Balance bike - a new adventure

A balance bike is a great alternative to a tricycle as it is much easier for a child using a balance bike to switch to an “adult” bike than it is for a child used to a tricycle. When cycling, the key is not just the pedaling part, but maintaining the balance - and that is the difficult part. A balance bike can help your child learn that skill so no wonder parents are increasingly choosing that type of bike instead of a tricycle: it is a solution with many advantages. However, it is difficult to judge when to start your child’s adventure with a balance bike. Let’s see how to estimate the best time to give your child a two-wheeler with no pedals.

Balance bikes: common misconceptions vs reality

Balance bikes can be found not only at stores with sports equipment but also in supermarkets: right alongside walkers, ride-ons and similar equipment for small children. Sometimes you get the impression that they are suitable for all kids who have already mastered the ability to walk. Most manufacturers and distributors of balance bikes declare that the products they offer are suitable for children starting from 18 months of age. But the truth is- no one can tell you whether or not your child is ready but yourself. Theoretically, a 6- month old toddler should be able to learn to ride a balance bike with no problem at all. In practice however, each child develops at a different pace and that is ok! One child will be able to handle a single-track bike without pedals shortly after the age of one, and the other will not be ready to ride such bike even at the age of 2.5. And that is perfectly fine. Each case should be assessed individually, regardless of the age of your child.

Balance bikes vs your kiddo’s height

The proper use of a balance bike is possible only when your child’s feet are touching the ground while he or she is sitting on it. That is why, in order to assess whether a child can deal with a balance bike, you should be guided not by your child’s age, but by his or her height. It is good to compare different bikes before you actually buy one: there are smaller and larger models available on the market.

The seat of a Cariboo balance bike is placed at a height of 32-35 cm (measuring from the ground up), which means that it can be used by children who are 80 cm or taller. Models with adjustable seats and steering handlebars are for children up to 110 cm (so up to  5 years of age). It may turn out that the Cariboo balance bike can be comfortably used by a shorter (long-legged) or taller (short-legged) child.

Up to the parents

Parents are the ones responsible for choosing the right moment to initiate their kiddo’s adventure with a balance bike. They know best what stage of development their child is at and how quickly he or she learns new things. They can also predict whether the kid will be willing to undertake this type of physical activity or not. By closely observing your toddler, you can easily assess whether the purchase of a balance bike is a good idea or not..

When assessing whether your child is ready for a balance bike or not, observe his or her behavior on the so-called ride-on bike. Basically, if your toddler uses it correctly (keeping an upright posture and efficiently pushing off the floor with her or his legs), he or she is likely to quickly master and enjoy riding a balance bike. It is even better if, when playing with the ride-on bike, your kiddo often takes his or her feet off the ground - a two-wheeler without pedals will be a spot on purchase.

Things to keep in mind

Before buying your kiddo’s first balance bike, consider where he or she will be using it most often. A secure area such as one’s own backyard will give your toddler lots of freedom to explore. If your kiddo still has limited comprehensive skills, it might be too early to go on a bike adventure any further than that.

Speaking of security... When buying a balance bike, getting protective gear for your child is a must and that goes without saying. But better safe than sorry so let us remind you the basics: the helmet is an absolute minimum! Additionally, you should make sure your kiddo’s knees and elbows are safe too- click here to find out which knee and elbow pads are best. 

In theory, this equipment is suitable for children from 18 months of age and  once they hit the 80 cm mark. In reality, it may be difficult for a much older and taller child to master riding a two-wheeler without pedals. It all depends on the individual predispositions of the child- so it is up to you as a parent to make that call.