What Is A Balance Bike & Why Should Your Child Have One?
Traditionally, teaching kids to cycle began with the trusty stabilisers being attached to a small bicycle. In recent years however, a new and revolutionary tool has taken centre stage in the world of childhood biking: the balance bike.
In this blog, we'll delve into the world of balance bikes and uncover why they've become a must-have for parents and guardians seeking the best start for their children's cycling adventures.
What is a Balance Bike?
Firstly, what is a balance bike? A balance bike is basically a tiny bike without pedals, designed for toddlers and young children.
With no pedals, the kids move by pushing with their feet. The focus is on developing their balance and coordination.
At What Age can Children start Riding Balance Bikes?
The best time to introduce your little one to balance bikes is when they’re between 18 months and 2 years old, but they can be generally be used by slightly older children if they fit.
The Frog Tadpole Plus can cater to children as old as 4, with a recommended inside leg measurement of 36 – 44cm.
What are the Benefits of Balance Bikes?
At Bike Club we highly recommend balance bikes over bikes with stabilisers for a variety of reasons. Stabilisers can instil bad habits that need to be unlearned when your child removes them.
For example, unlike riding a normal bike, with stabilisers the children lean outward when cornering as opposed to inwards, and they do not need momentum to stay upright. Balance bikes are the ideal preparation for riding normal bikes.
Other benefits of balance bikes include:
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Improved Balance and Coordination: Balance bikes require children to learn how to balance on two wheels from an early age, which naturally enhances their coordination skills, making them more agile and stable riders.
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Confidence Building: Mastering a balance bike provides a sense of accomplishment that boosts a child's self-esteem and confidence, helping them tackle other challenges with newfound assurance.
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Seamless Transition to Pedal Bikes: By teaching children balance first, balance bikes make the transition to traditional pedal bikes virtually seamless, often eliminating the need for training wheels and tears of frustration.
So now you know what a balance bike is, what is the best one you can buy?
Frog Balance Bikes
Frog Tadpole
Frog balance bikes are also amongst the best on the market. They have easy-to-reach brakes for short arms and safety steering. Frog Balance Bikes provide a safe way for your child to learn how to ride a bike while having fun at the same time. The standard Tadpole is recommended for 2 to 3-year-olds.
Frog Tadpole Mini
The Tadpole Mini is for the youngest riders, designed for toddlers as soon as they can stand. It is our most popular balance bike, thanks to its great design and reputation.
It would make a great balance bike for an 18 month year old. You can see our blog on the Frog Tadpole Mini for more detail.
Frog Tadpole Plus
The Frog Tadpole Plus is a larger model. It is designed for children aged 3 to 4 years old and is intended to help them develop balance and coordination skills before transitioning to a pedal bike. It is recommended for children with an inside leg measurement of 36 to 44cm.
Forme Litton Range
Introducing the Forme Litton balance bikes from the well-known British brand Forme, now offered in sizes of 10, 12, and 14 inches to suit children aged 1 to 5.
Crafted to ensure an enjoyable and effortless cycling experience for toddlers and young children, the Forme Litton balance bikes feature lightweight design, handlebars tailored to fit their hands, and easy-to-operate brakes.
Equipped with integrated footrests that encourage natural balancing, these bikes effectively prepare your child for a seamless transition to pedal cycling.
Balance Bikes with Bike Club
Balance bikes are a great way to get your child learning how to cycle, whilst encouraging their physical development and increasing their confidence. 😁
At the Bike Club, we have a dedicated team of kids bikes experts. Our mission is to encourage the next generation of cyclists by making kids bikes affordable and helping the environment in the process by reducing the number of bikes that end up in landfill each year.
To join our mission, become a member & get your hands on one of our balance bikes here 👈
Questions We're Frequently Asked About Balance Bikes
Are Balance Bikes Safer than Tricycles for Toddlers?
When it comes to balance bikes versus tricycles, balance bikes are generally considered safer for toddlers. This is because balance bikes teach children to balance and steer, which are essential skills for riding a traditional pedal bike. Tricycles can tip over easily, whereas balance bikes promote stability and control.
What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Balance Bike?
When choosing a balance bike, consider factors such as size and fit, materials, adjustability, and safety features. Look for a bike that is the right size for your child, made of durable materials, has an adjustable seat and handlebars, and includes safety features like hand brakes and non-slip grips.