These Pedal-Free Balance Bikes Help Toddlers Speed Past the Training-Wheels Phase

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Balance bikes came about relatively recently: 1997, to be exact. That’s probably why most kids prior to the early 2000s didn’t learn to ride a bike without training wheels until they were at least 5 or 6 years old (that’s us, you guys). Fast forward to now, and toddlers as young as 18 months are zip zooming around on the coolest balance bikes, giving them a leg up on learning to ride a big kid bike far before their parents did.

A balance bike is the ideal middle ground between a scooter and a bicycle. Featuring no pedals, and definitely no training wheels, this style of two-wheeler lets toddlers keep themselves upright and find their equilibrium while pushing themselves forward with their feet. A balance bike also gives them the ability to put a foot down easily whenever they feel they need to, but you’d be surprised at just how quickly they abandon that idea altogether. It’s speedier than a tricycle and not as complicated or bulky, which is a big reason why many kids really prefer it.

Bicycling editor and dad, Louis Mazzante tells us that there’s a lot to like about balance bikes. He says that: “Balance bikes make so much sense on so many levels. They’re typically cheaper and have fewer breakable parts than an old-school child’s bike with training wheels, for starters. There’s no extra wheels to fall off, or oily chains to maintain.” Mazzante praises their small sizes, which means that “kids can get on them earlier, and start riding more comfortably because their feet touch the ground.” But, he says, “Most importantly, without training wheels, young rippers learn the crucial skill of balancing on two wheels, of leaning the bike into turns, of handling a bike, not just riding on top of it.”

It’s never a bad time to introduce your child to a balance bike. It might take some getting used to, so even if they only sit on it, touch it, or even just walk by it every now and then, it’s a good start until they’re ready. One thing to note for parents before you put a balance bike together — it’s usually pretty simple. Anyone who has ever been surprised by how disassembled a bicycle is when they buy it will be happy to note that these aren’t usually labor-intensive builds.

Read on for our reviews of the best, deemed by our research and experience getting little ones riding.

The Best Balance Bikes

• Best Overall: Strider Classic No-Pedal Balance Bike

• Best Value: Joystar Kids Balance Bike

• Best for Big Kids: Woom 1 Plus

• Best Balance-to-Pedal Bike: Little Tikes My First Balance-to-Pedal Training Bike

• Best Tires: Schwinn Toddler Balance Bike

What to Consider

There are a few important things you need to look for in order to find the best balance bike for your kid: the height of the seat, the weight of the bike, and the wheel/tire type. These will help determine the cost of the bicycle, how easy it is to use, and the longevity of the bike. It’s also important to keep in mind what your child likes. If they’re more cautious, you should pick something that feels sturdier and heavier. If they feel the need for speed, go ahead and grab a lightweight model — and don’t forget the helmet.

Seat Height

The height of the seat in relation to the length of your child’s inseam is a crucial buying factor. So, get out your tape measure and note the distance from the top of their inseam to the bottom of their foot.

The height of the seat should be no more than a half-inch to 1 inch taller than their inseam — and not any lower than 1 inch shorter than their inseam. So for example, if your child’s inseam measures 11 inches, their seat height should be between 10 to 12 inches high. That way, they can sit tall on the seat with their feet just touching the ground and will give their legs plenty of room to bend without causing them to hunch over the handlebar. Contrary to popular belief, the size of the wheels themselves has very little to do with the fit and comfort of the balance bike for your little one, as our colleagues at Bicycling reported.

Best of all, your investment will pay off over the course of time. Since most balance bike seats can be raised by at least 3 to 4 inches, your child can continue to use the same bike as they grow from an 11-inch inseam (under 3 feet) to a 17-inch one (almost 3.5 feet tall).

Bike Weight

Since balance bikes don’t use a gear-and-chain system, kids rely on their own strength to move forward. Having said that, a lightweight bicycle like the Strider is easier for them to push, maneuver, and help put away. In general, a balance bike should weigh no more than 25 to 30% of your child’s weight.

