Start with wheel size, then check the fit
Children’s bike sizes refer to the wheel diameter, not the child’s height or age. Age ranges are useful for narrowing down the options, but they cannot show how easily your child can reach the controls or balance the bike.
As general guidance, ask your child to sit on the bike while wearing the shoes they normally ride in. They should be able to reach the handlebars and brake levers without stretching, with a relaxed rather than cramped riding position. When standing over the bike, there should be comfortable clearance between your child and the frame. Getting on, stopping and turning should not feel awkward.
Do not choose a much bigger bike simply to leave extra growing room. A bike that is difficult to control can make learning less enjoyable. Adjustable saddle and handlebar heights can provide useful room for growth, but they cannot make an oversized bike fit properly today.
What the 12 to 20-inch sizes cover
- Glerc 12 Inch Kids Bike – listed for children aged 2–4 years.
- Glerc 14 Inch Kids Bike – listed for children aged 3–5 years.
- Glerc 16 Inch Kids Bike – listed for children aged 4–8 years.
- Glerc 18 Inch Kids Bike – listed for children aged 5–9 years.
- Glerc 20 Inch Kids Bike – listed for children aged 7–13 years.
These age ranges overlap, so use them as a starting point alongside your child’s build, reach and riding experience. If your child sits between two sizes, compare both. The one that feels natural to get on and off, with easy access to the brakes and confident foot placement when stopping, will be the more comfortable fit.
Three practical checks before ordering
- Check the brake reach. Short-reach brake levers are fitted to these bikes, but your child still needs to be able to pull them comfortably from the normal riding position.
- Watch how they get on and off. Check the stand-over height and how your child moves around the frame. A lower, easier step-over can be helpful for a beginner.
- Think about their riding stage. A first pedal bike may need more practice for starting and stopping. Removable stabilisers are included with these Little Molly bikes, so they can be taken off when your child is ready to practise riding on two wheels.
When comparing nearby sizes, try the smaller one first and then the larger one. Look at reach, clearance and how calmly your child can get on, stop and turn, rather than choosing only by the number on the wheel.
Features shared across the Little Molly range
Each of the 12, 14, 16, 18 and 20-inch Little Molly bikes has front and rear brakes, an enclosed chain guard, a protective stem pad, soft handlebar grips, reflectors, mudguards, a bell and a wicker basket. The seat and handlebars are adjustable. The frame is made from hi-ten steel and has a lifetime warranty. Removable stabilisers are included.
The bikes arrive 85% assembled with the basic assembly tools, and the remaining assembly takes about 20 minutes. Before the first ride, check the supplied parts and adjustments carefully, and follow the care and safety instructions on the label.
Our recommendation
Choose the smallest size that gives your child a comfortable reach, clear stand-over space and easy brake control, using the listed age range only as a guide. That leaves you with a bike they can manage now while still giving you a clear point at which to reassess the fit as they grow.