When you shop through links on our site, we may receive compensation. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.

10 Best Toddler Bikes of 2024

Updated
Watch your child pedal their way into joyful memories on one of these toddler bikes.

Is your toddler raring to hit the road, but you’re puzzled over which bike to buy? Bicycles are the vehicles of priceless childhood memories, and learning to ride will be unforgettable.

It’s easy to think a toddler is too young for their own bike, but we disagree. My one-year-old embraced his first tricycle with enthusiasm. But, whether it’s your child’s first bike or an upgrade, selecting the right toddler bike could seem overwhelming.

We’ve meticulously curated a list of the best toddler bikes, prioritizing your child’s safety and enjoyment. We’ll help guide you in making the perfect choice for your little rider.

Our Top Picks

We independently research, assess and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike
Best Balance Bike
Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike
  • Great starter bike
  • Puncture-proof tires
  • Long-lasting and durable
Product Image of the KaZAM v2e No Pedal
Best 12-inch Bike
KaZAM v2e No Pedal
  • Helps your child build balance
  • Adjustable handlebars and seat
  • Durable, maintenance-free tires
Product Image of the Joystar Bike with Training Wheels
Best for 3-Year-Olds
Joystar Bike with Training Wheels
  • Beginner’s bike with stable training wheels
  • Sturdy frame
  • Safety features included
Product Image of the Costzon 4-in-1 Tricycle
Best for 2-Year-Olds
Costzon 4-in-1 Tricycle
  • Removable push handle
  • Seat belt and armrest
  • Adjustable sun canopy
Product Image of the Radio Flyer Classic Red Tricycle
Best Classic-Styled Tricycle
Radio Flyer Classic Red Tricycle
  • Classic appearance
  • Durable construction
  • Easy to turn and ride
Product Image of the RoyalBaby Little Swan Bike
Best 14-inch Bike
RoyalBaby Little Swan Bike
  • Lightweight yet incredibly durable
  • Thorough braking system
  • Includes training wheels or kickstand
Product Image of the RoyalBaby Stargirl Girl's Bike
Best for Girls
RoyalBaby Stargirl Girl's Bike
  • Cute bike
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Non-slip pedals & hand-controlled brakes
Product Image of the Nice C BMX Bike
Best BMX Bike
Nice C BMX Bike
  • Long-lasting bike
  • Fitted with large, thick tires
  • Includes a dual braking system
Product Image of the Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Kids Bike
Best for Boys
Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Kids Bike
  • Fun theme
  • Easy-to-use bike
  • Adjustable seat height
Product Image of the Coewske Little Princess
Best for 4-Year-Olds
Coewske Little Princess
  • Stylish bike
  • Stable to ride
  • Good-to-have features included


The Best Toddler Bikes of 2024

Dive into our carefully selected top ten choices and reviews of the best toddler bikes.

Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike

Best Toddler Balance Bike

Balance bikes are the perfect starter before upgrading to a pedal bike, and this one from Strider is outstanding. The bike offers various features, like adjustable seat and handlebar heights, that can seamlessly accommodate your growing toddler from 18 months to five years.

The Strider 12 Balance Bike stands out with its durable steel frame and puncture-proof tires, ensuring minimal maintenance. Moreover, it is available in eight colors to match your child’s personality.

This bike doesn’t just look like any bike; it looks like their future favorite.

What We Like

Great Starter Bike

It’s perfect for starting out. It teaches balance before your child upgrades to pedals.

An excellent choice for 2-year-olds who just want a bike they can play with. They can get on and off quickly without the hassle of pedals.

Long-lasting and Durable

This balance bike will take your child from baby steps to big strides. Fortunately, this unit won’t outgrow your child in a few months since it is equipped with an adjustable handlebar and seat height. Plus, with puncture-proof tires, you’re saved from frequent maintenance costs.

Lightweight and Easy to Carry

A key feature is the lightweight aluminum frame. Weighing just 6.7 pounds, this balance bike is light enough for your toddler to maneuver effortlessly.

