A BMX is the cool bike kids used to ride in the 80s and 90s. To this age, kids are still thrilled to ride one as this bike offers a great ride and a chance to learn a few tricks. If you're eyeing a BMX bike for kids and have no idea what to consider, here's how to pick the right one for your son or daughter.
What's a BMX Bike?
BMX is short for Bicycle Moto Cross (X). BMX sports started in the late 70s in California. Riding BMX bikes became a thing in the 1980s and is believed to be the start of mountain biking. Riding such a bike was more of a lifestyle and a culture than a sport. However, the sport is officially recognized as part of competitive games in the Olympic Games.
A BMX bike is an off-road sports bicycle, far smaller in geometry and appearance than an actual mountain bike and is mostly used for racing and doing tricks and stunts. These bikes are robust, fun to ride and almost indestructible.There are two types of BMX bikes: production and custom BMX bikes.
Production vs. Custom BMX Bikes
Kids BMX bikes are a popular ride for children even today. Most parents purchase a production BMX bike. The production BMX bike for kids is sold as a complete package, with a chainset, wheels, saddle, seat post, handlebars, grips, chains, frame, and wheels. The BMX bike is a complete bike from the producing company. The production of BMX bikes ensures value for money since they're bought and used without interference. But, you can customize the saddle position and the length of the stem and crank.
Custom-built BMX bikes are more flexible. To make a custom BMX, you'll need to source individual components from either one or several manufacturers. This is a great way to choose a chainset, handlebar, or brakes (from various manufacturers) that suit your kid's preferences.
The frame sets' price varies depending on the material. For instance, steel makes more lightweight frames that cost more. When buying a frameset, you will also need a fork since BMX framesets don't come with a fork.
BMX Size for Kids
Once your kid grows out of balance bikes and you start looking for their first BMX, it's essential to get them the right size. There are 35, 40, 45 and 50cm BMX bikes that fit kids ages 7 to 14 and older. In general, the best age range for a 40cm BMX bike is 5-8 years of age.
Height is a better indicator of the right bike size, making 40cm BMX bikes suitable for children whose height ranges between 112 and 140cm tall. Unlike the regular kids’ pedal bikes, choosing an age-appropriate range for a BMX bike is slightly different. If a kid who is comfortable riding a size 50cm pedal bike will comfortably ride a 40cm BMX bike.
Kids' BMX Bike Sizing Charts
Size Description Best for Ages
• Mini - the low standover height 155-mm cranks 20 x 1 1/8" tires 4-6 years old
• Junior - a bit larger frame than Mini 165-mm cranks 20 x 1 3/8" tires 6-9 years old
• Expert - these have a longer top tube than Junior - 170-mm cranks 20 x 1.5-1.75" tires 9-13 years old
• Pro - this is a full-size frame with 175-180-mm cranks 20 x 1.75-2.2" tires 12 years plus
Age vs. Bike Size BMX Sizing Chart
This is a chart that mixes the age and suitable wheel size for children.
• 1-4 years Balance Bike 70-90
• 4-6 years 12 80-100
• 5-9 years 14 90-130
• 7-14 years 16 100-140
• 14+ years 18 130-160
• 14+ years 20 155-150 +
Children between 1-5 or 6 years are better off with balance bikes. Kids between 5-9 years, who want a BMX bike, can do well with size 35cm BMX bikes. The 35cm BMX bikes are a bit bigger, more comfortable, and more durable compared to the 30cm balance bikes. They are also the best choice for beginners as kids can start to learn and do some tricks on the ramps.
The 40cm BMX bikes are great for kids aged 5- 8 or 9. The 45cm BMX bikes are a good choice for most kids aged 7-13 years old. They are a great transition from 40-50cm BMX bikes. They are a universal choice for confident BMX riders who can do some tricks but can’t just get to 50cm BMX bikes because of the handlebars' height and distance from the seat post. A 50cm BMX bikes are best for teens, 13 or 14 years and above.
Height vs. BMX Size
It's also important to consider your kid's height and match it with the BMX size. In most cases, the kid's height will determine if they'll love their BMX or will return to a regular bike. No matter if you're buying online or in a physical store, it's best to check height and BMX size and see how they match.
Once you choose the right size and model, be sure to consider your kid's level or riding. Are they a beginner, intermediate or pro? Most kids are beginners so it's best to start with a smaller bike. If your kid is an intermediate, choose a bike that's affordable and offers performance; the pro is best for kids who are older and have experience in riding such a bike.
