Top 15 Best Toddler Bikes for 1-5 Year Old Boys & Girls: 12″-18″ Bikes 2021

Are you contemplating how to give your toddler a riding fun time? I’m here to give you a list of the best 15 toddler bikes & trikes of 2021 for your choosing pleasure!

Having bikes at a young age can be pretty crucial for a child’s growth. You can teach them many things during a riding lesson and create wonderful childhood memories for the little ones. Children can never be too young to learn things.

Whether you are looking to buy the first bike or trike for your kids or to replace an old one, there is sure to be at least one entry from the list below that piques your interest. Let me show you what the best toddler bikes and trikes in 2021 look like.

Read our latest guide about the best adult tricycles.

What are The Best Toddler Bikes For 1-5 Year Old Boys & Girls?

Many modern parents are at a loss when it comes to kids’ bikes and trikes. Should you get it with training wheels or a kickstand? Which type of bike would be the best for tall toddlers?

We have multiple heavy-duty and very long-lasting “big kids” bikes from Joystar, cool-looking options from Dynacraft, and Schwinn with some of the best toddler bikes and trikes that cater to both young kids and their parents.

This quick list right here should give you a brief summation of the products I’m about to mention:

Best Overall: RoyalBaby Honey & Buttons Kids Bike

‘Full bike chain guard, decorative sticker decal, extra safe with the double brakes.’

Best with Hand Brakes: Huffy 72149 Spider-Man Kid Bike

‘Detachable training wheels, various webbing textures and details, cool-looking bike for boys.’

Best with Training Wheels: Joystar Totem Kids Bike

‘Kickstand for 18-inch option, bicycle bell & reflectors, the manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty.’

Best with Parent Handle: Schwinn Steerable Beginner Bike

‘Includes water bottle, two designs for boys and girls, suitable for various stages of cycling.’

Best for 4-Year Old Girl: JOYSTAR Angel Girls Bike

‘Rubber air tire, enclosed chain guard, accessories can be switched out handily.’

Best for Small Toddlers: Schwinn Koen Boys Bike

‘Double brake system, slack seat tube, training wheels for smaller sizes.’

Best for Tall Toddlers: JOYSTAR Kids Cruiser Bike

‘Spring-supported seat, beautiful design & nice color choices, can be used as a balance bike.’

Best for Grass: Dynacraft Magna Sweetheart 12″ Bike

‘Girl-centric design, padded handlebar, keep pebbles from getting caught in between treads.’

Best First Trike for Toddler: Little Tikes 634307C 4-in-1 Basic Edition Trike

‘5-point seat belt harness, flexible shade canopy, stowable footrest, non-slip pedals.’

Best for Gravel: Dynacraft Gravel Blaster Bike

‘12-inch wheels, gloss paint finish with bold graphics, parts assembly is quite simple.’

Best Bike with Rubber Wheels: TheCroco 1 Lightweight Balance Bike

‘Lightweight and rust-resistant materials, can be carried by the kids themselves.’

Best Toddler Trike with Pedals: Fisher-Price W1778 Harley-Davidson Tough Trike

‘Comfortable pedaling distance for toddlers, simple maneuvering & motion control.’

Best for 1-Year-Old: YGJT Baby Balance Toy Bike

‘4-wheel design, cute animal shapes for babies, flat-free closed wheel.’

Best Folding Trike for Toddler: SWAGTRON K7 3-in-1 Ride-On Balance Trike

‘3 modes of riding, adjustable handlebar & seat, great for kids to play indoors.’

Best for Budget: Arkmiido 2 in 1 Kids Balance Bike & Trike

‘135-degree steer, saddle handle, non-slip tires, stylish color & sturdy quality.’

Best Toddler 12″-18″ Bikes – Comparison Chart

For a closer look at some product specifications, let’s look at the comparison chart below:

Top 15 Best Toddler Bikes Reviews 2021

Well, enough with the introduction, let us see just how good these bikes and trikes are for your toddlers, shall we?

