When children get their first “big-kid” bike, they take yet another step toward independence. Since they’ll soon begin to ride alone, we want them to be safe, and the best way to do that is by finding the right bike for them.
The best bikes for 4- to 6-year-olds are usually the 16- to 18-inch sizes. However, a few other things need to be considered, such as brakes, weight, and your child’s inseam.
There’s a good option out there for every little biker, and we’ve researched every option to help you choose the right one for your child.
- Outstanding durability
- Extra-thick tires
- Adjustable seat and handlebar
- Well-thought-out design
- Dual brakes
- Wide air-filled wheels
- Perfect-fit frame
- Lightweight design
- Comfy seat
- Easy adjustments
- Kickstand and saddle holder
- Durable frame
Bike Sizes Made Easy
When talking about kids bike sizes, it’s important to know it’s the diameter of the wheel that determines the size. Yes, it’s confusing, especially once manufacturers begin labeling them with things like “fit for 4-year-olds.”
When you’re looking for a bike, you’ll stumble across terms like “16-inch” or “18-inch.” This describes how big the wheels are and also what’s considered the bike size. However, due to differing frame sizes, two bikes with the same size wheels can vary in height by as much as 5 inches.
Because of this, you must measure your child’s height and inseam. If the bike allows for seat adjustments, always focus on the lowest setting, leaving room for growth.
How to Choose a Bike for 4 to 6-Year-Olds
Find the Right Size
For this age range, the best bikes are generally 16- and 18-inch bikes. If your child is tall or already 6 years old, then a better choice will be a 20-inch bike. This size will allow more room for growth.
Once you’ve decided on a size, get their height and inseam measurements. Then consider how accustomed your child is to biking. If it’s their first bicycle, choose one where the seat will be at or below their inseam measurement.
If you get this right, your child will be able to place their feet firmly on the ground at any time to stop or balance. The stability this gives them will boost their confidence and make the experience less intimidating.
If your child has already mastered the pedals, look for a seat height that’s 1 to 2 inches higher than their inseam. Your child will then be able to extend their legs fully while pedaling, getting the best performance from their ride.
Ample Standover Height
Before we move entirely away from the sizes, another point worth considering is the standover height. The standover height indicates the gap between the rider’s crotch and the top tube. For any biker to be comfortable, there must be some room — otherwise, painful injuries are bound to happen.
Not all manufacturers state the standover height, but you can usually estimate by looking at the frame. On kid-sized bikes, the top tube is often slanted slightly downward toward the saddle to accommodate various heights.
Ideally, when the rider is standing, there should be a minimum of 1-inch between the tube and the crotch (1). If your child shows an interest in mountain biking or BMX riding, look for a lower top tube. This allows for leaning while turning.
Frame Design
Another point worth considering is the design of the frame and how it places your child on the bike. This is a major factor when it comes to the overall performance of the bike.
Some bicycles place the rider in an upright stance, which is natural and comfortable. These are ideal for children who are still learning or enjoy a cruise around the neighborhood.
At the other end of the spectrum are bicycles that place your child in an “aggressive” position. On these bikes, the gap between the handlebars and seat is longer, forcing the rider to lean forward when grabbing the handles. This position requires a bit more experience and is good for kids who love to go fast.
Bike’s Weight
A kids bike should never be too heavy, especially if your child is small. Ideally, you should aim for a weight that’s 30% lighter than your child’s body weight.
Light bikes are best for many reasons. They’re a lot easier to pedal, helping the rider build ample speed for balance, and they’re less tiring. Should the bike fall on your child during an accident, a lighter one won’t hurt as much.
Heavy bicycles can also be more challenging to manage, especially if it’s your child’s first bike.
But every kid is different, and some do fine with a heavy bike.
Frame Material
A significant influence on a bike’s weight is the material used, but, more importantly, it also determines its durability. Manufacturers generally use either aluminum, steel, or magnesium.
Of these three, the heaviest is steel, but it’s also quite durable. You’ll see many BMX-style bikes made of steel. They’re capable of taking tumbles and tackling jumps. Road or mountain bikes are mostly constructed from aluminum, which is significantly lighter.
If you want an ultra-light bike, magnesium is the material to look for. Unfortunately, it’s not often used for 16- and 18-inch bikes.
Brakes
For 4- to 6-year-olds, learning to use the brakes is crucial. They’re beginning to go faster and may even venture out on the road.
Usually, 16- and 18-inch bikes include a coaster brake (pedal controlled) since it’s a consumer safety requirement (2). Some may also have a handbrake.
