Best Balance Bikes For Kids and Toddlers (Updated 2021)
Balance Bikes are extremely fun for kids, once your child gets their hand on them there is definitely no going back. As you might have seen, balance bikes are like your normal bikes, except they are for kids and are pedal-less. In order to ride them, kids use their own set of legs, which is cool and fun at the same time.
Balance Bikes are best recommended for toddlers (Aged 2 and Up), they are fun and educational at the same point. With these bikes, your kids will have immense fun and learn to be independent at a young age, which is the goal.
If you are looking for the best balance bikes for your kids, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will be discussing some of the amazing balance bikes you can get. There will also be tons of other information to share here. Stay Tuned!
Important Notice: Before we actually get started, it is very critical to know that these balance bikes are not universal. One size will not fit all of the kids, that is why each different age group will require a different balance bike.
Best Balance Bikes For Kids Review
Here are the top balance bikes that we will be reviewing in this guide. Our picks will be further categorized into age groups to make your choice easier and our list precise.
Best Suited For 18 Months till 2 Years (Young Toddlers):
- Woom 1 (Editor’s Choice): This is a perfect example for balance bikes, it is just amazing from top to bottom. Comfort and handling are definitely prioritized.
- Strider Sport: The Strider Sport doesn’t just hold a special place in our hearts but is also budget-friendly.
- Prevelo Alpha Zero: The Prevelo Alpha Zero is what dreams are made of. This is a precision-friendly balance bike for kids.
- Woom 1 Plus: The Woom 1 Plus is everything the Woom 1 is and isn’t. It greatly enhances the old structure of the bike to bring something brand new.
Best Suited For 2-3 Years (Toddlers):
- Frog Tadpole: This here is a bike that gives justification to the name. The tadpole offers great stability, performance, and durability all-in-one.
- Swagtron K3: I guess this is another bike that stands tall with its name. Having an amazing frame and tires, it is definitely worth it.
- FirstBIKE Street: This bike offers amazing tires, handling, a cute design that your kids will love and it also comes in vibrant colors.
- Kokua LikeaBike Jumper: Kokua Bikes were one of the first companies to introduce balance bikes. I consider this as one of the original and amazing balance bikes to exist out there.
- Haro PreWheelz 12 Gen 3: This is the perfect choice for toddlers and parents. Kids won’t need a push and with its features and durability, they will have a blast riding it.
Best Suited For 3-4 Years (Preschoolers):
- Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike: As your kid will be growing up, this balance bike will offer the best and be a great companion.
- Specialized Hot Walk Carbon: With its lightweight frame and features, it will be one amazing choice for your little preschooler.
- FirstBike Cross: Consider this is a motorbike balance bike, it will offer a safe amount of thrill and fun to your child.
Best Suited For 4-6 Years (Pre-Kindergarten)
- Yedoo-Too Too: This is going to be quite fascinating for kids who want to become doctors, the design and features are like that of an ambulance, it even comes with a similar horn.
- Yuba Flip Flop: This is going to be the best-looking balance bike I ever got for my kid, It is extremely eye-catchy and durable.
- Strider 14x: We all know that Strider Bikes are amazing, the 14x is further proof that they can make spectacular balance bikes for kids.
Let’s start!
Balance Bikes For Toddlers
1. Woom 1 – Editor’s Choice
Price: MSRP $200
Suitable For: 18 Months Till 2 Years
The Woom 1 Balance Bike is the true meaning of perfection if I would say. The features, the durability, the performance, everything is top-notch and my kids never had fun enjoying themselves more with any other bike.
The bike is a really good starting point for our toddlers, they would be having lots of fun with it. Some of the best features of the bike are:
- The handlebars are amazing and give off a natural feeling
- Extremely lightweight frame
- Extra-cushioned air tires
Kids will love the Woom 1, all the features of the bike are there to make the kids fall in love with it while also being extra comfortable. The handlebars make the kids feel very natural and comfortable, while they ride it, they are always in an upright position. Believe me, this greatly enhances their handling.
The combination of the lightweight frame and extra-cushioned air tires will make the kids into pros in no time. Oh yes, you will be excited to know that the Woom 1 can be purchased in a variety of exciting colors.
