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Learning to ride a bike will be one of the most exciting things for a new child to learn. The freedom and independence they gain with the ability to move around on wheels is unapparelled.
However, both parent and child will likely also be frightened of this new adventure, so it is important that steps are taken to move slowly and allow the child to learn how to ride a bike safely.
A balance bike is the perfect way to introduce your child to bike riding, and with both indoor and outdoor models available, you can move at your own speed.
Children as young as 10 months can get started with balance bikes, and they can follow your child into toddlerhood and beyond.
Although balance bikes are not overly complicated products, there are still a lot of factors to consider when deciding on the right fit for your child.
Things like compatible age range, indoor/outdoor use options, and adjustability are all factors that need to be considered in order to choose the best balance bike.
We have investigated 26 products over 35 hours and considered 872 consumer reviews in order to compile this comprehensive buying guide.
Following our last update, we recommend the Strider Sport Balance Bike for its thoughtful design, quality, and value.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Balance Bike Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
Strider Sport Balance Bike
|
|
9.3/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
TODDLER PICK
|
YGJT Baby Balance Bike
|
|
8.9/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
WOOD PICK
|
YGJT Baby Balance Bike
|
|
9.3/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
2-IN-1 PICK
|
Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike
|
|
9.5/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Balance Bike
Strider Sport Balance Bike Review
The Best Overall
Strider
Choosing a balance bike for your child shouldn’t be hard, but with so many choices out there it can seem a little overwhelming. If you value a combination of quality, value, comfort, and durability, the Strider sport balance bike is a no brainer.
Strider Sport Balance Bike Video Review
What We Think of The Strider Sport Balance Bike
As a top pick, we are sure you have high expectations of this balance bike by Strider. We are pleased to inform you that you won’t be disappointed. While the handlebars are not adjustable, that is really the only complaint we have about this model. Its price may deter some parents, but for the quality you receive, we still recommend it for every household that can fit it into the budget.
This 6.7 lb bike comes in 5 diverse colors, allowing each child to choose the style they like the best. It is suited to kids between 2 and 5 years old, and its 12” tires are built to match the extra weight of an older toddler and keep up with the adventures it is destined for. The seat is adjustable in order to keep up with the growth of your child. This way, you’ll only ever need one balance bike to carry your children into pedal-bike graduation.
I am really happy with this choice of balance bike for my son. He has wanted to start bike riding since he saw my husband go out for a bike ride, and this is a great way to let them enjoy some together while keeping him safe. I can totally see how this will make him feel more confident when he finally starts riding a bike with pedals. What a brilliant idea!
josephine k.
The lightweight but durable design of this balance bike ensures that it is very easy for children to carry and ride on their own, but it will also hold up to the wear and tear that is will also accompany a child wherever they may go. This model has frame-integrated footrests to help with balancing, and since it is road safe, your kids can ride this bike anywhere and easily keep up with you.
Strider Sport Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 22” x 33” x 15”
- Colour: Red, blue, green, matte grey, or silver
- Weight: 6.7 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12”
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Adjustable Handlebars: No
- Age Recommendation: 2-5 years
- Road Safe: Yes
Strider Sport Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Adjustable seat to match your growing child’s legs
- Road safe for keeping up on walks
- Very lightweight and easily managed by small children
- Frame-integrated footrests
Cons
- Handlebars aren’t adjustable
- More expensive
Our Final Opinion about the Strider Sport Balance Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Strider sport balance bike is one of the best choices for children ready to take their bike-riding to the next level. With an inclusive age range and thoughtful features (lightweight design, adjustable seat), there really isn’t a reason not to buy this bike if you have the budget for it.
Our Toddler Pick for a Balance Bike
YGJT Baby Balance Bike Review
The Toddler Pick
YGJT
Not all balance bikes are suitable for the younger ages, and your toddler should be able to ride a balance bike around the house as early as they show interest. The YGJT baby balance bike is an adorable choice designed specifically for the younger age group.
YGJT Baby Balance Bike Video Review
What We Think of The YGJT Baby Balance Bike
If you have a son or daughter between the age of 10 months and 36 months, there is no better way to introduce them to bike riding than this balance bike. Every single feature is designed with young children in mind, from design to structural elements. This bike is available in two styles, a dalmatian or a bee, so every kid can have an adorable bike that suits their preferences better.
Neither the seat or the handlebars are adjustable, which is unfortunate, but most children within the age range should be able to use the bike comfortable, unless they are unusually small or large for their age. At only 5.5 lbs, this model will be easy for any child to play with. The steel frame is incredibly durable and safe, and with the wheel design, it is almost impossible for your child to fall off the bike.