At this age, it’s a good idea to look for a bike that features both. This will prepare your child for bigger sizes where handbrakes are a norm.
Product Reviews
Here are the best 16 to 18-inch bikes on the market.
Nice C BMX Kids Bike
Best 18-Inch BMX Kids Bike
For BMX-loving kids, we present the 18-inch offering from Nice C. It’s a high-quality bicycle designed to withstand the rugged nature of a BMX track. The outstanding reviews suggest it lives up to Nice C’s promises, and parents praise the sturdiness.
It’s designed for optimal durability while providing stellar suspension and longevity. A BMX bike requires some of the best brakes, so this one includes a dual system.
What We Like
Outstanding Durability
The frame is made with a high-quality magnesium alloy, ensuring this bicycle is incredibly durable. It’s for heavy-duty work, which is great if your youngster is competing or aspiring to go that route. The material also makes it lightweight, weighing roughly 19.4 pounds — one of the lightest on our list today.
Additionally, the zero-welding frame ensures no parts break loose during a crash, which helps keep your little one safe.
Extra-Thick Tires
This bike is armed with thick tires, ready for the track. The added thickness provides some slight suspension and shock absorption as your child tackles the jumps and bumps. It even comes with matching training wheels, offering the same durability.
Fantastic Brakes
With a dual-braking system, Nice C offers a bit more than other manufacturers. The traditional V-pull brake that connects with a disc for the rear wheel provides outstanding efficiency while braking. Your youngster can enjoy precise speed control without worrying about accidents.
Adjustable Seat and Handlebar
Adjustability is a must-have to accommodate a growing child, and this bike offers it. Both the seat and handlebars allow for alterations, helping your little one grow up with the same bike.
What We Don't Like
Confusing Instructions
The assembly instructions are pretty confusing. It’s easier to just look at the pictures.
Product Specs
| Color | Champagne, black, pink, and yellow |
| Recommended age | 4 to 8 years |
| Recommended height | 41 to 55 inches |
| Wheel size | 18 inches |
| Bike weight | 19.4 pounds |
Our Ratings
Guardian Bikes Ethos 16-Inch Bike
Best Braking System
Guardian Bikes makes stopping fun and easy for children who are still mastering two wheels. Its Ethos bike features the SureStop system — a patented braking system that helps the rider stop quickly and correctly, preventing accidents.
The Ethos is designed for kids, using optimal geometry for small legs and arms. The 16-inch size is best for children aged 4 to 6. The seat is fully adjustable, allowing for plenty of growth.
What’s more, your child will have full control of the bike. It’s relatively lightweight, making it easy to maneuver, stop, and steer. It’s not compatible with training wheels, but it does include a kickstand.
What We Like
SureStop Braking System
For kids who are still learning, having a sound braking system is imperative. Guardian Bikes’ SureStop technology is one of the best on the market. It receives stellar reviews on expert blogs and among parents.
SureStop works by pulling a single lever sitting on the handle, like a regular bike. However, instead of only controlling one wheel, it activates the rear brake first before slowly engaging the front. This method prevents head-over-handlebar accidents, helping your child feel and stay safe.
Adjustable Seat
Having an adjustable seat is ideal for this age range — kids grow like crazy. The Ethos allows for alterations. You can place the seat between 18.5 and 23.5 inches. It can comfortably support riders from 40 inches to 46 inches tall.
Fun Decals
With a plain base color, this bike comes with fun water-transfer decals. They add an eye-catching pop of color, making the bike look extra special. You can choose to follow the instructions or go with your imagination and create something unique.
Child-Friendly Geometry
Besides the innovative braking system, a lot of parents praise the bike’s geometry. It places the rider closer to the ground, promoting a lower center of gravity. This, in turn, helps the rider balance better, which is excellent for children who are learning.
What We Don't Like
Quite Heavy
Ethos isn’t the lightest bike on the market. It weighs approximately 20 pounds, which might be too heavy for some kids.
Product Specs
| Color | Black and blue; pink and aqua |
| Recommended age | 4 to 6 years |
| Seat height | 18.5 to 23.5 inches |
| Bike weight | 20 pounds |
Our Ratings
Joystar 16-Inch Cruiser Bike With Training Wheels
Best 16-Inch Kids Bike with Training Wheels
This bike from Joystar, with included training wheels and a sturdy frame, works well for newbie riders. It has received outstanding reviews from parents of 5-year-olds, suggesting it’s ideal for this age range.
