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BMX Sizing Chart: Rider Height vs. Bike Size
Rider Height
Wheel Size
Top Tube Length
Size Category
Size Category
3ft – 3'8" / 90–110 cm
3'6" – 4'6" / 105–135 cm
4'6" – 5'1" / 135–155 cm
4'10" – 5'4" / 147–162 cm
5'2" – 5'8" / 157–173 cm
5'6" – 6ft / 167–183 cm
6ft+ / 180cm+
12"
16"
18"
20"
20"
20"
20"
14.5"–17"
17"–18.5"
18"–20"
20"–20.25"
20"–20.5"
20.25"–21"
20.75"+
Youth
Youth
XS
XS – S
S – M
M – L
L – XL
How to Choose Your First BMX
Don’t know where to start?
This beginner-friendly guide will help you choose your first BMX based on your height and riding style.
Step 1: Choose the Right Size
Why Size Matters
The most critical factor in BMX selection is proper sizing. It affects how your bike handles, your comfort, and how much fun you’ll have riding it.
BMX sizing is determined by two main things:
-
Wheel size (in inches)
-
Top Tube (TT) length (in inches)
Many brands, like Source BMX, also categorize bikes into sizes like XS, S, M, L, XL based on top tube length.
Frame Length vs. Riding Style
Shorter frames are more playful and great for technical tricks.
Longer frames are more stable - better for jumping and speed.
For beginners: stick to the chart. Once you're more experienced, you can fine-tune based on riding style.
Step 2: Pick Your Riding Style
While beginner BMX bikes are typically versatile, bikes designed for specific styles have features that enhance performance for that discipline.
Main BMX Disciplines:
Park
Geometry designed for ramps and bowls
Often includes:
-
Detangler for tailwhips/barspins
-
Lower frame for easier trick control
Street
Built for technical tricks on ledges, rails, and stairs
Common features:
-
Pegs and hub guards
-
Freecoaster hub (FC) for going backward without pedaling
-
More nimble geometry
-
May be brakeless (not beginner-friendly)
Dirt / Trails
For riding dirt jumps and pump tracks
Features:
-
Longer geometry for stability
-
Larger sprockets for speed
-
Brakes are essential
-
Grippy tires for loose surfaces
Other Key Terms to Know
LHD/RHD – Left or right-hand drive. Choose based on which side you’ll grind to protect your chain.
Universal Fit: Most entry-level BMX bikes can be used across all disciplines until you specialize.