E‑MTBs vs E‑Dirt Bikes Comparison: Specs, Pros, Cons, & Buying Guide

Wondering what size bike is perfect for your little rider? You’re not alone, and we’ve got you covered! For many parents, this can be a difficult decision since finding a bike and child fit is not easy, and having a bike that is too large or too small will only make learning to ride the bike difficult for the child. Kids bike sizes are based on the diameter of the wheels. The most common sizes for children's bikes are 12-inch, 14-inch, 16-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch. Each bike size is designed to fit a general age and height range. In this blog, we will give a detailed breakdown on what you need to know about each bike size—what age range it’s typically suited for, what features to look for, and how to know if your child is ready to size up.   Bike Size Chart for Kids by Age & Height (Ages 2–12) Below is a quick-reference guide to help you choose the right bike size for your child, based on age and average height, with wheel size serving as the key metric.   Age Average Height Recommended Wheel Size 2–3 years 85–100 cm (33–39″) 12-inch balance bike or 12″ pedal bike 3–4 years 95–105 cm (37–41″) 12″ to 14″ bike 4–5 years 100–110 cm (39–43″) 14″ to 16″ bike 5–6 years 105–120 cm (41–47″) 16″ to 18″ bike 6–7 years 115–125 cm (45–49″) 18″ to 20″ bike 7–8 years 120–130 cm (47–51″) 20″ bike 8–9 years 125–135 cm (49–53″) 20″ to 24″ bike 9–10 years 130–140 cm (51–55″) 24″ bike 10–11 years 135–145 cm (53–57″) 24″ to 26″ bike 11–12 years 140–150 cm (55–59″) 26″ bike (small adult size may apply)   12-Inch Bikes: The First Ride Experience The 12-inch bike is the wheel size at which most kids start their biking journey. These bikes are built for toddlers aged 2 to 4 years, or kids who are around 2’10” to 3’4” tall. They’re small, have a light frame, and are easy to maneuver. They suit the toddlers really well as these cycles help them to coordinate all their movements, which is very important for this age, as it is crucial for motor development. At this stage, many children are making the transition from balance bikes to pedal bikes or electric bikes. Some 12-inch models come with training wheels to assist kids who have not yet become experts at balancing. The build of the 12-inch model should be appropriate for a small child, and the seat should be low enough so that when the child sits, both feet completely touch the ground without extending the legs. Parents often face the dilemma of whether to choose a bike with or without training wheels. To make the right decision, you just have to know if the child already has experience with a balance bike or not. If he/she has it, then they find it to start handling the bike confidently without much help. Either way, 12-inch bikes are just right for introducing small toddlers to the joys of riding.   14-Inch Bikes: The Transition Size While most people think of 12- or 16-inch bikes, the kids' 14-inch bike is fantastic for kids who are just a little too tall or too confident for a 12-inch bike. Most children 3 to 5 years old, around 3'1" to 3'7", usually fit this category. If you want to find out what makes 14-inch bikes equivalent and above average, they are considerably versatile in functionality. For example, they are great size increments that offer less overwhelm. Most 14-inch bikes would be outfitted with training wheels as well. Yet some features that are typical of miniaturized adult bikes, such as hand brakes, chain guards, and adjustable seats and handlebars, are included in this grouping. If your child is on the taller or more rapidly getting better at riding, though, they'll have more space to grow into the bike and not end up having to size up too soon if they're on a 14-inch rather than a 12-inch.   16-Inch Bikes: Gaining Independence The 16 inch bike is known to be among the most famous sizes for a child. This size mostly serves as a sweet spot for children who have experienced riding smaller bikes. It generally suits a child aged between 4 and 6 years and is at a height of about 3'5" to 3'9". Kids riding bikes with 16-inchers have developed enough strength and coordination to handle longer rides and more features. 16-inch bikes come fitted with hand brakes in addition to coaster brakes, and this proves to be really helpful to kids since they are exposed early on to braking systems that they will usually see later in bigger bikes. This would help them develop familiarity with the braking systems and get comfortable with them.  