What We Don't Like

Minority of People Tagged it as Overpriced

A few parents complained that the bike is a bit expensive.

Product Specs

Bike type Balance
Bike wheel size 12-inch
Recommended age 18 months to 5 years
Color Blue
Item weight 6.7 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

User Experience

Love how simple it was to assemble this balance bike! My 28-month-old might not be overwhelmingly excited, but he enjoys it and has been steadily improving. The lightweight design makes it easy to bring to the park, and watching him feel like he's flying on both cement and dirt is a joy. It's a well-constructed riding toy that will provide my little one with a sense of freedom as he grows.

KaZAM Tyro v2e No Pedal Balance Bike

Best 12-inch Bike

Instead of having training wheels, a proper balancing bike can help prepare your child for the real deal, and this one from KaZam is worth a look.

What sets this bike apart from the others is its step-in footrest. This platform allows your child to glide once they’ve built momentum, adding an exciting twist to their learning experience.

Built with a growing toddler in mind, KaZam equips this bike with fully adjustable handlebars and seat to accommodate a child up to five years.

The tires are durable and maintenance-free — your child can ride as much as they like. Your tot will also love the color options — there’s a wide choice.

What We Like

Helps Your Child Build Balance

The key feature of this balance bike is the footrest. It sits in the natural place your child’s feet would be while coasting on a pedal bike. Once their feet are in this position, it helps them find their center of gravity, building their balance awareness.

The footrest also adds to the fun. Your toddler can sit comfortably once they establish some speed.

Both Handlebars and Seat Are Adjustable

The adjustable handlebars and seat ensure the bike keeps pace with your child’s growth. The saddle height ranges between 13.5 inches and 16.5 inches, whiles the handlebars can be set between 19 and 20.5 inches. It’s easy to change, and you don’t need any tools.

The bike can support a child up to 44 inches in height and 60 pounds in weight.

Durable, Maintenance-Free Tires

The 12-inch tires are a little different — they’re made of EVA foam and don’t require any air. Puncture-resistant and maintenance-free, they add to your peace of mind.

Color Options Available

Your toddler can choose from ten colors, including a Peppa Pig theme and bright yellow or blue stripes. Your toddler can pick the one that suits their style the best, making it more fun to ride.

What We Don't Like

The Bike Is Heavy

A few parents complained the bike was too heavy for their toddler to carry independently. It weighs 8 pounds when fully assembled.

Product Specs

Bike type Balance
Bike wheel size 12-inch
Recommended age Up to 5 years
Color 10 different colors or patterns, ranging from basic black to Peppa Pig themed
Item weight 8 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Best purchase for helping kids learn to ride a bike! I was initially skeptical about this balance bike, but after seeing my 4-year-old niece and my own child quickly develop the skills needed to ride without training wheels, I'm sold on the concept. The bike is well-built and easy to assemble, with foam tires that are surprisingly durable. My child started off just running with the bike between their legs and gradually progressed to balancing and coasting down hills. The only downside I've noticed is some wear on the front tire after a few rides on rough trails, but it hasn't affected the bike's performance yet.

Joystar Kids Bike with Training Wheels

Best Toddler Bike for 3-Year-Olds

If you’re looking for a stable beginner’s bike that can grow with your toddler, this is a good pick. This bike from Joystar features 12-inch wheels and is suitable for toddlers aged 2 to 4. It’s also available with 14-inch and 16-inch wheels for older or taller children.

The bike includes a pair of stable training wheels to help the early rider. It’s constructed from a sturdy steel frame, capable of withstanding the bumps encountered while your toddler is learning.

Some assembly is required when the bike arrives, which not all parents found easy to do. Included are also decals your toddler can use to customize the look.

What We Like

Good Beginner’s Bike with Stable Training Wheels

Your toddler should enjoy learning how to ride on this bike. The training wheels included are stable and allow your little one to cruise safely. They can even try going a little faster.

To help your tot stop, Joystar fitted a foot brake, which is much better than a hard-to-use hand brake. Once the training wheels are off, the saddle has a holder for mom or dad to assist with balance.