Pros:
- The bike is constructed with amazing and high-quality components
- You would be amazed to know that this is the lightest balance bike in the market
- Accessibility is made easy like never before, kids can get on and off without any kind of assistance
- The cushioned air-tires add more support
Cons:
- Might be a little expensive for some people
- There are no adjustable seats on the bike
Read also: Best Woom Bikes Review and Ranked
2. Strider Sport
Price: MSRP $110
Suitable For: 18 Months Till 2 Years
Strider bikes are known for their durable and enhanced bikes, the fact that they are making balance bikes means they are excelling at that. The Strider Sport is constructed with an amazing frame that makes the bike excel in so many areas, I personally think it might be a bit better than the Woom 1.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- Adjustable Seat Post
- Adjustable Handlebars
- It Will fit a variety of kids
- Comes in amazing colors
The Strider Sport is a dependable balance bike that will not let you down. Kids will have lots of fun with it and it is also cheap.
Pros:
- The bike is super adjustable- it can be used for a very long time
- Foam tires that you won’t have to worry about, offer the best handling
- It is very light, riding it is extremely fun
- The adjustable handlebars are a great help
Cons:
- Can be harmful sometimes because of the exposed bolts on the bike
- Should not be used on trails as the foam tires would provide minimal traction
3. Prevelo Alpha Zero
Price: MSRP $200
Suitable For: 18 Months Till 2 Years
The Prevelo Alpha Zero is a must-have for kids and parents alike. Kids would love it for the amazing features and performance while the parents would love it for the design of the bike and how cute their kids will look while riding it.
The best features of the Prevelo are:
- Comfy and cushioned air tires
- Great stopping power with the hand brake
- The quick-release seat post is a big help
This is a balance bike that goes way beyond the call of duty, not all of them have a quick-release seat post. Handlebars and tires are amazing, I actually didn’t think that the Prevelo Alpha Zero would be packed like this. This here is a bike that will surprise you due to its amazing performance.
The inclusion of high-quality components makes the purchase even more interesting.
Pros:
- The bike is very safe, thanks to the rounded bolts, eliminates the chance of injuries
- The cushioned air tires offer amazing handling
- The bike has a long wheelbase, which makes it safe to use on trails
- The seat height is just perfect
- This bike is packed with high-end components like the Kenda tires
Cons:
- Prevelo Alpha Zero still might be expensive to some people
- The seat height might not be perfect for everyone
4. Woom 1 Plus
Price: MSRP $270
Suitable For: Till 4 Years
The Woom 1 Plus is everything that the Woom 1 is and isn’t, that is what I wrote in the description, allow me to explain that now. Woom 1 Plus is a great upgrade over the normal Woom 1 because I wanted some features on the normal model that the Plus model fulfilled. Let me tell you, when my kids started using it, I was impressed by it!
This bike comes packed with high-end and advanced features so it is definitely for the kids that have passed the toddler phase, that doesn’t mean that toddlers can’t enjoy it, with some supervision of course.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- Available in different and vibrant colors
- The front and rear brakes are awesome, great stopping power
- The footrest is great support for kids
The features are what make the Woom 1 Plus amazing, after all, we want our kids to have the best. Children get excited trying out bikes, especially the balance kind, but it also wears them out. The inclusion of the footrest will allow them to glide for longer hours while being comfortable.
For toddlers, the footrest which is a surfer shape can be removed. This is a great feature as well.
Definitely get this balance bike for your young and enthusiastic riders, they are going to love it.
Pros:
- High-end components
- The addition of the footrest
- Extremely comfortable bike
- It is very durable
Cons:
- It is expensive
- Toddlers may not be able to use it
Balance Bikes For 2-3 Years Old Toddlers
5. Frog Tadpole
Price: MSRP $215
Suitable For: 2-3 Years Old
The Frog Tadpole is everything that the name gives away, your kid will be excited to leap as a cute little froggy, I mean this in a very good way though. The tadpole bike is a mixture of many exciting features, colors, and heightened durability. It offers amazing stability because of the long wheelbase, the Kenda tires and Tektra brakes are much appreciated.
Please understand that this is one of the aggressive bikes to handle, so only get them if your kid is enthusiastic and ready.
Some of the best features of this bike are:
- High-end components like the Tektra brakes and Kenda tires
- Amazing design
- Comes in cool vibrant colors
- Amazingly durable
The Frog Tadpole is a perfect balance bike for our young riders, someday they may be able to ride aggressively with the help of this one.
If you want a fun learning experience for your kids where they can also enhance their skills then definitely get the Frog Tadpole bike.
Pros:
- The bike is available in amazing colors
- It offers extreme comfort thanks to the padded saddle available in the bike
- The padded saddle is also customizable, can be adjusted back and forth
- High-end components like the Tektra handbrakes
- Is amazingly durable
Cons:
- The seat height could have been better
- Expensive for some
6. Swagtron K3
Price: MSRP $60
Suitable For: 2-3 Years Old
Don’t be mistaken for the price tag, the Swagtron K3 is one of the amazing balance bikes out there. It may be a budget bike, but it is more balanced and durable than the other options in the market, and this surprised me. Although this is a great bike, it cannot be used for years and must eventually be replaced.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- Amazing air tires
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Higher quality budget bike
- Available in amazing colors
The Swagtron K3 balance bike is for those that want a higher-quality bike without breaking the bank. The kids are going to love the aesthetics and feel of the bike without a doubt. Overall, this is a very impressive bike that I totally loved.
