Balance bikes are designed to give kids an easier time riding or learning to ride. They teach the kids necessary skills to see them graduate to bigger bikes without the need to have training wheels. A balance bike will give your child confidence to test steering and balance without the dangers of falls and injuries. Even though most come with adjustable saddle height and adjustable seat, you really can't assume that the first bike you come across is the best for your child. There are things you should consider to get the most suitable one.
Seat height - The minimum height of the bike below the kid's inseam should be 1 inch to 1.5 inches. Find a way to measure the inseam of your child such as using a hardbound book pinched between the legs of the child and raising it to the crotch and leveling it to the floor so you can measure the distance between the ground and the top of the bike.
Tires - Most come with 10 inch to 20 inch tires, but the 12 inch ones tend to be popular to start. Still on the tires, they can be rubber, plastic, pneumatic or solid form. The foam and pneumatic types are the major types when it comes to the balance bikes. The air tires, pneumatic, offer most traction and cushion hence they make better choices for all types of terrain. On the other hand, plastic, rubber and foam tires are light, puncture proof and cheaper, but they can lose traction, especially all terrain surfaces and smooth gym floors even though they are good enough for paved surfaces.
Weight - The rule here should be not go for a bike that is more than 30% of the child's weight so it does not end up being difficult to maneuver. Luckily, most bikes are lightweight, giving parents an easier time, especially when they are not comfortable with preschoolers and toddlers on the bikes. Choose the ideal weight your child can comfortably handle.
Brakes - Even though children generally use their feet to stop the balance bikes because they can remain safely on the ground, brakes cannot be ignored. The brakes on the bike should be designed well and sized for the child because most have eye hand coordination and those that do not have will still develop. They will save your child's shoe and prevent injury as well as help them prepare for a pedal bike. Ensure you choose one with a short reach lever to suit their small hands.
Turning limiters - They prevent handlebar and also the front wheel from going full revolution. They basically prevent sharp turns that can be dangerous and they can also protect the brake cables from twisting. They make good additions to the balance bike, but they do not do much when it comes to riding. If you consider buying them, ensure that you do not choose those that reduce the bike's turning radius with their poor design; elastic limiters should be better.
Grips, frame materials and footrests are other things to consider in balance bikes. These considerations will help get the best balance bike Australia for your child so they can enjoy a pleasant experience every time they ride.
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