Sturdy Frame

The frame requires minimal maintenance. It’s made of high-quality steel that can survive the learning stage where accidents may happen. Joystar’s limited lifetime warranty backs the frame’s quality.

Safety Features Included

There’s a chain guard to keep your toddler protected. Your little one won’t get caught while pedaling. The guard also keeps the chain safe from the elements, so it will last longer.

What We Don't Like

Heavier than Expected

Some parents expressed concern that the bike is on the heavy side.

Product Specs

Bike type Pedal with training wheels
Bike wheel size 12-inch
Recommended age 2 to 4 years
Color Blue, ivory, mint green, oil slick, pink, and silver
Item weight 18.5 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

If you're looking for a starter bike, this one has its pros and cons. On one hand, assembly is fairly simple and it has sturdy tires for various terrains, making it suitable for kids aged 3 to 7. However, the training wheels are of lower quality, and the pedal brake system might be a bit harder for some kids to grasp compared to handle brakes.

Costzon 4-in-1 Kids Tricycle

Best Toddler Bike for 2-Year-Olds

Ignite the joy of mobility in your toddler with the unique four-in-one tricycle from Costzon. Serving as an infant tricycle, steering tricycle, learn-to-ride tricycle, and classic tricycle, it evolves with your child from ten months to five years.

This tricycle encourages the transition from strolling to pedaling and has a removable handle that lets parents share control while their little one learns. Safety remains paramount with a detachable guard rail, a three-point safety belt, and an adjustable sun canopy to shield against UV rays or inclement weather. What’s more, it features a cup holder and storage basket.

What We Like

Excellent Starter Bike for Young Riders

It can safely carry a toddler or a 10-month-old. The steering wheel turns, so your little one can steer while you’re pushing.

When your toddler is ready, they can start turning the pedals to drive independently. Your child can continue using it until age five as a standard tricycle.

Removable Push Handle

When your little one is too small to ride by themselves, you can use the included steering handle. It works like a stroller, and you can adjust the height for a comfortable ride.

Once it’s no longer needed, you can remove the push handle, and your little one can ride by themself.

Seat Belt and Armrest

The tricycle is equipped with an armrest, which also serves as a guard rail preventing your toddler from falling. For extra protection, it features a three-point-harness. Your little one will sit snugly while coasting along.

Adjustable Sun Canopy

Your little one will stay protected from the sun and poor weather thanks to the canopy. You can fully adjust it to shield your toddler from different angles.

What We Don't Like

Sensitive Steering

Some parents said the steering for the tricycle is quite sensitive. If your baby turns slightly, the whole bike swivels. Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent this.

Product Specs

Bike type Four-in-one tricycle
Bike wheel size 10 inch
Recommended age 10 months to 5 years
Color Blue, and pink
Item weight 21 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This tricycle has been a hit with my young child, who absolutely loves riding it. The assembly process was straightforward and the final product is durable with some convenient features, such as the canopy, foot pegs, and storage. The tricycle is also designed to transition easily into a more traditional trike as the child grows. Although there are a few minor drawbacks, such as a small cup holder and the need for a tool to adjust the handle, the overall experience has been positive. The thick, shock-absorbent wheels and easy maneuverability make this tricycle an enjoyable and practical choice for both parent and child.

Radio Flyer Classic Red Tricycle Dual Deck

Best Classic-Styled Tricycle

This tricycle from Radio Flyer will give you or your parents a nostalgic feeling with its design reminiscent of the ‘80s. The trike’s cherry-red paint adds to its retro look. It’s made of a durable steel frame and chrome handlebars, suited with a 12-inch front wheel and rubber tires.

The trike has a controlled turning radius, preventing it from tipping over during turns. To warn bypassers, your toddler can ring the included bell. Your little one will love cruising through the neighborhood on this.

The seat is adjustable to accommodate a growing child. It’s suitable for toddlers aged 2 and a half to 5 years.

