Balance Bikes: Forerunners to 'Big Kid' Bicycles
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| Before a child is ready for a "big kid" bicycle, many parents are starting their children out on a small vehicle known as a balance bike. Some children as young as 18 months old are given the freedom of this "pedal-less" bike.
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| The bike is simple; two wheels, a frame, seat and handlebars. The balance bike is powered by the the child's own foot power so it is important that the right size bike is purchased for the the individual child. The child should be able to set comfortably on the bike with both feet touching the ground, or floor if the balance bike is used indoors. |
| The theory behind the balance bike is, just as the name implies, is to teach young children to balance while in motion. The balance bike has no pedals and some models do not even have brakes. Training wheels are not used on these bikes so the child can properly learn to balance. Some models are made entirely of wood, except for rubber tread around the wheel to provide traction. Other models are made of steel or aluminum. |
| The better made bikes have felt, or similar material between the fork and the frame which limits the turning ratio, thus preventing sharp turns that can cause the bike to topple over often resulting in injury to the child. |
| Other names for the balance bike are walking bikes, runner bikes or training bikes. These bikes are primarily for children from two to five years of age.
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