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  4. 10 Best Balance Bikes in 2022 (Radio Flyer, Banana Bike, and More)
  • 10 Best Balance Bikes in 2022 (Radio Flyer, Banana Bike, and More) 1
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  • 10 Best Balance Bikes in 2022 (Radio Flyer, Banana Bike, and More) 3
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10 Best Balance Bikes in 2022 (Radio Flyer, Banana Bike, and More)

Looking for a way to strengthen your child's skills and prepare them for a big kid's bike? Introducing the balance bike, also known as the running bike because it has no pedals. Young kids can have tons of fun on it and hone essential techniques at the same time.

Take Strider's 12 Sport Balance Bike, for example. It's lightweight, ergonomically built, and durable enough to accommodate your growing child. We've got nine more parent-approved balance bikes plus a buying guide to help steer you in the right direction of selecting the best one.

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Balance Bike – Buying Guide

Balance bikes are intended for small children, usually toddlers, although there are balance bikes for babies developing motor skills. Balance bikes for toddlers have become quite popular and offer a great alternative to training wheels. Make sure to consider the bike's weight and height and the intended rider, among other safety features when picking one.

1

Make Sure the Balance Bike is Age- and Height-Appropriate

One of the first things you should consider when choosing a balance bike is your child’s age and height. Many children are capable of riding a balance bike, starting around 18 months old. However, children grow at different speeds, and their heights may be different, even though they’re the same age.

Match a Toddler Balance Bike With Their Height

Match a Toddler Balance Bike With Their Height

While most balance bikes for toddlers have a wheel size ranging from 12 to 16 inches, it is not enough to get the optimal height based on wheel size, unlike regular bikes. With that said, a more accurate way to pair the right height with your child is to measure your child's inseam or the distance between your child's topmost inner thigh area to the ground.


The inseam should then be paired with the bike's height, with the seat about half an inch to an inch shorter to get the most comfortable height. For example, a 13-inch inseam should have a seat height of about 12.5 inches. The seat height and its adjustability (if any) should be readily available in the product description or reviews.


Your child must be able to stand with his or her feet firmly on the ground while straddling the balance bike. Their knees should be bent just a bit when seated so they can comfortably push themselves forward or stop conveniently. We also recommend adjusting the handlebars, if possible, on your child’s bike so it matches his or her height.

Stability is Crucial for Baby Balance Bikes

Stability is Crucial for Baby Balance Bikes

Baby balance bikes are smaller and shorter and are suitable for babies ten months and above or those about 26 to 35 inches in height. Also known as baby walkers, these bikes are best for those who can already walk. They often come with three to four wheels that keep the bike upright at all times.


Balance bikes for babies help develop motor skills such as steering and maneuvering, balancing, or pushing themselves while on the seat without tumbling over as the wheels provide constant support. 

2

Check the Bike's Tire Material

Check the Bike's Tire Material

You should also consider the bike's tire material. Tires play a crucial part in the bike's performance and comfort for the rider. They are often made with plastic, for a no-inflating-needed approach or the typical air-filled rubber tire. 


Foam tires are lightweight and never go flat. However, you need to consider the surface the bike will be ridden on. If the child will mainly stick to pavement or indoor flooring, foam tires would suffice. More aggressive riders who prefer a variety of terrains like off-road, grass, or pebbled streets, for example, would need rubber tires. 


When using foam tires, it is important to note that the material has less traction than rubber ones, so they might slip or slide during leaning turns. The decision would then be based on the riding surface and the child's riding style.

3

Take a Look at Weight: Both Rider and Bike

Take a Look at Weight: Both Rider and Bike

Having a lightweight bike is convenient for parents who may have to carry it to the park or the car. They may weight as light as six pounds, so a lightweight balance bike means the child can lift it independently if they tip over or need to carry it across a street. Plus, it's easier to control a lightweight bike, meaning a smoother ride. 


On top of the bike's weight, the child's weight should also be considered to ensure they match. A general rule would be a bike that doesn't weigh more than 30 percent of your kid's weight. We also recommend checking the maximum weight capacity of the bicycle as an extra precautionary measure to gauge if the overall design could handle the rider safely. 

4

Gauge if Brakes are Needed

Gauge if Brakes are Needed

Most balance bikes don’t have a handbrake, so are they even necessary? The answer is they're optional and not a requirement. While having handbrakes is standard for bicycles, a balance bike is meant for young riders who are still honing their balance and might find the hand-eye coordination of braking too distracting. 


Furthermore, toddlers often find it difficult to grasp and pull brakes, given their smaller hands. When they do get older, however, hand brakes are a great addition to help save their shoes, prevent injury and prepare them for the pedal bike. 

5

Look at Added Features Like Turn Limiters or Footrests

Look at Added Features Like Turn Limiters or Footrests

Other added features on a balance bike make a child's experience more worthwhile, such as turn limiters, footrests, kickstands, and handlebar grips. Turn limiters are an attachment located above the front wheel which prevents it from completing a full revolution. This safety feature prevents sharp turns on the handlebar.


