Choosing a bike: balance bikes

Do you remember how you learned to ride a bike? Maybe your first bike was a tricycle, or perhaps you learned to pedal and balance at the same time? Nowadays, it is easier for children to learn to ride a bike because popular balance bikes help them safely and enjoyably acquire all the essential skills needed when first sitting on a bike. In this article, we will discuss how balance bikes benefit children and which models are most popular among kids and parents.

The benefits of balance bikes for children

Parents whose children have tried a balance bike agree that it is thanks to the balance bike that the child learns to ride a "real" bike very easily. This is because the balance bike promotes balance and coordination. Unlike tricycles or bikes with training wheels, balance bikes encourage children to use their bodies to maintain balance, developing motor skills and physical fitness.

The first rides on a balance bike may cause a bit of stress as the child learns to orient themselves in space, stop in time, and overcome obstacles. However, this learning process helps children gain more confidence and independence. On a balance bike, children can explore their surroundings faster and ride without adult assistance, which is very appealing to them.

At what age can a child ride a balance bike?

Although it may seem incredible to some, very young children—12 to 18 months old or even younger—can start riding balance bikes. However, it is important to consider the child's development: the young cyclist should be able to walk independently and stably, as balancing depends on the ability to push off the ground with their feet. Of course, the child must also reach a minimum height to comfortably touch the ground with slightly bent legs on the smallest size balance bike with a lowered seat. Finally, listen to the child's desires—some children want to ride a bike independently very early, while others take longer to gain the courage. When choosing a balance bike on the VELONOVA online store, you can filter the products by the child's height to find the most suitable size.

Balance bikes for 1-1.5 year olds

The smallest cyclists need bike models suited for heights starting from 70 cm. Among them are the wooden frame Early Rider SuperPly and the Specialized Hotwalk with an extra-low frame crossbar for easy mounting. The futuristic Early Rider Super Velio balance bike with extra-thick and stable wheels is also suitable for the smallest riders, including children from 10 months old. The smallest balance bikes have a very simple and lightweight design, without brakes or additional design elements.

Balance bikes for 2 to 4 year olds

Older children need even more maneuverability. Suitable models for children from 90 cm in height include the Early Rider Charger, Micro Balance Deluxe, and Micro G-Bike Chopper, which more closely resemble a "real" bike with sloping frame crossbars and comfortable knobby tires for tackling any surface. Larger versions of the Early Rider SuperPly and Early Rider Super Velio models are also suitable for 2–4 year olds.

Specialized balance bikes

The American manufacturer Specialized is renowned for its especially light and fast bikes. Specialized also stands out in the range of balance bikes, offering new releases. This includes the carbon Specialized balance bikes Hotwalk Carbon, which aim to inspire the younger generation of cyclists from an early age. Those looking for a simpler option will appreciate the standard brightly colored Specialized Hotwalk models for the smallest cyclists.

Early Rider balance bikes

Early Rider is a brand dedicated specifically to children, creating balance and children's bikes and continually advancing in this field without compromise. Early Rider aims for children to spend as much time outdoors as possible and enjoy their activities, making their balance bikes highly maneuverable and extremely comfortable. The smallest children will enjoy the wooden Early Rider SuperPly, while slightly older ones will appreciate the Early Rider Charger 12". Early Rider balance bikes are easily adjustable, so they grow with the child.

Micro balance bikes for children

The manufacturer Micro, known for its scooters, is also recognized for its balance bikes. Their design stands out from other manufacturers because Micro aims for playfulness, which children love. For example, the aluminum Micro G-Bike Chopper slightly resembles a stunt bike, while the Micro Balance Deluxe is bright, solid, and lightweight. Micro balance bikes for children are a choice for those seeking quality and valuing fun outdoor moments.

What's next?

Once you choose a balance bike, don't forget the helmet—choose one based on the child's head circumference. Specialized Mio MIPS helmets, designed for the smallest riders, are very comfortable and will charm with their colors. The letters MIPS in the name indicate that the helmet has a special patented system that rotates upon impact and absorbs part of the impact force.

If you need help choosing, we invite you to visit our physical bike store at J. Baltrušaičio g. 1, Vilnius.