Based on a high-tensile steel frame, this cruiser-inspired bike is useful on various surfaces. The front fork provides some suspension as it’s impact resistant. It also features two large, air-filled tires with a white-wall design, adding some retro vibes.
Joystar has fitted coaster brakes for smooth stopping. The off-road tires provide excellent grip, aiding the brakes on flat or dirt surfaces.
What We Like
Training Wheels Included
Does your 4-year-old still require some assistance while riding? Joystar includes a set of sturdy training wheels to support your little one. They’re easy to attach and remove.
Elegant Bike
This bike gives us strong beach-time vibes, which is what Joystar intended. It’s a cruiser-inspired bike with an elegant frame, suitable for both girls and boys. It comes in a cruiser-beige color but is also available in black or blue.
The large and wide black tires with a white-wall design are sleek and add a fun, edgy element to the bike. It even has a sassy bell, so your little one can make their presence known on the road.
Impact Resistant
Although it’s not an off-road bike, it offers a smooth ride even on bumpy sidewalks. The fork provides some impact resistance, while the large tires add cushioning.
Works in Any Weather
Joystar decided to go with a coaster brake. It prevents accidents where the rider is bucked off by a locking front wheel. Instead, they can come to a soft stop while still being in full control.
The coaster brake is aided by the tires, which feature off-road rubber wrapping. This added material improves grip and stability, even on a wet surface.
What We Don't Like
Assembly Issues
Although assembling the bike is relatively easy, a few parents said they had issues with the seat. It wouldn’t go smoothly into the post and required some sanding to adjust.
Product Specs
| Color | Beige, green, pink, black, blue, or orange |
| Recommended age | 4 to 7 years |
| Recommended height | 41 to 53 inches |
| Wheel size | 16 inches |
| Bike weight | 20 pounds |
Our Ratings
Coewske 16-Inch Kids Bike
Best 16-Inch Bike for Girls
Sporting an attractive design, this kids bike from Coewske is worth a look. It is suitable for children aged 4 to 8 and offers good features for a growing kid.
The Coewske bike has two brakes to ensure a smooth stop. While riding, the driver can place their feet on the low frame, which was also intended as a footrest.
It comes with a fully enclosed chain guard, and the handles feature flanged grips. Parents will appreciate that it’s easy to assemble.
What We Like
Well-Thought Out Design
The low frame gives the bike a nostalgic appearance — it’s quite feminine, excellent for little girls. A low frame also earns a point in terms of standover height. It’s easy for the rider to get on and off without having a bulky bar between their legs.
The bike is available in six colors, providing ample opportunity to suit your child’s developing sense of style.
Dual Brakes
Your little one will be in full control of the speed and stopping. Coewske included two brakes, managing both the front and rear wheels. It’s an excellent way to teach your child how to use both brakes efficiently and to prevent accidents.
Wide Air-Filled Wheels
Its air-filled tires provide incredible grip on various surfaces and a smooth ride. The tires are broad, measuring approximately 2.125 inches wide, and they’re deep-treaded to enhance grip on all surfaces.
Under the surface are additional layers, making the tires extra thick for sustained wear and tear.
Easy Assembly
The bike arrives 95% assembled, so there’s not much left for you to do. The only things to attach are the pedals, seat, and handlebar. All the tools needed are in the box, ready for use.
What We Don't Like
Hard to Adjust the Chain
Some parents complained the chain is tight upon arrival and requires adjustments. The large chain guard makes it difficult to do so, as it needs to be removed to gain access.
Product Specs
| Color | Blue, pink, purple, white and blue, white and pink, white and purple |
| Recommended age | 4 to 8 years old |
| Recommended height | 41 to 53 inches |
| Wheel size | 16 inches |
| Bike weight | 22.5 pounds |
Our Ratings
Huffy Panama Jack Beach Cruiser Bike
Best 20-inch Kids Bike for Girls
For bigger girls in this age range who love to cruise around the neighborhood or to the local beach, we recommend this bike from Huffy.
The Panama Jack is a 20-inch bicycle, ideal for children aged 5 to 9. It features Huffy’s Perfect Fit Frame, making it comfortable to ride.
The bicycle is lightweight and easy to maneuver for kids. The pedals are smooth to turn, and accelerating is a breeze.
What We Like
Perfect Fit Frame
Huffy’s exclusive Perfect Fit Frame works to deliver the right posture for a comfy ride. The design places the seat further back, promoting a low center of gravity. Then the swept-back-style handlebars allow for an upright riding position while leaving ample room for full leg extensions.
