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It’s never too early to start teaching your child the basics of bicycling! And what better way to do it than with a balance bike? Balance bikes are designed to help toddlers and young children learn how to balance and ride a bike. They are a great way to get your child active and outside and can help your child develop coordination and motor skills.
If you are looking for the best balance bikes for toddlers for 2022, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will look at the top balance bikes for toddlers currently available on the market.
Best balance bikes for toddlers 2022
Retrospec Baby Beaumont Kids’ Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The vintage 70s-inspired bike combines style and safety perfectly. The step-thru design prevents accidents and makes it easy for kids to mount and dismount. The adjustable seat and handlebars allow the bike to grow with your child. Overall, a fantastic deal and one of the best kids’ bikes out there. I highly recommend the Baby Beaumont to anyone looking for a sturdy, lightweight, and painless bike for their child. It is the best balance bike for your child.
The Beaumont is a well-made, sturdy little balance bike. It’s sized well for toddlers, and the adjustability makes it easy to keep growing riders safe, secure, and comfortable. The bike’s lightweight but sturdy aluminium frame has a tight low-to-the-ground design that was also good for our daughter’s knees.
A thick air-filled 12×2.125-inch tire, a bell, and ball-bearing steering and wheels should boost confidence. The Beaumont is operated with a handlebar-mounted brake lever and plastic hand brakes, so it’s not quite as speedy as a pedal bike (in fact, we noted in our testing that it’s slower to pedal than the MoGo Pro). Still, it’s fast enough for a toddler to get comfortable riding without training wheels. Kids will love riding this bike around their backyard, and it’s small enough to take along on car trips. The Beaumont is a solid choice if you don’t need a more powerful bike.
Pros
– Cost-effective
– Comfortable riding experience
– Great design
– Made for an age of 1-4
Cons
– Difficult for the age of 5
Strider – 12 Sport Balance Bike
Why we liked it: Strider has created a couple of decent balance bikes over the years, but the Strider 12 Sport is the best-looking and most enticing model yet. The bike weighs just under 7 pounds, which seems like a lot for a balanced bike, but the super-lightweight aluminium frame and mini grips make this bike easy to manoeuvre.
The seat and handlebar height adjust to accommodate children up to 5 years old, and the handlebars also pivot for easy steering. The seat is 12 inches off the ground, which is perfect for the 18- to 2-year-old riders we generally recommend for balance bikes. The bike is easy to assemble (no tools required). It has a mini pad on the handlebars and grips, which protect your child if they fall forward, and to the handlebar, which is nice.
Although it’s meant to be used outdoors, we had to enclose it inside our house because of severe winter weather. Strider offers a lifetime warranty, a nice change of pace from the one-year standard on most balance bikes, and it comes with a handy carrying bag.
The Strider 12 Bike is a well-made, affordable balance bike for kids aged 2 to 3. It’s easy to assemble, and because it’s made with a steel frame, it’s more challenging and sturdier than most kid’s bikes, which tend to be made of plastic.
Pros
– Excellent value for money
– Excellent quality
– 3-year warranty
– Small & lightweight
– Double-locking brake system
Cons
– Requires parental supervision
BIKEBOY Balance Bike 2 in 1
Why we liked it: The BIKEBOY balance bike is extremely versatile, allowing you to switch seamlessly from a balance bike to a bicycle. It is easy to assemble, quick to ride and can handle up to 140 pounds. The excellent quality and materials make this balance bike a joy to ride. Both modes are a lot of fun and a great way to encourage riding skills in your kids. The BIKEBOY balance bike is very well built, and unlike some balance bikes, the BIKEBOY has a hand brake to help you stop when needed.
This is the second-best bike we’ve tried, and the BIKEBOY Balance Bike 2 in 1 was even better than our top pick. It’s not a training bicycle, but it’s a balance bike with teaching pedals, so it exercises your child’s balance and helps them learn to ride a bike, which is my goal as a parent.
More importantly, the BIKEBOY Balance Bike 2 in 1 is well-made for kids. The components are sturdy and well made, and it has nice touches, like handy shock-absorbing handlebars. Compared with other balance bikes, the BIKEBOY is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, and it does an excellent job of teaching your child to transition from a balance bike to a bicycle.
