24 Inch Bike – for What Size Person?

Whether you’re shopping for adult bikes or kids’ bikes, knowing the right size of frame to purchase is a bit of a minefield. What’s likely to work best for your height and build? As an example – a 24 inch bike is for what size person?

A 24 inch bike is great for kids aged between 9 and 11 years of age, and may suit adults between 4’6” and 5’5” tall. Always make sure you measure your height and leg inseam to find the best fit for your profile!

Key Takeaways

  • A 24-inch bike is a standard bicycle frame with a wheel size of 24 inches and is generally suitable for kids aged 9 to 11, or adults between 4’6″ and 5’5″ tall.
  • The right bike size depends not only on height, but also on weight, build, shoulder width, and riding style.
  • To find the right bike size, you should measure your height and leg inseam, and compare them with the bike size charts provided in the article.
  • A 24-inch bike for adults should be specifically designed for adult riders, with a sturdy frame, comfortable handlebars, and appropriate suspension.
  • A 24-inch bike for kids should be lightweight, easy to maneuver, and safe to ride.

What Is a 24 Inch Bike?

A 24 inch bike is a standard bicycle frame with a wheel size of 24 inches, and is generally the second-largest bike recommended for kids to use.

You’ll usually find kids’ bikes measured in wheel size, while adult bikes measure by frame. That’s why telling measurements apart can sometimes get confusing!

You’ll find there are many varieties of bike that have wheels measuring 24 inches. For example, you may find a racing bike or hybrid bike in this size. We’ll take a look at a few types you’ll see at your local bike shop below.

How Tall Do You Need to Be to Ride a 24 Inch Bike?

You’ll generally need to be between 4’6” and 5’5” to ride a 24 inch bike, but manufacturers generally design them for kids.

Taller riders should ideally look for bikes of wheel diameter measuring at least 26 inches. If you’re taller than 5’5”, look for bike frame measurements of 15 inches and higher.

Frame size isn’t usually something you’ll account for in a child’s bike, so keep this in mind when looking at guides to frame sizes online and in-store.

Is a 24 Inch Bike for Adults?

A 24 inch bike can be ideal for adults, but it’s dependent on height, shoulder width and weight. 24 inch bikes typically hold a lighter frame than most adult sizes as manufacturers build them for younger riders.

Look beyond wheel sizes and opt for a 24 inch bike that’s specifically for adult riders. This isn’t just so you can ride comfortably or adapt your riding style. It’s so you can keep safe on the move.

The wrong sized bike could lead to injury and accident as well as fatigue as you ride around. Be ready to give your ideal road bike or mountain bike a ‘test ride’ at your local bike shop, and always ask for professional advice before you hand money over.

Will I Fit a 24 Inch Mountain Bike?

That depends on if you’re the adequate height, weight and build for this bike size. If you want to go mountain biking with a 24 inch bike, you’ll need to carefully measure your height, your leg inseam and look carefully at the handlebars.

Regardless of height range, a 24 inch bike will typically hold riders of around 150 – 200 lbs in weight. So you can sit comfortably (and so your back and front suspension hold out), ask your retailer about the max weight capacity on your ideal choice of bike.

Ideally, no matter the size bike frame you buy, your handlebars should be around your shoulder width apart. Any narrower or wider will make for an uncomfortable ride, and may risk the stability of your bike.

To prevent back strain, look beyond the basic wheel dimension and choose an upright position with upright handlebars if you can.

Measuring for a 24 Inch Bike

Both male riders and female riders should always measure height and leg inseam carefully before choosing the right bike sizes. It’s best to measure yourself several times, so that you can work out an average measurement for the most accuracy.

Poor measurements can lead to a less than suitable bike, causing you fatigue, pain, and potentially causing accidents.

Let’s take a quick look at measuring rider height and leg inseam before you buy.

Height

As you’d expect to measure your height at the doctor, stand with your back and feet flat to a wall. Try and do this barefoot or without shoes on for an accurate result. You may need to ask someone to help mark your height or actively measure you.

When your back and heels are flat against your chosen wall, mark the uppermost point of your head on the wall with a pencil, being careful to keep looking straight ahead. Alternatively, ask someone to measure you with tape from the bottom of your foot to the top of your head.

If measuring with a mark on the wall, simply run your tape measure up from the floor to the mark, and record the inches.

In both measurement styles, you should measure at least three times so you can get a clear average height. This is a figure you’ll need when looking at bike sizes in future – but it’s not the only one!

Leg Inseam

Your leg inseam is a measurement that ensures your bicycle frame size – and wheel size – can easily accommodate your height. Otherwise, you may not be able to reach the pedals!

