For toddlers, learning to ride a bike can and is a grueling process for parents and toddlers alike. You remember it don’t you? Okay not quite, but you still have some vivid flashes and scars to show for the ‘bike training’ you had growing up. Bike training sessions turn into sessions of attending and bandaging up bloody knees from falls, picking yourself up and getting back on the seat to try again hoping not to fail again. But while it was a bloody process, it is one that most parents had to go through back then. There was just no way around it. But luckily, times have changed. Technology continues to revolutionize the world changing things up fast and furiously. Most toddlers today do not have to go through the same process – balance bikes see to this.
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Given that you are reading this, you surely must have heard of them before. And just so that we are on the same page from the get-go, you should note that these are very different from tricycles. Their working and goals differ as do their styles. We shall have a look at this as well as what age is perfect to get your toddler a balance bike, how they are better than tricycles and just how in the world a parent laden with many other responsibilities can get to choose the best balance bike there is in the market.
It might seem like an easy process (choosing the best balance bike for your child that is) since after all, they have just recently flooded the market. But that’s just the thing. The fact that they are so many makes it all the more difficult to choose a lasting product for your child – one that will help them get a hang of things safely and with great efficiency.
To help make things a little easier for you below is everything you would need to know about balance bike in general as well as some reviews to cement the knowledge you will absorb.
What exactly is a balance bike?
Just from the name, you should have a pretty good idea of what this piece of equipment is. Yes, you are right. Balance bikes help kids to get their balance preparing them for the real riding they will have to do soon. They come devoid of chains and pedals. They are probably the simplest forms of bikes there are in the market. As a matter of fact, chances are you came across them once and you thought they were just unfinished kids bikes.
It took a whole 70 years for manufacturers all over the world to have eureka moments and realize that toddlers and parents could have an easier time with pre-bikes. Soon after this realization, however, a German woodworker started on the first ever balance bike. It was made of wood. Balance bikes are famous and are fast growing in popularity since they provide toddlers with a chance to focus on their balance early in life without the distractions of steering and pedaling. This focused and specialized training helps to move things along faster when it comes to learning how to ride a bike.
So your cute little one will sit, have his/her feet grounded and start walking/running concentrating only on their balance, for now.
Why Balance bikes are better than tricycles for toddlers
Now if you are already convinced that this is the bike you should start your toddler on, you should probably skip this section. However, if you are questioning yourself and on some level feel that it is a waste of your hard earned money and that your toddler would be better off starting on a tricycle, here are some points you should consider first before you make your final decision regarding balance bikes.
Safety
Starting this piece, we went back in time to when you were learning to ride a bike. We saw just how your bicycle training was bloody. Your parents did much of bandaging you up than helping you learn how to ride. With balance bikes, history does not have to repeat itself. Balance bikes are the safest option. Tricycles, no matter how much you might try to ignore this fact, are slow and prone to falling over when on uneven surfaces.
Balance bikes are pretty simple. They have no pedals. This helps toddlers focus on their balancing first. This way, your young one will get his/her act together faster. They will recover fast when they are about to topple over getting rid of the bloody mess that once was associated with bike training.
Economical
Their initial price may seem extravagant for such a simple piece of equipment but do the math. After the balance bike, your child will have no need for a tricycle. You can jump to a 16” bike. Yes, 16” bikes. 12” bikes will not be ideal since they too need training wheels which your kid will not need. The 16” bike will serve your child for many years.
Just like that, you will have skipped two expensive bike stages. If you are concerned about your finances, balance bikes are the way to go.
It will get your child outside
When you were growing up, there wasn’t much fun you could have in the house. Video games and series had not yet been discovered. As a matter of fact, they got into the market when you were in your twenties and even then you did not get the chance to enjoy them given their expensive nature. But you couldn’t have cared less right? The great outdoors were more than you needed to have blast.
Times have changed. Today, there is so much one can do inside the house. In fact, if you are not careful with your toddlers, the technological distractions available left, right, and center will have them not seeing the light of day for quite some time. But you just cannot throw your toddler out in the back yard and lock the door to ensure that he/she spends time under the sun. this could easily pass for mistreatment and probably even torture depending on how loud your child can scream. Getting him/her something to do, a reason to be outside will work best. And what fun and exciting thing is there than for a toddler who has just started to walk to have a balance bike to cruise around in? The problem will be getting them to get back inside after balancing for hours on end – they do not tire fast, especially when they have a sugar rush.