Best Overall: RoyalBaby Honey & Buttons Kids Bike

Key features

• Single top tube frame
• Hand & coaster brakes
• Adjustable height
• Full bike chain guard
• Decorative sticker decal
• Available with training wheels and/or kickstand

Product specs

Weight	20-26 lbs
Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	12,14,16,18 inch
Brake style	Hand, Coaster
Tire type	2.4-inch fat tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	6 option(s)

One of the most high-end bike choices, this Honey & Buttons Kids Bike from RoyalBaby will definitely blow your mind with its quality materials, dependable functionalities, and versatility on the road.

The bike features a unique and stylish design with a square tube frame fit for boys and girls. It falls on the heavier spectrum and feels much more stable than the market-standard small bike. There are multiple wheel size options for this product, ranging from 12 inches to 18 inches for kids of all ages.

Speaking of all ages, the handlebars and quick-release seat are easily adjusted, so the bike can practically grow with your kids. The seat also comes with a firm rear handle to let you assist your child on the ride. The threaded tire is the air-filled type and is 2.4 inches wide to support riding on any bumpy surface.

The safety features on this bike are also top of the line. There are reflectors on the wheels and both pedals and a separate piece you can mount at the front of the bike. The pedals are made out of resin to prevent those little feet from slipping while they cycle. 

There are options for both training wheels and kickstand available but with different wheel sizes. The kickstand is only available for the 16” and 18” bike, and there is no training wheel for the 18”, so you should pay attention to this when purchasing from Amazon.

Best with Hand Brakes: Huffy Spider-Man Kid Bike

Key features

• Quick Connect system
• Detachable training wheels
• Quick seat release
• Available in two Spiderman webbing styles
• Best for 3-year-old boys

Product specs

Weight	24-28 lbs
Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	12,16 inch
Brake style	Caliper, Coaster
Tire type	Tread for sidewalk
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	2 option(s)

Helping your kids get used to handbrakes can be quite a task, but worry not – Huffy’s Spider-Man Kid Bike has the perfect solution

Featuring two attractive and cool designs with Spiderman prints and details, this bike is an awesome choice for little boys who dream of becoming superheroes. The 12″ and 16″ options have different assembling methods that are equally straightforward and produce a sturdy result.

In terms of materials, the frame is made of durable steel that can withstand bumping into various obstacles. There is also an enclosed chain guard at the back to protect your kids from grease and injury from getting caught in the upper half of the chain.

The hand brake- coaster brake combo also adds another layer of safety when riding since your kids can choose which method they are more comfortable with. Both versions of the bike come with dependable training wheels, which can be removed to help ease your kids’ transition to bigger bikes.

Best with Training Wheels: Joystar Totem Kids Bike

Key features

• Seat holder
• Adjustable seat height
• DIY decal
• Training wheels for 12,14,16 inch options
• Kickstand for 18-inch option
• Bicycle bell & reflectors
• 85% pre-assembled body

Product specs

Weight	18.5-22.8 lbs
Frame material	High-tensile steel
Wheel size	12,14,16,18 inch
Brake style	Coaster, Hand (for 1 option)
Tire type	2.125-inch pneumatic rubber
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Not specified
Colors	6 option(s)

Is your toddler afraid of falling when riding a bike? The Totem Kids Bike from Joystar comes with options for training wheels and much more to make sure the little one feels confident on their ride.

This bike comes in a simple and classic sleek design with a sturdy steel frame and blown rubber tires. The rear part also features a fully enclosed chain guard to protect the chain against the elements and keep your kids from hurting themselves.

You can hold on to the saddle easily thanks to the rear handle to guide your children through unfamiliar terrains. The bike also comes with a little bell as well as reflectors in various places to get attention on the road and keep the young ones out of trouble.

