SkateHut’s Buyer’s Guide to Kids Bikes [2023]
If you're a parent or guardian looking to find the perfect bike for your child, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and ensure your child's biking experience is nothing short of extraordinary. We'll start by exploring the concept of balance bikes, shedding light on what they are and why they are a fantastic tool for introducing young children to the world of cycling. We'll delve into the question of what age balance bikes are suitable for, helping you decide if your child is ready to embark on their biking journey.
But that's not all – we won't stop at balance bikes! We understand that children grow quickly, and their biking needs change each year. That's why we'll also guide you through the range of bikes suitable for various age ranges, ensuring you can find the best bike for your child, whether they're a toddler, preschooler, or a bit older. At SkateHut, we are passionate about helping families discover the joy of biking. Our extensive knowledge and expertise allow us to provide you with valuable insights and the absolute best recommendations. We've created a list of top-quality kids bikes, considering factors such as durability, safety features, and of course, the fun factor.
Join us on this journey as we navigate the world of kids bikes together. By the end of this guide, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision and choose the perfect bike that suits your child's age, abilities, and preferences. Let's dive in and find the ideal bike that will ignite your child's love for cycling and set them on a path of endless adventures!
What is a Balance Bike?
A balance bike, also known as a run bike or a push bike, is a two-wheeled bicycle designed to help children learn balance and coordination before transitioning to a pedal bike. Unlike traditional bicycles, balance bikes do not have pedals, chains, or training wheels. Instead, they focus solely on developing a child's ability to balance and steer. The concept of a balance bike is simple yet effective. Children sit on the saddle, push off the ground with their feet, and glide along, using their legs to maintain balance and control. By using their feet as natural brakes, they learn to stop and control their speed.
Balance bikes are typically lightweight, with adjustable seat heights to accommodate children of different ages and sizes. They often have sturdy frames, pneumatic tires, and ergonomic handlebars to provide stability and comfort. One of the key benefits of balance bikes is that they allow children to develop confidence and skills at their own pace. By mastering balance and steering early on, children can seamlessly transition to pedal bikes without the need for training wheels. They develop a sense of control, spatial awareness, and coordination, making the transition to a pedal bike smoother and faster.
What age are balance bikes for?
Age doesn't define the fun when it comes to balance bikes! These awesome two-wheelers are designed to suit a wide range of ages and developmental stages, making them perfect for kids as young as 18 months up to around 5 years old. Starting around 18 months, little adventurers can hop on a balance bike and begin their journey to becoming confident riders. At this age, they're developing their gross motor skills and finding their balance. With a balance bike, they can start scooting around, using their feet to propel themselves forward and gradually learn the art of balance and coordination.
As toddlers grow into the preschool years, typically between the ages of 2 and 4, they become more adept at controlling their movements and refining their balance. This is a prime time to hop on a balance bike and continue honing those skills. They'll gain confidence, improve their coordination, and enhance their spatial awareness—all while having a blast! By around 5 years old, many children have mastered the art of balancing and are ready to transition to a pedal bike without training wheels. At this point, they have developed the necessary skills to pedal and balance simultaneously, thanks to their experience on a balance bike.
Remember, every child is unique and develops at their own pace. Some children may be ready for a balance bike earlier, while others may need a little more time. It's essential to assess your child's physical abilities, coordination, and confidence when determining if they're ready for a balance bike.
Best Balance Bikes for children aged 18 months to 5 years old
Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike - Black
When it comes to introducing young children to the world of biking, the Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike stands out as an exceptional choice for kids aged 18 months to 5 years old. Packed with features designed to enhance their riding experience and build confidence, this bike is a game-changer.
The Strider 12 Sport is all about making biking accessible and enjoyable for young riders. With its lightweight steel frame, this bike can handle all the bumps and tumbles that come with toddler adventures. The ultralight moulded wheels, equipped with flat-free foam rubber tires and maintenance-free sealed cartridge bearings, ensure a smooth and worry-free ride. What sets the Strider 12 Sport apart is its remarkable adjustability. With an easy-adjust clamping system, the seat height can be set anywhere between 28-48 cm (11-19 in.), accommodating the growth of your child as they go from tiny tots to unstoppable explorers. The inclusion of an extra-long seatpost ensures extended usage, so they can keep riding as they grow taller.
Comfort is a priority with the ergonomically-padded seat, providing a cosy spot for little ones to sit and enjoy their ride. The mini-grip handlebar, perfectly sized for small hands, offers a secure grip and control. Built-in footrests allow children to rest their feet while coasting, further enhancing their riding experience.
Not only is the Strider 12 Sport a well-designed bike, but it also comes with the Striders Learn-To-Ride Guide. This online resource provides valuable guidance, step-by-step instructions, and tips for parents to help their child progress from tentative first steps to confidently cruising around the neighbourhood.
Strider 12 Classic Balance Bike - Red
The Strider 12 Classic Balance Bike in vibrant red is the ultimate companion for your child's first biking adventures! This meticulously designed Strider balance bike offers a seamless transition from walking to riding, fostering confidence, balance, and coordination in young riders aged 18 months to 3 years. Built with durability and safety in mind, the Strider 12 Classic features a sturdy steel frame that can withstand the demands of active play. The adjustable seat height ensures a perfect fit for your growing child, making it suitable for years of use and countless memories.