It’s an optimal cruise bike, allowing the rider to go long distances without any pain, and you can quickly adjust the seat as your girl grows. It’s suitable for heights between 44 and 56 inches. Also included are large fenders, a roomy basket, and comfy, cork-style grips.
Lightweight Frame
Aluminum is a popular material to use for bikes. It’s lightweight and highly durable, enabling fast acceleration. The lightweight frame also allows for better control and stopping.
Comfy Seat
Cruiser bikes always have the most comfortable seats, and this one is no exception. It includes a wide seat with additional padding, keeping the bottom comfy for the full ride.
The grips are also comfortable, made of soft material in a cork style. They’re great to hold onto.
Beachy Style
The style of this bike provides a punch of summer. It’s beachy with its blue, green, and white colors incorporated within decals of wood and flowers.
What We Don't Like
Holes in the Tubes
It seems to be a common occurrence that the bike arrives with damaged tire tubes that deflate quickly and require a replacement. When it’s reported, Huffy appears to rectify the issue promptly.
Product Specs
| Color | Pool Blue |
| Recommended age | 5 to 9 years |
| Recommended height | 44 to 56 inches |
| Wheel size | 20 inches |
| Bike weight | 33.2 pounds |
Our Ratings
Huffy 12-Inch Marvel Spider-Man Bike
Best 12-Inch Bike for Boys
I’m a mom to a little Spider-Man fan, so this bike from Huffy had to make it onto the list. The whole bike is decked out in the web-slinging character theme, featuring all the associated colors. This bike should be a big hit for Spider-Man fans.
It has more than just its appearance going for it, though. It’s built to last — including dual brakes and durable tires.
What We Like
Super Fun
Every inch of the bike has a fun element to it. The large plate on the handlebar, inspired by the chest of the famous red suit, will let everyone know Spidey is on his way.
While there to protect little ankles, the spider-infused chain guard looks cool while it does its job.
Durable Construction
The bike is based on a durable steel frame that will withstand the tumbles and bumps of a kid who’s learning. Huffy even includes a limited lifetime warranty as assurance.
Comfy Saddle
As well as sporting a red and black Spider-Man theme, the seat is comfy too. It features additional padding, enabling your little one to ride for hours. It also sits them over a frame with a good standover height.
What We Don't Like
Slanted Training Wheels
The bike comes with training wheels, which you can attach and remove as needed. However, a few parents noted no matter how many alterations they made, the training wheels were slanted, decreasing the stability.
Product Specs
| Color | Spider-Man themed |
| Recommended age | 3 to 5 years |
| Recommended height | 37 to 42 inches |
| Wheel size | 12 inches |
| Bike weight | N/A |
Our Ratings
RoyalBaby Freestyle Kids Bike
Most Durable Tires
If your child enjoys an occasional off-roading experience, a good, all-around bike like this one from RoyalBaby is best. It’s a steel bike with a thin frame and welded steel fork, providing ample shock absorption. The bike is capable of going over various terrains.
On the frame sits an extended chain guard. The pedals will keep the rider’s feet securely in place with their non-slip resin.
RoyalBaby also included dual brakes consisting of a caliper brake and rear coaster, which are optimized to suit children. The handles are comfy with soft rubber grips. There’s a water bottle holder on the back to help keep your kid sipping while they get their exercise.
What We Like
All-Around Bike
All-around bikes are great for the active family who enjoys their occasional weekend bike trip. It allows your child to use the bicycle for everyday things like riding to school or around the neighborhood with friends. Then they can also tackle rugged surfaces on your weekend trip.
The chain guard protects the chain and drivetrain, keeping stones and dirt at bay.
Durable Tires
The bike is suited with large, 2.4-inch wide knobby tires. Featuring RoyalBaby’s custom tread, they provide ample stability for the rider.
The tires sit on steel rims for added durability.
Comfy Grips and Saddle
RoyalBaby included soft rubber grips for the handles, making them comfy to hold. They ensure your child gets a firm grasp, which is essential if they’re going off-road. The seat features extra padding to protect small behinds.
What We Don't Like
Water Bottle Is Difficult to Access
Behind the seat, you can attach the included water bottle holder for the water bottle. A few parents pointed out it’s difficult to reach when the seat is in the lowest setting.
Some said they bent the holder a bit, but we don’t recommend doing this as it could break.
Stickers Peeling
The bike includes a few stickers, but they tend to peel off after a short time.