And if you would like to go for a kickstand, the Totem model also provides that option with the 18-inch wheel bike. There are also DIY stickers that come with the package so your kid can design their own little decal for the various color options available. It’s a simple but fun and safe choice of bicycle for toddlers and elementary school kids alike.

Best with Parent Handle: Schwinn Steerable Beginner Bike

Key features

• Removable parent handle
• Training wheels
• Full chainguard
• Includes water bottle & holder
• Two designs for boys and girls

Product specs

Weight	23.67 lbs
Frame material	Metal
Wheel size	12 inch
Brake style	Pedal, Coaster
Tire type	Blown rubber street tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	2 option(s) /style

If you want a bike that allows free control for your kid as well as reliable parent assistance, look no further than Schwinn’s Steerable Beginner Bicycle for toddlers that offer both a push handle and fully functional pedals and brakes.

This bike comes in two distinct styles for your little boy or girl, each with its own two vibrant color options. The metal frame is adequately heavy for a sturdier construction, which is a breeze to put together in the first place. The handgrip is designed with stylish little textures to help achieve a better grasp.

For added protection, the chain is fully guarded to keep your kids clean and safe, while the front and rear fenders prevent water from the wheels splashing up. The seat can quickly be adjusted to your child’s height without any tool, thanks to the quick-release design.

What’s more, the push handle is firmly secured when mounted to help parents give their kids that needed momentum without taking away their ability to steer. The bike also lets kids get used to various methods of cycling with a reliable double brake system that truly makes for a best-of-both-worlds toddler push bike.

Best for 4-Year Old Girl: JOYSTAR Angel Girls Bike

Key features

• 1.2 mm premium steel frame
• Rubber air tire
• Seat with holder
• Enclosed chainguard
• Kickstand available with 18” wheel option

Product specs

Shipping weight	22.3 lbs
Frame material	Hi-ten steel
Wheel size	12,14,16,18 inch
Brake style	Coaster
Tire type	2.125-inch pneumatic tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Not specified
Colors	3 option(s)

Are you perhaps looking for a birthday gift for your little princess? Then check out this adorable Angel Girls Bike from Joystar that, in my experience, is the best height, weight, and style for a 4-year-old girl.

The bike features a classic silhouette with a 1.2mm frame available in three dainty colors that look girly but not too obnoxious. The hi-ten steel frame is made sturdier than ever and backed by a limited lifetime guarantee by the manufacturer.

The training wheels are also quite the bargain on this affordable and long-lasting bike, made out of durable materials, and stay balanced all the way. The seat height can be adjusted tool-free using the quick release knob, and the seat itself comes with a convenient back handle for you to guide the bike.

Additionally, the bike is designed with hand-free braking for kids without adequate hand grip. A fully enclosed chain guard is in place to keep your little girl from getting hurt or dirty from touching the chain. The elegant white tires are air-blown, offering excellent off-road experience and support in all weather.

Speaking of elegant, the bike comes ready with a cute basket for your princess to carry her toys around for rides. A DIY sticker pack is also available for her to put her name on the bike, giving the bike its own signature look!

Best for Small Toddlers: Schwinn Koen Boys Bike

Key features

• Double brake system
• Slack seat tube
• Training wheels for smaller sizes
• Kickstand available with 18 and 20-inch option
• Balance bike option available
• Best for 2-year-old boys

Product specs

Shipping weight	25.6 lbs
Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	12,14,16,18,20 inch
Brake style	Caliper, Coaster
Tire type	Rubber air tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	3 option(s)

Coming from the German mechanical company Schwinn, this Koen Boys Bike is going to wow your small but energetic toddlers with its sleek design choices, sturdy construction, and cool-looking style.

This bike comes with a classic BMX look for boys that want an ‘adult-looking’ bike before they move on to actual bigger bikes. The bike is made especially for petit children with SmartStart technology, with a light chassis, cranes, and pedals. The gears are designed to make initial cycling smoother with a narrow seat to pedal distance, as well as a smaller handle grip.

