We’re big fans of balance bikes at The Shopping Mama. My son scooted his way around town on a balance bike for several years, and preferred it over his “bike boy bike” with training wheels. People, especially balance bike companies, will tell you that the bikes are a great way to ease into learning to ride a bike. The idea, of course, is that using a balance bike teaches a child the motor skills necessary to ride a bike without worrying about pedaling at the same time. I can happily report that this proved to be true for my son who last week declared “I’m ready to take off my training wheels.” And sure enough he was because he hoped on his bike and rode off, down the street, all by himself. Just like that, he’s riding a bike.
Here’s our round up of balance bike reviews and the pros and cons of each bike.
Hobby Bike 2-in-1 Balance Bike
- To Buy: Transitions to regular bike with pedals.
- Or Not to Buy: More complicated design.
- Shop: Available in four colors for $140.
LIKEaBIKE Mountain Balance Bike
- To Buy: Excellent craftsmanship, classic style, great seat height adjustment for longevity.
- Or Not to Buy: High price tag.
- Shop: Available in variety of colors for $315.
- To Buy: Classic, eco-friendly design and affordable price point.
- Or Not to Buy: Concern about its lifespan and ability to stand the test of time.
- Shop: Get it on Amazon for $71 for classic red and $55 for pink.
Prince Lionheart Whirl Balance Bike Review
- To Buy: Fun, playful design. For boys, check out the Chop.
- Or Not to Buy: Heaviest bike of the bunch.
- Shop: Available on Amazon for $90.
We’d love to hear from you in the comments: Did your child use a balance bike? Do you think it helped them learn to ride a bike more easily? Do you have a favorite balance bike?
nancy
June 13, 2012We have the new strider balance bikes and LOVE them- for what it’s worth (I know you didn’t review this brand
All the children (ages 3-5) cruise around fast and safe, and the bikes are small and light enough to pack on a road trip.
I’ve heard good things about Strider Bikes, Nancy. Thanks for sharing!
Monica
June 13, 2012I am totally giving that Hobby bike I reviewed all the credit for my son to now be able to ride a two wheeler at age 4 completely unassisted! It was a great thing to be able to add the pedals to a small framed bike once he got his balance. I literally added the pedals and off he went. I never touched the bike once. Now I just need a way to turn it pink for my daughter:)