I’m going to be honest, the main reason I purchased this balance bike for my little girl Sara is because of how adorable it is. I got the dalmatian style, and I love that the eyes move when she turns the handles. She calls the bike her ‘puppy’, and she is very stable on it while riding around our house. The bike is really quiet, which is great, but it also means I don’t hear her coming!
helen i.
The steering limitation is another safety feature implemented with young kids in mind. The handlebars will only rotate 123 degrees, in order to prevent your child from tipping over. One huge bonus for parents is that the wheels are silent on all floor types. You shouldn’t use this balance bike outside of the home, but for very young toddlers, it is the perfect way to get bike-riding off to a successful start.
YGJT Baby Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 15.8” x 9.8” x 21.6”
- Colour: Dalmatian or Bee
- Weight: 5.5 lbs
- Adjustable Seat: No
- Adjustable Handlebars: No
- Age Recommendation: 10-36 months
- Road Safe: No
- Warranty: 1 year
YGJT Baby Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Wheels are silent on all floor types
- 135-degree steering rotation prevents tipping over
- Very cute designs
- Sturdy steel frame is durable and safe
Cons
Cons
- Nothing is adjustable
- Indoor use only
- Too small for most toddlers
Our Final Opinion About the YGJT Baby Balance Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the YGJT baby balance bike is the perfect choice for parents looking to get their young children started on their bike riding adventures early on in life. This adorable, well-made balance bike is the best choice for indoor bike riding for children around 1-2 years of age.
Our Wood Pick for a Balance Bike
Runners-Bike Classic Wooden Balance Bike Review
The Best Wood Pick
Runners-Bike
Sometimes, the same old same old just feels boring. If you’re looking into getting a balance bike for your child but want something a little bit different, why not try something new and choose the Runners-Bike classic wooden balance bike for a unique twist on a simple toy.
Runners-Bike Classic Wooden Balance Bike Video Review
What We Think of The Runners-Bike Classic Wooden Balance Bike
This Runners-Bike wooden balance bike is a pretty unique thing to purchase for your child. It’s wooden design alone sets it apart from most of the comparable bikes on the market, but that isn’t all that makes it stand out. Its 12.5” cross country wheels can be used on any type of surface/terrain. This bike as a whole is incredibly stable, so it is the perfect way to help your kid gain confidence on a bike.
At 9.5 lbs, this bike won’t be too heavy for kids even as young as 2 years old. This bike can be used until children are around 5 years old, so you likely won’t have to buy another balance bike; you can move straight from this model to a standard bike with pedals. Although the handlebars are not adjustable, the seat is, so every kid will be able to sit comfortably and be able to reach the ground with their feet.
I’m not a huge fan of cutesy things, which I suppose isn’t all that surprising, and I was very happy to find a balance bike that was so rugged and rustic looking (but still safe for my kid). The tires hold up really well to all kinds of terrain, and it’s great that my 4-year old son can come with me when I go hiking. He loves the bike, and I expect he’ll be very sad to outgrow it next year.
johnny f.
One of the great things about this bike is that it comes with a bell. This is both a source of enjoyment for your kids, as well as a warning signal for you when you are about to be run over by your child. One major adjustment we would make is in regard to the seat. It is very hard and uncomfortable, so long rides may not be a very pleasant experience, even for the toughest kids.
Runners-Bike Classic Wooden Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 23” x 14” x 7.2”
- Colour: Wood
- Weight: 9.5 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12.5”
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Adjustable Handlebars: No
- Age Recommendation: 2-5 years
- Road Safe: Yes
- Warranty: 2 years
Runners-Bike Classic Wooden Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Very sturdy
- Includes a bell
- Cross country tires can be used on all surface/road types
- Adjustable seat for custom, comfortable fit
Cons
Cons
- Seat is hard and uncomfortable
Our Final Opinion About the Runners-Bike Classic Wooden Balance Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the Runners-Bike classic wooden balance bike is the ideal choice if you’re after a reliable, durable balance bike for your toddler. While not the most comfortable seat, the dependability, safety, and versatility of this model make it a great fit for almost any child.
Our 2-in-1 Pick for a Balance Bike
Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike Review
The 2-in-1 Pick
Little Tikes
Balance bikes are a great first step for teaching your child balance and coordination, but buying two separate bikes for early childhood may be too expensive. If you want a bike that can do both, choose the Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal balance bike.
Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike Video Review
What We Think of the Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike
If you want to give your child a safe way to start riding a bike, but you also don’t want to go through multiple bikes throughout their toddlerhood, this Little Tikes 2-in-1 balance bike is the way to go. While it starts off as a standard balance bike to help your child find their balance on two wheels, there are fold out pedals that can be used when it’s time to start riding a real bike.
This 10 lb balance bike can fit children over 2 years old, and can be used until they have outgrown the bike. With and adjustable seat and adjustable handlebars, you can expect to get many years of use out of this single purchase. It is highly affordable too, and in part, that is due to its more limited durability. However, as long as you take good care of the bike, it should be the only one your child needs for years.
I am really glad I found a balance bike that will last longer than a couple of years. Based on the video I watched, it will be really easy to outfit it with pedals when my son is ready for them. The wheels don’t have the best traction on every surface, but it still does a great job of helping my son learn how to balance, which is the whole point. The adjustability means I’ll be able to use it for my second child as well.
kelly w.
The 12” wheels on this bike don’t offer the best traction, but they are still safe for road use. The solid rims provide extra safety when riding on very hard surfaces as well. The seat is incredibly comfortable for children of all ages (over 2 of course), so even long rides can be enjoyable. Aside from the poorer durability of this bike, we really don’t have any complaints.
Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 27” x 31.7” x 12.8”
- Colour: Green
- Weight: 10 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12”
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Age Recommendation: 2+ years
- Road Safe: Yes
Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Has fold-out pedals for when child is ready for real bike
- Adjustable seat and handlebars for custom fit
- Comfortable seat
- Solid rims for extra safety on the road
Cons
- Wheels don’t have much traction
- Less durable design
Our Final Opinion About the Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal Balance Bike
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Little Tikes My First Balance 2 Pedal balance bike is the best choice if you’re looking for a balance bike that can stick with your child from early toddlerhood on. It doesn’t quite meet expectations for durability, but its 2-in-1 design means it has the longest life span of any balance bike as long as you take good care of it.
Alternative Products to Consider
GOMO Balance Bike Review
The Safety Pick
Gomo
The GOMO balance bike has a few extra safety features that make it one of the most safety-conscious balance bikes on the market. Though you can’t prevent your child from falling once in a while, choosing this balance bike gives you a leg up in the fight against childhood clumsiness.
GOMO Balance Bike Video Review
What We Think of the GOMO Balance Bike
If you are one of those highly protective parents that don’t want their kids taking any risks (aka first time parents), this balance bike by GOMO is right up your alley. Bike riding can be a scary event for parents since their children can get hurt while riding. The extra safety features implemented into the design of this bike, such as the steering limit and the puncture-proof tires, can make this activity a lot less stress-inducing.
With six different colours/styles to choose from, every kid will be able to choose a design that fits their personality. The handlebars on this model are not adjustable, but the seat is, so you can size it to fit children between 18 months and 5 years old. This means you’ll only ever have to buy one balance bike, and it will carry your child until they are ready to pedal.
I purchased this balance bike for my daughter when she is just under 2 years, and she has now been using it for 2 years. The adjustable seat has been great for allowing the bike to grow with her, and she races around on it like a champ now. The tires have held up really well to every surface she’s ridden on, and the steering limit gives me a lot of peace of mind that she won’t tip over that easily.
monica s.
Since the tires on this model are puncture-proof, your child can ride on any type of terrain without fear of damaging the bike and falling off. The steering limit is a system that prevents the handlebars from rotating fully, which will help your kid stay balanced with wide turns and prevent accidentally tip overs. If bike-safety is a priority for you as a parent or caregiver, this balance bike has all of your concerns covered.
GOMO Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 35.4” x 14.6” x 23.3”
- Colour: Black/green, blue/black, gold/black, light blue, pink/teal, and purple
- Weight: 7.1 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12”
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Adjustable Handlebars: No
- Age Recommendation: 18 months to 5 years
- Road Safe: Yes
- Warranty: 2 years
GOMO Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Puncture-proof tires
- Steering limit to prevent tip-overs
- Wide age range
- Footrests to practice balance
Cons
- Handlebars aren’t adjustable
Our Final Opinion About the GOMO Balance Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the GOMO balance bike is one of the best options out there for the more worried parents. The extra safety features can give you a lot of peace of mind while your child is riding their balance bike, and the wide age range means nearly any kid can make use of this great bike.
Joystar Kids Balance Bike Review
The Zero-Hassle Pick
Joystar
The Joystar kids balance bike is the perfect choice for parents who want to get their child their first bike without adding any hassle to their lives. With several features geared toward simplicity, minimal maintenance, and ease of use, your kid’s first bike will be all fun and no work.