The jury is still out on turn limiters - some noting it is an essential safety feature for young kids still learning how to ride at slow speeds and others saying it prevents kids from learning proper steering. In line with handlebar capabilities, you might also be interested in extra padding or gripping on this area to help your child maintain better control. 


Footrests, although not easily spotted at first glance, are often included on the bike's frame. The extra frame space near the back wheel lets your child relax when stationary or while gliding, although they should not obstruct the feet when pushing.


Meanwhile, kickstands are nifty features, especially if you don't have a designated spot to lean the balance bike. They might be sold separately, so we recommend checking for this add-on if necessary. 

6

Consider a Balance Bike With Optional Pedals

Consider a Balance Bike With Optional Pedals

Since your child will eventually graduate to a standard pedal bike, it makes sense to purchase a balance bike that can transform into a pedal bike. That way, you don’t have to buy a second bike, saving you money, and your kid will transition easily, as he or she gets to use the same bike. 


However, we recommend checking the child's height and weight beforehand, to estimate if they will outgrow a balance bike, resulting in the same one being too small for a pedal bike. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Balance Bikes

To pick our recommended balance bikes, we’ve looked at factors such as ease of use, design, weight capacity and suitable age range.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Strider

12 Sport Balance Bike

Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike 1枚目

Ergonomic Seat and Footrests for Comfortable Riding

2

Radio Flyer

Air Ride Balance Bike

Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike 1枚目

Kid-Friendly Design That Teaches Balance

3

Ancaixin

Baby Balance Bikes

Ancaixin Baby Balance Bikes 1枚目

A Balance Bike for the Young Learner

4

Janod

Scooter Mint Balance Bike

Janod Scooter Mint Balance Bike  1枚目

Kids Can Ride in Style

5

Glide Bikes

Kid's Go Glider Balance Bike

Glide Bikes Kid's Go Glider Balance Bike 1枚目

An Ideal Balance Bike for Late Bloomers

6

The Croco

Lightweight Balance Bike for Toddlers and Kids

The Croco Lightweight Balance Bike for Toddlers and Kids 1枚目

Extremely Lightweight and Simple to Assemble

7

Aceger

Balance Bike for Kids with Basket

Aceger Balance Bike for Kids with Basket 1枚目

A Fancy Kids Ride With Air-Filled Tires

8

Xiapia

Baby Balance Bike

Xiapia Baby Balance Bike  1枚目

Limited Turn Control for Extra Stability

9

Banana Bike

LT Balance Bike

Banana Bike  LT Balance Bike 1枚目

Get On and Off This Bike Easily

10

Gomo

Balance Bike

Gomo Balance Bike 1枚目

A Transitional Bike With a Turn Limiter

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Strider12 Sport Balance Bike

12 Sport Balance Bike Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$109.99
Reference price
$109.99

Ergonomic Seat and Footrests for Comfortable Riding

Striders are known to be sturdy, easy to use, lightweight and they'll also grow with your child from toddlerhood to preschool years. This sport model has an ergonomically-padded seat and built-in footrests, making your child's riding experience more comfortable. 

A few reviewers thought that for the price, the bike could have rubber and not plastic tires. Some had an issue with the seat not staying in position. Meanwhile, many others noted that the bike's design was good overall. It's easy to assemble and was a hit among toddlers and young kids. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Radio FlyerAir Ride Balance Bike

Air Ride Balance Bike Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$59.99
Reference price
$59.99

Kid-Friendly Design That Teaches Balance

This balance bike is light on the pocket, has a sleek frame, air-filled rubber tires and an attached bell. What's more, the seat is adjustable, so you can extend the height as your child's inseam lengthens. The design of the balance bike is all about promoting independence within the limits of safe play. 

A few reviewers mentioned the bike was challenging to assemble due to the poorly explained instructions. The handlebars were also wobbly for some. On a positive note, parents shared their kids quickly got the hang of the bike, making it a great training tool. The construction is very sturdy and the overall bike was well-built.

No.3

AncaixinBaby Balance Bikes

Baby Balance Bikes Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$59.99
Reference price
$59.99

A Balance Bike for the Young Learner

This bike is designed for younger children who are learning to walk or mastering their balance. It has three wheels for support and would not tumble to one side when not in use. The handlebar is soft and non-slip, plus the frame is made with sturdy carbon steel so your baby can climb and push the bike with ease. 


A few reviewers wished the bike seat was adjustable so it could accommodate growing children. It was also too wobbly for some babies to use. Meanwhile, parents shared that the bike helped their kids practice balancing and strengthened their legs in the process. Furthermore, the adorable colors and designs made it a hit among young children.

No.4

JanodScooter Mint Balance Bike

Scooter Mint Balance Bike  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$109.99
Reference price
$109.99

Kids Can Ride in Style

This bike looks like the iconic Vespa, giving your child a stylish ride while they learn to balance and strengthen their legs. It comes with an adjustable seat to adapt to your child's growing height. Meanwhile, the rubber handles ensure a non-slip grip as the young learner maneuvers the scooter. 