Easy to switch to pedals
A toddler who starts on balance bikes switches faster and flawlessly to pedal bikes. Most will be able to handle an actual bike at three years as opposed to 5 or even 6 years of having training wheels. With the balance, your toddler will be more confident and will not be looking for the extra support and security of training wheels.
At what age should I start my toddler on a balance bike?
Balance bikes are not often referred to as running or walking bikes for nothing. For your toddler to be able to start balancing, they should be able to walk fast. As such, if your toddler has not yet started to walk, do not be in a rush to get them a balance bike. Kids grow and develop at different speeds. There are those at 9 months who can walk and others who are delayed to a year. But regardless of when they get to walking, it should be the cue you wait upon before you purchase a balance bike.
What balance bike components are most important?
Seat height
This will totally depend on your toddler’s height and age. There are those that prefer the minimum height to be at about 1” below the toddler’s inseam. But it’s still okay to have the bikes height equal to the inseam. All you should be concerned about is whether or not your child’s feet are able to rest comfortable on the ground while seated on the bike. This is crucial if they are to learn how to walk and balance. So take measurements with his/her shoes on.
Tires
Balance bikes feature several different tires. Each has its own pros and cons.
EVA tires.
These are made from rubber foam (hard). It gives them a puncture proof ability though they are low on traction and cushioning. Their traction is great while on paved surfaces but when on other terrains, they perform poorly. But given the fact that they are made of rubber, they are light which is great for toddlers.
Air tires
These, from the high school science you remember, tend to absorb shock better. They make the ride smoother and comfortable. Their traction is great though they do pack on some extra weight. The fact that they are filled with air makes them vulnerable to puncturing. But this is nothing a tire sealant cannot solve.
Fat boy tires
From their name you can derive the fact that they are larger than normal air tiers. As such, they come packing more air which adds to the traction and cushioning. They have an even better ability to absorb shock and impact. They, however, face the same problem as standard tires – they can go flat.
Honeycomb tires (rubber)
These are probably one of the newest tire types in the market. They have however so far proved their worth and value. They have some pretty great cushioning and traction and do not deflate. Being that they are new, they are not easy to find. But give them a while and you will see them on all brands.
Solid rubber tires
These have great traction but lack in cushioning. They are not as comfortable as one would think for long distance rides. But while they may be wanting in these areas, they more than redeem themselves by the fact that they cannot go flat. Their durability is better than all other types. They are great for shorter distances.
Brake systems
Not all of the toddler bikes feature brakes and brake pads. Their main source of halting the bike is the toddler’s feet. It is however not a bad idea to have a braking system especially when your child is old enough to handle them. Hand/eye coordination in kids is usually developed at age 3.
Steering and turning limiters
When it comes to limiters, there are varied opinions and preferences. Those who are pro limiters say that they help evade accidents in the event of a fall. They help to keep the brake cables disentangled and ensure child safety by not allowing sharp turns. Those who are against them say that just like kids are gotten to start practicing their balancing at a tender age, they should also be exposed to taking sharp turns early in life. Both factions have valid points. But you can tow the line to your benefit. Limiters can be and are helpful. But they should limit the turning radius too much. Elastic limiters are best if you decide to get a bike with a limiter.
Handlebar grips
This is usually the very last things that parents consider if they remember to at all when they are choosing balance bikes. They should, however, be among the very first components they look at. The handle bar should be robust with thick uneven rubber material on them for a better grip. It is also very important that you get a bike with knobby handle bars. These will help keep your child from hurting his/her hand when he/she hits a wall, a tree or even fall on his/her side.
Frames
This should be at the very top of your list. The frame of the bike that you choose should not be too big and neither should it be too small. It must be too heavy for the child to support. The material the frame is made from plays a major role when it comes to the weight and durability. Some of the top grossing bikes have frames made from steel and aluminum alloys. These are the best materials in the market today. There are however wooden and plastic balance bikes if you prefer these.
Factors to consider when making your choice
Ideally, this information will be regarding the components mentioned above. But just so you have a clear image of everything, below are the factors to consider at a glance.