It also doesn’t hurt that it’s smaller and lighter than most training bikes. And unlike the more expensive bikes, you won’t be buying a BIKEBOY Balance Bike 2 in 1 for your child. You’ll be buying one for yourself. My kids have learned to ride their bikes independently, but they still ask for a BIKEBOY Balance Bike 2 in 1 from time to time.
Pros
– 2-in-1 design
– Shock absorbers
– Auxiliary wheels
– Affordable
Cons
– A bit difficult to steer
– Not suitable for kids aged 6 and above
Retrospec Cub Kids Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The Retrospec Cub balance bike is one of our favourite children’s bikes for a straightforward reason: It looks fantastic. And that’s what matters most. Looking at the Cub, you’d never guess it converts to a pedal-free balance bike for younger kids. It’s well-built from heavy-duty steel, too, and it’s light enough not to weigh down smaller riders who are learning to balance on a bike for the first time. There’s an adjustable seat and handlebar to accommodate growing kids, and it’s one of the most affordable models we tested.
The Retrospec Cub balance bike is sized for kids as young as two (though some reviewers warn against letting kids as young as two ride). It’s made of lightweight, durable steel and comes in bright, eye-catching colours. The adjustable seat post, handlebars, and frame length allow it to grow with your child.
The pedals and wheels are removable, and the tires are designed so that no air is needed. The ride on Cub is very smooth, and its low stand-over height makes it less dangerous than other models. It’s also safer to ride than a child-carrying toddler bike because the rider’s feet are on the ground. That said, it’s much harder for a young child to master the Cub without pedals or gears, so we recommend bike-specific balance bikes for older, more confident riders.
Pros
– Portable, lightweight, and simple to transport
– Balance bike is the ideal first bike for kids; with 2 wheels and no pedals, it teaches kids balance and coordination without the risk of falling
– Bright colour, eye-catching, suitable for kids from 12 months up
Cons
– Not sturdy enough.
Hornit AIRO Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The Hornit AIRO balance bike is one of our favourites because of its ultra-light and rugged design. It’s perfect for kids who lack the strength or stamina to haul a heavy bike around yet want the same freedom that older kids have on their regular bikes. The AIRO balance bike has adjustable handlebars to fit kids of different heights, and the seat is padded for extra protection and easier balancing.
It also has a great, super-lightweight frame made from super-strong, ultra-hard-wearing material, so it’s the best balance bike we’ve found for little kids. In addition, the AIRO balance bike is easy-to-assemble and requires no tools to set up.
The Hornit AIRO Balance Bike is an attractive, well-designed bike that achieves the goal of teaching kids how to ride. A no-pedal design means the cycle teaches the kids to balance by moving their feet rather than having them rely on the momentum of their feet pushing against the pedals. The slim seat is comfortable enough for kids to grow into and is pretty low to the ground, so beginners can start learning to ride without falling over.
The tires are large and knobby, and the bike rolls along smoothly on various surfaces. The bike comes with a minimal set of tools, and assembly and adjustment are extremely simple. We especially love that the AIRO is ready to use out of the box, with no assembly required. That means no tools are needed, and they can go straight out of the box, ready to go!
Pros
– Compact and portable, perfect for taking to daycare
– Super lightweight
– Comfortable seat with adjustable cushion
– Durable
– Rubber tires for traction
– Easy to assemble
– Suitable for all terrains
Cons
– No pedals or training wheels
Strider – 14x Sport Balance Bike
Why we liked it: Strider’s 14x is the best balance bike we tested, and it puts every other balance bike to shame. Strider bikes are known for their quality, and the 14x is no exception. It weighs less than most balance bikes, so it’s easier for your child to balance on, and it steers and pedals better than many pedal bikes. It’s well-built and features a lightweight frame and a handlebar-to-seat height adjustment, so your child can practically ride the cycle forever.
Strider’s bikes are known for their smooth riding, and the 14x is no exception: Your child will feel stable and comfortable as they learn to ride. The 14x is also one of the best-looking balance bikes we tested, and it’s built to last.
