The Best Balance Bike

Buying Guide

Learning to ride a bicycle is an essential part of childhood. Bike-riding helps kids learn motor skills that are crucial as they develop and eventually begin to play sports, drive vehicles or operate machinery. Plus, the activity allows youngsters to travel independently, visiting friends and neighbors as they please.

MORE: The Best Bike Helmets for Kids

Balance bikes are a positive alternative to training wheels that help kids learn how to ride before making the switch. Balance bikes eliminate the need for training wheels in the first place, allowing for a smooth transition to pedal bikes. Kids can begin using balance bikes at a remarkably young age, allowing time for them to get used to balancing, develop motor skills and train their muscles to ride properly. Without pedals, kids push their feet against the ground to propel themselves forward.

Experts say kids can learn how to ride a bicycle quickly by using a balance bike because they can concentrate on learning to balance and steer before adding pedaling to the mix. With training wheels, kids can acquire bad bicycle-riding habits by relying on them too much. Parents dedicated to seamlessly teaching their young children to ride should look into balance bikes.

When it comes to shopping for new products, price is always a top concern. Balance bikes range widely in price. Models that are great values often tend to lack components that more expensive bikes have. For example, some models come with a steering limiter to prevent oversteering and promote straight riding, while others do not.

It’s also important to understand the fit of the balance bike you’re purchasing. If purchasing online, be sure to measure the balance bike rider to ensure proper fit. 

Everyone knows how quickly kids grow. That’s why many balance bikes are adjustable. That means parents can simply adjust the bike each time their child undergoes a growth spurt (which, depending on age, can be quite often).

Most balance bikes come with adjustable seats, which can be raised as your child grows taller. Some also have adjustable handlebars. This allows for a significantly larger size range, meaning the bike can accommodate a growing child with ease. Some balance bikes come with adjustable seats and handlebars.

If your child learns quickly and will not need to rely on the balance bike for a long period of time, growth is not an issue. In that case, any balance bike should do well to suit your needs.

Take material into consideration, too, as it determines how much the balance bike will weigh. Heavier bikes can be difficult for young children to maneuver, which can be a serious safety issue. Aluminum bikes are lighter than steel models.

On the other hand, heavier balance bikes are durable and can last many years — even generations — without requiring body repair or replacement. Steel models are a good choice if you’re planning to use balance bikes for a longer period of time. Make sure to check the weight of your balance bike before purchasing to confirm it will work for your child.

• Parents should never pressure their children to switch from a balance bike to a classic pedal bike. Sometimes, the transition can take years. The process should be fluid and natural in order for a child to consistently feel safe and in control while riding.
• Anyone riding a bicycle should always be wearing a helmet on their head. This important piece of safety equipment is especially crucial for kids whose bodies are still developing. The fit of the helmet is perhaps the most important part — after all, it won’t be able to do its job if it doesn’t cover and protect your child’s head properly. Be sure to measure the circumference of your child’s head before purchasing and try it on before use.
  
• Balance bikes are great for all ages, but the younger kids begin using them to practice their skills, the better. Most balance bikes will display what ages they’re suited for, so look there before purchasing. Typically, balance bikes are suitable for kids as young as 18 months. Get them started early!
• The tires of balance bikes are typically not as durable as regular pedal bike tires. Usually, they’re made of foam or plastic to absorb bumps and shocks. For this reason, you should stick to low-impact surfaces, like grass and dirt, when using balance bikes.
• Hydration should be your rider’s No. 1 priority. As we exercise, we radiate heat and sweat, sometimes leading to headaches and stomach pain from dehydration. Always keep a water bottle handy and encourage frequent water breaks.
• Falls are inevitable, especially when your child is first learning on the balance bike. You should always keep a first aid kit nearby in case you need it.