What We Like

Classic Appearance

We love how this trike looks. It’s classic and fun, giving your tot a bit of sass as they cruise along the sidewalk. The bright red coating is the perfect color to finish off the look and is suitable for both boys and girls.

Durable Construction

The trike should be durable for years to come. The steel frame is sturdy. The chrome handlebars and fender add to the classic look while still being steadfast.

Easy to Turn and Ride

Thanks to the controlled turning radius, your toddler can turn on a dime without tipping over. It’s super easy to steer, even for the youngest, and they’ll likely love ringing the bell.

What We Don't Like

The Seat Adjustment System Isn’t Firm Enough

Adjusting the seat helps to accommodate a taller child. But a few buyers pointed out it wasn’t firm enough. The saddle will slide down to the first set, and requires constant adjustments.

Product Specs

Bike type Tricycle
Bike wheel size 12-inch
Recommended age 2.5 to 5 years
Color Red
Item weight 16.53 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

Excellent classic red trike with some design flaws. I got this for my 4-year-old daughter who absolutely loves the color, tassels, and the dual-bell. However, during assembly, I encountered several issues like misaligned holes, a slightly misaligned front wheel guard, and a not-so-sturdy plastic stem for the front wheel. Despite these issues, the trike still looks great and has solid rubber wheels, but I have to tighten everything each time before she goes for a spin.

RoyalBaby Little Swan Kid's Bike

Best 14-inch Bike

A lightweight yet durable frame is what this bike from RoyalBaby is all about. The bike comes with 14-inch wheels and is suitable for older toddlers up to 5-year-olds.

The Little Swan is a great transition bike. It includes a set of training wheels, but you can also opt for a kickstand to help it stand independently instead.

The braking system on this bike is commendable. It’s a doubly-safe system, consisting of a front disc brake as well as a coaster brake.

Another great feature is the saddle — it’s a newly-developed foam-based seat.

What We Like

Lightweight yet Incredibly Durable

The primary material used for this bike is steel. This ensures a lightweight construction with ample durability.

The step-thru forward frame also makes it easier for little legs to pedal and build up speed. If your child should fall over, they can quickly grab the bike and lift it again.

Thorough Braking System

The hand brake is perfect for beginners since they can use it without compromising balance. The system helps the rider stop in no time.

Includes Training Wheels or Kickstand

You have the option to choose either to have training wheels or a kickstand upon ordering. Even the training wheels are heavy-duty and won’t bend. Your toddler can use it without them, but if it’s their first bike, they’re a must-have. The kickstand, on the other hand, helps to give it an authentic feel and is practical once the training wheels are off.

What We Don't Like

Wheels and Pedals Are Too Tight

A few users said the wheels and pedals are tight upon arrival. They spin a few rounds and then become hard to turn. It’s easy to fix by untightening the nuts a bit.

Product Specs

Bike type Pedal bike
Bike wheel size 14-inch
Recommended age 3 to 5 years
Color White and pink
Item weight 21 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this bike for my toddler daughter has been fantastic! Assembling it was a breeze, and the bike's lightweight yet sturdy build made it easy for her to ride on various surfaces like asphalt, grass, and gravel. The only minor concern I had was that the seat seemed a bit small and might get uncomfortable after some time, but overall, we're thrilled with this purchase.

RoyalBaby Stargirl Girl's Bike

Best Toddler Bike for Girls

For your little princess, Royalbaby offers this girl’s bike. It’s a 14-inch bike decked out in girly colors and details.

The elegant style of this Royalbaby bike makes it fun for girls to show off their girl power by riding around the neighborhood. It features an adorable basket as well as cute ribbons attached to the handles.

Parents will appreciate how little maintenance the bike needs. It’s constructed using steel, which is durable and long-lasting. On the pedals, there’s a non-slip resin as well as reflectors to stay visible after dark.

Additionally, it features a front-wheel brake and a coaster brake, both controlled from the handle.

What We Like

Cute Bike

This bike is every little girl’s dream. It’s the perfect combo of colors and frilly touches, creating a harmonious blend, suitable for every girly girl.