Your child will master balance, coordination, and steering more quickly than any other training bike and ride faster. That’s one of the most significant benefits of balance bikes, and kids immediately feel the difference when riding a Strider. The Strider 14x is designed for kids ages 3 to 7 and can easily accommodate an inseam of 16 to 23 inches.
This bike will grow with your child, and you can continue to use it until they’re ready to transition to a pedal bike (which the Strider 14x can handle, too). The steel frame is lighter than many competitors, but it’s durable and easy for a child to manoeuvre. The seat and handlebars are adjustable to grow with your child. The Strider 14x balances good design, quality materials, and an affordable price for several years of use.
Pros
– Excellent quality
– Low maintenance
– Economical
Cons
– Quite bulky
Croco Ultra Lightweight Balance Bike
Why we liked it: We love our Croco Ultra Lightweight Balance Bike! It’s the perfect first bike for our 2-year-old, and she has already mastered riding it! The bike is super lightweight and easy to handle, and the seat and handlebar height are easily adjustable so it can grow with her. The tires are non-marking and puncture-resistant, which is great because we don’t have to worry about her riding them on our hardwood floors. The frame and fork are made of hi-ten steel, which is very durable. We highly recommend this bike!
The design of this bike is unique and will capture your child’s attention. The seat is lower to the ground, making it easier for small children to get on and off the bike. The centre is also adjustable so that it can grow with your child. The handlebars are also flexible, so your child can find the perfect riding position.
The Croco Ultra Lightweight Balance Bike is the perfect way to get your child started on their biking journey. With its lightweight design and adjustable seat and handlebars, this bike will grow with your child as they learn to balance and ride. The high-quality bearings and foam tires will give your child a smooth ride and provide years of enjoyment.
Pros
– Lightweight / Sturdy
– Child-friendly design
– No pedal
– Lightweight
– Adjustable seat and handlebar
Cons
– Not ideal for rough terrain
JOYSTAR 14/16 Inch Balance Bike
Why we liked it: JOYSTAR 14/16 inch balance bikes are the perfect balance bikes for 3-7 years old. They are easy-to-push bikes, no-pedal bikes, with adjustable saddle and handlebar height, suitable for kids from 3-8 years old. They have handlebar and saddle height adjustment and a quick-release seat clamp for seat height adjustment.
They come with both front and rear hand brakes. A front-hand brake is used when the bike is stopped. The hand brake can be locked on. In an emergency or to quickly stop the motorcycle, the rear hand brake is used to release the brake.
The adjustable saddle and handlebar height help the kids with longer legs adjust and ride the bike comfortably. The 14-inch bike is suitable for kids under 5, and the 16-inch bike is ideal for kids over 5. A 14-inch rear wheel and a 16-inch front wheel are used. Front-wheel is heavy, while the rear wheel is light (lighter than 10kg). Comes with complete SPD pedals, rear brake, and front brake shoes.
The JOYSTAR balance bike has all that, and it’s built better than most of the competition. It’s lightweight and easy for my son to handle, and it rides well even on bumpy streets. It also has all the necessary adjustments, including a fun handbrake that my son loves. We’ve taken this bike on trails, and it performed well on rocky ground. My son loves riding this bike, and it’s fun to watch him develop his balance and confidence and learn how to steer and balance a bicycle.
Pros
– The balance bike has a low centre of gravity
– Safe for all age groups
– Suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses
Cons
– Not suitable for teenagers and adults
Bixe Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The Bixe balance bike is a straightforward, well-engineered, easy-to-assemble bike that is a simple, safe, and fun way to get kids riding. Its large 16-inch wheels give riders more stability, and the small frame makes it easy to pick up and carry, so it’s great for younger kids.
The adjustable seat and handlebars fit a variety of ages, and the seat height can be raised or lowered to give younger riders the stability they need. A rubberized grip and padded handlebars that are adjustable are features of the bike’s attractive design. The bike is easy to put together out of the box, and with a bit of practice, kids should be able to ride it on their own within half an hour. And because there are no pedals, the bike is easier to control than a regular bike, which means kids can learn to balance and steer more quickly.