Pros:
- Offers great value for the price
- Constructed with amazing components
- It has a beautiful aluminum frame
- The air tires offer amazing handling
Cons:
- You will need to manually adjust the seat sometimes and that can be a drag
- Not that durable, will have to be changed
7. FirstBIKE Street
Price: MSRP $160
Suitable For: 2-3 Years Old
Entertainment isn’t always the priority, sometimes you have to focus on safety too. FirstBIKE Street was built on the foundation of both fun and safety, not a lot of balance bikes do that now. Its construction is very impressive, it has a smooth composite frame that comes with recessed bolts, so there are no chances of the kids getting injured.
The performance of the bike is top-notch thanks to the air tires and handbrake.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- It comes packed with a turning limiter
- High-end air tires and brakes
- The bike is water-proof
- Can handle the extra weight
You would be amazed to know that FirstBIKE Street is fully water-proof and rust-proof, this means that your kids will be having fun with it all summer. You won’t have to worry about the puddles or any other kind of material damaging the bike.
Kids get heavier when they age, that is why we have to change their bikes sometimes. This is not the case with this one, the frame of the bike can adjust the seat so it can withstand the extra weight. You just need to focus on the entertainment side of your kids.
This bike is going to be well worth your money, that’s a promise.
Pros:
- The composite frame is amazing, also weather-proof
- Kids won’t fall off the bike because of the U-Shaped saddle
- Cushioned air tires are amazing
- Child-friendly handbrakes
- It is extremely light-weight, maximizes handling
Cons:
- It is a double-edged sword, the U-Shaped seat is great but can also be difficult to get on for some kids
- The structure of the bike is not meant for tall and heavy kids
8. Kokua LikeaBike Jumper
Price: MSRP $350
Suitable For: 2-3 Years Old
Kokua Bikes were one of the first companies to make mountain bikes, the fact that they are making amazing balance bikes is very commendable. Just looking at this bike will take you down memory lane, I used to have an amazing mountain bike like that in the 1990s.
The features and performance of this bike are amazing, I am sure that the kids are going to love it.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- A fun and nostalgic design
- Elastomer-based rear suspension
- Comes in amazing colors
The Kokua Jumper is one hell of a bike, even before purchasing it for the kids, I knew it was going to be well worth the money. The construction of the bike is great, it has a lightweight frame that offers great stability and handling. Tell your kids that you had this bike in your childhood before they did and they will be shocked and surprised.
You get this bike, and I guarantee that your kid is going to be the talk of the whole neighborhood. Promise!
Pros:
- Amazing construction and components
- Very durable
- Is easy and fun to handle
- Comes in great color combinations
Cons:
- Expensive for some people
- There is no adjustable seat or handlebar
9. Haro PreWheelz 12 Gen 3
Price: MSRP $100
Suitable For: 2-3 Years Old
Haro PreWheelz gives me the vibes of a classic mountain bike, you can see that its design even resembles the features and the look, and nothing could be cooler. I knew from the get-go that this was going to be an amazing bike, the performance is so smooth, I wanted to ride this bike instead of the kids.
The 12-inch wheel construction is amazing and the kids are definitely going to have a blast riding it.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- 6000 Series Aluminum frame
- Adjustable Seat
- Amazing Durability
This should be another amazing memorable bike for you, and kids will love it definitely. Nostalgia cannot ever go wrong right? The adjustable seat will let any kid hop on and have the best fun possible.
Pros:
- Enhanced durability
- Comes in amazing color combinations
- Can be customized
- Extremely lightweight, easy to handle and balance
Cons:
- It will have to be replaced after some use
- Not recommended for young toddlers
Balance Bikes For Preschoolers
10. Strider – 12 Sport Balance Bike
Price: MSRP $150
Suitable For: 3-4 Years Old
According to statistics and experts on the topic, the Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike is one of the best ones out there. I would say that the most attractive thing about the bike is its construction and components, the way it is built just results in awe of the perfection.
The bike is very durable and will resist every kind of abuse you throw at it.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- Amazing construction
- Mini-grip pedal
- Footrest
This bike is best for both the starting out phase and the exploration phase, so consider it the jack of all trades. It can even be used on trails, thanks to the wheelbase. It does not matter if your toddler has cute and tiny hands, the mini-grip pedal will give them the support they need.
