Top 10 best balance bikes for kids: top features, how to choose

The runbike is a popular children's vehicle in the form of a pedalless bicycle. Designed for children aged 1-6 years. The device helps to develop coordination of movements, strengthen the muscular system and teach the child the basics of road traffic.

Children's balance bikes differ in a number of parameters. Vehicles vary in age, weight, height and carrying capacity. Due to the presence of such a variety, difficulties may arise when choosing a product. Therefore, a rating of the best models of balance bikes for children was prepared, taking into account price and technical indicators.

Rating TOP 10 best children's balance bikes

Before compiling a list of the most functional balance bikes for children, a market analysis of models from popular brands was carried out. In the list, buyers have the opportunity to compare the most popular models, familiarize themselves with their main indicators and choose a suitable balance bike. The top of the best looks like this:

Cruzee UltraLite 12

Children's balance bike from the US brand, which is suitable for both girls and boys. Designed for children 1-6 years old, weighing up to 35 kg. The device weighs only 2 kg, the baby can easily take it with him and carry it. From an early age, he will learn to maintain balance and in the future it will be easier for him to master the bicycle. In addition, your child will gain basic steering skills by exploring the world around them on a treadmill bike.

Assembly is quite simple, the height of the seatpost and steering column can be easily adjusted (fixed with special clamps). The handlebars can be raised up to 12.5 cm, the saddle up to 23 cm (an additional seat post is included in the package). Among the advantages are the bright design of the vehicle, which will appeal to every child. Durable foam rubber eliminates punctures, and the rims are made of durable plastic. The wheels are mounted on quality industrial bearings.

We bought a running bike for our little son for his birthday. I have long wanted such a vehicle, now it drives constantly. Among the advantages, I would like to note the good quality of the elements, the strength of the structure itself, the absence of any sharp edges. I also liked the original style of the balance bike: it looks bright and unusual. I hope it will last a long time. I recommend to buy.

ECOS WB-02C

The original model of a children's balance bike. It has a robust aluminum alloy frame and a robust wheel fork. It is also worth noting the presence of an anatomical adjustable seat and steering wheel in height, high-quality rubber grips. The product is equipped with a hand brake for comfortable braking on any surface. Inflatable rubber wheels, aluminum rims.

With such a vehicle, spending time in the fresh air will not only be interesting, but also extremely rewarding. The design will feature the absence of pedals, and therefore the treadmill requires active footwork. Along with this device, the original fit helps to strengthen the back muscles, the spinal column.

I got my son as a gift for 4 years. Initially, they thought about a bicycle, but decided to postpone it. In terms of height, the vehicle fit perfectly, even with a margin. It is worth noting the smoothness of the ride. I liked that when falling on a flat surface, the possibility of hitting painted surfaces is excluded.

JETCAT 12 Sport Air

A running bike with welded 6mm dropouts. The pneumatic wheels have high quality industrial bearings. There is a plastic pad on the rear footrest. The vehicle is intended for children from 2 years old.

The frame is made of aluminum, the total weight of the product is 3.35 kg. The rubberized wheels are inflatable, helping to withstand a load of 45 kg. The running bike is designed in a discreet style, but at the same time has a powerful filling. On such a vehicle, it is possible to spend time with interest and explore the world around. In addition, among the advantages, it should be noted that a high-quality pump is included in the package.

I bought this running bike for my little son last year. The child was extremely pleased with the gift. The runbike has become a good alternative to an ordinary bicycle. The kid can develop physically and spend more time outdoors. The design is reliable, everything is done with high quality, every connection is firmly fixed. It is also worth noting the presence of large, inflatable wheels that improve the maneuverability of the product.

Tech Team Milano 2.0

Lightweight model of an aluminum balance bike. It is equipped with 12-inch soft polyurethane wheels. Designed for children aged 1.5-3 years. The wheels include a plastic disc and a soft polyurethane tire. On such wheels, the ride will become much softer and more comfortable. By eliminating rubber tires and aluminum discs, the weight of the running bike has been significantly reduced. The width of the wheels is wider, and therefore it will be more convenient for the baby to ride and maintain balance.

The extended frame is made of lightweight aluminum alloys. The vehicle weighs 2.5 kg. The seat can be adjusted according to the child's height. Soft rubber handles with special restraints are installed on the balance bike.

I bought a bike ride for my daughter 2.5 years old, with a height of 90 cm. The seat is quite comfortable, the legs in the lowest position will be very bent, so I had to raise it. The treadmill bike is lightweight and easy for children to ride and carry. It is easy to assemble, the main thing is not to confuse the plastic bushings under the front fork. There is no play in the ball bearings. In general, I am satisfied, I recommend it to everyone for a purchase.