During this phase, training wheels may no longer be necessary. If your child cannot manage without them, then don’t worry, as most 16-inch bikes allow for easy attachment and removal of the wheels. 16-inch bikes also come with a range of accessories like kickstands, baskets, or even suspension forks, though simpler models are often lighter and easier for young kids to manage.   18-Inch Bikes: For the In-Between Riders This 18-inch variant is the intermediate version that is between the currently most popular 16 and 20-inch sizes. This bike size is a perfect fit for a child who isn't quite ready for the height of a 20-inch bike but has outgrown the 16-inch wheel bicycle. The size generally fits children aged between 5 and 7 years old, and the height range is between 3’7” and 4’0”. Things that make 18 bikes so darn good would be the fact that they possess most of the features of smaller bikes, a lightweight frame, and easy, intuitive handling, but come with all the more advanced components of larger models. Depending on the brand, you might find ones with dual hand brakes, bigger gear options, and even basic suspension systems. If your son is big for his age and rides like a pro but doesn't quite measure up for a 20-inch bike, this option should be good enough for him. This would also be an ideal example if you're looking at stretching the life of the bike a little longer before leaping into something more complex and geared.   20-Inch Bikes: Getting Serious About Riding The 20-inch bike is most suited for children ages 6-9, or those having an approximate height of between 3 ft 9 in and 4 ft 5 in. Children will start to exercise cycling beyond play. There is a good chance they will want to ride to school, go for family bike rides, and start something for fun, like mountain biking or BMX. Because of this, 20-inch bicycles now include an array of features like multiple gears, hand brakes, and front or dual suspension. In this age group, you will have a wider choice og bike models to choose from, like cruisers for casual riding, mountain bikes for riding trails, or BMX bikes for riding tricks outdoors or in the park. Although these bikes may offer more features, their maintenance cost also tends to be higher. At this stage, it is a good idea to teach the child about the importance of maintenance so that they learn the value of responsibility. Some important aspects of maintenance to teach your kid are tire pressure checking, chain cleaning and greasing, and the usage of gears.If your child is ready for the next step, check out our Electric Bike vs E-Dirt Bike blog to explore higher-speed options for ages 10 and up.   Frequently Asked Questions   How to measure bike size? Measure your child's inseam (leg length) by having them stand with a book pressed gently between their legs against a wall, mark the floor to the top of the book to determine the ideal seat height and wheel size. What size bike do I need? Rather than using age alone, choose a bike based on wheel diameter that matches your child’s height and inseam—12″, 14″, 16″, 18″, or 20″—so they can sit comfortably with feet touching the ground and ride with proper control What size bike for 8 year old? Most 8-year-olds (around 114–135 cm tall or 3′9″–4′5″) fit best on an 18″ or 20″ wheel bike, depending on exact height and riding experience How to measure bike wheel size? To measure wheel size, measure the full diameter from the outer edge of one side to the opposite side, typically in inches. Common kid wheel sizes are 12 inches, 14 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches, and 24 inches.   Final Thoughts: How to Know You're Choosing the Right Size While wheel size is a great starting point, the right fit really depends on your child's height and inseam length, not age. A child’s physical development is not identical, and some kids will feel comfortable with a smaller size for a longer time. If you do not want to keep buying a new bike every time your child grows a few inches, then buy kids bikes with adjustable seats and handlebars. Moreover, test riding a bike to make the correct decision is really crucial. Have your child sit on the bike to see if their feet touch the ground, yet still bend once the child pedals. Choosing the right kids’ bike size means striking a balance between comfort and riding confidence.  A well-fitting bike helps your child feel secure, balanced, and excited to ride. Still unsure on what to choose i insist you visit Skilful Sports and contact their support to have all your queries answered before buying a bike.

