A Parents Guide to the Key Features of a Balance Bike

Any parent who is considering purchasing a bicycle or tricycle for their toddler should be aware of a different kind of bike that's really the best option for very young children. The bikes are called balance bikes and they are receiving a lot of attention in the media today for their innovative design and ability to teach kids the most crucial element of bike riding...balance...in a way that's fun and effective. For parents choosing a balance bike, there are plenty of factors to consider.

Getting the size right is more important than anything when selecting a balance bike. Some models favor the very youngest of riders, while others have a seat height that's just a bit too high for a toddler. Kids need to be able to place their feet firmly on the ground when riding on a balance bike. Measure your son or daughter's inseam and select a seat height that is at least 1" higher than the inseam measurement, giving a little room to get on and off the bike and providing a more secure feeling.

You'll find a variety of balance bike models that come in either wood or metal. Metal bikes are made of either steel or aluminum alloy. These bikes are durable and sturdy and will most likely last longer than a wood bike. Models designed for toddlers tend to be made from aluminum and support riders up to around 60 lbs. Models designed for older kids (preschool and school age) are often made of steel and can support riders up to and sometimes exceeding 100 lbs. The wood bike doesn't offer the durability of a metal bike, but can offer comfort for a child who enjoys the "wood "toy" vibe of these wooden bikes. The wood bikes have been popular for years in Europe and are perfectly acceptable as training bikes, but won't stand up to a beating like a metal frame bike.

The bikes either have standard air tires or tires made of EVA foam. Foam tires are durable, puncture-proof and never go flat. They are extremely convenient but don't demonstrate the same traction and grip seen in air tires. Air tires have the best traction, but don't may pop or lose air. Foam tires are probably fine for bikes ridden by small children but older kids will need the traction offered by a bike with air tires.

Some balance bikes include hand brakes. These are not likely to be the means by which your child stops their bike, but they do train the child to grip and ride while holding the brake which makes the adjustment to a pedal bike with hand brakes smoother.

This is a mini-controversy within balance bike community. Those who favor limiters believe it makes the bike safer by preventing any sharp turns and "jackknifing" where the child goes over the handle bars. Detractors state that limiters limit a full range of steering that a child should experience. The truth is that their effect is relatively minor. Our experience with our own children suggests that overly sharp turns generally occur at slow speeds, not fast.

There are some balance bikes that feature a footrest. The KaZam bike has a central footrest built into the frame. The Strider preBike has a small area on the frame just to the rear of the seat where kids can plant their feet when coasting. The Mini Glider from Glide Bikes features integated foot pegs for kids to rest their feet. While the foot rest might be advantageous for kids who ride in areas with hills, they are not a major benefit. Most of the time kids will be using their feet to propel themselves on the bike. Younger kids may find that they are a distraction and get in the way of a clean path of motion for their feet. Footrests are not a required feature.

These are the features of a balance bike that parents should be considering as they shop, but the two most critical factors are height and weight. Choose a bike that your child can comfortably straddle with their feet flat on the ground. If your child is under three, select one of the lighter bikes. If your child is school age, look at the maximum seat height and maximum allowable weight to make your decision.