Best balance bike: how to buy a two-wheeler for your child

A balance bike will prepare your child for a traditional bicycle by teaching them how to balance and steer, all while building their independence.

If you're shopping for your first balance bike, it's important to consider the key features. For one, the bike needs to be the ideal height so that it's safe to use. Plus, you need to consider the size of the wheels and whether or not you'd like safety features such as brakes and footrests.

In our expert guide, we peddle through the benefits of buying a balance bike for your little one. We've also rounded up some popular models at a range of budgets – including picks from Strider and Kinderkraft.

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What is a balance bike?

A balance bike is a simplified version of an adult bicycle, designed to teach young children how to balance and steer. Most balance bikes are recommended for children over 18 months old.

These bikes don't have pedals or gears, so toddlers must use their feet to propel and stop themselves. Most are made from lightweight metal – which makes them easier for kids to manoeuvre and for parents to carry at the end of an outdoor adventure.

Popular balance bikes feature an adjustable seat that you can raise as your child gets taller. For example, some models we’ve seen are suitable for children aged 1 to 5 years. Balance bikes are often protected with puncture-proof tyres, too.

Are balance bikes better than stabilisers?

A balance bike is designed to teach balance right away, whereas a bike with stabilisers places the focus on learning to pedal and steer. If your child develops strong coordination with their balance bike, they might be able to skip stabilisers entirely and advance directly to a pedal bike.

Make sure your child is protected with a secure-fitting helmet (plus kneepads if needed) and remember that everybody's experience learning to ride will be unique – some children will gain confidence fast, while others need more practice and benefit from a slower approach.

What should you consider when buying a balance bike?

• Wheel size – this is measured by the wheel's diameter. 10, 12 and 14-inch wheels are the most common type. Larger wheels can offer improved stability, but they're no good if your child is raised too high off the ground.
• Tyre type – foam tyres are common as they're cheaper for manufacturers to produce. However, air tyres offer better traction and cushioning, making them a better choice for uneven terrain. Think about the areas where the bike will be used when deciding.
• Brakes – can give your child more confidence and serve as a good practice before a 'proper' bike. Make sure your child can easily reach the brakes before setting off.
• Adjustable seat – seat height is the best indicator of a good fit for your toddler. We recommend choosing a model with an adjustable seat post to accommodate your child's growth. When riding, your little one should have a slight bend in their knee while pushing. If the seat is too low, it can make pushing uncomfortable.
• Footrests – some balance bikes feature a built-in footrest, positioned out of your child's stride, for use while gliding.
• Hand grips – many cheaper bikes feature plastic grips that aren't particularly comfortable when used for long periods. Mid-range and premium alternatives tend to have ergonomic, rubber grips.

Popular balance bikes

When buying a balance bike, it’s essential to get the perfect fit for your child – so an in-store visit could be worthwhile. Buying online will potentially save you some money and works if you know the right size and style you’re looking for.

Paw Patrol Balance Bike

• Age guide: 1-5 years
• Bike weight: 2kg

This is one of the most popular balance bikes on the Halfords website. The bike is decorated with pictures of the Paw Patrol crew (the retailer sells a matching helmet) and features 10-inch foam wheels that are puncture-proof. Note that this model doesn't have brakes.

The Paw Patrol balance bike comes equipped with an adjustable handlebar height and seat height. It has moulded handlebar grips to help keep your child in control as they navigate hills and tight turns.

Strider 12 Classic Balance Bike

• Age guide: 2 years+
• Bike weight: 2.9kg

Strider is arguably the most well-known brand in balance bikes and is praised for its use of high-quality materials. This bike, , which uses 12-inch foam rubber tyres, comes in a selection of colours and is made from a lightweight, steel frame. It doesn't have brakes, so your child will need to use their feet to come to a stop.

Clamps on this balance bike let you adjust the seat and handlebars to grow along with your child. In the box, you'll find various tools needed to assemble the bike. 

Peppa Pig Balance Bike

• Age guide: 1-5 years
• Bike weight: 2kg

This colourful balance bike uses 10-inch, puncture-proof foam tyres to steer your little one through the park. The bike is made from a steel frame and has a removable front character plaque. Halfords also sells a Peppa Pig helmet and Rainbow Bell.

According to the retailer, the wheels have a 'deep tread' for improved stability. Your child will also benefit from an adjustable handlebar and seat, plus moulded grips.

Chillafish Charlie Balance Bike

• Age guide: 1.5-4 years
• Bike weight: 2.5kg

Another popular balance bike that has an adjustable seat and handlebars. It uses puncture-proof, 10-inch tyres and includes an integrated carry handle for parents. This model is available in black (with brown seat), blue (with black seat) and pink (with yellow seat).

Chillafish claims the seat has been specially moulded to provide 'superior support as your child tackles obstacles on their route. It doesn't feature brakes, though.

Kinderkraft Baby Balance Bike

• Age guide: 1 year+
• Bike weight: 1.8kg

This balance bike and tricyle hybrid might catch your eye if you're aiming to keep costs low. It's different to the other models on our list as it features three wheels and is designed for children as young as one year old.

The Kinderkraft Baby Balance Bike has foam wheels, non-slip handles and a soft, adjustable seat so you can get the perfect fit for your little one. It's particularly lightweight, so you shouldn't have a problem carrying it to the car or across the garden.

What age is a balance bike for?

Balance bikes are primarily designed for children over 18 months, or children that aren't quite ready for a traditional pedal bike. Some models, such as the Kinderkraft Baby Balance, are suitable for even younger kids. They typically accommodate children up to around 4 or 5 years old.

By choosing a balance bike with adjustable features, you can modify the seat height and handlebars as your child grows. This provides better value for your money and allows the bike to be used for a longer period.  It also lets you pass the bike down to a younger sibling if they want to learn themselves.

When shopping for a balance bike, check that the minimum seat height is appropriate and note the maximum height as well.

How do you teach children to ride balance bikes?

Before teaching your child to ride, make sure their balance bike is properly set up — check the seat height (your child should have both feet flat on the ground while seated), fixings and tyre air pressure. Consult the manufacturer's guide or website if you're unsure.

Here are a selection of tips on teaching your child to gain confidence with their balance bike:

• Start simple – you don't need to tackle hills and corners right away, so start slow with a smooth, straight course.
• Demonstrate – without putting all of your weight on the bike, show your child how to lift their legs over the frame and push themselves along. Children often learn by imitating.
• Master walking – see if you can get your child to slowly walk the bike from one point to another while sitting on the saddle.
• Gaining confidence – try finding a local park that has some gradual hills to conquer. Remind your child how to safely come to a stop if they need to.
• Coasting – teach your child that they don't always need to be pushing themselves along. If their balance bike has a footrest, explain how to use it and encourage them to balance while coasting.
• Build your own courses – if you have enough space, consider buying some cones online and setting up your own track. Your little one might enjoy creating new, twisting layouts of their own.

Remember to be patient with your child while learning to ride and celebrate small wins along the way.

Can you add pedals to a balance bike?

Some balance bikes, often known as 2-in-1 bikes, have a detachable pedal kit with a chain.

By adding pedals to the bike, you can teach your child to raise their feet entirely off the ground once their balance is good enough. Investing in a 2-in-1 bike also saves you from having to grab a separate pedal bike at a later date.

Many big-name balance bike brands offer conversion kits. Strider's Easy-Ride Pedal Kit, for example, transforms the Strider 14x Sport from a balance bike to a pedal bike.