A May bicycle is a children's bike designed for kids aged roughly 4 to 8 years old

May bicycles are small-frame bikes made by the May Bicycle Company, a manufacturer based in Taiwan that produces entry-level and mid-range children's bikes sold through retailers and online. They are not a specific model but rather a brand line — you will see them listed as "May" on the frame or in product listings. The bikes come in wheel sizes from 12 inches to 20 inches, which corresponds to the child's height and age rather than their exact birthday.

These bikes are built for learning to ride, not for tricks or racing. They have training wheels on the smallest sizes, hand brakes or coaster brakes depending on the model, and frames made of steel or aluminum. The price point is typically between $80 and $180, making them a budget option compared to brands like Trek or Specialized children's models, but more expensive than the cheapest department-store bikes.

Key Takeaways

  • May bicycles are entry-level kids' bikes in sizes from 12 to 20 inches, designed for children learning to ride rather than for stunts or racing.
  • The frame material is usually steel or aluminum, and most models come with training wheels, hand brakes, or coaster brakes depending on the child's age and size.
  • You can find May bikes through online retailers, sporting goods stores, and some department stores, though availability varies by location and season.
  • Maintenance is straightforward — tire pressure, chain lubrication, and brake adjustment are the main tasks, and replacement parts are inexpensive and widely available.

Wheel sizes and what they mean for your child's age

May bicycles come in four main wheel sizes: 12 inch, 14 inch, 16 inch, and 20 inch. The wheel size does not correspond to the child's age alone — it corresponds to their height and inseam (the distance from their crotch to the ground when standing). A child who is tall for their age may need a larger bike than a child who is younger but shorter.

The 12-inch wheel is for children roughly 3 to 5 years old and 36 to 42 inches tall. The 14-inch is for ages 4 to 6 and heights 40 to 48 inches. The 16-inch fits ages 5 to 8 and heights 44 to 54 inches. The 20-inch is for ages 7 to 10 and heights 50 to 60 inches. When you are shopping, have your child stand over the frame — there should be 1 to 2 inches of clearance between the child's crotch and the top tube of the frame when they are standing with both feet flat on the ground.

A bike that is too large is harder to control and more dangerous. A bike that is too small will be outgrown quickly and may feel cramped. If your child is between sizes, choose the smaller one and plan to upgrade in a year or two rather than buying a bike they cannot yet ride safely.

Training wheels, brakes, and other features to look for

Most May bicycles in the 12-inch and 14-inch sizes come with training wheels. These are removable, so once your child learns to balance, you can take them off. Some models have training wheels that are adjustable — you can raise them slightly so they barely touch the ground, which helps the child transition to riding without them.

Brakes come in two types on May bikes: hand brakes (also called rim brakes) and coaster brakes. A coaster brake is engaged by pedaling backward — it is simpler for young children to understand and use, but it does not work if the chain falls off. Hand brakes require more finger strength and coordination but are more reliable. The 12-inch and 14-inch models usually have coaster brakes; the 16-inch and 20-inch often have hand brakes or a combination of both.

Other features to check: the seat should be adjustable so it rises as your child grows. The handlebars should also be adjustable. Look for reflectors on the pedals, wheels, and rear, and check that the tires have tread — smooth tires are a safety hazard. Steel frames are heavier but more durable; aluminum frames are lighter but can dent more easily.

Where to buy a May bicycle and what to expect for price

May bicycles are sold through online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, as well as through sporting goods stores and some local bike shops. Availability changes by season — you will find the widest selection in spring and early summer, and limited stock in fall and winter. Prices range from about $80 for a basic 12-inch model to $180 for a 20-inch with hand brakes and aluminum frame.

When you order online, the bike usually arrives partially assembled. The front wheel, handlebars, and pedals need to be attached, and the brakes and seat height need to be adjusted. This takes 20 to 30 minutes with basic tools — a wrench, screwdriver, and Allen key set. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, some retailers offer assembly for an additional fee, or you can take the bike to a local shop for assembly.

Buying in person at a store lets you check the fit before you buy, which is valuable. Online buying is usually cheaper and gives you more model options, but you cannot see the bike until it arrives. Read the reviews on the retailer's page — they often mention assembly difficulty, paint quality, and whether parts arrive damaged.