For maximum child safety, Koen boys bike includes a rear coaster brake and front caliper brake across all wheel sizes to get your child used to handbrakes. A firm seat and adjustable saddle offer simple height adjustment and make sure the bike can grow with your little boy for longer use time.

What’s more, all materials are durable to withstand bumpy rides and aggressive pedaling. The bike is ready for assembly with a pre-built handle, kickstand and/or training wheels, upper half chain guard, and a customs number plate. The Koen boys bike is definitely made to help your small child be more comfortable with the learning process of cycling.

Best for Tall Toddlers: JOYSTAR Kids Cruiser Bike

Key features

• Reflectors in key areas
• Spring-supported seat
• Bicycle bell
• Full chainguard
• Available with assembly tools

Product specs

Shipping weight	25.8 lbs
Frame material	Hi-Ten steel
Wheel size	12,14,16 inch
Brake style	Coaster
Tire type	Rubber air tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	6 option(s)

Another entry from Joystar’s collection, this Kids Cruiser Bike is the best fit for fast-growing younglings with appropriate wheel size as well as tool-free seat height adjustment and training wheel removal.

The Cruiser’s construction is inspired by adult cruiser bikes with an elegant style that looks good when ridden by any gender. The Hi-ten frame is decorated with delightful patterns and comes in multiple colors for your kids to choose from. It also has a full chain guard that is partially see-through with motif matching those on the frame and seat.

Also, with coaster brakes being used, your child will have no problem controlling the bike with ease and confidence. The air-blown tires are made with fine threads and rubber hair for complete stability and traction on any surface and under any weather condition. Bumpy roads will also feel less bumpy with a cushioned seat and spring support underneath.

Best of all, this Cruiser is one of the most easy-to-assemble bikes from Joystar with 85% pre-assembled parts and simple tools. It also needs little maintenance thanks to the minimal gear set, chain protection, and overall durable materials. It will definitely accompany your kids for a long way to come.

Best for Grass: Dynacraft Magna Sweetheart 12″ Bike

Key features

• Girl-centric design
• Adjustable training wheels
• Padded handlebar
• Solid rear brake

Product specs

Weight	16.06 lbs
Frame material	Steel
Wheel size	12 inch
Brake style	Coaster
Tire type	Rubber air tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	1 option(s)

If your little girl enjoys taking a ride out in the local park, this Magna Sweetheart girl’s bike is the best choice to ride on the grass with.

The bike is designed specifically for little girls with a bright pink frame, white edges, and tons of adorable heart patterns. There are foam paddings on the frame and handlebar to protect your children when they bump their heads by accident and also keep the paint from getting scratched.

Don’t worry about your child’s posture either, because the seat to pedal distance on this 12-inch bike is very comfortable for the average toddler. The seat is also curved in a comfy way to keep them sitting with ease for a long time.

Best of all, when cycling with your kid in the park, you wouldn’t have to think about them falling thanks to the sturdy stabilizers that can be removed once they’re confident enough. The thick front and rear wheels are also designed to ride smoothly on grass and dirt. Your little girl will enjoy hours of outdoor joy with the Magna Sweetheart from Dynacraft!

Best First Trike for Toddler: Little Tikes 4-in-1 Basic Edition Trike

Key features

• Removable parent push handle
• 5-point seat belt harness
• Flexible shade canopy
• Stowable footrest
• Non-slip pedals
• Best for 18-month-old girls

Product specs

Weight	18.31 lbs
Frame material	Metal, Plastic
Tire type	Plastic
Dimensions	44.5 x 20 x 39.5 inches
Colors	1 option(s)

Are you a busy parent looking for a safe and convenient toddler tricycle? Check out this 4-in-1 trike that works great as their first introductory trike, as well as is a trusty companion for future stages of development.