Puky LR 1L Br

Reliable model of a running bike with pneumatic tires and rear brake. The product will feature a hand brake for comfortable braking, a double steel frame and large inflatable wheels. The seat in the balance bike has an anatomically correct shape, in the lower part of the frame there is a wide platform for the deck for the legs. The steering wheel and seat are adjustable in height, which makes it possible to find a suitable position for a comfortable ride.

There are special rubber pads on the handles of the vehicle; there is an anti-shock cushion on the frame. In addition, this product is equipped with a parking step.With such a running bike, a child will easily learn to maintain balance, improve coordination of movements and in the future will master riding a regular bike.

I bought Puky LR 1L Br after reading reviews on the net. Sufficiently comfortable and maneuverable model. The child was very pleased, he spends all the time with the balance bike. The only thing that has not worked out yet is to use the hand brake. Among the advantages, it should be noted the presence of large wheels that can be pumped up. The brake is quite sensitive, but the child brakes with his feet out of habit, but it's a matter of time. I recommend to purchase.

Chillafish BMXie-RS

The RS cross-country bike for children aged 2.5-6 years. It teaches the child to bike and improves coordination. The saddle can be adjusted in height, so it remains comfortable for children of different heights. The large inflatable wheels will provide adequate cushioning, so the ride will be comfortable even on uneven roads. The double frame will make the vehicle more reliable, and the bright colors will certainly appeal to the young rider.

The product is manufactured in accordance with strict European safety standards. In the process of riding, the baby will learn to maintain balance, will be able to develop general mobility. The main advantages of the product will be light weight, structural strength and non-slip handles. Durable rubber wheels effectively absorb impacts, and therefore guaranteed ride comfort.

I bought a running bike for my little son. The design is carefully thought out: comfortable rubber handles, a fairly large and comfortable seat. The vehicle has an original appearance, bright colors. The child is happy, almost never leaves the balance bike. There is no need to inflate the wheels. I recommend this model.

ECOS WB-25

The WB-25 model is designed for riding in any weather and can be a replacement for a child's wheelchair, scooter or bicycle. The product can be operated by a child from 2 years old, weighing up to 35 kg. The treadmill will be the first vehicle for your little one and will teach him how to maintain balance, which will help prepare for riding a two-wheeled bike.

The product has a sturdy steel frame, hand brake, adjustable steering wheel and seat. The wheels are made of plastic, with a diameter of 10 inches. Solid tires are lightweight and are suitable for comfortable riding for children from 1 to 2 years old. In addition, there is protection against dirt on the wheels. Among the disadvantages, users note the use of polymers in the manufacture of wheels, as well as the large width of the steering wheel.

This is a great gift for a girl under 3 years old. The steel frame looks solid enough and the welds are solid. In addition, I would like to note the ease of assembly, an accessible and understandable guide. The child really liked the running bike, quickly learned to ride and manage the bike ride.Outwardly very bright, original. Everyone is happy.

Triumf Active AL1201

Designed for children 2-5 years old, weighing up to 40 kg. Equipped with a hand brake and inflatable rubber wheels of 12 inches, which provide comfortable movement on asphalt and on a dirt road. The design is equipped with anti-slip footrests. The frame is made of lightweight aluminum, which means that the balance bike is lightweight.

The saddle can be adjusted in height - 30-43 cm. The height of the steering wheel can also be changed - 45-60 cm. Therefore, the vehicle is used for several seasons. Parents who bought Triumf Active AL1201 note the bright appearance and reliability of the product. Among the disadvantages are the lack of mud flaps.

This model was chosen among others on the advice of friends. The vehicle is light in weight and has a striking appearance. We looked at cross-country bikes at a popular sports store, they are mostly made of iron. In view of this, they did not fit the little daughter. Triumf Active AL1201 looks like a toy due to its lightness. Recommend.

Leader Kids 336

An excellent model for children from 3 years old, which helps to develop a sense of balance and coordination in order to master the skills of driving a 2-wheeled bicycle in the future. The greatest load is 27-30 kg. The construction is quite robust, the frame is made of aluminum with a built-in footrest and a comfortable seat. For safety reasons, the steering wheel has a soft pad and rubber grips with anti-slip grips.

The curved seat and steering wheel with bumper-limiter can be adjusted in height without additional tools. The wheels are equipped with metal spokes, and inflatable rubber tires provide shock absorption. The complete set includes a pump to pump up the wheels. The release is carried out in 6 colors.

We bought a balance bike 2 months ago. We wanted the child to be able to develop his coordination skills and strengthen the spinal muscles. The design is so simple that the child can easily control the jogging bike. The build quality is excellent, and the manual is clear and accessible. This is the best bike ride for the price. I recommend to everyone.

Strider 12 classic

Due to the ease of operation, the balance bike is suitable for children from 1 to 5 years old. The device helps to develop coordination, improves balance. With a mass of 2.9 kg, it can withstand a maximum load of 27 kg. The product is distinguished by high stability and safety. The body is powder coated, so the balance bike is hardly chipped.

