Balance bikes for kids

Balance Bike: What You Need to Know

Developing a child’s stability and balance before their first “real” bike is very important. Good balance helps prevent falls, improves agility and reaction, and builds confidence. A lightweight balance bike from 1.5 years old – with a wooden or aluminum frame – gives the child a sense of safety, helps them learn to control the bike, and turns their first rides into a fun game.

These bikes have no pedals or brakes, allowing the child to focus entirely on balance and coordination. The skills gained while riding a balance bike make it easier and more natural to move on to the first pedal bike.

Which Balance Bike Frame to Choose?

Balance bikes differ by frame type, so before buying it’s worth reviewing the main frame materials, their advantages, and drawbacks:

• Wooden balance bike frames stand out for their natural and warm design. They absorb vibrations well, making the ride smoother and more comfortable. Such frames are also more eco-friendly – made from renewable materials. However, wood requires a bit more care – it’s sensitive to moisture and temperature changes, so it’s best suited for dry weather conditions.
• Lightweight plastic balance bikes are made from very light but durable plastic. This construction allows children to easily control, lift, or stop the bike without much effort. These bikes are especially suitable for the youngest riders – they are comfortable, stable, and maintenance-free. A great choice for the first independent rides.

• Aluminum balance bikes are light, strong, and resistant to corrosion. They handle impacts, uneven surfaces, and active use very well, making them a highly practical choice. However, aluminum absorbs less vibration, so the ride can feel slightly stiffer, especially on rougher terrain.

Balance Bike Sizes

While there’s a general link between a child’s age and the right balance bike size, children’s height often varies regardless of age. Therefore, when choosing, it’s most important to consider wheel size and leg length – the child should be able to place both feet flat on the ground while seated.

A general balance bike size guide by age:

• From 18 months to 2 years – models with 10-inch wheels are suitable.
• 2–3 years – usually fit 10 or 12-inch wheels.
• 3–4 years – typically use 12-inch balance bikes.
• 4–5 years – 14-inch wheels are suitable.
• 5–6 years – best match 16-inch balance bikes.

Most balance bikes feature adjustable seat height and handlebars, allowing them to grow with the child. When choosing, also pay attention to weight – the lighter the bike, the easier it will be for the child to control. The lightest models usually have aluminum or plastic frames, though wooden frames also offer great stability and a pleasant riding feel.

We also invite you to visit the VELONOVA physical store – here you can test several models and find the one that’s most comfortable and enjoyable for your child to ride.

Safety from the First Ride

Before putting your child on their first pedal bike, we recommend starting with a balance bike. It’s a safe and natural way for a child to learn balance, coordination, and confidence. Children who start with balance bikes usually learn to ride pedal bikes faster and feel more confident from their very first meters.

In our store, you’ll find a carefully selected range of high-quality models: Specialized Hotwalk, Early Rider Charger, Early Rider Big Foot, Early Rider SuperPly, Early Rider Bella Velio, Early Rider Super Velio, Micro Balance. All these balance bikes feature a solid construction, lightweight design, and geometry suited for the youngest riders.

To make every ride not only fun but also safe, we also offer kids’ bike helmets that meet safety standards and bike lights to ensure visibility even in low light conditions.

We wish our little cyclists exciting discoveries and safe adventures!