The bike is front-heavy. Riders can get their feet on the ground and steer themselves, which gives them more control than a rear-wheel bike. For younger kids, this is a huge advantage. A handful of the bike’s design elements also make it more kid-friendly. The handlebars are padded and angled, so smaller riders can navigate the cycle without having to lean so far forward.
The bike is also narrower, so it fits better in smaller spaces. But older kids will also like the non-skid foot pads on each pedal, which make it easier and safer for them to get their feet on the pedals. The bike also comes partially assembled, so once kids get the hang of it, they can put it together independently.
Pros
– Durable
– Very stable
– Safe
– Very easy to use
Cons
– No training wheels
Strider – 12 Classic Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The Strider 12 Classic Balance Bike is a sturdy, well-made, high-quality ride that toddlers and preschoolers love. It’s well priced, easy to use, and very safe. The 12 Classic model has a mini-seat (18-36 months). Strider recommends the additional padded seat with an extra long seat post for children 36-60 months. The heart and handlebar height is adjustable, and we like that the seat features a safety harness to help keep kids in place.
We like that the seat and handlebar height is adjustable, and the seat features a safety harness to help keep kids in place. The 12 Classic model is our #1 rated bike and is a sturdy, well-made, high-quality ride that toddlers and preschoolers love. It’s well priced, easy to use, and very safe. The 12 Classic model has a mini-seat (18-36 months).
Strider recommends the additional padded seat with an extra long seat post for children 36-60 months. The heart and handlebar height is adjustable, and we like that the seat features a safety harness to help keep kids in place. We appreciate that the seat and handlebar height is flexible, and we want that the centre features a safety harness to help keep kids in class.
This balance bike is the best balance bike we tested by far. It’s simple but offers the right features to give your child the best starting point possible.
Pros
– Honing balance skills at an early age
– Lightweight
– Comfortable ride
– Safety features
Cons
– Not suitable for off-road riding
Chillafish Charlie Lightweight
Why we liked it: Charlie is the slightest and quickest of many balance bikes we tested. It’s ideal for the 18-month-old child who’s not yet ready to ride a real bike but whose motor skills are strong enough that they’ll be able to propel themselves forward with the help of pedals and a chain.
Charlie weighs only 5,5 pounds (2.5 kilograms) and folds up smaller than most bikes of its type, making it incredibly easy to carry. The ergonomic handlebar and seat make it comfortable for the rider, and the lack of brakes makes it easy to learn to ride without the risk of tipping over. We found that Charlie was too easy to push, even for a child of 2 1/2 years, but a small training wheel helped protect them from accidents.
Charlie has two training wheels, but we found them to be of little use. The bike comes fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box, which is excellent for parents who want to get started immediately.
The Charlie balance bike is well-made, and it’s a nice upgrade over cheaper balance bikes, most of which come equipped with training wheels. The frame is lighter than most children’s bikes, and the bike comes with training wheels that can be swapped out for a standard bicycle wheel once your child is ready for the real thing.
The bike has a dial on the handlebars that you can adjust to adjust the seat height and handlebars, making it comfortable for kids of different ages. The bike is road-ready, so it’s well-proportioned and will support a weight of up to 50 pounds. It has a carry handle so you can take it anywhere, making it perfect for taking outside or riding indoors on carpeted surfaces.
Pros
– Innovative design
– Perfect balance
– Lightweight
– Very stable
– Adjustable seat
– Puncture-proof tires
– Custom-molded seat
Cons
– No suspension
Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike is one of the best balance bikes we’ve tested. Although it’s lightweight and has nicely designed wheels, the handlebar is a bit narrow, making it better suited for smaller kids. The larger tires provide a soft, smooth ride over uneven terrain and pavement, and the adjustable seat makes this balance bike suitable for children as young as 1.5.
The hand brakes are easy to use, and while the tiny bell on this balance bike is a nice touch, the Air Ride’s one main drawback is the seat, which is slightly too small for grownups’ hips. This Balance Bike from Radio Flyer teaches toddlers how to ride safely and without training wheels. It grows with them as they age, allowing them to balance without help. The tires are light and manoeuvrable, and their unique coaster brake is easy to operate. This durable balance bike will last for years, and it’s great for everyday riding and fun on family trips.