This adorable pink trike features a multitude of riding options for both parents and children. A detachable push handle is in place so that you can guide the trike effortlessly with one hand. The three plastic wheels are quite durable and ride smoothly on most even surfaces without slipping.

What’s even better is that you can keep your child busy while being completely safe, thanks to the full-body seat belt harness. The trike comes with a footrest that can be stowed away if you want your toddler to transition to a pedaling stage. The canopy can block out any harmful rays from the sun and can be removed completely once your child gets taller.

But the best part about this trike to me is the many convenient accessories. A water bottle holder is attached to the push handle, and a large open container is in the back so that you and your kid can put stuff inside. Invest in this 4-in-1 trike, and you’ll have a product that lasts several years for your little one!

Best for Gravel: Dynacraft Gravel Blaster Bike

Key features

• Adjustable training wheels
• Handlebar pad
• Stylish half chain guard
• 12-inch wheels
• Gloss paint finish with bold graphics
• Best for 4-year-old boys

Product specs:

Weight	17.6/ 21 lbs
Frame material	Metal
Brake style	Coaster
Tire type	Dirt bike tire
Number of speeds	1
Suspension	Rigid
Colors	3 option(s)

Designed with sprightly young boys in mind, this Dynacraft Gravel Blaster Bike is perfect for tireless riding on gravel roads while keeping your kid safe and sound.

The bike features a custom BMS dirt bike frame with striking high gloss paint that will keep your little boy excited to learn. A rear coaster brake system offers quick deceleration while stable training wheels let your kid ride “full speed ahead” without a worry in the world.

More safety features come in the form of a padded handlebar to keep your toddler from bumping into the cold hard steel. A chainguard covers the upper half of the chain to keep your child safe and clean without giving up the style.

Finally, the training wheels can be taken out of the picture when your boy is ready to balance by himself. All color options available are cool-looking, vibrant, and highly visible on the road. It is the greatest affordable bike option for your boy toddler to explore the neighborhood with!

Best with Rubber Wheels: TheCroco Lightweight Balance Bike

Key features

• Two versions: Basic and Premium
• Lightweight and rust-resistant materials
• Padded seat
• Accessory bell

Product specs

Weight	4-6 lbs
Frame material	Aluminum/ Steel
Brake style	None
Tire type	Rubber foam
Number of speeds	None
Suspension	None
Colors	7 option(s)

If getting flat tires is a major inconvenience for you, TheCroco Lightweight Balance Bike is a great choice with rubber foam tires that offers your kids a smooth transition in their early stages of learning.

This bike features a lightweight construction with no pedals and no chain, allowing your toddler full control with their legs. It comes in two versions, with the only difference being the weight and frame material, with the Premium model made out of rust-free aluminum.

The best thing this balance bike has to offer is the rubber foam tires that don’t need to be blown. They also provide great traction on smooth surfaces, so your little ones can enjoy riding around the house with absolute safety.

What’s more, the handlebar can be adjusted to be higher; therefore, it can accompany your child for quite a long time. The handgrip and seat are super soft, and your toddlers will definitely feel comfortable walking this little bike around and master the art of balancing.

Best Toddler Trike with Pedals: Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson Tough Trike

Key features

• Harley-Davidson styling and graphics
• Wide pedals
• Easy-grip handlebars
• Hidden storage compartment
• Custom stickers

Product specs

Dimensions	21.5 x 7.99 x 16.97 inches
Weight	8.25 lbs
Frame material	Plastic
Tire type	Rugged plastic
Colors	1 option(s)

Looking for a tricycle to help your toddlers exercise their little limbs? Check out the Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson Tough Trike with pedals and a ton of substance for such a small trike.

Tiny bikers will definitely adore the wonderful design and graphics that look like their daddy’s Harley-Davidson. It has a storage space underneath the seat, perfect for your kids to carry toys and random knick-knacks.

