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Best Balance Bikes for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best balance bikes for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: August 5th, 2024

🚲Balance bikes are a great way for kids to learn balance and coordination before they move on to riding pedal bikes.

We've checked out lots of sources and tested many models ourselves to bring you the best balance bikes for 2024.

Covering different age groups and budgets, there's a pick here for every little cyclist.

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Overall Best: Guardian Balance Bike

KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike 2 Year Old, Age 24 Months to 5 Years Old, 12 Inch Push Bicycle with Customize Plate (3 Sets of Stickers Included), Steady Balancing, Gift Bike for 2-3 Boys Girls White

The Guardian Balance Bike is our top choice for its robust construction, straightforward assembly, and impressive safety features. Designed with air-filled tires, a steering limiter, and a handbrake to help children learn how to stop safely, this bike is an excellent step towards pedal biking. Suitable for kids aged 2 to 4 years, it boasts a stand-over height of 7 inches and weighs just 8.5 pounds, making it easy for little ones to handle.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$53.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How easy is it to assemble the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike?

Putting together the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike seems to be pretty easy, which is great for busy parents. From our research, the bike arrives mostly assembled, and you just need a few basic tools to finish the job. Many people have mentioned that the assembly process is pretty quick and doesn't cause much stress. This bike is designed for kids between 18 months and 5 years old, and the manufacturer says it has adjustable handlebars and a seat that can grow with your child. The frame is made from carbon steel, making it sturdy, and it can hold up to 110 pounds. A lot of parents seem to love how lightweight the bike is, as it makes it easier for toddlers to lift and move around on their own. Perfect for little ones starting to learn how to balance and ride. One thing to keep in mind, though, is how the wheels might perform. Some people have noted that the bike doesn't come with rubber tires, which could mean a bumpier ride, especially on rough surfaces. This might be something to consider depending on where your kiddo will be riding. Overall, the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike has a sturdy build and adjustable features that can grow with your child. Just remember to think about how the wheels might affect the ride when deciding if it's right for your situation.

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Are the wheels on the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike rubber or plastic?

So, the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike has these cool extra-thick all-terrain tires, but they aren't your typical rubber or plastic. They’re actually made of solid foam. This is something we found out when looking into it. The manufacturer claims that these foam tires are puncture-resistant, which is great if you're worried about keeping the bike low-maintenance. No need to deal with flat tires or checking air pressure, which you'd typically have to do with air-filled tires. From what we’ve gathered, some folks say these foam tires provide decent stability and grip for little ones. Even though air-filled tires might offer a smoother ride because they can absorb bumps, foam tires are pretty popular for toddlers since they're tough and low maintenance. Just a heads-up, though—some parents pointed out that these might feel a bit firmer than air-filled tires. In the end, choosing between pneumatic and foam tires really depends on what matters more to you: less maintenance or a cushier ride? Both have their own perks, so it’s good to think about what suits you and your little one best.

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What is the weight capacity of the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike?

When you're looking at balance bikes for toddlers, the weight capacity is definitely something to keep in mind. According to the manufacturer's details for the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike, it's suitable for kids between 18 months and 5 years old. However, the exact weight limit isn't clearly mentioned. It might be a good idea to check directly with the manufacturer or a detailed product listing for specifics on this. The bike doesn't have built-in brakes, which might worry some folks. But this is pretty standard for balance bikes because it encourages kids to learn balance and steer more naturally, using their feet to stop and start. Our research shows that many parents find this beneficial since it helps kids build up those core biking skills before they switch to bikes with pedals. The manufacturer highlights that the bike comes with soft rubber grip handlebars and a padded saddle, which should make it comfy and secure for little ones. It’s built to be adjustable too, so it can fit toddlers of different sizes pretty well. Plus, assembling it seems to be straightforward, which parents generally appreciate. Some people do express concerns about the lack of brakes, especially if the ground is hilly or uneven where they live. It's important to keep in mind the riding environment to make sure it's safe, given this model doesn't have brakes. To sum it up, while the KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike is a solid option for teaching young kids essential biking skills, if having brakes is a dealbreaker for you, you might want to look into other models that include them. It's always a good idea to think about where and how your child will be riding to make the best choice for them. For more details, checking out the manufacturer's website or detailed product listings might give you more info.

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Runner-up: REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Kids’ Balance Bike

Strider 12” Sport Bike - No Pedal Balance Bicycle for Kids 1 to 4 Years - Includes Safety Pad, Padded Seat, Mini Grips & Flat-Free Tires - Tool-Free Assembly & Adjustments Yellow

For taller children, the REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Kids’ Balance Bike is a superb option. This model is built with a sturdy frame and air-filled tires that ensure a smooth ride, even though it lacks a handbrake. While it is slightly heavier at 9 pounds, it offers an adjustable seat height that can vary by 4 inches, making it suitable for children aged 3 to 4 years. According to our research, this bike provides a comfortable and reliable riding experience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$129.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Banana Bike GT

banana bike Kids Balance Bike with Carbon Steel Frame - Adjustable Handlebar, Cushioned Seat, and Puncture-Proof 12" EVA Tires - Ideal for Toddlers Learning Balance - 35''x15.8'' - Blue Blue & Black Aluminium Frame

If you're looking for a budget-friendly pick, the Banana Bike GT is an excellent choice. At just 6.4 pounds, this bike is incredibly lightweight and manageable for young riders, though it does not come with a handbrake and can be somewhat tricky to assemble. It features a stand-over height of 8 inches and is designed for children aged 2 to 4 years. Given its price under $100, it offers great value for families on a budget.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$73.99 at Amazon

Best for Taller Kids: Ridgeback Scoot XL

For older or taller children, the Ridgeback Scoot XL is an ideal choice. This balance bike features a larger frame, air tires for added comfort, and a handbrake for safer stopping. The bike is highly durable and the seat height can be adjusted from 16 to 21.5 inches, fitting kids aged 4 and up. Although it is on the heavier side, its robustness makes it perfect for older children who need a reliable, long-lasting balance bike.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best Convertible Option: Strider 14x Sport

Strider 14x - Balance Bike for Kids 3 to 6 Years - Includes Custom Grips, Padded Seat, Performance Footrest & All-Purpose Tires - Easy Assembly & Adjustments Awesome Blue

The Strider 14x Sport is unique for its ability to transition from a balance bike to a pedal bike, making it a fantastic long-term investment. This model is suitable for children aged 3 to 5 years and features 14-inch wheels and a seat height range of 15 to 22 inches. While it is on the heavier side at 12.5 pounds and doesn't include a handbrake, its convertibility is a standout feature that can grow with your child, providing ongoing value.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$209.99 at Amazon

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