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When our little angel has started to walk steadily, this is a great time for you to buy a balance bike. Balance bikes will help children develop balance skills and other motor skills. Balance bikes also help children become more confident, independent and prepare a solid foundation for switching to a two-wheeled bike later. But which balance bike is right for your child? Or what is the best balance bike among the countless options on the market today?
Surely these are issues that many parents, especially young parents, are concerned about. Today, BabiesParent will share everything you need to know when choosing a balance bike and compare different types of balance bikes so you can make the best choice. Don’t leave because you might miss out on 11 top balance bikes!
What is a Balance Bike?
A balance bike is a kind of bicycle able to move without relying on pedaling. It is designed for little children to practice balancing. Balance bikes are usually made with a low seat in which children can sit firmly, with both feet touching the ground.
They will have to use their feet to make the bike go forward. Once they gain a certain speed, they can take their feet off the ground and try to balance with the bike moving on its own.
Balance bikes are considered one of the most effective tools for teaching children to balance and develop motor skills in the early stages of life. They are also a “stepping stone” to help children learn to ride a two-wheeled bike more easily later.
Why You Should Choose Balance Bike Instead of Training Wheels?
Perhaps many parents will immediately think of a training wheel when their child starts to walk steadily instead of a balance bike. However, on the contrary, experts advise that you should choose a balance bike instead of a training wheel. So why?
The first reason is that a balanced bike will help children learn to balance faster and switch to a two-wheeled bike more easily. Children can practice balancing more effectively without depending on training wheels like a training wheel.
In addition, a balance bike is often designed with a lower center of gravity than a training wheel, so it will reduce the risk of children falling. Finally, a balanced bike will help children develop motor skills and be more independent. Because children will have to concentrate and combine both hands and feet when using a balance bike without depending too much on training wheels like a training wheel.
How to Choose the Best Balance Bike for a Child?
To choose a suitable balance bike for your baby, you need to pay attention to some important factors such as:
Bike size: Bike size and height are the two most important factors you need to consider when choosing a balanced bike for your child. You should choose the appropriate size and height for your child’s age so that the balance bike can work best.
Bike weight: Ideally, the balance bike should be as light as possible. A light balance bike will help children easily maintain balance and control the bike, especially young toddlers.
Hand brake: Some balance bikes are designed with an additional hand brake to combine with foot braking. You can choose a bike with a hand brake to help your child develop both hand and foot skills in parallel.
Price: Of course, price is indispensable. There are a variety of balance bikes with countless prices on the market. And here’s a fact you may not know, balance bikes are not cheap, and can even cost as much as larger bikes. So you should consider the features and price accordingly.
Top 11 Best Balance Bikes for Young Riders
In addition to the popular balance bike brands like Woom vs. Strider vs. Specialized, there are many other balance bike models on the market. Below are 11 balance bike models with optimal design and suitable price as selected by BabiesParent experts.
Woom Children’s 1 Balance Bike
First, one of the most prominent names when it comes to best balance bikes is the Woom Children’s 1 Balance Bike. The bike is made of high-quality aluminum, super light at only 6.6 lbs. The super-light advantage of the bike helps children control and maintain better balance. The handlebars are also made of aluminum with a special design for easier grip and control.
The Woom Children’s 1 Balance Bike is also equipped with an improved rear brake system, helping children to easily practice using the hand brake. The bike is also designed with a safety steering limiter, helping to prevent unwanted rollovers and falls. The saddle height can also be easily adjusted to suit the child.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Ultra-lightweight, durable aluminum frame ✅Innovative rear brake system ✅High safety margin design ✅Flexible adjustable saddle | ❌ High price |
| Recommended Age: 18 months – 3.5 years old | |
Retrospec Cub Plus Toddler Balance Bike
Retrospec Cub Plus Toddler Balance Bike is also a product you should not miss if you are looking for a great balance bike for your child. The bike is designed with a lower center of gravity and a narrow frame that makes it easy for children to get on and off. You can completely adjust the height of the saddle and handlebars to suit your little one.
Retrospec Cub Plus is also equipped with a V-shaped handbrake system that can be adjusted to reach, suitable for even smaller hands, and helps children develop hand skills. The wide, air-cushioned tires provide better grip and smooth movement on all terrains.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Narrow frame and low center of gravity keep children at a safe height ✅Adjustable V-brake system with reach ✅Adjustable seat and handlebars ✅High grip and stability tires | ❌ Price is a bit high |
| Recommended Age: 18 months – 4 years old | |
JMMD Toddler Bike 6 in 1
If you are looking for a balanced bike with multiple functions or special modes, the JMMD Toddler Bike 6-in-1 is for you. The bike is specially designed to be able to convert into 6 different bike modes, including push bike mode, bike mode with training wheels, kids bike mode, balance bike mode, bike mode with kickstand, and folded mode. This special 6-in-1 design will help meet all the needs of your baby and family in the early years.