In the old times, traditional bikes were familiar and beloved by kids, teens, and youngsters. Nonetheless, electric bikes are in demand in this era, and generally, two popular categories of bikes stand out: full-suspension e-mountain bikes (e-MTBs) and electric dirt bikes. Since both provide adventure and fun, they are constructed for very different kinds of riding. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences, pros and cons, and help you decide which machine matches your style. Our focus will be on e-MTBs, particularly full-suspension models. We will also explain in detail why fitness lovers, casual adventurers, and trail riders prioritize them.   What are Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bikes? Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bikes are a kind of electric bicycle designed for technical off-road terrain. In other words, they are perfect for rocky terrain, mountain paths, single track, and steep climbs. However, these bikes have two attributes that make them exceptional: • Pedal-Assist Motor: It helps you pedal more easily, especially on hills or long-distance rides. • Dual Suspension System: This means the bike has shocks in both the Front(fork) and back (shock absorber), making it a real suspension bike. This helps smooth out rough trails for enhanced control and comfort. These bikes give bike riders a great and enjoyable experience and keep them physically fit, fresh, and active.   What are Electric Dirt Bikes? Electric dirt bikes give you a traditional motocross bike experience rather than a bicycle. They don’t contain pedals and offer throttle-powered acceleration. These are structured in a way that can bear speed and airborne jumps. Electric dirt bikes are generally used for bike racing or fast trail riding. They are enjoyable, however, not suitable for every bike rider. Most electric dirt bikes are heavyweight, hard to handle, and not always allowed on normal bike trails.   Key Specification Differences Feature Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bikes Electric Dirt Bikes Pedal‑assist vs. Throttle Pedal‑assist (Class 1 & 2, torque‑sensor driven) Throttle only Top Speed Up to ~28 mph 40+ mph Suspension Full‑travel front fork + rear shock (100–160 mm) Long‑travel suspension (200 mm+) Trail Access Legal on most bike trails, parks & multi‑use paths Restricted to private/off‑road only Typical Battery Range 30–60 miles (500–750 Wh packs) 20–40 miles (under aggressive throttle) Curb Weight ~50–60 lb ~70–100 lb Braking & Tires Hydraulic disc brakes / wide, grippy tires Powerful brakes / aggressive knobby tires Best For Fitness, commuting, technical singletrack & trails High‑speed jumps, motocross‑style riding   Why Full Suspension E‑MTBs Are Great for Trails • Pedal‑assist motors with torque sensors help you climb steep hills with less effort. • Mid‑drive or hub‑drive options let you choose more power or simpler upkeep. • Front and rear suspension (100–160 mm travel) smooths out rocks, roots, and drops. • Hydraulic disc brakes provide solid stopping power on wet or loose ground. • A 500–750 Wh battery pack gives you 30–60 miles of range for long rides. • Class 1 and 2 e‑MTBs count as bicycles so that you can use public trails, parks, bike lanes, and city streets. Why Electric Dirt Bikes Are Built for Speed • Brushless motors deliver strong power and fast acceleration of over 40 mph. • Long‑travel suspension (200 mm+) absorbs big jumps and rough terrain. • Reinforced frames and skid plates protect the bike on motocross tracks. • Knobby tires give extra grip on dirt, mud, and loose surfaces. • Regenerative braking adds a bit of extra range during ride‑down. • Typical battery range is 20–40 miles under full‑throttle riding. • Heavier weight (70–100 lb) and motorcycle classification mean they work best on private or dedicated off‑road tracks.   Pros and Cons of Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bikes ✅ Pros: • A pedal-assist with a torque sensor helps you climb steep grades smoothly and build leg strength. • Full suspension travel (front fork + rear shock) and adjustable damping smooth out rocky singletrack and technical descents. • Class 1 & 2 e‑bike legality grants access to most multi‑use trails and bike‑only lanes. • High‑capacity battery packs (500–750 Wh) deliver 30–60 mile range—ideal for long rides without range anxiety. • Mid‑drive or hub‑drive motor options let you choose between efficient hill‑climbing torque (Nm) or simpler maintenance. • Hydraulic disc brakes and wide, grippy tires give confident stopping power and traction in wet or loose conditions. ❌ Cons: • Heavier chassis (50–60 lb) can be cumbersome to lift onto racks or carry up stairs. • Limited top speed (max ~28 mph) compared to full‑throttle bikes. • Suspension service intervals (seal replacements, shock rebuilds) add to long‑term maintenance costs. • Battery degradation over the years can reduce usable capacity—plan for eventual replacement. • Geometry trade‑offs: Optimized for off‑road control, but not always as nimble on paved commutes.   