Compare Kids' Bikes Side by Side

Match wheel size to your child's inseam and height rather than age, since kids grow at different rates. A child who can plant both feet flat on the ground while seated has the right fit. The minimum rider height column in the comparison table gives you a quick starting point.

Coaster brakes, which engage when the rider pedals backward, are simpler for younger children who may not yet have the grip strength for hand levers. Hand brakes give older kids more control and are standard on bikes with multiple gears. The brake style column lets you filter for whichever type suits your child's age and ability.

A heavy bike is harder for a small child to steer, balance and pick up after a fall. As a rough guide, aim for a bike that weighs no more than about 40 percent of your child's body weight. The weight column in the table makes it easy to compare models at a glance.

Steel frames are durable and affordable but heavier, while aluminum frames are lighter and resist rust. For most kids' bikes in the 12 to 20 inch range, aluminum is worth the modest price premium because the weight savings make a real difference in how easy the bike is to ride.

You can filter by any column header shown in the table, including wheel size, minimum height and weight. Start with wheel size to match your child's current measurements, then sort by weight or brake style to narrow down the options that make sense for your situation.