5 year old, wheel size, inseam
Bike Size Chart for 5 Year Old
Use this bike size chart for 5 year old riders when a child sits between 14, 16, 18, and 20 inch bikes. What size bike for a 5 year old should start with height, then be confirmed with inseam, lowest saddle height, brake reach, bike weight, confidence, and whether the larger wheel size is still easy to stop.
Data reviewed: 2026-05-18
Model geometry is a reference check; sizing comes from the available size chart rows.
Enter your measurements to see your recommended size, backup size, confidence, and why it fits.
16 inch bike size chart
Check the most common 5 year old wheel-size range by height and inseam.
14 inch bike size chart
Compare the smaller option for shorter or cautious 5 year old riders.
18 inch bike size chart
Compare the middle step between 16 and 20 inch bikes.
Kids bike size chart by height
Use child height to compare 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, and 26 inch wheels.
Kids bike size chart by inseam
Use inseam to confirm standover, saddle height, and stopping control.
Sizing notes
Read the chart, then check the bike.
Most 5 year olds compare 14 and 16 inch
A 5 year old often lands in the 14 or 16 inch range, but taller and confident riders may compare 18 or 20 inch if control stays easy.
Height decides the shortlist
Use height first because 5 year old riders vary widely. A shorter child may need 14 inch, while a taller child may fit 16 or 18 inch.
Inseam and saddle height confirm fit
The child should be able to start, stop, and stand over the bike. Lowest saddle height and inseam matter more than the age label.
Do not buy a 20 inch bike too early
A 20 inch bike can add growth room, but it should only be chosen when reach, braking, turning, and stopping are controlled now.
What size bike for a 5 year old
Size
14 inch bike
Height
95-115 cm / 3'1"-3'9"
Inseam: 40-50 cm inseam
Size
16 inch bike
Height
100-120 cm / 3'3"-3'11"
Inseam: 45-55 cm inseam
Size
18 inch bike
Height
110-130 cm / 3'7"-4'3"
Inseam: 48-58 cm inseam
Size
20 inch bike
Height
115-135 cm / 3'9"-4'5"
Inseam: Only if reach and braking are controlled
Size
Cautious 5 year old
Height
Any overlap range
Inseam: Choose lower saddle and lighter bike
FAQ
Short answers for choosing a size before purchase.
What size bike does a 5 year old need?
Many 5 year old riders fit a 14 or 16 inch bike, while taller or confident riders may compare 18 inch. Use height, inseam, saddle height, brake reach, and confidence to decide.
Is a 16 inch bike good for a 5 year old?
A 16 inch bike is often a strong starting point for a 5 year old around 100-120 cm tall, but inseam and lowest saddle height decide whether it is safe.
Should a 5 year old ride a 14 inch or 16 inch bike?
Choose 14 inch for shorter or cautious riders who need easier stops. Choose 16 inch when height, inseam, brake reach, and confidence fit comfortably.
Can a 5 year old ride a 20 inch bike?
Some tall, confident 5 year old riders can compare a 20 inch bike, but it should not be chosen unless reach, braking, turning, and foot-down stopping are controlled.