BMX KNOWLEDGE FROM RIDERS
BMX Bikes & Sizing Explained
Choosing the right BMX can be confusing, especially if you're buying one for your child and aren't familiar with BMX sizing.
Unlike most bikes, BMX sizing isn't just about wheel size. Once a rider reaches a 20" BMX, the top tube length becomes particularly important too.
Below we'll explain the approximate BMX sizes we recommend for different rider heights, what changes as bikes become higher specification and where larger 22", 24" and 26" BMX bikes fit in.
BMX Bike Size Quick Guide
These are approximate ranges rather than strict rules. Rider preference, experience and the type of riding can also influence the best size.
70cm–90cm: Balance Bike
80cm–110cm: 12" BMX
90cm–130cm: 14" BMX
100cm–140cm: 16" BMX
130cm–160cm: 18" BMX
140cm–155cm: 20" BMX with approximately 18"–20.25" top tube
145cm–175cm: 20" BMX with approximately 20.25"–21" top tube
175cm+: 20" BMX with approximately 21" or longer top tube
If the rider falls between sizes, contact us with their height, age, experience and what type of riding they'll be doing and we can help.
Why Do 20" BMX Bikes Have Different Frame Sizes?
Once you get into full-size 20" BMX bikes, two bikes can both have 20" wheels but fit and ride very differently.
The top tube length is one of the main measurements used when choosing a BMX frame size. Generally, smaller riders suit shorter top tubes while taller riders need more room and will usually prefer a longer top tube.
Geometry and personal preference matter too. A rider doing technical street may prefer a shorter, more responsive setup, while riders looking for stability at trails, dirt jumps or when riding fast may prefer a longer frame and back end.
READ BMX FRAMES & GEOMETRY EXPLAINED →
What Is a 22" BMX?
A 22" BMX is a larger alternative to the traditional 20" BMX. The slightly larger wheels and overall bike can give taller riders more room while retaining much of the feel and simplicity of a BMX.
They're particularly worth considering for riders over 6ft who find a 20" BMX too compact.
We've also found 22" BMX bikes popular with mountain bike riders moving between MTB and BMX. If you're used to a 27.5" or 29" mountain bike, moving onto a 22" BMX can feel less of a jump than going straight onto a 20" BMX. They can be a great option for skateparks, trails and pump tracks as well as general BMX riding.
What About 24" & 26" BMX Bikes?
24" BMX bikes are generally considered a BMX cruiser size. They're popular for cruising, trails and pump tracks, but wheel size doesn't dictate how the bike has to be ridden. There are riders using 24" BMX bikes for street and skatepark riding too.
26" BMX bikes take the larger-wheel BMX and cruiser idea even further. Depending on the bike and its geometry, riders use them for cruising, street, skateparks, trails and pump tracks.
It's also important not to assume that every larger-wheel BMX-style bike is a Wheelie Bike. BMX cruisers and Wheelie/Bike Life bikes overlap in wheel sizes, but can be designed with different riding styles and purposes in mind.
If it's Wheelie and Bike Life bikes you're interested in, we've covered those separately.
READ WHEELIE BIKES & BIKE LIFE EXPLAINED →
Freestyle BMX vs Race BMX
Freestyle BMX bikes are designed for riding such as skateparks, street, ramps, trails and dirt jumps. They use components and geometry intended to cope with tricks and impacts.
Race BMX bikes are designed around BMX racing, where low weight, acceleration and speed are priorities. Their geometry and components are different from a freestyle BMX.
Race bikes are also available in a much wider range of frame sizes to suit different rider heights and racing classes.
Does BMX Specification Matter?
Yes. As complete BMX bikes increase in price, you'll normally see improvements in the frame and components as well as the overall strength of the bike.
Entry-level freestyle bikes may use more hi-tensile steel in the frame and more basic components, while higher-spec bikes increasingly use 4130 chromoly, sealed bearings and stronger aftermarket-style components.
This becomes particularly important as the rider gets bigger, heavier or starts riding harder. A bike intended for a young beginner doesn't need the same specification as a full-size BMX being ridden hard at a skatepark or in the streets.
Race BMX construction is different. Aluminium frames are extremely common, while higher-end race bikes and frames can use materials such as carbon fibre.
Which BMX Should I Buy?
Start with the rider's height and use the size guide above to narrow down the wheel and frame size. Then consider their experience, where they'll ride and how hard the bike is likely to be used.
If you're buying for a child, don't automatically buy a BMX that's far too large simply so they can grow into it. A bike that's too big can be harder to control and may make learning more difficult.
If you're still unsure, contact Waller BMX with the rider's height, age, experience and where they'll be riding. We can help narrow down the right BMX and explain the differences between the bikes you're considering.
Shop BMX Bikes by Size
Browse BMX bikes by wheel size or shop Race BMX bikes below. Not sure which size to choose? Contact Waller BMX with the rider's height and we'll help.