If you’re teaching your child how to ride a bike, our list of the best balance bikes for 5-year-olds can come in handy. Balance bikes can help children gain the confidence required to ride a regular bicycle. They improve your child’s strength, stability, and control.
Jordi Sadurní, a sports scientist and cycling coach says, “The balance bike is the first step for those willing to ride a bicycle. Learning how to balance a bike would mean spending less time with the training wheels and having a steeper learning curve once the child gets on the pedal bike. The dynamic balance on the two wheels is the most basic foundation skill in cycling.”
Apart from being fun and engaging, a balanced bike can aid children in their motor skill development, hand-eye coordination and can help with the transition to pedal bikes. With various designs, features, and colors, choosing the right balance bike may be challenging. So, explore our list to learn more.
Top Picks
15 Best Balance Bikes for 5-Year-Olds
1. Best Easy To Assemble: Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike
The breakthrough Strider 12 sports bike allows your five-year-old child to quickly and safely cruise around on this balance bike while giving a mature riding and striding experience. As your child grows, the bike can be customized with larger tires and more flexible brakes. This compact balance bike is made of a durable steel body with a pair of air-tight, zero-maintenance tires, super padded grips, and tool-free assembly. It is a suitable bike for motor skill development of your child.
The handlebars and seat have variable height adjustments to accommodate children under five years. As a result, children learn early and enjoy a safe and powerful all-terrain riding experience with improved two-wheeled balance. Need more information? Watch this video to make an informed decision about this adjustable saddle bike.
Pros
- Ease of assembly
- Sturdy built
- Value for money
- No-maintenance tires
- Ergonomic seat
- Adjustable seat/handlebar height
Cons
- Handle may not be sturdy
Did you know?2. Best Ultra Lightweight: TheCroco Balance Bike
Image: Thecroco TheCroco balance bike is a year-round cheer factory that is built to last. It is lightweight and durable, promoting faster and easier learning as children develop coordination and control with each ride. The puncture-proof polymer tires are equipped with sealed bearings and an aluminum frame. These foam tires make the bike lightweight and easy for children to control.
With a variable height sliding seat and handlebar, children can ride a perfectly fitted bike. Features such as a padded handlebar, soft hand grips, seat padding, and safety end screws provide a comfortable riding experience. If you need further convincing for this balance and coordination bike, check out this YouTuber’s review.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Foam tires
- Adjustable height
- Tool-free assembly
- Superior frame body
Cons
- May outgrow the child soon
3. Best Built Quality: Bixe Balance Bike
Image: Bixe Bixe offers a highly lightweight balance bike, making riding a breeze. The rider is more in control of the ride with the all-aluminum frame, as they learn to progress from small strides to gliding long distances in a short time. The seat adjusts from 11 to 17inches tall, and the handlebars can be shifted between 20 to 24 inches for a more beginner-friendly experience. If you are looking for safe bikes for 5-year-olds, this product makes a suitable choice.
The balance bike for toddler also has good traction tread tires for added safety and a lightweight frame for easy maneuverability, while the wheels have washers and tamper-proof clamps. The bike is built to last and is versatile for indoor and outdoor use.
Pros
- Comes partially assembled
- Safety features
- Value for money
- Lightweight
- Good build quality
Cons
- Squeaky wheels
4. Best Safety-Certified: Viribus Kids Balance Bike
With high-quality rubber reinforced for superior strength, the Viribus Kids Balance Bike can keep your child safe and steady when riding. This cycle has two 14” wheels and high carbon steel frames to help improve your little one’s body balance, confidence, and skills. It also has adjustable saddles, handlebars, and seat, which makes it convenient to use. The bike offers your child a skid-proof and shock-absorbing performance for the ultimate cycling experience. This beginner bike for kids has been certified by EN71, ASTM, and CPSC.
Pros
- Firm and non-slip handlebars
- Has a durable rattan basket
- Puncture-resistant tires
- Available in multiple color options
- Lightweight
Cons
- Seat clamp may not be tight enough
- Bike might need to be self-assembled
Quick fact5. Best With Grip Tape: Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike
Radio Flyer Air Ride balance bike is value for money and a beautiful companion as the little ones prepare for an adventure. This riding bike for young children has rubber air tires with whitewall for a wear-resistant grip and a steel frame for extra durability. In addition to an adjustable seat, a ringing bell provides an additional thrill.
The grip tape on the frame body is safe to put feet on while zooming into big strides. The balance bike introduces an early start to the riding experience before children can transition to the paddle bike.
Pros
- Rubber air tires
- Classic design
- Grip tape for feet
- Real ringing bell
Cons
- Lack of stability in front handles
6. Best Carbon Steel Frame: Kriddo Toddler Balance Bike
The Kriddo toddler balance bike has a sturdy carbon steel body that promises a safe ride for little ones aged between 18 months and four years. The bike features puncture-free tires and is suitable for most terrains, making it the perfect playtime companion.