Product Specs
| Color | Blue, fuschia, green, orange, pink, red, or white |
| Recommended age | N/A |
| Recommended height | 43 to 59 inches |
| Wheel size | 18 inches |
| Bike weight | 29.8 pounds |
Our Ratings
Joystar 18-Inch Kids Bike
Best 18-Inch Kids Bike
This 18-inch bike from Joystar is ideal for children aged 5 to 9. The seat allows for height adjustments, and with a premium frame, it’s worth a mention on this list.
It offers some excellent features for the child who’s still learning. What’s more, decals are included that your child can use to decorate the frame. They can help make the bike more fun.
What We Like
Easy Adjustments
Adjusting the seat height couldn’t be easier. It features a quick-release system that simplifies the process to a mere clamp. All you do is release the clamp, lift the seat as needed, and tighten it again.
The bike is suitable for children between 43 and 59 inches tall or with an inseam of 20 to 24 inches. It’s a bike your little one will be able to use for a while.
Fun Decals
To make the bike even more child-friendly, Joystar includes fun decals for the frame and chainguard. Your child can spell out what they want, whether it’s their name or a fun phrase they like. It makes the bike more personal.
Kickstand and Saddle Holder
Unfortunately, the 18-inch bike doesn’t come with training wheels. Instead, it features a saddle holder for mom or dad to assist with the balance until the rider gets going. It does come with a cool kickstand for parking that your child should adore.
The bicycle has a hand and a coaster brake. It’s a way to get your little one accustomed to the different types, and both are easy to use.
Durable Frame
To ensure the bike will grow with your child, Joystar made it of premium steel. It’s high-quality and heavy-duty, capable of withstanding accidents or bumps during the learning period. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
What We Don't Like
Assembly Confusing
A few reviewers noted their disappointment with the assembly, as some directions are unclear.
Joystar does provide a video to help with the process:
Product Specs
| Color | Blue, ivory, orange, or red |
| Recommended age | 5 to 9 years |
| Recommended height | 43 to 59 inches |
| Wheel size | 18 inches |
| Bike weight | 22.8 pounds |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Color | Recommended age | Recommended height | Seat height | Bike weight |
| Nice C BMX Kids Bike | 18″ BMX for Kids | 4 colors | 4 – 8 yrs | 41 – 55″ | 18″ | 19.4 lbs |
| Guardian Bikes Ethos | Braking System | Black & blue; pink & aqua | 4 – 6 yrs | N/A | 18.5 – 23.5″ | 20 lbs |
| Joystar 16-Inch Bike | Training Wheels | 6 colors | 4 – 7 yrs | 41 – 53″ | 16″ | 20 lbs |
| Coewske 16-Inch Bike | 16″ Bike For Girls | 6 colors | 4 – 8 yrs | 41 – 53″ | 16″ | 22.5 lbs |
| Huffy Panama Jack Beach Cruiser | 20″ Bike For Girls | Pool Blue | 5 – 9 yrs | 44 – 56″ | 20″ | 33.2 lbs |
| Huffy Marvel Spider-Man Bike | 12″ Bike For Boys | Spider-Man themed | 3 – 5 yrs | 37 – 42″ | 12″ | N/A |
| RoyalBaby Freestyle Bike | Durable Tires | 7 colors | N/A | 43 – 59″ | 18″ | 29.8 lbs |
| Joystar 18-Inch Bike | 18″ Kids Bike | 4 colors | 5 – 9 yrs | 43 – 59″ | 18″ | 22.8 lbs |
FAQs
What Type of Bike is Best For Learning?
For four to six-year-olds, balance bikes are often the best for learning as they teach balance and coordination without the complexity of pedals. Once they master a balance bike, transitioning to a regular bike is generally smoother.
Are Balance Bikes Worth It?
Balance bikes are definitely worth it for young kids. They make the learning process more natural and enjoyable, and kids tend to learn to ride without stabilizers more quickly after using them.
Should a 4-Year-Old Be Able to Pedal a Bike?
Many four-year-olds can pedal a bike, especially if they’ve started on a balance bike. However, every child is different, and some may take a little longer to develop the necessary coordination and strength.
How Far Should a 4-Year-Old Ride a Bike?
A four-year-old should ride as far as they’re comfortable, usually not more than a few blocks or a mile at most. The key is to keep bike rides fun and not too exhausting.
How Heavy Should a Bike For a 4-Year-Old Be?
A bike for a four-year-old should be light enough for them to handle easily, typically not more than 30% of their body weight. Lighter bikes are easier for small children to control and maneuver.