This excellent starter bike is very reasonably priced and looks great. It weighs just a few pounds, is light enough for children to manoeuvre quickly, and is low enough to the ground so that the child doesn’t have to climb onto it. The Air Ride Balance Bike has a handlebar that offers a good grip for kids, and the seat adjusts to accommodate growing children.
The seat is padded and wide enough for the child’s bottom to sit comfortably. The new rubber tires are smooth and quiet, and the bike glides easily over almost any surface. However, it’s not a smooth ride on the carpet, so you’ll probably want to keep the Air Ride on pavement or hard-packed dirt. This bike is built to last, and we’ve had no trouble with it since we received it.
Pros
– 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.com, 4.1 out of 5 stars on Walmart.com, 4 out of 5 stars on Target.com
– Air tires provide a smooth ride
– Adjustable handlebar height
– A lower centre of gravity
– Folds for easy storage
Cons
– Not ideal for smaller hands & fingertip grip users
GOMO Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The GOMO Balance Bike is a truly excellent bike for little kids. Aside from the fact that it’s light and solid, it has some of the coolest colour schemes of any balance bike we’ve ever seen, along with an onboard training wheel that can be removed when kids are ready to progress to a pedal bike.
It has an adjustable handlebar and seat height so that the bike can grow with your kid, and the seat and handlebars are both padded for comfort. It’s not the lightest bike on the market (it weighs 17 pounds), but it is very stable and offers plenty of support, even for younger kids. It’s fun enough for them to ride independently, making it more fun for everyone.
The GOMO Balance bike is a very well-priced, well-built bike that makes learning to ride fun. It’s versatile enough to grow with kids as they master riding skills yet sturdy enough not to fall apart after a few trips down the sidewalk. No biggie, just wipe the scuff marks off, and it stands ready to go again. The bike is heavier than some but sturdy enough for 5-year-old kids learning to ride.
The padded seat is comfortable, and the grips are tough enough to hold onto while learning to steer. Our kids loved it so much that they raced each other around the block. They giggled and rode it up and down the stairs, over the gravel in the backyard, and then ran each other to grandma’s house before nap time. The bike folds easily and fits into a car trunk, making it an excellent ride for grandparents too!
Pros
– Very affordable. Best price of any balance bike anywhere.
– Braking system (not easy)
– Very light, easy to move.
– Fits most kids
– Suitable for toddlers 18 months and up
– Lightweight and excellent quality
– Adjustable footrest
– Very comfortable riding experience
– Comfortable grip
– Removable seat
Cons
– Not ideal for tiny kids
LAVA SPORT Balance Bike
Why we liked it: The LAVA Sport Balance Bike has a sturdy steel frame that’s lightweight enough that it’s easy to carry, even with a small child. The handlebars and seat can be adjusted along their length, from 12.2 inches to 15.7 inches, and the seat height is adjustable, too. It’s covered with a durable black finish that resists chipping. The wheels are hardy and puncture resistant, with a removable inner tube.
The bike’s suspension fork and rubber grips help dampen bumps, while the bike’s frame is padded with soft foam. It’s also suitable for boys or girls. One of the bike’s best features is the adjustable handlebar, and the handlebar’s position can be adjusted with one hand, making it much easier for young children to push and pull with their legs.
The bike also has adjustable pedals that teach kids to steer and balance the bike without pedals. The bike is a bit pricey, but it’s well-made and will last. The LAVA Sport balance bike has impressed us with its durability. The frame is made of aluminium and is the lightest and most durable balance bike we have reviewed.
This bike is perfect for your child’s first steps and training sessions. The cycle easily adjusts to your desired height and can be adjusted on the go. As a parent, you feel secure knowing the bike is sturdy, and the Safety lock system keeps the bike secured in one place. Your little kids will gain confidence, skills, and independence with LAVA Sport Balance Bike.