True to its branding, this trike is built for boys that like to ride aggressively, thanks to its stable wheelbase and easy-to-grip handles. The long-lasting tires and comfy seat let your toddlers explore around all terrains without tipping over.

Most important of all, it is a perfect way to help your kids work those leg muscles and improve stability and orientation thanks to the wide pedals with smooth turning joints. Your kids will be entirely free and safe cycling around their yard and neighborhood!

Best for 1-Year-Old: YGJT Baby Balance Toy Bike

Key features

• 4-wheel design
• 135-degree rotation
• Flat-free closed wheel

Product specs

Dimensions	14 x 10 x 20 inches
Weight	4.85 lbs
Frame material	Carbon steel
Tire type	Smooth plastic
Colors	3 option(s)

If you think children as young as 1-year-old cannot ride bikes, think again! This Baby Balance Toy Bike from YGJT is the best toddler bike for your little ones to help them experience the joy of riding a vehicle as safely as possible.

Baby Balance bikes are designed to help toddlers develop courage, freedom, and early-stage coordination as a four-wheeler. At 4.85 pounds, this bike will not create a burden on your child’s little body even when they fall over, which is minimized by the limited rotation handle and low center of gravity.

In terms of materials, the solid carbon steel frame can stand the test of time while remaining lightweight. The construction is minimalistic, with no footrest to ensure your child can swing their feet freely without any risk of injury.

What’s more, setting up this baby bike will be a breeze with a straightforward manual and image description; even pregnant moms can do it easily. The next time you wonder what to get on Christmas and Thanksgiving for your nieces and nephews, this bike will make a great present all around!

Best Folding Trike for Toddler: SWAGTRON K7 3-in-1 Ride-On Balance Trike

Key features

• Three modes of riding
• Adjustable handlebar and seat
• Detachable pedals
• Convertible rear wheels
• Pedals holder

Product specs

Dimensions	19 x 24.5 x 17.5 or 19 x 26 x 10.5 inches
Weight	6.6 lbs
Frame material	Iron
Tire type	EVA foam
Colors	2 option(s)

From a pedal-less trike to a pedaled trike and then a balanced bike, this foldable SWAGTRON K7 3-in-1 Ride-On is one of the most durable, affordable, and best toddler bikes and trikes you can find on the market.

First of all, it has enclosed wheel hubs to protect your toddler’s clothes or skin from getting stuck while riding. The solid iron frame and punch-resistant plastic tires offer a sturdy, long-lasting product that can be used for years to come.

What’s more, the K7 transformable trike is ideal for children aged between 10 months and five years, thanks to an adjustable seat. The handlebar can be rotated a full 180-degree so that your toddler can find the right posture and good grip for their arm length.

And, no matter which stage of motor skills your child is at, this trike can offer the most suitable form of exercise with detachable pedals and a balance bike option with a bigger rear wheel. So get one today; it’s not every day that you would come across such a good find!

Best for Budget: Arkmiido 2 in 1 Kids Balance Bike & Trike

Key features

• Detachable pedals
• 135-degree steer
• Saddle handle
• Non-slip tires

Product specs

Package dimensions	20.2 x 8.99 x 6.8 inches
Package weight	7.23 lbs
Frame material	Carbon steel
Tire type	EVA
Colors	1 option(s)

Why buy a separate bike and trike for your toddler when you can have two for the price of one? Check out this budget-friendly Arkmiido 2 in 1 Kids Balance Bike & Trike that is the best toddler bike and trike option for you!

This multi-purpose bike would be a strong support for your kid when they start walking since it could help them develop early in terms of coordination and motor skills. The pedals can be removed and stowed away to get your toddler to work their legs rapidly while decreasing the risks of actual cycling.

Made of the best materials for little ones, the bike has a carbon steel frame that can withstand rough plays while being lightweight. The robust EVA wheels make sure they can ride both indoor and outdoor with ease. The handlebar is also super soft and prevents slipping so your child can get the best grip.

