A balance bike is a training bike without pedals that helps young children learn to ride on two wheels. It is also called a push bike. It has two wheels of equal size, and the child sits on a seat between the wheels. The kid propels the bike by walking or running and uses their feet to stop. This helps kids to learn the basic skills of riding a bike without pedaling. Instead, they can focus on learning to balance and steer. By the time they transition to a pedal bike, they will already have the foundational skills they need to ride with confidence.
Here we will discuss the benefits of using a balance bike and provide tips on choosing the right one for your kids’ needs. We will also provide a review of our 5 favorite models on the market today that come with exciting features and most importantly safety standards. So, whether you are a first-time parent, gifting someone’s kid, or just looking for some information on balance bikes, keep reading!
Balance Bike For Kids of all Ages | Expert Picks
Best Balance Bike For Toddlers and Kids | A Detailed Review
We gave a few balance bikes to 10 parents and asked them to allow their toddlers and kids to try out these bikes. After 5 days of continuous riding, we asked them about their experience and their favorite picks. Here is what we found.
1. JOYSTAR 12-Inch Balance Bike
| Bike Type | Balance Bike |
| Age Range (Description) | 18months-5years |
| Brand | JOYSTAR |
| Number of Speeds | 1 |
| Color | Green |
| Wheel Size | 12 Inches |
| Frame Material | Carbon Steel |
| Suspension Type | Rigid |
| Special Feature | Lightweight |
| Included Components | Quick release clamp |
| Size | 12 Inch Wheels |
| Brake Style | Coaster |
We have to say that we are really impressed with the JOYSTAR 12-Inch balance bike. We were unsure what to expect when we ordered it, but it exceeded our expectations. The JOYSTAR balance bike is a lightweight bike that is perfect for transitioning your child from a balance bike to a pedal bike. Its seat and handlebar heights adjust to accommodate ages 18 months to 5 years. The 12 Marcher weighs only 6.28lbs(2.85kg), making it easy for your child to maneuver.
It features a durable steel frame and puncture-proof tires, making it a bike that can withstand plenty of wear and tear. The 12-inch wheels are the perfect size for younger riders, and the adjustable seat allows the bike to grow with your child. The JOYSTAR also comes with a handlebar bag, making it easy to carry snacks and other small items on rides. So, not only can your child learn to ride a bike but also carry his favorite stuff on the journey.
Low-rise Frame EVA Foam Wheels Soft Rubber Grips and a Soft Saddle
2. Chillafish Charlie Balance Bike
| Age Range (Description) | Toddler |
| Brand | ChillaFish |
| Color | Silver |
| Wheel Size | 10 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Special Feature | Lightweight |
| Included Components | Balance Bike |
| Size | Regular |
| Brake Style | No brake |
| Specific Uses For Product | Road |
Our toddler testers love this bike! It is lightweight and easy for her to handle, and the adjustable seat and handlebar mean that he/she can use it for years to come. The Chillafish Charlie Lightweight toddler balance bike is quick and easy to assemble, and its compact size makes it easy to store when not in use. This 10-inch balance trainer is designed for kids aged 18 to 48 months. It offers an easily adjustable seat and handlebar and a lightweight metal frame that weighs only 5.5 pounds.
The bike also has an integrated carry handle, making it easy to take with you on the go. The main benefit of the bike is its ability to help toddlers learn how to ride a real bicycle in no time. With its lightweight design and adjustable seat and handlebar, the Charlie makes it easy for toddlers to practice their gross motor skills and build up their confidence before moving on to a larger bike. Overall, we are very happy with this purchase and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a balance bike for their toddler.
Integrated Carry Handle Lightweight Metal Frame Adjustable Seat From 11-14,6 Inch / 28-37 Cm
Less Customization Options
3. Strider Balance Bike
| Age Range (Description) | 2 – 3 years |
| Brand | Strider |
| Number of Speeds | 1 |
| Color | STRIDER Red |
| Wheel Size | 12 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Included Components | Training Wheel, Balance Bike |
| Size | One Size |
| Brake Style | No pedal balance, No braking system |
| Specific Uses For Product | Road |
| Item Weight | 6.7 Pounds |
We were not sure what to expect when we first saw the Strider – 12 sports kids balance bike, but we were pleasantly surprised. Our three-year-old son loves it! It is lightweight and easy for him to maneuver, and the flat-free tires mean we don’t have to worry about punctures. The Strider bike is the perfect training bicycle for toddlers and children ages 18 months to 5 years old. It is lightweight, weighing only 3.0 kg (6.7 lbs.), and easy to maneuver, with a durable frame that can withstand plenty of tough love.
The flat-free tires obviously we mentioned earlier are a lifesaver – no more flats! – and the padded seat is comfortable for little ones. The Strider balance bike comes with optional footrests, which we found helpful in keeping toddlers’ feet from getting tangled in the pedals while learning to ride. We highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a safe, fun way to teach their child to ride. Our toddlers love it, and we know yours will too! And once your toddler becomes comfortable with this bike, you can shift from a balance bike and get some best kick scooters to increase his skills.
Durable Steel Frame Mini-Grips For Tighter Grips Multiple Color Options
4. The Original Croco Toddler and Kids Balance Bike
| Brand | TheCroco |
| Color | Blue |
| Wheel Size | 12 Inches |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Special Feature | Lightweight, Aluminum Frame, Easy Assembly |
| Size | Ultralight 12 Inch |
| Specific Uses For Product | Road |
| Item Weight | 4.3 Pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 28.5 x 12.5 x 6 inches |
| Item Weight | 4.3 pounds |
We bought this bike for our three-year-old neighbor’s son, and he loves it! He’s only been riding it for a few days, but he’s already getting the hang of it. The bike is very lightweight and easy for him to handle. This is an ideal balance bike for kids and toddlers with an inseam between 11 to 18 inches. It includes a bell, ultra-soft hand grips, a handlebar pad, gripped footrest, a padded seat, and safety-end screws for more protection.