Many parents praise how the bike doesn’t follow a favorite character theme, such as Frozen, as these tend to go out of style pretty quickly. The basket and ribbons are the perfect last details to finish the look.

Requires Little Maintenance

The frame is constructed from durable high-tensile steel that requires little maintenance over its lifetime. The chain sits behind a chain guard, protecting it and the rider from getting stuck.

Non-Slip Pedals

Your little girl can ride securely thanks to the non-slip resin pedals. Her feet will sit safely, and she can turn with all the power she has.

Hand-Controlled Brakes

On the handlebar sits two brake levers, these control the front and rear wheels. Hand-controlled brakes allow your little one to keep their balance while braking.

What We Don't Like

The Basket Comes off Easily

A few parents said the basket broke off following the first fall. One reviewer suggested that you secure it using zip ties.

Product Specs

Bike type Pedal bike
Bike wheel size 14-inch
Recommended age 3 to 5 years
Color Blue, pink, purple, or rose pink
Item weight 21 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

In my experience, this bike has been an excellent choice for my daughter. The beautiful blue color with pink accents and a cute basket caught her eye immediately. Assembling it was a breeze, and it has proven to be sturdy and well-made. My daughter loves riding it around the neighborhood, and the adjustable seat, handlebars, and variety of brakes make it both comfortable and safe. This bike is not only the perfect size and weight for her, but it also offers good traction and stability, making it suitable for different terrains and weather conditions.

Nice C BMX Kids Bike

Best Toddler BMX Bike

If you’re looking for a toddler bike to take off-road on family outings, we recommend this one from Nice C. It’s a BMX-style bike, suited with 14-inch wheels.

The material used is high-quality magnesium alloy metal. This means it’s heavy-duty but still fairly lightweight, at 17.6 pounds. A single-piece frame, with zero weldings involved, makes the bike durable and helps it last longer.

To assist your toddler in riding smoothly, even off-road, Nice C fitted large, extra-thick tires and training wheels. These offer superb shock absorption, leveling out each bump. For extra safety, the bike also includes a dual braking system.

What We Like

Long-Lasting Bike

The materials of the bike and how it is put together enable it to withstand years of use. The magnesium alloy metal frame is heavy-duty and more flexible than the usual aluminum. It’s lightweight, too — one of the lightest toddler bikes in this size.

Because of the lightweight frame, there’s less chance of injury to your toddler should it fall on them.

Fitted with Large, Thick Tires

The tires are what enable the Nice C BMX bike to go off-road. They’re extra-thick, consisting of multiple layers of rubber, and providing outstanding shock absorption. Included is also a set of training wheels, which are extra-thick to match the main ones.

Includes a Dual Braking System

The bike is suited with a dual braking system to help your little one stop without issue. It’s a traditional v-brake, united with a disc brake controlling the rear wheel. The system makes stopping smooth and efficient.

Stickers Included

It comes with a sheet of stickers, great for creating a custom look for your toddler’s style.

What We Don't Like

Instructions Are Vague

Although the assembly is pretty straightforward, a few parents said the instructions are vague. They offer little guidance, and it’s better to simply look at the included pictures.

Product Specs

Bike type BMX bike
Bike wheel size 14-inch
Recommended age Up to 6 years
Color Cool black, lemon yellow, mystery Champagne, or princess pink
Item weight 17.6 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I've recently purchased two of these 16" bikes for my soon-to-be 6-year-old twins, and I have to say, I'm pretty impressed with the quality and features for the price. The lightweight magnesium alloy frame has a cool design and the dual hand brakes, including a rear disc brake, are a great addition. Although the assembly instructions were a bit confusing, the bike comes mostly assembled and even includes the necessary tools. My kids were able to start riding without training wheels on their second day of practice. A few minor issues like brake adjustment and some concerns about long-term durability don't detract from the overall value of this bike as a learning tool for young riders.

Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Kids Bike 12-inch Bicycle

Best Toddler Bike for Boys

PAW Patrol is on a roll! This Paw Patrolinspired bike is a great pick for a little fanboy. Featuring 12-inch wheels, it’s suitable for boys between the ages of 2 and 4.

Your little one can become a member of the team, riding this bike decked out in blue, red, and yellow.

This bike has a rear coaster brake enabling an easy stop. Included in the package is a pair of training wheels to help your little guy balance.

As your toddler grows, you can adjust the height of the seat. It’s easy, and no tools are required.

What We Like

Fun Theme

My little one loves Paw Patrol it’s a great theme for an aspiring superhero. Plus, there are different colors and characters to choose from.

On the front, there’s a plate with graphics of the team as well. It’s fun, and your toddler should adore it.

Easy-To-Use Bike

The bike itself has a lot to offer for a new rider. The pedals are easy to turn, and it features a coaster brake system. It comes with training wheels that adjust and are a breeze to remove when not needed.

Adjustable Seat Height

As your little superhero grows, you can lift the seat higher. The bike is suitable for children ranging from 28 inches to 38 inches tall. You won’t need tools to perform the adjustment.

What We Don't Like

The Plate on the Handlebar Is Fragile

Many parents said it broke off after the first fall or deformed beyond something you could fix.

Instructions Are Too Complicated

Most parents say the assembly was straightforward. However, the included instructions are too complicated, telling you to use multiple tools when only two are necessary. So, be aware when assembling — it might not be as complicated as the directions would lead you to believe.

Themed Bikes Tend to Go Out of Favor

While themed bikes are fun, they can go out of favor rather quickly when your child finds a new favorite character.

Product Specs

Bike type Pedal bike
Bike wheel size 12-inch
Recommended age 2 to 4 years
Color Red, pink, blue, and silver.
Item weight Not specified

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

This bicycle was a delightful purchase for my son, who is a huge Paw Patrol fan. The assembly process went smoothly, except for some initial trouble with the left pedal, which I eventually managed to fix. Once assembled, we did need to replace the front tube as the valve was defective, but after that, it was ready to ride. The bike is a perfect size for toddlers and my son absolutely loves it. However, keep in mind that children may outgrow it quickly, as my grandson did after just two months.

Coewske Little Princess Kids Bike

Best Toddler Bike for 4-Year-Olds

If you’re looking for a bike for your 4-year-old, then look no further. This example from Coewske is excellent. It’s a stylish, feminine design with large 14-inch wheels and training wheels.

The bike is made of a hi-tensile steel frame, available in several colors. It’s suited with their 2.125-inch rubber tire that is wide and provides fantastic stability.

Some great features included are the braking system, chain guard, comfortable saddle, and basket. Your toddler can enjoy their ride on this cool bike. Included in the package are also assembly tools, a bell, a reflector, and training wheels.

What We Like

Stylish Bike

The bike is stylish and available in colors suitable for boys and girls. Coewske’s unique frame shape adds a bit of an x-factor, which is appealing to a toddler.

Stable to Ride

The ride is stable and great for a beginner. The tires measure 2.125 inches wide as well as being heavy-duty.

Good-To-Have Features Included

Coewske includes a lot of good-to-have features for a beginner. The bell is fun for any toddler or preschooler. If needed, your child can use the training wheels to support her while still practicing how to bike.

What We Don't Like

Vague Instruction

Most complaints that I’ve noticed have something to do with the poor instruction stated in the manual. Good thing the item comes 95 percent assembled, so you only have a little work to do and instructions to figure out.