Tire Type

While foam tires are convenient and cheap because they never need filling and are puncture-resistant, they don’t exactly offer the smoothest ride. And as the Bicycling editors noted, they can also be quite jarring to little riders when they ride over bumps or even catch air. (It’ll happen, get ready.) Air-filled tires, such as those in the LT balance bike, provide a more stable ride, absorbing the impact of bumps. Plus, they have better grip and overall superior performance.

Whether you choose a bicycle with nubby or smooth tires also depends on the kind of terrain. Nubby tires are best for grass and rougher pathways, while smoother tires are ideal for sidewalks and roads. If your toddler is anything like ours, however, they’ll be riding over all types of terrain even when you tell them not to, so choose at your own risk.

How We Selected

We read the specs, evaluated reviews, and, most importantly, used our own experience as parents of children who use balance bikes to determine which bicycles are worthy. We made sure that each balance bike was built without any of the issues that have plagued some in recent years and found the best options in a variety of price points and styles your little ones will love — and we think you will, too.

Check out our guide to the best balance bikes for kids, so you can choose the best starter ride for your little one.

Editor’s Note: On July 9 2023, Woom announced a voluntary recall for all Original bikes built between 2018 and 2021. If you own a Woom and want to know if it’s affected, you can check here. If it is, Woom will send you a free safety update kit.

Classic No-Pedal Balance Bike

There’s a reason the Strider 12 Sport is one of the most popular balance bikes for kids. In fact, it’s the best-selling bike on this list. At 6.5 pounds, it’s decently light, and kids really take off when riding it.

It’s durable and built to last, and it comes with a larger saddle that you can swap for the mini seat for when those tiny tushes grow into bigger tiny tushes. Longevity is key here — your kiddo will be able to get the most out of this bike as they grow.

Another great feature is the option to buy a rocking base for kids ages 6 to 18 months, giving them the ability to practice their balance and to get comfortable on the bike before taking off. The combination of utility and functional lifespan makes this Strider our best overall.

More: These Outdoor Toys Will Turn Your Backyard Into Your Own Personal Summer Camp

Kids Balance Bike

It’ll take no time at all for your junior rider to want to hop on this bike. Thanks to its unique curved tube the swoops low, your toddler can easily throw a leg over this Joystar without tripping.

The bike is a cinch to put together, which parents appreciate. They also dig that the quick-release seat makes adjustments so much easier than many models. Speaking of easy, the wheels are made of foam, so you don’t have to worry about them going flat or needing more air periodically. The foam wheels also make this bike one of the more affordable options.

Parents love that it’s the best balance bike for the price. If you have a kid who loves the look of dirt bikes, the company also sells a dirt bike-style balance bike for kids ages 2 to 6.

Toddler Balance Bike

Schwinn is a brand even the great grandparents can get behind — that’s because it’s been around since the end of the 19th century. Needless to say, it’s a trustworthy bike company that also makes excellent balance bikes.

This one is designed to fit your toddler from 2 to 4 years old, and you won’t need to break out any tools to adjust the height of the seat as your child grows thanks to the easy twist-and-go seat. It’s the heaviest on this list at 14 pounds, so it does take some oomph to get moving.

The real rubber tires are more durable than the foam wheels typically found on balance bikes, but they do require refilling every now and then. This model can tackle uneven pavement and rocky roads with ease. Bonus: There’s a footrest for kids to place their feet if they’re coasting.

LT Balance Bike

Compared to many of the bikes here, this premium balance bike — at only 6.4 pounds — is among the lightest. The banana-shaped step-through frame makes it easy for little ones to get on the bike without your help, which makes the bike worth it right there. Another thing you’ll love? Assembly is minimal, so your child can ride in just a matter of minutes.

With sturdy, puncture-proof EVA wheels, kids don’t have to worry about a flat tire getting in the way of their fun. Parents love that it feels solid and sturdy, with no chance of warping or bending, which so many kids’ toys are prone to.

The only real downside that parents note is the lack of finesse in the finishings. Still, while it could be more cosmetically pleasing, it’s still an excellent balance bike. Plus, your kid can call it a banana mobile, and that’s fun.

