BMX - LBS's keep pushing for 20"+ TT for 4' 2" 8 y/o rider??

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dhillbmx
09-02-10, 12:19 PM
Hey all,

I've taken my 8 y/o son to a few local bike shops in the area, and they all keep pushing him towards 20" bikes with usually a 20"-20.5" TT. My understanding (based on the Dan's Comp sizing chart - http://www.danscomp.com/serve.php?serve=products/charts&html=riderchart.htm ) is that this is wayyyyyy too big for him.

They insist its fine, and that most kids his age are in that size bike. I'm leaning towards a 18" bike instead of a 20" bike just because I can't find a 20" bike with smaller than a 19.5" TT (MirraCo 20F).

Am I wrong in trying to find a 18" bike for him, or is the Dan's Comp sizing chart wrong and the LBS's are right? (He currently rides a Walmart 18" bike just fine, and he just doesn't seem to handle a 20" as stabally). I just want to make sure I'm not going to need to upgrade him to a 20" bike next year if I drop $250 on a 18" bike this year, ya' know?

Thanks all.

Greyryder
09-02-10, 10:24 PM
It doesn't matter what kids his age are riding, it's more important what kids his size are riding. If he's not comfortable on the longer bike, he probably won't ride it, and just keep riding the bike he currently has.

I'd say if you can't find a 20" wheeled bike that's short enough for him, then go with the 18" bike. If you don't mind trying mail order, you may want to check J&R. (https://www.jrbicycles.com/storefront/) They may have some race bikes that will fit him.