Questions We Ask Before Recommending a Kids’ Bike
If you come to any Decathlon store and chat to our bicycle workshop staff, they can help you choose the right model. Here are the essential questions they’ll ask.
How to Choose Your Kid’s First Bike
Mastering the skill of riding a bicycle is a significant milestone in every child's life. To assist your child in embarking on this journey, it's crucial to ensure they have the appropriate bicycle. Opting for the correct size and type of bike enables them to learn with ease and confidence, and their initial bicycle will become a cherished possession. This article will guide you on selecting the perfect one.
How Old is Your Child?
Children can commence their bicycle-riding journey as early as 2 years old. Regardless of your child's age, Decathlon offers a variety of bicycles suitable for every age group.
Toddlers aged 2-4 can initiate their experience with a balance bike, aiding them in getting accustomed to sitting, balancing, and moving on a bicycle without pedals. As they outgrow the balance bike, the next progression is a 14-inch bicycle with stabilizers, ideal for 3-5 year-olds. This helps them build confidence before eventually transitioning to cycling independently without training wheels. For kids aged 4-6, a 16-inch bike is the optimal size, while those in the 9-12 age group can choose between a 20-inch and 24-inch model based on their height.
How Tall are They?
Kids of the same age can vary dramatically in size, so in order to find the perfect bike, it’s best to look at their height, too. Bike sizes are given in inches, which represent the diameter of the wheels. Use this guide to choose the right model:
- Between 85 cm and 1 m: Balance bike
- Between 90 cm and 1.05 m: Balance bike or 14-inch bike
- Between 1.05 m and 1.20 m: 16-inch bike
- Between 1.20 m and 1.35 m: 20-inch bike
- Between 1.35 m and 1.50 m: 24-inch bike
- 1.5 m+: 26-inch bike.
Where Will They Be Cycling?
Next, think about where your kid will be cycling. The type of bike they need will depend on the type of terrain they’re usually cycling on.
If they’re cycling to school or just getting around on the streets, you can choose from a range of city bikes. If they’re also cycling in the countryside, a hybrid bike might be best. However, if they’re more adventurous and love to cycle on rough terrain, they’ll need a mountain bike instead.
Which Kids’ Bike Accessories Do They Need?
Once you’ve decided which bike to go for, you’ll also have to buy some accessories to go with it.
For younger kids, there are a range of bells and horns with cute cartoon designs. There are also baskets and bags that can be attached to the handlebars. Of course, you’ll also need a bike lock to keep it safe.
Start Your Child’s Cycling Journey
Now that you have an idea of what to look for, you’re almost ready to get your child started with their first bicycle.
At Decathlon Thailand, our bicycle workshops are stocked with kids bikes that are ready for you to try. As well as helping you find the right model, our BTwin staff can teach your child how to use it, and make any adjustments you need.