The JMMD Toddler Bike 6-in-1 is equipped with a durable steel frame to ensure stability and safety for your baby. The non-inflatable all-terrain rubber wheels are shock-absorbing and suitable for many different types of terrain. The hand brake system can be used for emergency braking or anti-slip to ensure absolute safety for your baby.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Convenient 6-in-1 design ✅Easy to assemble ✅Non-inflatable rubber wheels with shock absorption ✅Stable and safe handbrake | ❌Price is a bit high |
| Recommended Age: 1 – 3 years old | |
SLIDBEAT Toddler Tricycle 5 in 1
A more affordable multi-mode best balance bike suggestion is the SLIDBEAT Toddler Tricycle 5-in-1. The bike can be assembled into multiple modes from a pedal-less tricycle, a two-wheel balance bike, or a pedal tricycle for toddlers. The wheels are designed to be large, capable of reducing shock and vibration, helping children move stably and safely.
The wheels are also completely sealed to limit the risk of children getting their feet stuck in the wheels. The SLIDBEAT Toddler Tricycle 5-in-1 is manufactured with a high-quality carbon steel frame that weighs only about 6.6 pounds with smooth handles that make it easy for children to control and maneuver the bike. You can adjust the seat of the bike at any time to suit your child’s height.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Durable and lightweight carbon steel frame ✅Shock-absorbing and fully sealed wheels to prevent foot jamming ✅Convenient and easy-to-assemble 5-in-1 design ✅Affordable price | ❌ Small maximum weight, may not be suitable for heavy babies |
| Recommended Age: 1 – 4 years old | |
Bobike Toddler Balance Bike
Bobike Toddler Balance Bike is also an ideal suggestion if you are looking for a simple and affordable balance bike. The bike is manufactured with sturdy, durable, and lightweight carbon steel. The wheels are designed to be anti-slip to ensure more safety for your baby during the learning process. The saddle can also be adjusted in height to better suit your baby’s body shape.
Bobike Toddler Balance Bike has safety certifications such as ASTM F963-11, EN71, 135° steering limit design, and fully enclosed wheels will prevent falling to one side or damaging the legs. It only takes a few minutes to assemble the bike and start the journey of discovery with your baby!
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Durable carbon steel frame ✅Quick and easy assembly ✅Stable anti-slip wheel design ✅Safety certified | ❌Some reviews say the bike is small and the seat is not soft enough |
| Recommended Age: 1 – 4 years old | |
Chillafish Charlie Balance Bike
The list of best balance bikes for kids cannot be without the Chillafish Charlie Balance Bike. The bike is made from a super lightweight metal frame, weighing only about 5.5 lbs, making it easy for kids to carry and control. The seat can be adjusted from 11-14.6 inches / 28-37 cm and the handlebars can also be adjusted from 18.9-20.1 inches / 48-51 cm to suit the height of your child.
The Chillafish Charlie Balance Bike is also equipped with 10-inch puncture-proof EVA tires so you don’t need to inflate the tires often. The bike has a collection of 8 different colors so you can freely choose the color that suits your little angel.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Adjustable seat and handlebars ✅Ultra-lightweight metal frame ✅Premium puncture-resistant 10-inch EVA tires ✅Affordable | ❌Hard plastic tires don’t have as much grip as other tires |
| Recommended Age: 18 – 48 months | |
XJD 5 in 1 Toddler Bike
Another convenient multi-mode balance bike suggestion is the XJD 5-in-1 Toddler Bike. The bike can be assembled into 5 different bike modes, including tricycle mode, pedeless tricycle mode, little tree-wheel bike mode, two-wheel bike mode, and balance bike mode. The 5-in-1 design is convenient and useful for children of all ages from 1 to 3 years old.
The XJD 5-in-1 is also favored by many parents because of its easy assembly, which only takes a few minutes, and the ability to flexibly adjust the seat, handlebars, and steering angle. The bike is manufactured with a lightweight, safe carbon steel frame and smooth wheels, suitable for both indoor and outdoor riding. The XJD children’s tricycle has passed mandatory safety tests on materials and designs for children.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅5-in-1 design suitable for all ages ✅Durable and flexible carbon steel frame ✅Durable and smooth wheels, suitable for a variety of terrains ✅Various colors | ❌Some reviews say the structure of the bike is a bit loose |
| Recommended Age: 12 months – 3 years old | |
Banana Bike GT
One of the most mentioned names when it comes to best balance bikes is Banana Bike GT. This is a balanced bike model that is chosen by many parents because of its quality and price. Banana Bike GT has a sturdy and lightweight aluminum frame, making it easier for children to control and maintain balance. The handlebars and seat can be adjusted simply and quickly with removable clamps, ensuring suitability for all stages of your child’s development.