What We Think of The Joystar Kids Balance Bike
Joystar balance bikes are known for being high quality and safe for kids of all ages. This model is targeted at kids between the ages of 1 and 3 years old, and can be used both indoors and out. The EVA polymer foam wheels are unique to this bike, and won’t have the same level of traction as standard air-filled rubber tires, but for young kids, this shouldn’t be an issue.
Both the handlebars and seat are adjustable, so you should feel confident in your ability to fit this bike to any child within the age range. The 10” wheels are slightly smaller than what is common for balance bikes, which is perfect for the younger target age range. This bike may feel a little bit heavy at 7.3 lbs, but even young toddlers should be able to manage this bike on their own.
When I bought this bike, I didn’t realize that the tires weren’t standard air-filled rubber tires. However, the polymer foam does a decent job still. We get a lot of rain where we live, and since we live on a dirt road, the rear tire cover really helps keep my kid clean-ish. I would recommend this product for parents with adventurous kids, definitely.
hank e.
One of the great things about this Joystar balance bike is the rear tire cover. This helps prevent spray back when riding on wet or muddy roads. This keeps both the bike and the young rider clean. Another favorite feature of ours is the step-through design. Since young kids do not have the balance or leg length to swing over a bike the traditional way, this design is much more user-friendly.
Joystar Kids Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 21.7” x 12.2” x 32”
- Colour: Pink, green, blue, and black
- Weight: 7.3 lbs
- Wheel Size: 10”
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Age Recommendation: 1-3 years
- Road Safe: Yes
Joystar Kids Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Step-through design is easier for shorter legs
- Smaller wheels are better for younger toddlers
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Rear tire cover to prevent spray back on wet/muddy roads
Cons
- EVA polymer foam wheels have less traction than air-filled tires
Our Final Opinion About the Joystar Kids Balance Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Joystar kids balance bike is a model that comes with very minimal downsides. It is full of thoughtful features implemented with your child’s safety and enjoyment in mind. If you have a toddler eager to get out and experience the world on two wheels, this is a great bike to get them started.
Joystar 12” Kids Balance Bike Review
The Comfort Pick
Joystar
Adult bikes are often full of comfortable features to make riding for longer periods more comfortable, but balance bikes often neglect comfort. If you want your toddler to be more comfortable on their first bike, choose the Joystar 12” kids balance bike.
What We Think of the Joystar 12” Kids Balance Bike
When it comes to comfort in a balance bike, there really is no better choice than this Joystar model. The seat is highly padded to make for a comfortable place to sit, and the grips are soft to ensure that little kid hands feel secure and comfortable while steering and holding on. Not only is this balance bike made well, but it is highly adjustable as well.
Both the seat and handlebars are adjustable, so it is very easy to fit the bike to any age and size of child. With an age range of 1.5 years to 5 years old, the adjustability is certainly necessary and appreciated. The 12” wheels are not your standard air-filled rubber tires, so they won’t have the same level of grip, but they are incredibly resistant to punctures in order to keep your children as safe as possible in any environment.
This balance bike is one of the most adjustable models I saw when I was shopping, which is the main reason I saw it. I have three kids of different ages, and they can all take turns on the same bike since it is so easy to adjust for each of them. I prefer the step through design on this bike since it is easier for the young ones to get on, and the padded seat keeps them all happy when they ride.
frankie n.
The step through design of this bike ensures that even young kids with short legs won’t have any trouble getting onto this bike. At only 6 lbs in its entirety, it won’t be too heavy for any child to manage on their own either. Whether you are shopping for a little boy or a little girl, the 6 color options ensure that every child will be happy with the style of their balance bike.
Joystar 12” Kids Balance Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 12” x 22.8” x 33”
- Colour: Beige, blue, green, pink, purple, and silver
- Weight: 6 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12”
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Age Recommendation: 5-5 years
- Road Safe: Yes
Joystar 12” Kids Balance Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Step through design is safer and easier
- Air-free tires are puncture resistant
- Handlebars and seat are adjustable
- Padded seat and soft grips for a comfortable ride
Cons
Cons
- Air-free tires don’t grip as well as rubber
Our Final Opinion About the Joystar 12” Kids Balance Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the Joystar 12” kids balance bike is the ideal choice for parents interested in a comfortable and reliable balance bike to help their kid(s) get comfortable on two wheels. With multiple color options and a reasonable price, this bike can fit into any budget and any style preference.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Balance Bike
How Long Can My Child Use a Balance Bike?
Children can start using a balance bike as early as 10 months old. Of course, at this young age, they should always be closely supervised and should ride the bike indoors only.