This sturdy kid’s bicycle also has a stuffed toy placed at the center of the handlebars, elevating your child’s cycling experience. Moreover, the toddler bike facilitates limited steering, which helps ensure your child is safe and secure.
Pros
- No sharp edges in the design
- Adjustable seat height and handlebars
- Soft rubber grips and PU seat
- Available in different color options
Cons
- Tires may be difficult to maneuver
- May not be suitable for indoor use
7. Best With Retractable Pedals: Little Tikes My First Balance-to Pedal Bike
Little Tikes balance bike with pedals is a true shapeshifter. It can switch between balance and pedal modes to increase the child’s confidence. The foam tires and steel frames increase the service life and performance of the bike.
The child can easily transition to higher skills because the pedals can be folded up. This bike’s retractable pedal design makes it a unique option for young children.
Pros
- Retractable pedals
- EVA foam tires
- Solid frame
- Adaptable for variable skills
- Grows with the child
Cons
- Low height adjustability
8. Best With All-Terrain Tires: Swagtron K3 Childrens’ Balance Bike
Image: Swagtron Let your child embark on an adventurous journey with the Swagtron Childrens’ balance bike. This balance bike is made of solid aluminum alloy and is equipped with rubber tires that drive performance and mimic the experience of a real bike.
This bike is engineered with great precision and weighs seven pounds. The handlebar is perfectly positioned, and the wheelbase is long and has a full range of motion. Its angled front fork is better for turn maneuverability, making it suitable for pre-bike training and gives toddlers more space to control their rides. The seat’s adjustable height accommodates children as they grow, and the soft padded curve allows a chafe-free ride.
Pros
- Aluminum alloy frame
- Superior engineered design
- High-grip handlebar
- All-terrain tires
Cons
- Hard assembly
9. Best With Quick-Release Clamps: Joystar Balance Bike
Image: Joystar The Joystar balance bike, which is better suited for older children, is made with as much love as precision. It has an elegant design and is as simple to assemble as any good balance bike. As a result, the model has a low standover height and a long wheelbase, making gliding easier.
It is made of strong carbon steel material, and the pole has quick-release clamps for easy saddle height adjustment. This bicycle for preschoolers has caliper brakes for stable stopping power and is safe for children to ride. The wear-resistant handlebars are anti-slip and provide a firm grip.
Pros
- Carbon steel frame
- Caliper brakes
- Streamlined design
- Quick-release clamps
- Easy navigability
Cons
- Hard-to-control brakes
Point to consider10. Best With Puncture-Proof Tires: Yvolution Y Velo Senior Kids Balance Bike
With its unique beam saddle, the Y Velo kids balance bike is designed to help children have comfortable riding adventures. This one-of-a-kind design allows children to move along the saddle attached to their seats and adjust the distance as they grow or become more stable riders. The aluminum body is designed for safe play and has been tested for durability. The body has more ground clearance to avoid jerks and bumps.
In addition, it has brilliant features such as no-flat rubber wheels, smart handlebar grips, and a slot for carrying your bottle or other belongings. Before stepping up to a pedal bike, help your children master their rides with the Y Velo bike. This outdoor play equipment will aid their growth and development while making the process fun.
Pros
- Beam saddle design
- High clearance wheels
- Accessory slot
- Puncture-proof tires
- Vibrant color options
Cons
- Hard seat
11. Best Minimal Assembly: Lava Sport Aluminum Balance Bike
Lava Sport brings you this aluminum balance bike with puncture-proof EVA wheels and a super lightweight frame to foster a sense of responsibility in your little one. This bike has an anodized aluminum frame with an appealing finish.
The product is a pedal-free bike ideal for two- to five-year-olds and their outdoorsy adventures. It facilitates ultra-smooth steering and allows easy seat adjustment, making it a suitable choice for learn-to-ride bikes for a growing child.
Pros
- Requires minimal assembly
- Sturdy and trendy design
- Adjustable handlebar
- Available in multiple color options
Cons
- Some may find it a little too flimsy
- May not have a restrictive steering setting
12. Best Adjustable: Banana Bike LT Balance Bike
The Banana Bike LT balance bike boasts an easy step-through and low setup frame design that makes it easy for your little one to climb onto the bike. This bike is super lightweight and easy to put together.
This children’s bicycle features a narrow handlebar, ensuring a comfortable riding experience for your child. And what’s more, the bicycle’s seat and handlebar are adjustable, ensuring it grows with your child.
Pros
- Twin bearing headset
- Ergonomic design
- Convenient to use
- Portable
- Soft handle grips
Cons
- Tires may not be highly durable
- Paint might chip
13. Best Electric: Hiboy BK1 Electric Balance Bike
The Hiboy BK1 electric balance bike runs on a 100W nominal motor and is suitable for children between the ages of two and five years. This bike is partially pre-installed and is super easy for your child to operate. In addition, it features a disc brake, allowing your little one to halt the cycle swiftly and securely.