Best of all, the parts come neatly pre-assembled for you, save for the handlebar and seat, which you can snap into place without any tool needed; even the young ones can help you put it together – it’s a fun family experience from minute one!

Best Toddler Bikes Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Bike?

Brake Options

Riding a bicycle can pose many risks to your toddlers, especially when they grow and become more energetic. The best toddler bikes and trikes would have multiple brake options for more dependability.

A handbrake is the most straightforward choice on most bikes, but it requires the child to have a firm grip, and this may not be achievable until they are at least four years old.

The other common brake option is a coaster, or pedal brake, or rear wheel brake. They operate by pedaling backward, and most children can master this easily. However, the downside is that it may confuse toddlers who are still learning.

Weight

Most parents tend to overlook the weight factor when choosing toddler bikes and trikes, but getting a bike that is too heavy can cause your kids serious injury should they fall. The best toddler bikes and trikes have lightweight but sturdy frames, usually made of aluminum or high-tensile steel.

The Fun Factor

Most toddlers cannot be more eager to learn to ride a bike, but some might be a bit hesitant, so getting them to be interested in the activity might be the first obstacle for parents. The best toddler bikes and trikes have not only functional features but also fun colors, cool designs, or exciting accessories that go with them. Pick something that your toddler is drawn to first, then work out the rest of the process.

Types Of Toddler Bikes and Trikes

Small and Middle Wheelers

Small wheelers refer to bicycles with a 12-inch and 14-inch wheel size, and middle wheelers are the 16-inch wheel option. The smallest size bike more than often comes with coaster brakes and training wheels, whereas these features might be replaced with handbrake and kickstand on a middle wheeler.

Balance Bikes

These bikes are a common alternative to training wheels and have the main function of helping your child learn to balance. They don’t have pedals or kickstands to obstruct your toddler’s movement. Your child will first learn to find their center of gravity and then move on to steering and stopping. This is the perfect choice for kids that might be a bit fearful of tipping over.

Ride-Ons

Ride-on toy tricycles or bicycles are usually made of very lightweight materials and have full body cover. They can teach a toddler to push with their feet and steer as well as maintain balance while sitting. They offer great stability and safety for toddlers and are the most fun option – your kids won’t even know they are tricked into learning motor skills!

Why is it Good to Teach Your Toddler to Ride a Bike?

Riding a bike will provide your kids lots of benefits, including mental and physical health. Therefore, learning to ride a bike is a vital skill that you should teach them when they are small. Here are some of the various good things bike riding brings to them.

It is just simple and fun

Learning to ride a bike is one of the most simple things but rewarding in life. Your kids can enjoy cycling with their friends, and you can play with them too. This is also an activity that helps children to socialize earlier to make them more active.

It helps children to be physically active

According to some studies, children should take part in at least one hour of energetic physical activity every single day to stay in shape and healthy. By teaching them to learn how to ride a bike from an early age will help them develop healthy cycling habits, which will be very useful for their life later. 

It is beneficial for children’s mental health and learning

As I said before, cycling not only enhances kids’ physical fitness, it also improves their mental health and learning development. Engaging in regular physical activity in general and bike riding in particular are also proved to increase happiness. Moreover, it offers kids more opportunities for social connections. Besides, cycling can also help children stay more focused and stimulate their brains better.

It allows the whole family to enjoy themselves together

Moms, dads, and even grandparents can participate in bike riding. You all can teach your toddlers how to get on a bike, how to roast it, how to hold the handlebars, then gradually how to pedal, etc. You can join them too. But remember to start and ride slowly and take lots of breaks so that your little kids can have time to rest. 

It’s good for the environment

You might know that riding a bike has long-term advantages for the environment when compared to a motorbike or car driving. This way, you have unknowingly taught your kids how to love the environment more by minimizing carbon emissions, reducing traffic congestion, pollution, etc. 

