Balance Buddy (Adjustable

Product Information

Runride isn’t just pretty, though. It’s been developed specifically to meet the ergonomic needs of its young riders. Among other features, this sees the brake lever brought closer into the handlebar, making it easier for small hands to grasp. As balance bikes are low to the ground, kids reach the ground with their feet. To move forwards, they push off the ground and begin by walking the bike, then progress to running, striding and gliding. Kidvelo are a recent entry into the market, but build on decades of balance biking experience - the team of four who run Kidvelo have been major players in the balance bike industry and joined forces to design and build their own bikes. Consider how often your child is likely to use it, how long you'd want it to last and if it could be resold later or passed down to a younger sibling.

FEATURES: Available with 12″ or 14″ wheels, extra cushioning air tires with knobby tread, lightweight frame, optional hydraulic disc brake, off-road geometry You want to make sure your bike doesn’t weigh more than 30 percent of your child’s bodyweight so that they're not forced to work too hard or forced to become frustrated. 3kg tends to be a good marker for most toddlers. At the top end of the price range I slabikes Rothan and Frog Tadpole are both popular because they are from well respected quality kids bike brands. They can help children master the art of braking before they progress to pedals. Puky balance bikesare also available with pneumatic tyres and a rear brake on the more expensive models. Air tires are better than foam tires. Many tires on balance bikes are made of solid foam rather than rubber filled with air. Foam tires offer no cushioning and less traction than air tires. If you are planning on riding on any surface other than pavement, air tires are a worthy upgrade. As with adult bikes, there’s a large number of balance bikes to choose from, chiefly distinguished by size, components and features. How much should I spend?Balance bikes also teach kids how to steer properly by leaning the bike towards the corner, helped by the assurance of having their feet on the ground. In fact, Hornit are so confident in the quality of this balance bike they’re giving it a lifetime warranty on the frames and forks which can be registered for free online once you've received your bike. They've also managed to come up with a really cool looking bike by using magnesium alloy, a lightweight material that is a more environmentally friendly, fully recyclable alternative to aluminium. Finished with an A-head headset, integrated bar and stem, plus puncture-resistant Schwalbe big apple tyres, its 7005 aluminium construction keeps the overall weight down. In the middle the Kidvelo Rookieand the Hornit AIROfit in between these two groups in terms of price and functionality, as they're both really simple and lightweight, but with the benefit of pneumatic tyres. Neither have a brake (but both look great - you're personal preference will be between the frame styles on these two!)

Others firmly felt it was far too expensive, that young children don't need a brake, and money should be saved for the larger Islabikes in the ever growing range. Sleek and incredibly lightweight, the Hornit AIRO is super portable and easy to carry when your child wants to take a break from riding. With air-filled tyres for a smoother ride and contoured foot rests for comfy freewheeling your toddler will be away in no time with this balance bike. While some people would argue that it’s better to dive straight into a standard bike with stabilizers, we think that balance bikes are absolutely worth it and a great place to start learning bike riding skills. It can also be helpful to take your child somewhere that they can see other kids riding balance bikes. When they see other kids doing it, they realize that it’s not that hard andthey want to be in on the fun! That said, there are balance bikes made for all sizes of toddlers, pre-schoolers, and grade schoolers, so it’s basically nevertoo late to start. Remember… a balance bike will almost always be a better option than a tricycle or training wheels. If your child is at an age when you would consider either of these options, consider a balance bike instead!

Made by folding-bike specialist Tern, the design itself is cleverly thought-out, with a pivot and integrated elastomer bumper providing the Kokua’s additional squish, and a steering limiter stopping the whole assembly ever swerving off course. Key specs – Wheel size: 12in; Suggested age: 2-4 years; Frame material: Aluminium; Tyre type: Pneumatic; Weight: 3.4kg; Additional features: Suspension, steering limiter We had a strider and it was brilliant. Also amazing customer service when we needed some help.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user SpanielPlusToddler) Our verdict With several fun, colorful designs to choose from as well as air tires and a handbrake, there is a lot to love about the Guardian Balance bike. With a taller minimum and maximum seat height than the woom 1, the Guardian provides exceptional quality, but more room for growth for tall or older toddlers. Available in a choice of six bright, funky colours, the Hornit AIRO looks great and thanks to the height-adjustable seat it’ll last your child for years. There’s even a lifetime warranty available for the bike so it’s a great choice for families who want to be able to pass it on from one child to the next.