Conventional bike versus balance bike – what's best for young children and toddlers?

In the recent past parents simple had to choose between a trike – the stable choice for little ones – and a conventional bike.

But now there’s a new kid on the block – the balance bike. What does it offer, how long will it last your child, and when will you know they are are ready for a ‘proper’ bike.

Conventional bike versus balance bike - what's best for young children and toddlers?

We asked the gurus behind the Costway Kids Bike range to give us their thoughts.

What is a balance bike?

It’s a bike without wheels, almost like a little scooter with a seat! Toddlers have their feet firmly planted on the ground for balance, and self-power their way along. It’s great for introducing a love of cycling early, and for helping a child learn their balance, confidence and co-ordination.

The latest thinking is that a toddler who starts off on a balance bike will be even more ready for the next stage in cycling. The downside is, they are not height adjustable in any way, and will probably only suit your child for less than a year.

However, a balance bike can be a great indoor choice for toddlers – they won’t get the chance to go too fast for their skill level, and won’t get themselves into too much bother. However, you may want to bike-proof your home for safety reasons!

Should I just start with a conventional bike?

If your child is sporty and confident, with great co-ordination, then yes, go for it, whatever their age. But for the vast majority of children, starting slow and steady is key.

The Costway kids bike for 4-8 years old is the favourite range on our platform, as we feel it has the best of both worlds. They are designed to grow with your child, for maximum return on investment, and have safety built in. They come with stabilisers/training wheels for those early months or even years till your child is confident enough and safe enough to pedal happily on two wheels only. The bikes are adjustable, meaning they cover a good age range, ready for all growth spurts. They even look good!

What’s the perfect age to get on a bike?

Don’t get too caught up in it, says the Costway team. Some kids are ready as toddlers, and as long as they find a bike to suit their height, they are off! Others take a few years to gain their cycle confidence, and that’s okay. Choosing a bike that’s not intimidatingly large, or awkwardly small, is one of the best things to do. Then the bike will grow alongside their confidence. And take it steady – some kids ‘get it’ on day one, but it’s much more common for cycling to take many months to build up – it’s totally worth it though, and it’s a sport that can stay with them for life.

Where can I read feedback from other parents?

The eCommerce platform has built the Costway reviews section, where every model has feedback from parents, much of it really detailing what they and their child liked about each model. It’s well worth a browse before you buy.

Don’t forget:

Order early – this is particularly important if you are thinking of a Christmas bike.

Choose from a retailer which offers a return guarantee – this will give you peace of mind.

Find the right size:Costway has a range of kids’ bikes for sale, including sizes12"/14"/16"/18".

With Costway – the Home of Delights/More than just furniture, there’s fast delivery, great customer services, and the guarantee. Find out more at Costway Kids Bike