands on the market, it can be hard to know where to start.

We've put together in-depth guides and overviews for some of the most popular brands available in the UK, covering their full range, what makes them stand out, and who they're best suited to.

Whether you're looking for an affordable first bike from a trusted high street name or a premium lightweight option from a specialist kids' bike brand, you'll find everything you need to make an informed choice right here.

Kids bike reviews

Our reviews are carried out by real children and their parents in proper everyday use - not just a quick spin around the block.

Below you'll find a selection of our most recent kids' bike reviews across a range of brands, sizes and budgets.

For our complete library of in-depth reviews covering everything from balance bikes and first pedal bikes through to mountain bikes and hybrids, visit our dedicated kids' bike reviews page.

Still not sure which bike is right for your child?

With hundreds of articles on the site covering every aspect of kids’ cycling, there’s a good chance we’ve already answered your question.

Use our kids bike search tool to find exactly what you’re looking for, or browse our full library of kids’ bike articles below.

Woom 1 Plus balance bike with 14" wheels for taller children

Big balance bikes for taller children

02/12/2025

For taller children who have outgrown a standard 12″ wheel balance bike, there’s a number of larger balance bikes available

Read more about Big balance bikes for taller children
Specialized Jett 20 in use

Best 20 inch kids mountain bikes for 5-6 year olds

01/12/2025

Finding kids 20″ wheel mountain bikes is no mean feat! The a look at our shortlist of some of the best 20 inch wheel kids mountain bikes available today

Read more about Best 20 inch kids mountain bikes for 5-6 year olds
Review of the Islabikes Creig - in action at Kirroughtree MTB trail

Best 26 inch mountain bikes for kids

01/12/2025

Here’s our selection of the best, and most fun, kids 26″ wheel mountain bikes

Read more about Best 26 inch mountain bikes for kids
A little girl in a flowery cardigan sat on the Decathlon 2-in-1 ride-on baby balance, a white, orange and blue bike in her living room

Best bikes for a 1 year-old

19/11/2025

From 12 months there are some exciting options for getting toddlers onto two wheels.

Read more about Best bikes for a 1 year-old
three kids riding shyre bikes side by side

Shyre Bikes range overview: a new kids bike brand built for adventure

10/11/2025

Cycle Sprog’s comprehensive guide to Shyre kids’ bikes, including information on the different models and sizing.

Read more about Shyre Bikes range overview: a new kids bike brand built for adventure
Frog 62 MTB - rider review - pump track

Best 24 inch kids bikes for 7-10 year-olds

06/11/2025

Welcome to our buyers guide that recommends the best 24 inch wheel kids bikes in a range of different prices and bike types. A 24 inch kids bike is usually suitable for children aged about 8 years old and over, but at this stage the height of your child and size of bike frame is…

Read more about Best 24 inch kids bikes for 7-10 year-olds