Adjustable seats: the height of the balance bike is very important. However, you should give it some thought. While you want your child to see the bike effortlessly today, what about 6 months down the line? Will he/she still be able to use it? Will you throw it in the back of your garage awaiting another cut and lovely addition to the family? To ensure that your child uses the bike for the longest tie possible, get a bike with an adjustable seat.
Weight: the bike you choose should not weigh too heavily on your toddler. Remember that they still do not have advanced muscles. The best bike weight to go for should be 30% or less that the total weight of your toddler.
Footrests: having a balance bike does not mean that the feet should be hanging at all times. A balance bike with footrests would be much more effective.
Bolts: no one ever considers the bolts. But it’s very important. They should be well rounded, covered and recessed. This way even when they wear out they shall not be a safety hazard to your child.
Top Three Balance Bike Reviews
Strider – 12 Sport Balance bike
The Strider balance bike is one of the best gifts you can give to your child. And the best part is that it is unisex and comes with a stylish and elegant design. It has many parents and toddlers all over excited. And yes, in case you are wondering, it lives up to the hype it has created around itself.
It comes with an all-weather mini saddle designed for starters. It is light weight in comparison to classic seats. It as such allows your child to take up an upright position. Speaking of weight, you will be astonished at its weight. It is very light. In fact, is light enough for your toddler to at least lift it from the ground. It’s small and tiny frame makes this possible too.
Its setup is easier than you would think. Even for one who is not as handy. A manual guide is available to guide you through the whole process. It comes with a 12.7mm unique handlebar. It is compact (43%) more compact than most handlebars which allow kids to better control the bike. Its tires are made of EVA plastic which is very light and durable. They aid in smooth riding.
Right below the saddle are footrests for a more natural glide in the great outdoors. The Strider 12 features a rear brake mount which allows the inclusion of a brake operated by the foot. It helps kid to skillfully glide and stop when the need arises without too much hassle. After all, the brakes are inches away from where the feet rest.
Click here to check out this bike on Amazon
Schwinn Balance Bike
This Schwinn balance bike is ideal for babies to learn just how riding an actual bike feels like. It is perfect to help your toddler grow and develop into being able to balance and ride a bike without accumulating too many bruises.
It features a new style and design, adjustable handlebars and seat to accommodate the height changes in growing toddlers and a strong frame. Its accessories are out of this world. They are more than perfect and almost unmatched by many other brands in the same price range.
It is easily to be assembled and does not require you to be a professional. Use provided instructions which are clear and concise to navigate through the assembling process. It comes in a variety of colors to match the different tastes of parents and toddlers.
Its sturdy frame features a foot to floor design. This ensures that your child is able to feel the ground at all times. He/she will be in much more control and have confidence. There is just something about feeling the ground under you.
As for its weight, it measures a whopping 13.6 pounds. Well, at this weight point, it is not the lightest we have come across but it is definitely one of the best cheaper options that you have.
Click here to check out this bike on Amazon
Chicco Red Bullet Balance Training Bike
If you are somewhat strained on finances but still want to accord your little one the privilege of enjoying their toddler life on a balance bike, then this is the bike you should get. It comes at a very low price. And while many people may shy away from it saying that you get what you pay for with this bike, you will get quality and value for your money. The service it will provide you will be outstanding so much so you will feel as though you ripped off the store when you got this bike at such a price.
The designers of this bike paid close attention to its ergonomics and weight. The frame is designed to be easily adjustable as are the handlebars and the seat. This way, your child will be comfortable on the bike and will get to use it for a long time as he/she grow and increases in weight and height. The tires are pretty soft and provide a relatively smooth ride. And what’s even better is the fact that they cannot be punctured.
The bike’s saddle comes padded for added comfort while the handle bars are covered with rubber grips for added comfort and for a tight grip.
It is designed to support a weight of up to 55lbs and in itself weighs a whopping 8.1 pounds. Very light indeed. The down part however might be the fact that it only comes in two color variations – pink and red. For a low price, this is a winner balance bike. Chicco dint compromise on the quality in the least.
Click here to check out this bike on Amazon
Conclusion
There you have it. An all inclusive guide to get you started on providing your child with the very best inn life. The fact that balance bikes aid in getting a hang of balancing makes it an essential tool to a child’s growth and development. It speeds up this process much to the benefit of everyone in the family. I mean who isn’t excited to see his/her child catching up on things faster than other kids are? It gives you a sense of pride. That said, hit the ground running and get your toddler the best balance bike.
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