The bikes all-weather plastic mini-seat provides comfort and support, while the ultralight moulded wheels, equipped with maintenance-free sealed cartridge bearings and foam rubber tires, deliver a smooth and quiet ride on various terrains. With no pedals or training wheels to distract them, children can solely focus on developing their balance and coordination skills. Weighing just 2.9kg, the Strider 12 Classic is incredibly lightweight, allowing young riders to handle and manoeuvre with ease. The standard handlebar and grips are designed to fit small hands comfortably, providing maximum control and stability during rides.
Safety is a top priority, and this balance bike is packed with features to protect your little rider. Built-in footrests allow children to practise balancing and gliding, while the low centre of gravity enhances stability, reducing the risk of falls. The padded saddle ensures a comfortable riding experience, encouraging longer adventures. With the Strider 12 Classic, your child will experience the joy of biking as they cruise around the neighbourhood, explore local parks, and join family outings. This balance bike instils a love for biking from an early age, nurturing a lifelong passion for outdoor activities and physical fitness.
Strider 12 Pro Balance Bike - Metallic Aqua
Introducing the Strider 12 Pro Balance Bike in stunning Metallic Aqua—the ultimate ride for spirited kids who are born ready to conquer the world. This ultralight, race-ready bike is designed for tiny toddlers who crave the wind in their face and the thrill of freedom at their fingertips. With its all-aluminium frame weighing just 2.5kg (5.6lbs.), the Strider 12 Pro is a speed demon, even for little riders still in diapers. The adjustable seat height ranges from 28-48cm (11-19in.) and the inclusion of an extra-long seatpost ensures a perfect fit as your child grows. No growth spurt can outpace this bike's capabilities.
Every detail of the Strider 12 Pro is crafted for performance and style. The textured performance footrest, maintenance-free 12" foam rubber tires, and premium sealed cartridge wheel bearings make riding a breeze. With easy-adjust clamps, customization is a snap. The bike even comes with an official Strider racing number plate and a sleek metallic aqua finish, giving your little one the best of both worlds in terms of function and style. Strider Bikes make learning to ride a breeze. With the Strider Learn-To-Ride Guide, available online when you register your child's Strider, you'll receive step-by-step advice to help your little one progress from baby steps to confidently zipping through the neighbourhood. Success is just around the corner, for both you and your kiddo, with the Strider 12 Pro.
Fuel your child's adventurous spirit with the Strider 12 Pro Balance Bike in mesmerising Metallic Aqua. This ultralight, high-performance bike will unleash their racing instincts and nurture their love for two-wheeled adventures. Let them experience the exhilaration of speed, the joy of independence, and the thrill of mastering balance. With the Strider 12 Pro, your little rider will blaze their own trail and create memories of pure excitement that will last a lifetime.
Strider 14x Sport Balance Bike - Green
Introducing the Strider 14x Sport Balance Bike in vibrant Green—a bike that grows with your child and provides the perfect platform for their biking adventures. Designed with utmost care and engineered for growing riders, this bike offers an exceptional riding experience for children aged 3 to 7 years. The Strider 14x Sport is sized just right for young riders. With features like grips designed to fit a child's hands, a lightweight frame, and a low standover height, this bike is perfectly tailored to their needs. The easily adjustable lever clamp allows for quick seat height adjustments, ensuring a comfortable fit as your child grows and develops.
Assembly is a breeze with the Strider 14x Sport. In just minutes, you can have your child rolling and ready to go. We even provide the tools you'll need, making the process hassle-free and convenient. What sets the Strider 14x Sport apart is its adaptability. With the optional Strider Easy-Ride Pedal Kit (sold separately), this balance bike can easily convert to your child's first pedal bike. The transition is seamless, allowing your child to continue their biking journey without missing a beat.
Built to withstand the demands of active play, the Strider 14x Sport is incredibly durable despite its lightweight construction. It can handle all the abuse your child throws at it, ensuring years of enjoyment and countless adventures. At Strider, we stand behind the quality of our bikes. That's why we offer a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects, ensuring your ownership of a Strider Bike is a worry-free experience.
Get your child on the path to biking success with the Strider 14x Sport Balance Bike in eye-catching Green. With its high adjustability, durability, and easy conversion to a pedal bike, this bike will accompany your child on their journey from balance biking to pedalling with confidence. Let them experience the joy of independent riding, foster their love for outdoor activities, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Bikes for children aged 7 to 12 years old
Outright X1 20" Kids Complete BMX
Introducing the Outright X1 20" Kids Complete BMX—a bike designed to unleash the inner adventurer in children aged 7 to 12 years old. Packed with features and built with quality in mind, the X1 is the ultimate choice for young riders ready to take on the world of BMX. The X1 features a high-ten steel frame and an adjustable seat post, allowing it to grow alongside its rider. This means that as your child grows in height and skill, the bike can be easily adjusted to ensure a comfortable and optimal riding experience.