My First Balance-to-Pedal Training Bike

If you’re looking for a bike that’ll grow with your child, this balance-to-pedal bike is a winner. It can seamlessly switch between a balance bike and a bike with pedals, getting kids ready to ride more quickly. We’re not exaggerating, either. The transformation is super easy; all you need is an allen wrench to fold the pedals up to the frame, with your kid only asking once when you’ll be done — hopefully.

The bike weighs almost 10 pounds, which is why it’s designed for kids ages 2 to 5 who are better suited to handle the weight.

Balance Bike

Since balance bikes don’t have pedals, new riders tend to drag their feet. We love this Gomo because it has wide footrests that are easy for little feet to find while the bike is in motion.

It’s a medium-weight bicycle, at 7 pounds, with air-filled tires, solid spokes, and an easy-to-grip handlebar. The seat range is pretty spectacular, going from 12 to 17.5 inches.

Parents do notice that the finish on this bike wears pretty quickly, but the frame itself remains sound and solid.

1 Plus Balance Bike

You can’t go wrong with any bike from Woom. Its rides are easy to use and incredibly sturdy. The same goes for its balance bikes. Something we found unique about the Woom 1 Plus that often takes some getting used to for kids is the addition of hand brakes. While there’s a learning curve, they do ultimately help prepare toddlers for big kid bikes by teaching them to slow and stop themselves via the brakes.

Another difference is the wooden running board for the footrest. It’s designed a bit like a skateboard, and it has that same “give” to it. Parents really appreciate this aspect because their kids have found it to be more comfortable to ride overall.

The Woom 1 is undoubtedly larger than most on this list with 14-inch wheels, so that’s a consideration. But the value here is in the opportunity for multiple modes of learning that this model affords you.

Toddler Balance Bike

The grips on this balance bike’s handlebar are what really sets it apart from the others. Their ergonomic design will help your child get a good, steady grip on a comfortable surface, which makes for a better riding experience. The bike is relatively lightweight at only 8 pounds, and it has puncture-resistant tires and an adjustable seat.

An exciting feature of this Kriddo is the customizable plate that sits on the front of the bike. Kids can use the included three sets of stickers to add their name, age, or favorite word — which might be risky if your kid is going through a phase of calling everything “poop,” like certain toddlers we know.

Cub Toddler Balance Bike

Trust us when we tell you that you’re going to ne jealous of your kid if you get them the Restrospec Cub. That’s thanks to the vibe-y, retro color options. The bike is designed for kids ages 18 months to 3 years, and the seat can sit lower than most balance bikes to safely accommodate even the smallest kids. The low-profile frame is helpful with that as well.

The puncture-proof foam tires can roll safely and smoothly on pavement without the risk of popping, but they might not work great on dirt or grass.

Air Ride Balance Bike

Radio Flyer is another solid company that makes sturdy, reliable bikes, and the Air Ride balance bike is no exception.

It has an adjustable seat, rubber air tires, and a partial footrest with grip tape to keep kids’ feet from slipping off. Perhaps most importantly (to your child, at least) is an attached bell. The adjustable seat requires no tools at all, so when you’re mid bike ride and your kid decides they’re too tall for the current seat height, it’s easy to switch up.

Overall, it’s a fantastic beginner bike for a budget price.

Bixe Balance Bike for Big Kids

Here’s the thing about this balance bike — your kid is going to ask to ride it all the time. You’re welcome, and we’re sorry. Much to parents’ delight, however, this balance bike arrives partially assembled, which means less time putting it together and more time chasing your kid around the block as they zoom past you.

For a large bike, it’s relatively lightweight at 12 pounds. While the bike is sturdy and holds up well, if you do have any issues, parents note that the customer service is pretty astounding.

We love that the bike’s frame is white with four color options that aren’t overbearing but add a pop of fun.

Dirt Hero Balance Bike

Your kid will be the talk of the neighborhood on this rad little bike. There’s nothing quite like the Shotgun Dirt Hero balance bike. In fact, because it’s designed for off-roading with convertible wheel sizes and optional disc brakes, it’s really in a category of its own.

The dirt bike comes with colorful skins, giving your kids the opportunity to personalize their bike to their liking. It also comes with a removable footrest, which is a great option for riders who are just starting out.

If you’re a family who enjoys mountain biking and want your kiddo to come along, this is the bike to get.

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