Which Size Bike Does My Child Require?
Children's bikes are generally measured by wheel size, rather than by frame size. Remember children do grow very quickly and you need to take this into consideration when buying a kids bike, However, if you buy a bike that is simply too big for your child, you will compromise your child's safety, and ultimately run the risk of discouraging your child from cycling.
| Age of Child |
Wheel Size |
| 2-4 Years |
12" |
| 4-6 Years |
14" |
| 5-8 Years |
16" |
| 6-9 Years |
18" |
| 8-11 Years |
20" |
| 9-12 Years |
24" |
| 12 years & above |
26" |
Which Size Bike Do I Require?
Adults bikes and those for 12 years and over, are generally measured by frame size. This is normally the measurement between the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat tube.
Riders Height
In Feet & Inches
|
Mainly Off Road
Use Frame Size
Required |
Mainly On Road
Use Frame Size
Required |
| 4 feet 8 to 5 feet 0 |
12 to 14 inches |
13 to 15 inches |
| 5 feet 0 to 5 feet 4 |
14 to 16 inches |
15 to 17 inches |
| 5 feet 4 to 5 feet 8 |
16 to 18 inches |
17 to 19 inches |
| 5 feet 8 to 6 feet 0 |
18 to 20 inches |
19 to 21 inches |
| 6 feet 0 to 6 feet 2 |
20 to 22 inches |
21 to 23 inches |
Please be aware that these charts are to be used as a guide only. Children's growth can vary and Sterlinghouse can accept no liability for incorrect size bicycle purchased solely on the strength of these charts.
BMX
BMX originated back in the late 70's but peaked in popularity in the early eighties. Originally the human powered form of Moto-Cross where instead of a motorbike, riders would tear round a circuit of bumps and jumps on a small wheeled bike with a single gear. They were fitted with 20" wheels, had a relatively small frame and high bars. They have a fixed frame size, with no frame sizing options being available for a given wheel size. BMX bikes tend to be stronger, due largely to their small frames, and because they have only a single gear, they tend to need less maintenance.
The style of bike is very popular with the younger rider, particularly teenagers who adopted this new "style" of bike as their own.
Hybrid/Touring
The frame designs and components are designed to assure a complete package for all seasons and conditions. All these ingredients result in a bicycle with comfort, versatility and style. The upright riding position puts you in control giving better All Round vision ideal for the busy roads. Fitted with a rack and mudguards they are the perfect commuting machine.
Mountain
Dual Suspension
Dual suspension mountain bikes are the pinnacle of off-road cycling design. This provides far more comfort than a hard-tail and faster over rough terrain. Even long-travel versions are now efficient enough to be ridden up hill as well as down. A well-designed full-suspension bike will give you ultimate traction on the uphills, comfort on the flats and speed on the downhill sections. The ultimate in fun for all.
Hard- Tails
Still the most popular type of mountain bike, a hard-tail has the advantages of simplicity and light weight. They're easy to fit with accessories, allowing one bike to do a multitude of jobs from weekday commuting to weekend thrashing. If you don't need all that rear suspension travel keep it simple, they’re both light and fun.
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