Pros
– High-quality construction
– Rear wheel lock for safety
– Lightweight
– Suitable for 2-year-olds
– No pedals or training wheels needed
– 5-year warranty
– 360-degree safety lock
Cons
– Not ideal for smaller hands & fingertip grip
– Difficult to carry
Allobebe Baby Balance Bike
Why we liked it: This balance bike is an excellent gift for a year old. With an adjustable seat, it suits 12 to 36 months old kids. My kids are 18 months, and their weight is 27 pounds, so it takes a slight adjustment. Moreover, the seat adjustment range is 10.2-11.3 inches, and that’s enough. But the good thing is, it’s strong enough to support their weight.
The bike looks great, and it’s straightforward to assemble. The bike is durable and supposed to be safe to play on. And my kids love the adorable design of the bike. The cycle encourages them to get up and start walking and running. It’s a fun toy for a one-year-old.
It’s light, easy to adjust, and surprisingly sturdy. Kids can master riding it and love it. It’s much easier for any kid to learn to ride than an actual bike. She’s never had an accident with it. It features easy push buttons to adjust the seat’s height, allowing your child to grow with their balance bike. It has large tires, and the bike also has brakes and a bell. The bike is made from carbon steel and is a great way to train coordination. A durable bike for tots.
This is a surprisingly good deal for the money. The Allobebe balance bike is cute, sturdy, and works well if you’re not pushing it on bumpy ground. It’s a good starter bike for little ones up to about a year, though they’ll probably outgrow it after about 18 months.
Pros
– Easy to handle
– Lightweight
– Adjustable seat
– Quiet ride
Cons
– No suspension
What should you look for before buying a balance bike?
When it comes to buying a balance bike, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are a few things to look for before making your purchase:
Size
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a balance bike is the size. You want to ensure the cycle is the right size for your child. Balance bikes come in different sizes, so measuring your child before purchasing is essential.
Weight
Another important factor to consider is the weight of the bike. You want to ensure the bike is not too heavy for your child to handle. A lightweight bike is easier for your child to control and manoeuvre.
Brakes
Most balance bikes come with hand brakes. However, some come with foot brakes. It is essential to consider which brake system is best for your child. A foot brake system may be a better option if your child is not yet ready for hand brakes.
Tires
The type of tire on the balance bike is also necessary to consider. Some balance bikes come with air-filled tires, while others have solid rubber tires. Air-filled tires are typically more comfortable for your child to ride on, but they can be punctured. Solid rubber tires are more durable but can be more challenging to ride on.
Wheels
The size and type of wheels on the balance bike are also important factors to consider. Some balance bikes come with 12-inch wheels, while others have 16-inch wheels. The type of wheel is also important to consider. Some balance bikes come with spokeless wheels, while others have traditional spoke wheels.
Frame
The frame of the balance bike is also an essential factor to consider. Balance bikes come in different materials, such as aluminium, steel, or plastic. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks. Aluminium frames are lightweight and durable, but they can be more expensive. Steel frames are strong and durable, but they can rust over time. Plastic frames are lightweight and inexpensive but may not be as durable.
Warranty
When purchasing a balance bike, it is essential to consider the warranty. Some balance bikes come with a limited warranty, while others have a full warranty. It is necessary to read the warranty before making a purchase.
Price
Of course, the price is also essential when purchasing a balance bike. Balance bikes range in price from around $100 to over $1,000. It is necessary to set a budget before making a purchase.
Reviews
Before making a purchase, you must read reviews of the balance bike you are considering. Checks can be found online or in magazines. Reading reviews can help you learn about the pros and cons of a particular balance bike.
Try It Out
If possible, trying out the balance bike before making a purchase is always a good idea. Many bike shops offer demo days where you can take a balance bike for a test ride. This is a great way to see if the cycle is a good fit for your child.
Conclusion
There are a lot of different balance bikes on the market, and it can be hard to know which one to choose for your toddler. However, by considering your toddler’s individual needs, you can narrow down the options and find the best balance bike for them. Generally, the best balance bikes for toddlers are lightweight, have a low seat, and offer good adjustability. With so many options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect balance bike for your toddler.