Adjustable balance bikes could stay with your family until age 5 or so, when your child will be ready to start riding bikes with pedals. If you get a 2-in-1 balance bike that can be converted to a pedal bike when the child is old enough and has gained enough confidence, you may be able to extend its use a couple more years until the child has outgrown it.
How Do I Keep My Kid Safe on a Balance Bike?
While there is no sure fire way to prevent your child from falling off their balance bike (it is simply inevitable and required for your child to learn), there are some ways to keep your child as safe as possible.
Some balance bikes for younger children are nearly impossible to tip over with standard use, so those are always a great starting point.
Once your child is ready for a more advanced balance bike, the most important thing you can do is make sure it is fitted to your child properly. Make sure they can easily reach the ground and lift their feet up comfortably, and ensure the handlebars are in a comfortable position that is easy to reach and won’t pull your kid off balance.
Why Should I Start My Child on a Balance Bike Instead of a Normal Bike?
Balance bikes are designed for use before normal pedal bikes, as they are the simplest way to introduce your child to bike-riding before they need to worry about more advanced steering and pedaling.
Balance bikes will have more limited steering ranges to protect your child from turning too tightly and throwing themselves off balance, and it also allows them to learn at their own pace. They control when they have their feet on the ground and when they don’t, so it is safer than a normal bike with pedals in the way. Learning how to balance before using pedals is the perfect way to set your child up for success when learning how to safely ride a bike.
How to Properly Choose Your Balance Bike
- Price.
The cost of a balance bike for your child will range between $60 and $300. You can find affordable and expensive balance bikes in each age range, so you have the freedom to decide on exactly the level of quality you are looking for. In general, more expensive balance bikes will be more adjustable, more comfortable, and will be safer for outdoor use since they are made of more durable materials and have wheels designed to withstand the wear and tear of harsh outdoor surfaces.
- Weight.
The weight of the balance bike is an important thing to consider because your child will need to manage its weight while balancing. If you bike is too heavy, your child may not be able to support it well enough to be safe while riding. However, you don’t want a bike that is too light either if it means it is made from less durable materials, since longevity will then be a concern. Our recommendation is simply to look for a balance bike that is light enough for your child to carry by themselves that is also made of high-quality materials.
- Wheel Size.
The wheel size on the balance bike will affect its mobility and vertical elevation. You’ll want to match the wheel size to the age of your child. Younger children should be riding balance bikes that have smaller wheels, since this will keep them closer to the ground to lesson the fall damage and ensure they can reach the ground with their feet while riding. Older kids can ride bikes that have larger wheels since they will be more stable for outdoor use and your kids will likely have the confidence to manage the freedom and mobility the larger wheels can offer.
- Frame Shape (normal vs. step through).
The two standard frame shapes for balance bikes are a normal, leg-over design, and a step through design. The step through design is better for younger children because they don’t need to swing a leg over the back of the bike to get on the seat. This is a maneuver that will require more coordination than young children have.
- Adjustability.
If you plan on keeping your balance bike for a large time, adjustability is most certainly something you need to investigate. While adjustable seats and handlebars are important for comfort, they will also allow the bike to evolve as your child grows. There is nothing worse than spending hundreds of dollars on a bike that your child outgrows in less than a year. Not every balance bike will have adjustable components, but the most valuable ones will.
- Comfort (padded seat, handlebar size, etc.)
Since a balance bike will likely be your child’s first introduction to bicycles, it is important the experience is a positive one. The comfort of the balance bike is therefore an important consideration. Padded seats and child-sized handlebars are two major components of a balance bike’s comfort level for your kid. Without these features, your child may feel that the bike is too hard to sit on or the handles are too big to hold onto, making their first bike experience a difficult one. If you want the best for your child, choose a balance bike that has a comfortable seat and the proper handlebar size for their hands.
- Footrests.
Not every balance bike will have footrests, and for many kids, they will be happy to simply lift their feet off the ground when they want to coast. However, balance bikes that have footrests built into their frame are generally higher quality and more comfortable for kids during longer rides. The footrests allow your child to relax their legs while coasting rather than just holding them up, so this can also help them be a little bit safer and help them stay balanced better.
- Indoor/Outdoor Use.
Some balance bikes are designed for indoor use only, and others are equally as suited to outdoor use as indoor. For young children (less than 2 years of age) we recommend only allowing them to ride in the house. This is why most balance bikes designed for younger children are indoor-only. Once your child has figured out the basics of balancing on a bike, the outdoor balance bikes can be used to give them more freedom and help them develop their bike-riding skills even further.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of balance bikes allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
