What type of bicycle is right for my child?

Children learn to ride in stages, and choosing the right type of bike for their age and ability makes a huge difference to confidence and enjoyment as they begin their cycling journey.

Most kids start on a balance bike, where they learn balance and steering first. Once they’ve mastered this, they can progress easily to a pedal bike, often without needing stabilisers.

Balance bikes for toddlers and young children

Balance bikes are pedal-free bicycles that allow young children to learn balance naturally by pushing along with their feet. By focusing on balance first, children develop essential riding skills before moving on to pedals.

AIRO balance bikes are designed to be ultra-lightweight and easy for little riders to control, helping build confidence from day one. Available in sizes 12" and 14" - choose depending on your child's inside leg measurement.

Pedal bikes for kids

Once children are confident balancing and steering, they’re ready to move on to a pedal bike. Thanks to the skills learned on a balance bike, many children can transition straight to pedals without stabilisers.

HERO kids pedal bikes are built to support confident, independent riding. Lightweight frames, child-friendly geometry, and reliable components make them easy to handle and fun to ride.

HERO Kids Pedal Bikes

Our HERO range of bicycles for kids is available in the following wheel sizes...

14" Pedal Bikes

Suitable for younger riders moving up from a balance bike with a recommended inside leg measurement of 34-41cm (approx. 3-5 years old).

16" pedal bikes

Great for early pedal confidence and everyday riding for children with a recommended inside leg measurement of 40-51cm (approx. 3-6 years old).

20" pedal bikes

Ideal for growing riders ready for longer adventures. Made for children with a recommended inside leg measurement of 49-64cm (approx. 4-7 years old).

24 inch pedal bikes

Designed for older children who want a bigger, more capable bike with a recommended inside leg measurement of 63-78cm (approx. 6-10 years old).

Why choose Hornit bicycles for kids?

Hornit kids’ bicycles are designed with children’s development and enjoyment in mind. Our focus is on creating bicycles for kids that make learning to ride a positive, rewarding experience. Every bike is carefully engineered to be...

Two children with bicycles on a path surrounded by greenery

Lightweight

Easier for children to control, manoeuvre and pick up when they need to!

Durable

Built to handle everyday use and outdoor adventures, like going to school or weekend trails.

Bespoke Geometry

Geometry and components designed specifically for young riders for optimum comfort, efficiency, and control.

Confidence-boosting

Helping kids progress naturally from balance bikes to pedal bikes.

Choosing the right size bicycle for kids

Getting the correct bike size is essential for safety and confidence. A bicycle that’s too big can feel intimidating, while one that’s too small can limit progression.

When choosing a kids’ bicycle, consider:

1) Your child’s inside leg measurement rather than just their age

2) Their confidence level and riding experience

3) Whether they are starting on a balance bike or moving to pedals

If you’re unsure which size is right, our recommended inside leg guidance on each size of bike help you choose the right bike.

Start your child’s cycling journey

Whether your child is taking their very first ride on a balance bike or ready to step up to a pedal bike, we offer a carefully designed range of bikes of kids to support every stage of learning.

Explore our balance bikes and kids pedal bikes to find the perfect bicycle for your child.

Shop Balance Bikes Shop Pedal Bikes