Maintenance and repairs you can do yourself

May bicycles need the same basic maintenance as any bike: tire pressure checks, chain lubrication, and brake adjustment. Check the tire pressure every two weeks — the correct pressure is printed on the side of the tire. Most children's bikes use 12 to 16 PSI (pounds per square inch). Underinflated tires make the bike harder to pedal; overinflated tires can burst.

Lubricate the chain every month or whenever it looks dry. Use bicycle chain oil, not motor oil or WD-40. Wipe off excess oil with a rag so dirt does not stick to it. If the brakes feel soft or do not stop the bike quickly, they need adjustment — this is a five-minute job with an Allen key if you have the right size, or a job for a bike shop if you are unsure.

Replacement parts are inexpensive and straightforward to find. A new chain costs $10 to $20. New brake pads are $5 to $15. A new tire is $15 to $30. If the frame bends or cracks, the bike is usually not worth repairing — a new May bike is cheaper than a frame replacement. Most children outgrow their May bike before it breaks, so you will likely be selling or passing it on rather than repairing it.

How a May bicycle compares to other budget children's bikes

May bicycles sit in the middle of the budget range. They are more expensive than department-store bikes from Walmart or Target that cost $50 to $80, but cheaper than name-brand bikes from Trek, Specialized, or Giant, which cost $200 to $400. The difference is in frame quality, brake performance, and how long the bike lasts before parts wear out.

A $60 department-store bike often has a heavy steel frame, poor brakes, and parts that loosen or break within a year. A May bike has a lighter frame, better brakes, and parts that stay tight longer. A $300 Trek or Specialized bike has a lighter frame, smoother brakes, and components that are easier to adjust and maintain. For a child learning to ride, a May bike is a reasonable choice — it is safe, affordable, and will last through a few years of use.

If your child is serious about biking and you plan to keep the bike for multiple children, a more expensive brand may be worth the cost. If this is a first bike and you are not sure how much your child will ride, a May bike lets you spend less money while your child learns.

Safety gear and riding rules for children on May bicycles

A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear. Your child should wear one every time they ride, even on short trips. A properly fitted helmet sits level on the head, covers the forehead, and has the chin strap snug enough that you cannot fit more than one finger under it. Helmets cost $20 to $50 and should be replaced if they are dropped hard or involved in a crash.

Reflectors and lights make your child visible in low light. May bikes come with reflectors on the pedals, wheels, and rear. Add a front light and rear light if your child rides in the evening or early morning — battery-powered lights cost $10 to $30 and clip on easily. Bright clothing also helps — neon or white jackets are more visible than dark colors.

Teach your child to ride in a safe area first — a driveway, parking lot, or park with flat ground and no traffic. Once they are confident, introduce them to quiet streets and bike paths. Teach them to look both ways before crossing, to signal turns with their arm, and to ride in a straight line rather than weaving. Supervise younger children at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a May bicycle and a Huffy or Mongoose children's bike?

May, Huffy, and Mongoose are all budget brands sold through big retailers. May bikes tend to have slightly lighter frames and better brakes than Huffy. Mongoose makes more bikes for older kids and teenagers. All three are safe for learning to ride, and the choice usually comes down to price, color, and what is in stock at your local store.

Can I use a May bicycle for tricks or jumping?

No. May bicycles are designed for riding on flat ground and learning balance. The frame and wheels are not built to handle the impact of tricks, jumps, or stunts. If your child wants to do tricks, they need a BMX bike, which has a stronger frame and smaller wheels designed for that purpose.

How long will a May bicycle last?

Most children outgrow their May bike in two to four years before it breaks. With regular maintenance — tire pressure checks and chain lubrication — a May bike can last through multiple children. The frame rarely breaks unless it is bent in a crash. Brakes and tires wear out over time and can be replaced inexpensively.

Do I need to take a May bicycle to a shop for assembly?

No. Assembly takes 20 to 30 minutes with basic tools — a wrench, screwdriver, and Allen key set. You attach the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals, then adjust the seat height and brake tension. If you are not comfortable doing this, most retailers and local bike shops offer assembly for $20 to $50.

What should I do if the chain falls off?

Stop and put the chain back on the front and rear sprockets by hand. Wipe your hands on a rag. Check that the chain is tight — if it is loose, the derailleur (the mechanism that guides the chain) may need adjustment, which is a job for a bike shop. If the chain keeps falling off, it may be worn out and need replacement.