The Complete Beginner's Guide to Balance Bikes

If you're a parent of a toddler or young child, you've probably heard about balance bikes. These clever two-wheelers have transformed how children learn to ride, and for good reason. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about balance bikes, from what they are to how to choose the perfect one for your little Aussie.

What Exactly Is a Balance Bike?

A balance bike is a training bicycle without pedals, chains, or gears. Instead of pedalling, children propel themselves forward by pushing their feet along the ground, much like walking or running while seated. This simple design allows children to focus on the most challenging aspect of riding a bike: balancing.

Balance bikes typically feature two wheels, a frame, handlebars, and a seat—and that's about it. This simplicity is precisely what makes them so effective. Without the distraction of pedals, children naturally learn to balance, steer, and coordinate their movements, developing the core skills needed for cycling.

Why Choose a Balance Bike Over Training Wheels?

For decades, training wheels were the default choice for teaching children to ride. However, child development experts and cycling coaches now widely agree that balance bikes are the superior method. Here's why:

Faster Progression to Pedal Bikes

Children who learn on balance bikes typically transition to pedal bikes much faster—often skipping training wheels entirely. Many kids who've mastered a balance bike can ride a pedal bike within minutes of first trying, as they've already developed the crucial balancing skills. In contrast, children using training wheels often struggle when the stabilisers come off, sometimes requiring weeks or months to learn to balance.

Building Genuine Confidence

Training wheels create a false sense of security. Children become dependent on them and often feel anxious when they're removed. Balance bikes, however, allow children to progress at their own pace, building real confidence through genuine skill development. Each small improvement—a longer glide, a sharper turn—represents actual progress.

Age-Appropriate Learning

Balance bikes can be used by children as young as 18 months, while most pedal bikes with training wheels are designed for children aged four and up. This means balance bikes give younger children a head start on developing motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness during crucial developmental years.

Safer Learning Experience

With their feet near the ground at all times, children on balance bikes can easily stop themselves and catch any falls. Training wheels, by contrast, can tip over during turns, causing unexpected falls. The lower seat height and slower speeds typical of balance bike riding also mean that any tumbles are generally minor.

What Age Is Right to Start?

Most children can begin using a balance bike between 18 months and 2 years old, though readiness varies from child to child. The key indicators that your child is ready include:

• They can walk confidently and steadily
• They show interest in bikes or riding toys
• Their inseam measurement allows them to sit on the bike with feet flat on the ground
• They can follow simple instructions

There's no rush to start early. Some children take to balance bikes immediately, while others need more time. The beauty of balance bikes is that they're designed to grow with your child, with adjustable seats and handlebars extending their useful life over several years.

Key Features to Look for in a Balance Bike

Not all balance bikes are created equal. When shopping for your child's first balance bike, consider these important features:

Weight

A lighter bike is easier for small children to control, lift, and manoeuvre. As a general rule, the bike should weigh no more than 30% of your child's body weight. Premium balance bikes with aluminium frames can weigh as little as 2-3 kilograms, while heavier steel-framed options might reach 4-5 kilograms.

Tyre Type

Balance bikes come with two main tyre types: EVA foam and pneumatic (air-filled). EVA foam tyres are maintenance-free, puncture-proof, and lightweight—ideal for indoor use and smooth surfaces. Pneumatic tyres offer better grip, shock absorption, and a more comfortable ride on varied terrain, but require occasional inflation and can puncture.

Frame Material

Most balance bikes feature frames made from aluminium, steel, or wood. Aluminium frames offer the best weight-to-strength ratio and resist rust—perfect for Australian conditions. Steel frames are more affordable but heavier. Wooden frames provide a classic aesthetic and are often made from sustainable materials.

Adjustability

Look for bikes with adjustable seat heights and, ideally, adjustable handlebars too. This allows the bike to grow with your child, potentially lasting several years rather than just one season. A seat height range of at least 5-10 centimetres is ideal.

Additional Features

Some balance bikes include extras like footrests (for practising gliding), hand brakes (to prepare for pedal bikes), or handlebar pads (for safety). While not essential, these features can add value depending on your child's age and skill level.

Getting Started: Your Child's First Rides

Once you've chosen the perfect balance bike, it's time for the exciting part—watching your child learn to ride! Here are some tips for those first sessions:

1. Proper setup: Adjust the seat so your child can sit comfortably with both feet flat on the ground, knees slightly bent.
2. Start indoors or on flat, smooth surfaces: Carpet, wooden floors, or a flat driveway are ideal starting points.
3. Walking first: Let your child walk alongside the bike, getting comfortable with holding the handlebars and steering.
4. Seated walking: Once comfortable, encourage them to sit on the seat and walk forward while seated.
5. Gliding: As confidence grows, they'll naturally begin lifting their feet for longer periods, gliding along.

Remember, every child learns at their own pace. Some might be gliding confidently within days, while others take weeks or even months. The key is to keep sessions fun, positive, and pressure-free.

Popular Balance Bike Brands in Australia

Australia has access to many excellent balance bike brands. Some popular options include:

• Strider: The industry pioneer, known for lightweight designs and excellent quality
• Woom: Premium Austrian bikes with exceptional ergonomics
• Cruzee: Ultra-lightweight aluminium frames at mid-range prices
• FirstBike: German-engineered composite frames with air tyres
• Chicco: Budget-friendly options perfect for first-time riders

You can explore and compare these brands in detail using our product comparison tool.

Final Thoughts

A balance bike is more than just a toy—it's an investment in your child's confidence, coordination, and love of cycling. By teaching balance first, these ingenious bikes set children up for a lifetime of enjoyable, safe cycling.

Whether you're buying for an 18-month-old just finding their feet or a 4-year-old ready to zoom around the park, there's a balance bike perfect for every child. Take the time to choose wisely, prioritise safety, and most importantly, enjoy watching your little one discover the freedom of two wheels.

Ready to find the perfect balance bike? Take our interactive quiz for personalised recommendations based on your child's age, size, and your budget.