With the X1, young riders can perform full 360° bar spins, making it a perfect choice for beginners looking to take their skills to the next level. The inclusion of both front and rear brake mechanisms ensures maximum safety without compromising the bike's ability to perform tricks and spins. Designed with kids in mind, the X1 is suitable for ages 7 to 12 years, thanks to its ideal wheel and frame size. Outright has created a bike that is accessible and affordable, allowing young thrill-seekers to embark on exciting adventures without breaking the bank.
Outright believes in making the extreme the norm, and the X1 is no exception. This bike encourages kids to have fun, explore their limits, and improve their skills. It's a gateway to a world of outdoor excitement and thrilling experiences.
United Recruit 16'' Complete BMX - Aqua Fade
Get ready to make a splash with the United Recruit 16'' Complete BMX in Aqua Fade. This bike is the perfect choice for young riders who want to dive into the world of BMX and make a bold statement with their style. The United Recruit 16'' features a 1020 Hi-Ten frame, designed with welded brake mounts, a 1 1/8'' head tube, and an embossed logo on the down tube. With a top tube length of 16'', this BMX is ideal for riders looking for a compact and maneuverable ride.
Equipped with Cromo steerer tube forks and 1020 Hi-Tensile steel legs, the United Recruit ensures durability and stability for smooth rides and confident landings. The 7'' x 22.5'' handlebars offer comfortable control, while the United Mushroom Jr grips provide a secure grip during intense sessions. The bike is equipped with a reliable rear brake and an alloy lever, ensuring quick and efficient stops. The 3-piece 127mm tubular cranks with an 8-spline design and a 25t steel sprocket deliver power and durability for tricks and jumps.
The United Recruit 16'' rolls on alloy rims with 20h single-wall construction and features United Direct 16'' x 2.10'' tires, providing excellent traction and control. The seat, seat post, and seat clamp are designed with comfort and durability in mind, allowing young riders to focus on their tricks without distractions. With its eye-catching Aqua Fade colourway, the United Recruit 16'' stands out from the crowd. It's not just a bike; it's a statement of style and a reflection of the rider's personality.
Whether your child is just starting their BMX journey or already honing their skills, the United Recruit 16'' Complete BMX is the perfect companion. With its reliable components, sturdy construction, and attention to detail, this bike offers an exciting and safe ride for young riders looking to conquer the streets, skateparks, and dirt jumps.
Bikes for teenagers and adults
SE So Cal Flyer 24'' 2021 Complete BMX - Yellow Camo
Take your BMX skills to new heights with the SE So Cal Flyer 24'' 2021 Complete BMX in Yellow Camo. Designed with teenagers and adults in mind, this bike delivers an unparalleled riding experience and is the ultimate choice for those seeking excitement and performance. The SE So Cal Flyer 24'' features a 6061 aluminium Floval tubing frame, offering strength, durability, and a sleek look. With an internal head tube, wide rear stays, and SE wave dropouts, this bike provides stability and control during high-speed maneuvers and jumps. Equipped with a Landing Gear fork and SE 3-pc Cr-Mo crankset, the So Cal Flyer delivers outstanding power transfer and responsive handling. The SE nylon fiber platform pedals provide optimal grip and stability, allowing you to confidently execute tricks and maneuvers.
With SE Bozack street-proven multi-purpose tires and double-wall rims, this bike ensures excellent traction, durability, and a smooth ride on various terrains. The Promax V-brakes and Promax alloy brake levers offer reliable stopping power, giving you the confidence to push your limits. The SE BIKELIFE grips with SE rubber end plugs provide a comfortable and secure grip, while the SE So Cal Flyer seat with a super grippy top cover enhances comfort during long rides. The SE BIKELIFE wheelie pegs and alloy valve caps add a touch of style and versatility to your riding experience.
SE Big Flyer 29'' 2021 Complete BMX - Black Sparkle
Conquer the streets with the SE Big Flyer 29'' 2021 Complete BMX in Black Sparkle. Designed for riders seeking excitement and performance, this bike is the ultimate choice for teenagers and adults. The SE Big Flyer 29'' features a durable 6061 aluminum Floval tubing frame with wide rear stays and SE wave dropouts, ensuring strength and stability on any terrain. The addition of an internal headset and mid-bottom bracket enhances the bike's durability and control, allowing you to push your limits with confidence. The SE Bozack street-proven multi-purpose tires and double-wall rims provide superior traction and durability, ensuring a smooth ride on various surfaces. The Promax V-brakes and alloy brake levers offer reliable stopping power, keeping you safe during intense rides.
With its 29" x 2.4" front and rear tires, the Big Flyer handles obstacles with ease, while the Big Honkin' cruiser bar with comfortable grips ensures a relaxed and enjoyable riding experience. The SE Big Flyer seat with a super grippy top cover adds to your comfort during long rides. Weighing 32 lbs, the Big Flyer strikes the perfect balance between agility and stability. Its geometry, including a 23.5" actual top tube length and a 43.3" wheelbase, provides a comfortable and controlled ride for riders of all skill levels.