Pros and Cons of Electric Dirt Bikes ✅ Pros: • High‑power brushless motors and aggressive throttle response deliver 40+ mph top speeds for true off‑road thrills. • Long‑travel suspension systems (200 mm+ travel) soak up big jumps and whoops with plush rebound control. • Reinforced frames, skid plates, and knobby tires are built for hard landings and rugged terrain. • Regenerative braking helps extend ride time and smooth out deceleration on fast runs. • The electric powertrain runs virtually silently, with no exhaust fumes and shock‑free torque delivery. ❌ Cons: • Trail access restrictions: Trails are classified like motorcycles, so access is often limited to private land or race tracks. • Heavy curb weight (70–100 lb) and a higher center of gravity can make low‑speed maneuvering tricky. • Complex BMS and high‑voltage systems require specialist maintenance and safety checks. • Shorter battery range (20–40 miles) under aggressive throttle use leads to “range anxiety” on longer loops. • There are fewer fitness benefits since there’s no pedal‑assist mode—pure throttle means less cardio workout.   Electric Mountain Bikes for Riding and Everyday Use Full-suspension electric Mountain Bikes are also phenomenal for everyday rides. Whether you are going to your workplace or school, or just using it for the sake of enjoyment, these bikes are well-built enough for rough roads. Many people use electric bikes to avoid traffic, save gas, and stay fit. A suspension bike provides you with a smooth and enjoyable ride even on uneven roads. Also, you can go to your destination without getting too tired.   Where can you Ride Electric Mountain Suspension Bikes? This is a huge pro. You can ride full-suspension electric Mountain Bikes in many more locations than electric dirt bikes. They welcome you to: • Mountainous areas and forest trails • Parks • Bike lanes On the other hand, electric dirt bikes are limited to off-road tracks or private properties. Getting a mountain bike is a better decision if you seek freedom and flexibility. If you love mountain bikes, you’re going to really like these carbon fiber mountain bikes. They’re built to perform and look great too.   When to Choose Electric Mountain Suspension Bikes • If you are fond of outdoor trails and casual rides • If you want to stay fit, active, and fresh. • If you require a vehicle for daily riding or commuting. • If you want to ride in places where dirt bikes are restricted. If you’re shopping for younger riders who need a lighter, smaller‑frame bike, check out our wholesale Kids Bikes collection.   When to Choose Electric Dirt Bikes • You like adventure and full-speed racing • You ride on private property or uneven trails • You have good skills in motorbike-style controls • You can manage maintenance and rules.   Frequently Asked Questions How to ride a mountain bike? Start by keeping your pedals level. Then bend your knees and elbows slightly and look 15–20 feet ahead. When you reach rough sections, stand up a little and shift your weight back. Use smooth braking and change gears before the terrain gets steep, and slow down. What is the best electric dirt bike? Many experts name the Stark Varg as the top full‑size model. Its Alpha version delivers 80 horsepower, KYB SSS suspension, and a 6.5 kWh battery for long off‑road rides. Do you need a license for an electric dirt bike? If the bike goes over 28 mph and has no pedals, it’s usually classed as a motorcycle and requires a license on public land. Bikes under 28 mph without pedaling often do not need a permit. How much does a mountain bike weigh? Normal country mountain bikes weigh about 22–24 lbs (10–11 kg). Some heavier trail and enduro models range from 30 to 40 lbs (14–18 kg), depending on suspension and components. How to measure mountain bike frame size? Measure the seat tube from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of the tube, and the top tube length horizontally from the head tube to the seat post. Then match those numbers to the maker’s size chart (S, M, L) for height. How fast can a mountain bike go? On flat singletrack, you’ll average about 9–10 mph (14–16 kph). Climbing trails drop to around 8 mph (13 kph), while downhill runs average 17 mph (27 kph), with peaks over 30 mph (48 kph) on steep descents.   Wrapping Up Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bikes and electric dirt bikes provide fun, enjoyment and adventurous rides. Moreover, they are made for different kinds of people. However, electric mountain bikes are the better choice if you are seeking a bike that can keep you comfortable and fit and free will to ride in mountainous areas. Whether you are riding through the forests, exploring the town, or checking out mountainous tracks, a Suspension Electric Mountain Bike is the perfect and adventurous vehicle. Therefore, if you want a comfortable ride with control, opting for electric mountain bikes is the best possible decision. Hence, to buy in bulk, contact this suspension bike supplier for cost-effective rates and faster delivery.