Product Specs

Bike type Pedal bike
Bike wheel size 14-inch
Recommended age 3 to 6 years
Color Blue, pink, and purple
Item weight 20.3 pounds

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

This beautiful girls' bike is not only made from heavy materials, but also includes a basket, a ringer, and an adorable attachable seat for a baby doll. My granddaughter absolutely adores it, and it's the perfect size for a 3-year-old. The assembly was relatively easy, but a few instructions were vague, and I had to use my own tools at times instead of the ones provided by the company. Additionally, there were no instructions for attaching accessories like the basket or doll carrier, so I had to rely on my own problem-solving skills. Although there was a small issue with a tear in the bike seat, overall, this bike seems to be a hit with my granddaughter.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Bike type Bike wheel size Recommended age Color Item weight
Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike Balance Bike Balance 12-inch 18 months – 5 years Blue 6.7 lbs
KaZAM v2e No Pedal 12-inch Bike Balance 12-inch Up – 5 years 10 colors 8 lbs
Joystar Bike with Training Wheels For 3-Year-Olds Pedal with training wheels 12-inch 2 – 4 years 5 colors 18.5 lbs
Costzon 4-in-1 Tricycle For 2-Year-Olds Four-in-one tricycle 10 inch 10 months – 5 years 4 colors 21 lbs
Radio Flyer Classic Red Tricycle Classic-Styled Tricycle Tricycle 12-inch 2.5 – 5 years Red 16.53 lbs
RoyalBaby Little Swan 14-inch Bike Pedal bike 14-inch 3 – 5 years Pink 21 lbs
RoyalBaby Stargirl Girl’s Bike For Girls Pedal bike 14-inch 3 – 5 years Blue or pink 21 lbs
Nice C BMX Bike BMX Bike BMX bike 14-inch Up – 6 years Champagne or pink 17.6 lbs
Paw Patrol Boy’s 12-inch For Boys Pedal bike 12-inch 2 – 4 years 4 colors N/A
Coewske Little Princess For 4-Year-Olds Pedal bike 14-inch 3 – 6 years 3 colors 20.3 lbs

Types of Bikes Suitable for Toddlers

The three most common types of bikes suitable for toddlers are:

Balance Bikes

Balance bikes are an alternative to training wheels. If you haven’t heard of this type before, it may surprise you to see they don’t have pedals (1).

These bikes help develop one vital skill, and that’s balance. It sounds strange, but many toddlers aren’t afraid of tipping over. They often don’t see the importance of learning how to keep their balance on a bike until later.

Since there are no pedals on these, it forces your toddler to find their center of gravity. This snowballs into them learning how to use their weight to steer, go forward, and stop. What’s more, by Flintstoning their way onward, it boosts confidence and gets them ready for pedals faster — without training wheels!

With a balance bike, you must find the appropriate size. If your toddler can’t reach the ground, there’s no point in its use. There should also be good brakes to teach them how to stop.

Pros

  • Teaches the child how to balance.
  • Builds confidence.
  • Gets your toddler ready for a bike without training wheels.
  • Can be less intimidating for children.

Cons

  • Toddlers may outgrow the bike fast.
  • You must find the perfect fit.

Tricycle (Trikes)

Tricycles or trikes are best for small toddlers who’ve just started mastering their walk. They consist of three wheels. There’s no chain, so the bike is propelled by using the pedals which are attached to the front wheel.

Trikes come in various shapes and sizes — some look classic, others are simple, and some are mini strollers. They’re a safe option as they require almost no balance to ride.

Trikes are a great way to introduce cycling to your toddler, but they’re grown out of quickly. They are usually considered a “baby” option, and your toddler may want a two-wheeler sooner than you think.

Pros

  • Safest option for young toddlers.
  • Various sizes and designs are available.
  • Easy to ride.

Cons

best toddler bikes

  • Toddlers outgrow the bike and fun fairly quickly.

Small Wheelers

Small wheelers work as your tot’s first step toward big-kid bikes. At 12 inches or 14 inches, the wheels are larger than you’d see on a baby bike.

These come with training wheels for extra support, but once you move up to 14 inches, they’re usually optional. Small wheelers may include big-kid features such as a kickstand. Your little one will also get to try coaster brakes.

Pros

  • Teaches your child how to ride a bike with training wheels.
  • Lots of options available in terms of style.
  • Lets them practice their skills in a fun way where they feel like a big kid.

Cons

  • Can be difficult to get the size right.
  • Requires practice.