Another great advantage of Banana Bike GT is the wheel design. The 12-inch wheels are equipped with inflatable tires and have a high-grip design, suitable for all terrains. The wheel axle is also improved to rotate faster and the double-bearing design creates a smooth driving experience.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Sturdy and lightweight aluminum frame ✅Adjustable seat and handlebars ✅Grip-friendly wheels ✅Innovative and stable axle | ❌A bit high for small children |
| Recommended Age: 2 – 5 years old | |
SEREED Baby Balance Bike
SEREED Baby Balance Bike is for you if you are looking for a small, simple balance bike for your little girl or boy. The mini balance bike is equipped with a sturdy aluminum alloy frame, anti-slip TPU handlebars, and a soft seat. This model is often chosen by parents for small children, around 1 year old, because of its low center of gravity and safety.
SEREED Baby Balance Bike has also become a shining star in the balance bike industry thanks to its optimal safety wheel design. The bike is designed with double wheels, completely closed and without pedals to limit the risk of children getting their feet caught. The wheels are also designed to be anti-slip, anti-abrasion and do not damage the floor so that your baby can practice cycling right at home.
The bike is manufactured with a 135° rotation limit and steers by gravity without leaving the ground to prevent your baby from tipping over.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Aluminum alloy frame and TPU handlebars for stability ✅Maximum safety wheel design ✅135° rotation limit and gravity steering prevent tipping ✅Super lightweight at only 3.6 pounds | ❌Some reviews say the wheels fall off easily |
| Recommended Age: 12 – 24 months | |
GOMO Balance Bike
Are you looking for a long-lasting balance bike? Or are you worried that your child will grow too fast and the bike will only be used for a short time? GOMO Balance Bike will help dispel those worries. With the ability to adjust the height from 12” to 17.5” and a weight of up to 60 lbs, this model is suitable for children from 18 months to 5 years old.
GOMO Balance Bike also scores points in the eyes of parents thanks to its optimal design and appearance. The bike is light enough for children to drag, sturdy enough to throw the bike on the ground when they are “angry” and of course, cool enough. GOMO is also known as “get out more often” so the bike is made with a lightweight steel frame of only about 7.1 pounds for children to take out at any time.
One of the most important factors for a balanced bike is safety. GOMO understands this, too, with a rev limiter for better control and adjustable footrests that allow kids to place their feet securely when going fast. The radial wheel axle prevents the wheels from falling off, while the padded seat allows kids to hit those first little “terrain bumps” without shaking.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Stable design with safety features ✅Durable, lightweight, and adjustable frame ✅Equipped with scratch-resistant ABS plastic ✅Specially designed handles and puncture-resistant tires | ❌The frame may be a bit high for some small children |
| Recommended Age: 18 months – 5 years old | |
KRIDDO Pro Toddler Balance Bike
Finally, don’t miss the KRIDDO Pro Toddler Balance Bike if you’re looking for a cool balance bike with many functions. Surely any little girl or boy will love it when they see this bike for the first time. The bike is designed with a super cool custom license plate in front of the bike, helping your baby become a real “racer”.
KRIDDO Pro Toddler Balance Bike is also loved by many parents because of its great features. The bike is equipped with Mini-V brakes and a horn, helping children practice their hand motor skills effectively. The bike has a soft rubber handlebar and a PU seat to make your baby’s bike practice sessions more comfortable.
KRIDDO Pro Toddler Balance Bike has a sturdy steel frame and a load capacity of up to 110 lbs, suitable for children of all ages. The bike is also equipped with puncture-proof all-terrain tires, stable on all terrains.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Sturdy and heavy-duty steel frame ✅Thick, puncture-resistant all-terrain tires ✅Soft handlebars and seat ✅Front panel design allows baby to customize the name | ❌ Plastic tires will be a bit stiff and have low grip |
| Recommended Age: 2 – 5 years old | |
Comparison of Woom vs. Strider vs. Specialized
When you search for the best balance bike for kids online, you will often see phrases like Woom, Strider, or Specialized bike. So what is the difference between these types of balance bikes? In fact, these are 3 famous balance bike brands.
First, Strider is a traditional balance bike brand with a 2-wheel design and usually uses feet to brake the bike. Woom is an upgraded version of Strider, with an additional hand brake design. Woom also has the advantage of being super light and easier to control.
Meanwhile, Specialized focuses on applying advanced technologies to make their bikes more durable. Specialized also surpasses the other two competitors thanks to its more modern design.
When comes to Woom vs. Strider vs. Specialized, each brand has different advantages. Which balanced bike brand is best will depend on your preferences and needs.
Wrap Up
A best balance bike will help children develop their balance and motor skills more effectively. Choosing a Woom, Strider, Specialized, or other brand of balance bike depends a lot on the needs and preferences of each family. Each brand has its own advantages, helping children develop comprehensively.
Hopefully, BabiesParent’s reviews have helped you have a more detailed look at the types of balance bikes on the market. The final advice for parents is to prioritize the safety of their children when letting them practice riding. You should fully equip your child with protection and choose safe places for them to practice.
