(HealthDay News) -- When shopping for your child's next bicycle, like a pair of shoes, it's important to buy a bike that fits properly.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these bike-buying guidelines:

• Have your child shop with you for a new bike to make sure it fits properly.
• Don't intentionally buy a bike that your child will "grow into." A bike that's too big can be very dangerous.
• Don't let your child ride a two-wheeled bike until about age 5, or until the child is physically ready.
• Make sure the child's feet reach the ground when sitting on the seat. When the child stands, there should be about an inch of room between the crotch and the bar of the bike.
• Make sure your child can easily reach the brakes.