To measure the long inseam of your leg, you’ll need to stand back against a wall, feet and back flat. Then, ask someone to provide either a spirit level or a hardback book that you can place between your legs. You’ll need to space your feet around shoulder width apart, and carefully slide the book or level up between your legs to your groin.

Holding the book firmly between your legs and against the wall, mark where it makes contact with the wall and measure down from the top edge towards the floor. Again, capture the length in inches, and remember this figure when you go to buy your bike.

Adult Bikes Size Chart – Bike Frame Guide

We’ve lined up some bike size charts for you to help you find adult bikes and child bikes for the most comfortable fit. These measurements may vary at some retailers, but it’s the average you can generally expect.

With adults’ bikes, again, the key difference in measurement is accounting for bike frame rather than bike wheel.

HeightInseamBike Size (Frame)
5’0” to 5’4”25 to 27 inchesUp to 19 inches
5’4” to 5’8”27 to 29 inches15 to 21 inches
5’8” to 5’10”29 to 31 inches17 to 22 inches
5’10” to 6’0”31 to 33 inches19 to 23 inches
6’0” to 6’3”33 to 35 inches21 to 24 inches
6’4” +35 inches +24 inches +

Kids’ Bike Size Chart

If you’re looking for a small bike frame or smaller wheels to suit younger riders, measure the wheel. Here’s another chart to help you find the perfect bike size. 

Child’s HeightChild’s AgeWheel Size
2’5” to 3’2”2-4 years old12 inches
3’2” to 4’0”3-6 years old16 inches
4’0” to 5’0”7-9 years old20 inches
4’6” to 5’5”9-11 years old24 inches
5’5”+11 years+26 inches

Types of 24 Inch Bikes

A 24 inch bike may be one you choose to ride to work, school, or even take on an adventure or two! Here are some of the types you’ll find in bike racks, though they’re mainly tailored towards younger riders.

Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes are built for off-road adventuring, with fat, grooved tires and hard-working suspensions. They have flat handlebars and come in several different styles, depending on where you wish to ride. You’d buy a mountain bike for cross-country travel and extreme sport, too.

Hybrid Bikes

Hybrid bikes are types of comfort bicycles that keep you upright with a wide, flat handlebar. They have narrow tires and minimal tread, and tend to fill the gap between road and mountain biking. You’d buy a hybrid bike if you want to use it for various purposes.

BMX Bikes

BMX bikes only have one gear and have smaller wheels than most. They’re great for racing and freestyle riding. You’ll typically see BMX models marketed towards kids, though there are adult bike models for greater height and weight.

Road Bikes

Road bikes are great for riders who want to race or set new time records! They can arrive with an ultra lightweight frame and have extremely narrow tires. Some road bikes are designed for female riders, while others (such as a 24 inch bike in this style) are ideal for kids and teenagers.

FAQs

How Much Weight Can a 24 Inch Bike Hold?

A 24 inch bike built for kids is likely to hold between 150 and 200 lbs, though these bikes are likely to withstand weights of up to 250lbs on average.

It’s important to look for a 24 inch bike built for adults, as these can generally hold between 270 and 330 lbs. This can also vary depending on manufacturer and type of bike, too.

What Size Bike Do I Need – 24 or 26?

If you’re an adult between 4’6” and 5’5” tall, you’ll ideally need a 24 inch bike. If you’re up to 5’9” tall, choose a 26 inch bike or larger.

Children between the ages of 9 and 11 years old will typically suit a 24 inch bike. Any child older than 11 should look for a bike that’s at least 26 inches in wheel diameter.

Remember, you should also take weight and build into account when choosing the right bike frame!

Is a 24 Inch Bike the Right Size for Women?

A 24 inch bike can be the right size for a woman if you’re between 4’6” and 5’5” in height, and weigh less than 200lbs. There are some 24 inch bikes (such as some models of road bikes) that are specifically designed for women, too.

Wherever possible, opt for a bike frame that’s designed with women (or at least adult bodies) in mind.

Conclusion

A 24 inch bike – for what size person? Generally, it’s a great size for kids between the ages of 9 and 11, or adults smaller than 5’5” in height.

However, always measure for weight, build and shoulder span. If you’re an adult, look for bikes built with adult riders in mind. Remember, too, that adult bikes are measured by frame, not wheels.

Do you ride a 24 inch bike? Is it a comfortable fit for your everyday commuting or adventuring? Let us know – and we hope you enjoyed this guide. As always, don’t forget to share this guide along if you know anyone who’s buying a bike!

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