The steering wheel is comfortable, small handles are equipped with side stops, there is no hand brake. The frame has a regular geometric shape and is made of steel. The seat and handlebars can be adjusted in height using the supplied key. Rubber wheels are durable and reliable, provide a smooth ride. Solid tires are made of EVA and cannot be punctured. These balance bikes have a striking design.

We got it after reading the reviews on the forums.An excellent cross-country bike, which is distinguished by ease of use, structural strength. All parts are made of quality materials. The vehicle is lightweight. The child is extremely happy, the controls are intuitive.

Comparison of the best balance bikes for kids

The table below shows the top 10 kids' balance bikes that have shown their best side.

Best lists

The review examines the key technical parameters of children's cross-country bicycles, notes the pros and cons of vehicles, and provides customer reviews. Let's explore the best balance bikes by category:

• Unusual design.
• The best move.
• Most durable.

Let's get acquainted in detail with the specified assortment.

Xiaomi 700Kids - unusual design

This model is ideal for children 1-2 years old. The runbike is designed for babies from 78 to 85 cm, can withstand a load of 25 kg. Despite the presence of a steel frame, the product is lightweight - 1.8 kg. Due to the special design of 3 large and wide wheels, the device is characterized by increased stability. For comfort, the soft seat is ergonomically shaped and height-adjustable. Also noteworthy is the original style, which differs from other models. The quality of workmanship and construction will be an additional advantage. There is no fragile plastic and flimsy mounts.

Kokua Likeabike Jumper is the best move ever

Externally, the product is an ordinary balance bike. However, with a deeper study, details will become noticeable, such as the high profile of the rubber and shock absorber on the rear wheel. This will provide excellent maneuverability and a smooth ride, as well as make it easy to navigate off-road. In addition, the developer provides for the presence of a bumper-limiter on the steering wheel and a footrest. Safety and comfort is provided by a special steering wheel limiter. In the future, it can be easily dismantled. Other advantages include the strength and lightness of the aluminum frame and the reliability of the steel wheel spokes. There are no particular drawbacks, buyers are upset only by the lack of assembly keys.

Puky LR M - the most durable

The vehicle is considered the benchmark for quality and durability. The steel frame makes the structure up to 3.7 kg heavier, but ensures safety, since steel is the most durable metal. Puky does not bend or break, even when the toddler drops it regularly. At the same time, the developer has equipped the handlebars of the cross-country bike with a bumper-limiter, which prevents bruises and injuries when hitting the handlebars. Due to the presence of a convenient stopper at the ends, the child's hands will not slip off the steering wheel. In addition, reviews often mention the excellent durability of the structure, thanks to which the bike ride can be used for several years. Additional pluses include a striking appearance, an option to adjust the seat and a large footrest.

Additional balance bike accessories

Balance bikes, like bicycles and scooters, can be equipped with additional accessories to improve ride comfort and vehicle maneuverability. As additional equipment are used:

• Shock absorbers.Mainly, this is a spring that is installed for the rear wheel, softening unevenness during driving. Children less than 4 years old do not need shock absorbers, the cushioning provided by the inflatable tires will suffice.
• Foot stand. It is possible to put your feet on it during the descent from the hill and ride like on a scooter. On cross-country bicycles can be found infrequently, and then in models that are designed for older children.
• A horn, fenders that protect clothing from splashes, a pillow on the steering wheel (in emergency situations, softens the blow) are also installed on the balance bike. Also an advantage will be the presence of a footrest, which allows you to park the vehicle in a vertical position.

How to choose a balance bike for children

Cross-country bikes for children need to be chosen very carefully so as not to waste money and bring joy to the child. When choosing vehicles, you should focus on the following parameters:

• Step size. First of all, the emphasis is on the height of the landing. For these purposes, you need to measure the length of the baby's leg and subtract 2 cm. The results that are obtained will mean what height the seat should be at its lowest position.
• The weight. For children under 2 years old, it is optimal to choose models weighing no more than 3 kg, up to 4 years old - 3-4 kg, above - up to 9 kg. The design should be lightweight so that the child can lift the balance bike by himself, suddenly overturning it on himself.
• Frame material. Today's cross-country bikes are built from lightweight materials, although durability and reliability will vary. The most durable are aluminum frames, however, prices for products will be higher. Wood options are appreciated for their naturalness and strength, but it is important to protect them from moisture. Steel frames are less common as they are heavy in weight.
• Brake system. For small children, the presence of brakes is not too important. This is due to the fact that they are not able to accelerate much or do not know how to use them. For older children, they will need them more, since they allow them to control the speed of the vehicle. In addition, it makes it possible to acquire the necessary skills for riding an ordinary bicycle.