It’s an ideal way to get around

Once your kid grows up, he/she can ride a bike to school. The first benefit is that it makes them healthier in both physical and mental status. What’s more, you might don’t need to take them outdoors anymore because they might love cycling with their friends. It is also a way to teach your kids independence. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What size bike is suitable for a 3-year-old?

One of the best ways to know which size is appropriate for your kid, let him/her try driving it. But if you are going to buy a new one for the first time, it is important to know your toddler’s height. If he/she is 2’10’’ – 3’4’’, a bike with 12-inch wheels will be an ideal option. Kids from 3’1’’ – 3’7’’ will be more suitable in a 14-inch bike. 

Is a 3-year-old kid old enough to ride a bike?

Absolutely yes. At that age, kids can walk and hold up something of around several pounds. Ideally, get them started on a tricycle or a balance bike to let him get used to the bike first. 

What is the best bike for a toddler to start on?

Toddler or preschooler will ride better on a balance bike. Even though a two-wheel or tricycle bike can be great for them, they are just too small to start these types of bicycles. While starting to ride a balance bike, they don’t have to balance it. All they need to do is hold the handlebars and walk it along. 

Does a 3-year-old need a bike helmet?

Yes, they do need a helmet even when they are riding a balance bike. It can minimize the risk of getting serious injuries while walking the bike along. After all, it is just about keeping your toddlers safe. 

Are balance bikes better than training wheels?

The answer is yes. Actually, training wheels don’t teach children the balance that much. They just keep an unbalanced toddler from falling over. Balance bikes, on the other hand, will teach your kid how to move and balance. After that, you just need to add pedals to make it a two-wheel bike. Then your child will have more freedom to ride faster.

When should I let my toddler switch from a balance bike to a pedal bike?

Technically your toddler should be able to transition to a pedal bike ì they can balance and stop their balance bike with ease. However, if they feel like they are not ready to let go of the balance bike, it’s better to let them enjoy riding a balance bike for daily fun.

Can I just remove the pedals on a regular bike and let my kid use it as a balance bike?

If your child is in pre-school, this is not recommended since the best toddler bikes and trikes are made with a lot of functions and stability, therefore heavier and bigger than most balance bikes. This method can be applicable for older and taller kids, but keep in mind that the seat height on a balance bike needs to be much lower than that on a regular bike.

If my kid already has a bike without a handbrake, can I mount it with a brake bought from the store?

As far as I’m concerned, it is not something practical to do. Most manufacturers follow strict guidelines and specs for their products, and there wouldn’t be room for a foreign part to be installed properly.

How tall does my kid have to be to ride a bike?

All bike manufacturers have a size chart listed with their products. You can refer to the chart on the shopping list on Amazon, and it should be accurate to use as a template to choose the best toddler bikes and trikes for your kids.

I heard people say that coaster brakes are not ideal for a toddler bike; is this true?

A coaster brake, while easy to use, can be dampening on your child’s progress of learning to pedal. Most inexperienced riders, children and adults alike, tend to pedal backward out of panic when trying to regain balance and might fall over if the bike has a coaster brake. It is important to know where your child is on the learning curve to determine if they can control a bike with a coaster brake.

What should my child do to prevent flat tires?

Having to change or mend bike tires can be an annoying occurrence to both parents and children. You should teach your toddler to avoid areas with spiky weeds or sharp pebbles. There are also tire sealants that you can apply to the tires before riding.

My Top Picks

With all that said and done, let me give you my personal favorite choices from this list.

My first pick is going to be Joystar Angel Girls Bike. It has all the safety functions, styles, and accessories that a little girl needs for her daily travel.

The second option would be the Swagtron K7 3-in-1 Ride-On Balance Trike. It is the perfect multi-purpose and affordable option for modern parents with a little toddler that needs to be kept busy in a safe and active environment.

Get one of these bikes or trikes for your kid’s birthday – you won’t regret it!