Toddler Bike Size Chart

Here is a short, helpful size chart for the best sizes available for toddlers. Sizes appropriate for toddlers are 12-inch and 14-inch wheels. If your child is taller, they may need 16-inch wheels.

Keep In Mind

When sizing the bike, verify your toddler can be seated while still resting their feet fully on the ground (2). If they’re on their tippy-toes, the bike is too high, which can make it intimidating and hard to control.
Wheel size Child’s height Age
12-inch 2 feet 10 inches to 3 feet 4 inches 2 to 3 years
14-inch 3 feet 1 inch to 3 feet 7 inches 3 to 4 years
16-inch 3 feet 7 inches to 4 feet 4 to 5 years

How to Choose a Toddler Bike

Appropriate Handlebar

Since handlebars are essential for steering and control, choosing a bike with appropriately-sized handlebars for your toddler is essential.

Look for those that don’t sit too low or too high. Low profile handlebars can cause discomfort for your toddler, mostly in their shoulders and neck. If they’re too high, it can impair your child’s control of turning and maneuvering.

Some toddler bikes allow for handlebar adjustments, which is a helpful feature for a growing child.

Proper Brakes

Brakes are always necessary, but their importance increases as your toddler begins to pedal faster. Having proper, age-appropriate brakes is crucial for your toddler’s safety.

Most toddler bikes include a handbrake, but your child may not be able to use it properly before turning four. It requires some developmental skills young children may not have mastered yet.

The other brake system is a pedal brake for the rear wheel. These are typically included with most 12-inch and 14-inch bikes. However, they may not be ideal for a toddler who’s still learning how to pedal.

A pedal brake can confuse your toddler and potentially throw them off balance.  With either type of brake, there’s a learning curve your little one must overcome.

Weight

When choosing a bike, the weight is often severely underrated. Giving your toddler a bicycle that’s too heavy can lead to injuries should it fall on them.

The bike should weigh about 35 percent of your toddler’s body weight. We recommend finding one with a lightweight yet sturdy frame. These are generally made of aluminum or magnesium alloy metal.

Keep In Mind

While you’re going over the basics of riding with them, make sure you concentrate on safety. Don’t forget to get a properly sized baby or toddler helmet!

Toddler Bikes FAQs

What is the Best Bike to Get For a Toddler?

Balance bikes are often the best first bike for toddlers as they teach balance and coordination. Look for lightweight models with adjustable seats and handlebars. The Strider 12” Sport Bike is one of the most popular choices with parents.

Can You Teach a 2-Year-Old to Ride a Bike?

Yes, many two-year-olds can begin learning on a balance bike. These bikes don’t have pedals and allow children to focus on balancing first.

How Do I Know If My Child’s Bike is Too Small?

If their knees are hitting the handlebars or they look cramped, it’s time for a bigger size. The child should be able to comfortably reach the ground with their feet on a balance bike.

How Much Do Balance Bikes Cost?

Balance bikes can range from $50 to $200 depending on the brand, materials, and features. Investing in a durable and adjustable model might be cost-effective in the long run.

What is the Easiest Bike to Pedal?

Bikes with proper size and low gear ratios are easier to pedal. For toddlers, start with balance bikes and then transition to bikes with pedals and training wheels.

How Do I Teach My Toddler to Pedal?

Start with a tricycle or a bike with training wheels to get them used to the motion. Encourage and guide them, making it a fun and rewarding experience.

At What Age Should Training Wheels Come Off?

Typically, kids are ready to ride without training wheels between ages three to six. Look for their confidence in balancing and steering, and gradually raise the training wheels to encourage more balance.

Feedback: Was This Article Helpful?
Thank You For Your Feedback!
Thank You For Your Feedback!
What Did You Like?
What Went Wrong?
Headshot of Shannon Serpette

Edited by

Shannon Serpette

Shannon Serpette is an award-winning writer and editor, who regularly contributes to various newspapers, magazines, and websites. Shannon has been featured on Insider, Fatherly, SheKnows, and other high profile publications. As a mother of two, she loves to write about parenting issues and is dedicated to educating other parents at every stage of their child's development.