The footrest is a great help, it makes the kids ready for the real deal ahead when they grow older, I for one was very grateful for that inclusion. The footrest will be amazing, just you wait and watch.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight- offers great handling
- A well balanced-bike
- Enhanced durability
- Can be used for many years
Cons:
- It is a bit expensive
- Not for young toddlers
11. Specialized- Hotwalk Carbon
Price: MSRP $999
Suitable For: 3-4 Years Old
Every parent wants a tough and resilient balance bike that offers the best performance you can get for your money. The Specialized Hotwalk Carbon is one of those amazing bikes on the market, it offers perfection, nothing less, nothing more.
I would like to say here that this here is a balance bike best suited for off-road experiences. So, if you want your kid to become the next off-trail champion then I suggest that you definitely get this bike ASAP.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- The all-carbon lightweight frame is amazing
- Amazingly small-diameter grips, approximately 38% smaller
- Can easily be transported due to the low-friction body geometry
- Comes packed with Rhythm lite tires
This is a bike that I immediately resonated with, the features from the lightweight frame to the lite tires were very impressive and I was very happy to make the purchase for my kid.
Did I forget to say that the bike is super durable? Well, it is! This means that whatever kind of abuse your kid throws at it, the bike will definitely take it like a champ.
Pros:
- The Padded Saddle is a wonder
- The Rhythm tires offer amazing traction, great for off-road trails
- Enhanced Durability
- Can easily be stored and transported
Cons:
- The extra-large footrest is going to be a problem for smaller kids
- Very expensive
12. FirstBIKE- Cross
Price: MSRP $250
Suitable For: 3-4 Years Old
Kids love motorbikes, the sight, and sound thrills them, if only they could have it at that age. Luckily, the FirstBIKE Cross looks and feels like a motorbike, the build and tires are like that. Looks like a motorbike but actually functions as a balance bike, now this is the stuff that dreams are made of.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- It is constructed with the amazing weatherproof-composite frame
- Has knobby air tires
- Flexible and durable
The first thing that struck me was the amazing weatherproof-composite frame of the bike, kids are going to have unlimited summertime fun with it. The frame isn’t just for fun purposes, it is also very durable and flexible. Kids are going to love it because the bike seems very light.
Safety is also a priority when you get this bike, the inclusion of the Knobby tires, turning limiter and the rear hand brake makes things quite easier for kids.
Pros:
- Weather-proof frame
- Amazingly flexible and durable
- Safety options are amazing
Cons:
- Not perfect for heavier kids
- Adult supervision is required for kids
Balance Bikes For Pre-Kindergarten
13. Yedoo- TooToo
Price: Check Amazon
Suitable For: 4-6 Years Old
Some kids are fascinated by motorbikes while some kids love the sight and sound of ambulances. The Yedoo- TooToo balance bike is made in the perfect image of an ambulance and kids are going to love it the moment they see it. While riding it, the kids are going to feel more confident about being doctors in the future and that sounds beautiful to me.
Kids as young as 2 can get started with the Yedoo and that will be amazing, overall you can choose this balance bike in 15 different paint jobs which is just amazing.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- High-end components like Tektro brakes and Kenda tires
- Comes in 15 amazing designs
- Durable design
This bike isn’t just for the looks, performance and component-wise it is also amazing. The inclusion of the Tektro brakes and Kenda tires is enough proof to show that the manufacturers aren’t messing around.
The bike is so tough that it will be able to withstand a lot of abuse for a lot of time. If you feel like it, you can even pass it along to the family and no one will notice the damages. The Yedoo is also very well-balanced, kids will always be comfy while riding it.
Pros:
- Amazing and durable design
- Attractive Aesthetics
- High-end components
- Comes in different paint jobs
Cons:
- Parts assemble will be required
- Can’t be transported easily
14. Yuba Flip Flop
Price: MSRP $120
Suitable For: 4-6 Years Old
I would say that the Yuba Flip Flop might be the eye-catchy balance bike out there, with it, the kids are definitely going to be the talk of the neighborhood. I would say that there is no chance for a better alternative for this, you get it and all is set, the kids are going to love it.
The fun fact of the bike is that it comes with a reversible design, kids aged from 1-6 can enjoy it easily, without having the need to replace their bikes.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- Amazing and attractive design
- Durable structure
- Comes in different and unique cultures
- Offers exceptional handling
The Bike offers many smart solutions, as a parent you would love them. You can easily switch the seat and paddle of the bike without any problems so that it becomes taller. Oh, did I forgot to mention that the bike definitely looks like a giraffe? Well, it does! The kids are going to love it.