According to a few reviewers, the plastic rims could crack easily, and there are no replacement parts offered by the manufacturer. The wooden seat could also be uncomfortable for some kids. Still, many others said the bike was adorable. Customer service is responsive to address issues such as overinflating tires. Parents loved that the bike was made of high-quality wood. 

No.5

Glide BikesKid's Go Glider Balance Bike

Kid's Go Glider Balance Bike Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$130.42
Reference price
$130.42

An Ideal Balance Bike for Late Bloomers

The Go Glider balance bike is the largest in this category and is designed for older kids. This balance bike is designed to move more slowly than standard pedal and balance bikes. Once the child is more confident, parents can remove the footrests and install the pedals (kit sold separately), making it a great way to get your kid off training wheels and onto a two-wheeler.


Assembly was a challenge for a few parents because of the blurry instructions. Some also commented that the brakes were of poor quality. Meanwhile, many others said the bike was sturdy and an excellent balance bike that transitions to pedals. The product successfully taught kids how to ride a bike.

No.6

The CrocoLightweight Balance Bike for Toddlers and Kids

Lightweight Balance Bike for Toddlers and Kids Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$74.90
Reference price
$74.90

Extremely Lightweight and Simple to Assemble

This toddler bike might be made with aluminum, but it is extremely lightweight, weighing only four pounds. It has an adjustable padded seat and handlebars, so you can expect this to grow with your child. What's more, the quick-release clamps let you assemble the bike without any tools needed. 


A few reviewers noted that the bike was smaller than expected. Some said the seat only extends to a height of 13 inches off the ground. Meanwhile, many parents confirmed this was truly lightweight and easy to set up. Children's feet or legs swing freely on the sides without getting caught on the frame. 

No.7

AcegerBalance Bike for Kids with Basket

Balance Bike for Kids with Basket Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$95.99
Reference price
$95.99

A Fancy Kids Ride With Air-Filled Tires

This looks like your classic city bike, wicker basket included. Unlike other balance bikes with plastic wheels, this one has air-filled rubber wheels, lessening the vibration when riding on roads. Your child also gets all the perks like soft handlebar grips, reflectors, and a bell. This bike is a great stepping stone to the pedaled version. 


A few reviewers noted that the seat's lowest height setting (16 inches from the ground) might be too high for young kids. On a positive note, parents loved the beautiful, well-crafted bike that is easy to assemble. They added it taught kids how to balance effectively. 

No.8

XiapiaBaby Balance Bike

Baby Balance Bike  Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$59.99
Reference price
$59.99

Limited Turn Control for Extra Stability

This balance bike is designed for young learners developing motor skills. It comes with four wheels for added stability and comfort during use. The simplistic design makes it easy for babies to grab the handlebars, get on the seat and push forward. It also has a 135-degree turn limitation to keep the child from falling over.


A few parents wished the seat was adjustable as it was too small for the child even within the recommended age. Still, most of the user reviews indicate zero problems with the bike. Parents noted it's cute, sturdy and perfect for babies who know how to walk.

No.9

Banana Bike LT Balance Bike

 LT Balance Bike Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$59.99
Reference price
$59.99

Get On and Off This Bike Easily

This balance bike is designed with child safety in mind. It has safety grips for better control and an ergonomic design that makes it easy for kids to get on and off the bike. Furthermore, this bike's seat can adjust up to 3.5 inches to accommodate your child's growing height. 


A few reviewers had issues assembling the bike, noting the parts don't fit or tighten properly. Meanwhile, many parents shared that their kids would use the bike everywhere with no issues. They advise others who want their toddler to ride a regular bike to get this one as it would teach the fundamental techniques well.

No.10

GomoBalance Bike

Balance Bike Image 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$69.99
Reference price
$69.99

A Transitional Bike With a Turn Limiter

This bike looks like a big kids bike but is made for toddlers still mastering how to balance. Weighing 10.3 pounds and being designed with a curved frame makes it easy to carry this bike around. What's more, its custom footrest gives kids a wide space for their feet. The turn limiter on the handlebar frame helps kids perfect control and steering. 


According to a few reviewers, the front wheel and handlebar unaligned quickly. Some noted the wheels were "sticky" and didn't spin properly. Still, many reviewers said the assembly was a breeze, and it's easy to transport the bike anywhere. The seat's height adjustability was secure, and kids got to use the balance bike for years. 

Grab a Few More Kids' Essentials

Are you ready for more must-have activities and tools for kids that guarantee hours of fun? We've got a few suggestions to get you started. 

Top 5 Balance Bikes

No. 1: Strider12 Sport Balance Bike

No. 2: Radio FlyerAir Ride Balance Bike

No. 3: AncaixinBaby Balance Bikes

No. 4: JanodScooter Mint Balance Bike

No. 5: Glide BikesKid's Go Glider Balance Bike

View Full Ranking

The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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