This balance training bike runs on a lithium battery, which takes about three to five hours to charge fully. Lastly, it offers a maximum speed limit of up to nine miles per hour.
Pros
- Flexible handlebars
- Offers 30 to 50 minutes of running time
- Can bear up to 77 pounds of weight
- IPX4 water-resistant
Cons
- Some may find the footrest small
- Battery may not be durable
14. Best Creative: Maydolly Baby Balance Bike
The Maydolly balance bike is a super comfortable and safe bike for children between ten months and two years. This kid’s bike features 135° limited steering to prevent side falls when your child takes a turn. Its PU leather seat provides ultimate comfort, while its creative pencil design makes it attractive for little ones.
It also has no pedals and wide spokes-free wheels, ensuring your child’s feet are safe. Besides, the bike is available in various attractive colors.
Pros
- Sturdy framework
- Easy to assemble
- Anti-skid and no-scratch wheels
- Meets all CPSC safety requirements
Cons
- May not be suitable for children beyond 55 pounds
- May not be suitable for toddlers taller than 37 inches
15. Best Adjustable: Simeiqi Sports Balance Bike
Image: Simeiqi The Simeiqi balance bike is value for money and has a stylish design. The bike is outfitted with terrain-adaptable punch-free foam tires. With an easy clamp system, the seat and handlebars are easily adjustable.
In addition, the grip handle below has foot pads to provide good foot support while balancing. The bicycle has an ultra-light carbon steel frame and low friction, high-speed bearings. This active toy for children makes a suitable gift alternative.
Pros
- Good-quality bearings
- EVA polymer tires
- Easy adjustability
- Partially assembled
- Ergonomic foot pads
Cons
- Smaller than expected
How To Choose The Right Balancing Bike For A 5-Year-Old?
The following are a few points you should consider before purchasing the right balancing bike for five-year-old children.
- Height adjustability: It is critical to consider your child’s height and the variable height adjustment with the bike seat and handlebar. It shouldn’t be too low or too high after customizing the fit.
- Design: The design should allow the toddler to take short strides and glide comfortably as their experience grows.
- Grip quality: You should consider the grip quality of the handlebar and the tires. A good anti-slip handlebar is essential for bike handling. At the same time, the tires must be wide, anti-skid, and all-terrain friendly for the child to improve their stability and coordination.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah is an adventure junkie who loves to write about sports, travel, automobiles, and gears. His writing process involves researching and comparing hundreds of products based on features and customer reviews to give her readers a list of a select few that are worth buying. In this article, he highlights the best balance bikes for five-year-olds that can help children with their motor development and improve their hand-eye coordination. He has chosen these bikes based on durability, features, construction, design, and more to help you choose the right product.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Balance bikes vs. training wheels: Which is better?
Training wheels are inconvenient, and they hinder confidence because the child feels insecure without the assisted help from them. On the other hand, a balance bike gives your child more freedom to experiment and learn to balance on their own.
2. How do I ride a balance bike?
Put your feet on the ground and walk with your hands on the handlebars. As you gain confidence, your strides will lengthen into longer glides.
3. Can I use a regular bike as a balance bike?
Balance bikes are designed to let the child place their feet comfortably with a slight bend in the knees. Regular bikes lack this feature, and the pedals obstruct smooth gliding.
4. Can I add pedals to a balance bike?
Some balance bikes are customizable to accommodate the pedals.
5. At what age should children stop riding balance bikes?
Children can ride for as long as they haven’t gained the necessary experience to transition to a regular bike or haven’t outgrown the seat’s maximum height and grips.
6. Is a balance bike better than a tricycle?
Balance bikes are easy to ride and provide your little one with the freedom of maneuvering. Unlike tricycles, balance bikes can move on uneven surfaces. In addition, these pedal-less training bikes encourage your child to learn to control the cycle without focusing on pedaling.
7. Do I need training wheels after a balance bike?
Children who have practiced using balance bikes may not need training wheels because adding training wheels can cause ambiguity while riding.
When it’s time for your little one to learn their riding fundamentals, bring home a quality balance bike that will keep them safe on the road while helping them gain the confidence needed to ride a bicycle. The best balance bikes enhance the child’s strength, stability, and control, which are essential for their all-round development. Before picking a balance bike for your kid, look for factors like height adjustability, comfortable design, and grip quality so that your children can have a great time riding.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Balance Bikes For Children?
Balance bikes are pedal-free bikes that help young children learn to balance, making them an excellent way to prepare toddlers for riding a regular bike. Moreover, they are more effective than bikes with traditional training wheels. To learn more about the benefits of balance bikes for your child, check out the following infographic. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.
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