Balance bikes teach children about balance and movement, helping them build confidence and have fun in the process. Say goodbye to training wheels – these two-wheeled balance bikes teach your youngster biking basics and allow for a natural transition from kiddie to big kid bike.

But what balance bike do you purchase for your little one? We’ve answered some of the most common questions here which might help you decide:

What is a balance bike?

A balance bike has no pedals, instead children guide the bikes with their feet.  They are designed to teach children to balance on 2 wheels which makes that progression to a pedal bike down the track so much easier!

What are the benefits of a balance bike?

Aside from the obvious benefit of gaining balance skills, they are a great way to introduce them to bikes and bike riding. They are easy for little ones to control and maneuver so great for getting their bike confidence up.  To start with on their balance bike they may learn to use it by sitting on it and just using their feet to walk the bike. Over time once they have mastered some balance skills, they will pick their feet up and start to glide or run along!

What ages are balance bikes suitable for?

Broadly speaking our Runna bikes will suit children from the age of 1-5 years. The most important factor to take into account when determining if a Runna bike is suitable for your child (and which Runna balance bike is suitable) is the leg length of your child. Your child should be able to place their feet firmly on the ground when seated. To check sizing, simply measure your child’s inner leg and compare with our size guide below.

 

Does using a balance bike help avoid using training wheels?

Whilst every child is different, usually if a child has mastered a balance bike they can move up to a bike without pedals much easier.

How do I know what features to look for in a balance bike?

• If your child is on the younger side ie around 12 months we suggest looking for a bike that converts from 3 wheels to 2 wheels such as the Runna Mini. They can start off with three wheels to get them used to the bike and when you feel they are ready, convert it to 2 wheels for them to gain balance skills. 
• Quality of materials used. Whilst balance bikes are reasonably priced, there are various models on the market and you do get what you pay for ie. We use foam filled tyres for our standard Runna bikes . This is due to the fact that we normally find by the time a child is ready to use one of these bikes they’re happy to take on a bit of cross terrain and it saves that dreaded problem of punctures and having to fill tyres with air!