Pros:
- An attractive design
- Flexible structure
- High-end components
- Available in different colors
Cons:
- Can’t be stored easily
- The bike becomes heavy at times
15. Strider 14x
Price: $149.99
Suitable For: 4-6 Years Old
Strider needs no introduction for those who know it. For those who don’t know it, they should know that Strider is one of the best bike manufacturers. They have really struck gold with the Strider 14x bike, although it is a great balance bike, it can be upgraded to a pedal bike easily.
This is a bike that grows with your kid, when the time comes for them to use pedal bikes, this bike will play the role of powerful nostalgia and become that bike.
Some of the best features of the bike are:
- Can be modified to a pedal bike
- Durable structure
- Comes in different colors
As I discussed previously, this bike can be modified easily and without any kind of problems. This makes the purchase even more worth it, the chainguard of the bike also does wonders. Definitely get this bike if you have an eager pre-schooler in your house.
Pros:
- Amazing design
- Durable
- Can be modified
- Attractive price tag
Cons:
- Not fit for toddlers
- Cannot be transported easily
How to Choose Balance Bikes for Kids
Now that we have discussed some of the best balance bikes money can buy for kids, it is high time that we discussed what we need to know before making the purchase. A lot of parents might even be confused about what a balance bike is and how it works so we will also be explaining that.
I was like this first, having almost no knowledge about this stuff, but do know that this happens to everyone. We cannot know everything. So let us get started with the very basics. This here is a balance bike:
Always Consider The Tire Size And Its Weight
Tires play a very critical part in balance bikes, so you have to consider them before making the purchase. Tire sizes are available in three different sizes:
- 12”
- 14”
- 16”
Okay so, the most popular and normal size that the bikes come in is the 12” tires, they are for toddlers aged till 4. The bigger tires are then suited best for preschoolers. Having this information will help you in making the perfect choice for your kids.
Another thing that you need to worry about is the weight of the bike. The normal weight for these bikes is 10 lbs and that is without pedals. (Make sure that you go for the lightest bikes because kids are going to have to ride these bikes with their own weight).
What Is The Best Age For Balance Bikes?
This is a question that will be answered individually by parents. One age cannot be the definitive one for all the kids, because all of our kids are unique in their own way. I would say that the easiest answer is that when they start walking. If they can walk then they can certainly ride the bike.
Every kid will learn to walk and get on a bike at their own natural age. My kid started riding on the bike when she was 4, your kid maybe can do it when they are 3. A great help could be getting them a pre-balance bike, this would further nurture their motor and muscle skills.
Important Notice: Do consider the leg inseam of your child, the legs have to be long enough to ride the bike.
Choose The Frame Materials Wisely
Balance bike’s frames are made from a variety of materials, you can know the advantages of them to make your purchase easier. Following are the materials that the frames are made of:
- Aluminum- Very durable but heavy
- Plastic- Lightweight but hard to repair and not that durable
- Wood- Lightweight but hard to repair and not that durable
So the options fall down to you, what do you want? Although do know that none of the materials are bad so that you avoid them.
What Kind Of Tires Would Be Best?
Another important aspect that you have to consider is the kind of tires the bike is going to have. There are basically two kinds:
- Foam Tires: They are used in bikes that kids use when they are starting out. They are lightweight but don’t offer that much handling or traction.
- Air Tires: These are for kids that have developed their skills with balance bikes. You can even fill up the pressure in the tires if you are going for adventures on different terrains. The only downside that I would say is that you would have to check the pressure in tires almost regularly.
Brakes Are Necessary Or Not?
Technically, most of the balance bikes won’t have brakes. After all, that is the whole point! Kids stop the bike with their own legs. Although, if you are preparing them for pedal bikes then make sure that the balance bike has brakes. Brakes can be found in different and expensive versions of the balance bikes.
I would suggest that you definitely go for a bike with brakes, it would protect kids from injuries.
Recap
Balance Bikes are very important for kids, not just for entertainment but also for their educational purposes. Kids learn from what they interact with the most, and they will be putting up a lot of time with these bikes. It falls down to us to make the best choice for them.
The best bikes in my own opinion are, according to age group:
- Woom 1- Till 2 Years
- FirstBIKE Street- Till 3 Years
- Specialized Hot Walk Carbon- Till 4 Years
- Strider 14x- Till 6 Years
Do consider the aspects when choosing the perfect balance bikes for your kids. Everything else is set then! Go and have fun with your kids now!
The post Best Balance Bikes For Kids and Toddlers (Updated 2021) appeared first on Icebike.org.
