Plastic bikes are generally less durable (there are exceptions) but they’re typically lighter as well, making them easier for the child to use. They’re also cheaper than most other materials. There are obvious concerns over a plastic bike’s environmental impact. That said, some plastic bikes are amongst the most durable on the market. More on this later. Here’s how the Yvolution Y Velo compares to other balance bikes intended for toddlers starting at 18 months old. Bike The last thing of note on the wheels is the first thing you will notice if you need to remove a wheel: the axle bolts. While easy to overlook when considering a bike, large or exposed axle bolts can create a safety hazard for both your child and your flooring. Sharp edges on exposed bolts can cause injury in the event of a fall or even just if your child catches a leg on them. Some manufacturers equip balance bikes with plastic covers for exposed bolts, or they have rounded bolts, or, best of all, recessed bolts that sit flush with the frame and fork for a safe, smooth finish. Serviceability While trikes, tricycles, and stabilisers provided most of us with a successful development path, the very nature of these supported, three and four-wheel designs means the child does not require the same balance to ride. Furthermore, the child can become reliant on the assistance these supported designs offer, potentially delaying their development.By opting for a balance bike, the child can focus on enjoying all the fun a bike can offer while also developing these essential skills. Balance bikes may appear largely similar – two-wheeled, pedal-less mini-bikes – but the materials used in the manufacturing from one bike to the next can differ entirely, determining how the bike rides and how much it costs.

Teaching your child how to ride a bike is one of the joys of parenthood. But it can be challenging to find a good bicycle for that first lesson. It also has 10″ wheels as opposed to 12″ wheels that most balance bikes have. While this lends to the small size and ideal design for very young toddlers, it becomes a hindrance once kids are 2 or 3. Smaller wheels roll slower and have a harder time making it up and over obstacles.a) you do not seek to imply that we are endorsing the services or products of another party unless this has been agreed with us in writing; The extra-large wheels are a fantastic feature on this bike. My kiddo is always biking over uneven terrain like grass or gravel. These large wheels help to level out bumps, assisting the rider’s balance. Your little one also gets to build leg muscles, coordination, and confidence. All of that will help them transition to a pedal bike.

Balance bikes are a positive alternative to training wheels that help kids learn how to ride before making the switch. Balance bikes eliminate the need for training wheels in the first place, allowing for a smooth transition to pedal bikes. Kids can begin using balance bikes at a remarkably young age, allowing time for them to get used to balancing, develop motor skills and train their muscles to ride properly. Without pedals, kids push their feet against the ground to propel themselves forward. Hornit, creators of the Airo balance bike we have on test, says “Brakes are a divisive issue” and claims brakes are alien to younger (18-month to three-year-old) riders. This certainly makes sense, and my daughter never once asked how to stop her bike. Using her feet to slow was very intuitive. Hopefully, if you have got this far, you will have noticed the importance we put on a bike’s life span. Key to this life span is the bike’s durability and serviceability. While undoubtedly costing more, bikes that resemble adults bikes and manufactured with recognisable bike parts are almost always longer-lasting and more serviceable than bikes treading the line between balance bike and toy. Chunky and knobbly tread patterns are great for off-road loose and dirt surfaces, while smoother tyres will roll easier on hard, paved surfaces. Where possible, consider where your child will ride most and match the tread pattern to that surface. Using a balance bike teaches a child how to balance and control their bike, which is fundamental in regards to their safety and as a foundation for development of further skills. A balance bike allows a child to progress at their own pace and gives them a sense of independence and pride from the very beginning.” Beth Harding, Active School Travel Coordinator schools, Sustrans NI Balance bike or stabilisersMORE THAN JUST A BIKE - Help your kids learn the essential first skills needed to riding a bike. Toddlers love the independence and sense of achievement they get from riding a balance bike. It also build their motor skills, coordination and increase their confidence. The bike has a banana-shaped frame that creates a low center of gravity. Despite its low weight, it’s durable and made of premium parts. Some children may feel intimidated if it’s their first-ever introduction to a bicycle. If that’s the case, take them to a place where the ground is even and paved.

This balance bike is ideal for indoor play. We allowed it to be used for several weeks inside our house and didn’t notice any marking on our hardwood floors. This bike has easy-grip handles to keep the rider comfortable and provide a secure hold. The 12-inch wheels are puncture-proof and can easily glide over gravel and other uneven surfaces. Hydration should be your rider’s No. 1 priority. As we exercise, we radiate heat and sweat, sometimes leading to headaches and stomach pain from dehydration. Always keep a water bottle handy and encourage frequent water breaks. So what is too heavy? From experience, I would suggest any bike in the 3-4 kg (6.6-8.8 pound) range will be a good weight for most children. In percentage terms aim for a bike somewhere between 20-25% of your child’s weight. The lighter the better, but less than 3 kg (6.6 lbs) usually comes with an increased price or decreased spec level. More on this later. Gomo wants to ensure your little boy masters the art of balance before giving him full reign with the steering. The turn limiter keeps him from swiveling out of control while riding along the path. Then he can put his feet on the footrest once he has built up speed.Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! The adjustable seat is a great feature for growing toddlers. However, the maximum seat height is 15.7 inches, which most parents deem small for a 4-year-old and certainly not high enough for the advertised maximum age of 5. Learning to ride a bicycle is an essential part of childhood. Bike-riding helps kids learn motor skills that are crucial as they develop and eventually begin to play sports, drive vehicles or operate machinery. Plus, the activity allows youngsters to travel independently, visiting friends and neighbors as they please. Itching to get your young toddler on a balance bike? Many balance bikes are too big and too heavy for the very youngest riders to handle. That’s why we like the Yvolution Y Velo Junior balance bike.