Updated Dec 10, 2022
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A good balance bike helps little kids develop the coordination and confidence they’ll need to ride a pedal bike—things they won’t get with training wheels. We spent about 40 hours researching and assembling 13 balance bikes, and subjected them to a cadre of highly energetic 2- to 8-year-olds. After all this—and after consulting with fellow parents and industry professionals—we’re judging the Strider 12 Sport as the best balance bike for most kids (and their parents).
Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike
The best balance bike for most kids
The Strider 12 Sport is strong, lightweight, a cinch to assemble, and the most adjustable option for kids age 18 months to 5 years.We recommend
REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Kids' Balance Bike
A durable bike that’s great for indoors too
This aluminum-framed balance bike costs more than our top pick and is less adjustable, but it comes with shock-absorbing and indoor-friendly rubber air-filled tires.Another good choice
Banana Bike LT V2
A light, affordable, low-rise option for low-rise humans
Though not as polished as the Strider or Co-op, this lightweight, low-slung bike will get most kids up and happily gliding along—and won’t bust the budget.Budget friendly
Woom 1 12-Inch Balance Bike
Hand-brake–equipped, balance bike perfection
Agile, simple to assemble, and sporting a useful rear hand brake, this is the balance bike for bike enthusiast parents who want their kid to have a pro-level tyke bike.A better upgrade
Strider 14x Sport Balance Bike
A game-changing balance bike that converts to a pedal bike
Slightly bigger with easy-to-install pedals, the Strider 14x Sport can also be used as your kid’s first pedal bike, making this an all-in-one solid investment.Another good choice