The Croco is also equipped with foam tires that are 5 times lighter than regular rubber tires, making it even easier for little ones to handle. And because the bike is made from rust-proof aluminum, it will last for years. The bike features a quick-release clamp that allows you to quickly adjust the seat height to accommodate different riders. The clamp also makes it easy to fold the bike for storage or transport. Once your child learns the basics through a balance bike, its time to consider some toddler tricycles to instill some pedaling skills.
Quick-Release Clamp Lightest Bike (Only 4 Lbs) 5 Times Lighter Foam Tires
5. Huffy Kids Frozen 2 Kids Balance Bike
| Age Range (Description) | Kids |
| Brand | Huffy |
| Color | White |
| Wheel Size | 12 Inches |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Suspension Type | Rigid |
| Special Feature | Training Wheel |
| Included Components | A Bike |
| Size | 12 inch |
We decided to purchase this balance bike to allow a 3-year-old and a 5-year-old toddler to take a few test rides, and both loved it. The 3-year-old was able to ride without training wheels in no time. And the 5-year-old said it was the best bike he’d ever ridden. Other than that, let’s explore why we highly recommend this bike!
The steel frame is stable and low to the ground, making it easy for toddlers to balance. The wide sidewalk tires improve stability, and the adjustable seat ensures the bike can last for many years. The bike is extremely lightweight, so, toddlers can easily handle it and its vivid white, blue, and purple graphics are sure to please any Frozen fan.
The bike has a low center of gravity, which makes it easy to balance, and it also has wide tires that provide good traction. The only downside is that the graphics are a bit cheaply made and tend to peel off easily. But still, we highly recommend this balance bike for toddlers as it is a great alternative to training wheels and will help them develop their motor skills.
Frozen 2 Graphic Disney Like Look Wide Sidewalk Tires Improve Stability
Things to Consider Before Buying A Balance Bike
Since a balance bike is specially designed for toddlers and kids, there are some factors that you, as a parent or guide should consider. Here are some most important considerations.
Size
The ideal bike size for a 3 to 4 years old child should be should be about 12 inches tall and for a 4 to 5 years old kid, 14 inches tall would work fine. And for a 5 to 6 years old kid, the balance bike size should be 16 inches tall. If you are unsure what size bike to choose, it is best to consult a knowledgeable salesperson at your local bike shop.
Weight
As a thumb rule, a balance bike shouldn’t weigh any more than 30% of your toddler’s weight. This ensures that the bike is easy to control and maneuver. Additionally, a lighter bike is less likely to cause injury if your child happens to fall. However, it’s also important to make sure that the bike is made of sturdy materials to withstand repeated use.
Material
You will usually find a balance bike for kids and toddlers available in three primary materials: wood, metal, and composite.
- Wooden balance bikes are typically the most affordable option. They are also relatively lightweight, making them easy for young children to handle. However, wooden balance bikes are not as durable as their metal or composite counterparts and can be more difficult to repair if damaged.
- Metal bikes, made from steel or aluminum, are often adjustable to accommodate your child as they grow. Steel balance bikes are usually heavier, while aluminum bikes tend to be lighter but less durable. Both types of metal bikes are prone to rust if kept outdoors. You will often find such materials in best electric scooters for kids and toddlers.
- Composite material is durable and won’t crack, rot, or rust. Composite plastic balance bikes can be more expensive, but they are a wise investment if you plan to pass the bike down from child to child.
Brakes
While some models are fitted with brakes, others are not. Brakes can help prevent falls and injuries and can also be used to slow down or stop the bike. However, they can also be tricky to use, and they may require some practice. For this reason, some parents prefer to choose a balance bike without brakes. If your child is a bit older and confident while riding, a foot brake may be more suitable.
Tire Type
Tires can come in different types, such as air, foam, rubber, plastic, or big apple. Air tires are the lightest and offer the best grip, but they can puncture easily. Foam tires are durable and shock absorbent, but they don’t offer as much grip as air tires. Rubber tires are the heaviest but offer the best grip and durability. Plastic tires are the most affordable but don’t offer as much grip or shock absorption as rubber or foam tires.
Tyre Size
The basic balance bike model usually has 12″ tires, which are suitable for young children. For school-going children or tall children, 14″ and 16″ tires may be more suitable.
Some Last Words
So, this is our comprehensive guide to the best balance bike for 2 year olds and above! We have covered the different types of balance bikes available and how to select the right one for your child. Now that you know almost everything important about these fun little vehicles, it’s time to get out and buy one (or two)! And be sure to come back and let us know how your child likes their new bike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What age is best for a balance bike?
Most experts agree that 18 months or 2 years old is a perfect time to start using a balance bike. This is because, by this age, most children have developed the coordination and strength needed to use a balance bike. They also tend to be less afraid of falling, so they are more likely to continue through the inevitable bumps and scrapes that come with learning to ride.
Q2. What is the purpose of the balance bike?
The balance bike is a child’s bicycle without pedals designed to teach young children the basics of balance and coordination. The child sits on the seat and propels themselves forward with their feet, using their legs to push off the ground. This bike type helps children develop the skills needed to ride a traditional bicycle. It can also be used as a transitional step for kids who are not yet ready for a two-wheeled bike.
