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10 Best Tricycles for Toddlers of 2024

Updated
We put the trikes on trial to find the best tricycles for toddlers.

Tricycles are not just flashy toys; they’re the first step to independence, teaching balance, coordination, and foundational biking skills.

But with a market flooded with options, how do you pick the best tricycles for toddlers that are both entertaining and built to last?

You’re in luck! We dedicated hours to research, ensuring every choice we present is top-tier in safety and fun. Because when it comes to your child, only the best will do.

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 Infans Lightweight Tricycle
Best Trike Overall
Infans Lightweight Tricycle
  • Simple assembly
  • Easy-to-use, non-slip pedals
  • Adjustable seat and handlebar
Product Image of the Fisher-Price Paw Patrol
Light & Sound Show
Fisher-Price Paw Patrol
  • With lights and sounds
  • Sturdy and stable structure
  • Adjustable seat with 3 positions
Product Image of the Costzon Foldable Tricycle
Easy Folding
Costzon Foldable Tricycle
  • Can accommodate large age group
  • Highly convertible
  • Neutral color
Product Image of the Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson
Best for Boys
Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson
  • Cool theme
  • Stable structure and wide wheels
  • Big pedals
Product Image of the Schwinn Roadster Tricycle
Retro-Chic
Schwinn Roadster Tricycle
  • Retro style at its best
  • Durable, air-filled tires
  • Fenders on all three wheels
Product Image of the Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll 'N Trike
Best for Small Users
Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll 'N Trike
  • A four-in-one design
  • Large sun canopy
  • Lots of support for small riders
Product Image of the Radio Flyer Red Rider Trike
Classic Trike
Radio Flyer Red Rider Trike
  • Durable steel frame
  • Quiet tires
  • Storage bin at the back
Product Image of the XJD 3-in-1 Kids Tricycle
From Trike to Balance Bike
XJD 3-in-1 Kids Tricycle
  • Sturdy carbon steel frame
  • Comfortable handles and seat
  • Easy assembly
Product Image of the Minnie Fly Wheel Junior Cruiser
Best for Girls
Minnie Fly Wheel Junior Cruiser
  • Colorful and fun for young girls
  • Wheels feature LED lights
  • Adjustable seat
Product Image of the Disney Princess Junior Cruiser
Best Budget Pick
Disney Princess Junior Cruiser
  • Provides stability and control
  • Cool sound effects
  • Easy and fun to build


The Best Tricycles for Toddlers of 2024

Ready to pedal into the details? Here are the top ten tricycles for toddlers.

Infans Lightweight Tricycle for Toddler

Best Trike Overall

With outstanding reviews from parents and an excellent reputation online, this trike from Infans is worth its top spot. It’s a lightweight tricycle with easy-to-reach, anti-slip pedals, suitable for children aged 2 to 5 years or up to 55 pounds.

This trike is all about safety and giving your little one confidence to ride. Its large front wheel facilitates steering and ensures stability. The robust frame, shaped in a double triangle design, ensures durability against potential mishaps.

Its three wheels, crafted from premium EVA material, are solid, wear-resistant, and versatile for varied terrains with added shock absorption benefits.

Our favorite features are the adjustable seat and handlebar. You can alter both into two positions, which increases the longevity of the trike and allows your little one to grow with it.

Pros

  • Simple assembly.
  • Easy-to-use, non-slip pedals.
  • Adjustable seat and handlebar.
  • All-terrain EVA wheels.

Cons

  • Small toddlers may have a hard time reaching the pedals.

Product Specs

Front wheel size 10 inches
Tricycle weight 8.5 pounds
Fits children aged 2 to 5 years
Maximum weight 55 pounds
Material Steel

Our Ratings

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

User Experience

In my experience, this trike from Infans is a fantastic choice for young children. It's lightweight with anti-slip pedals, perfect for kids ages 2 to 5, and supports up to 55 pounds. The large front wheel and durable frame make it sturdy and safe while the high-quality EVA wheels allow for smooth rides on various terrains. I love the adjustable seat and handlebar, letting the trike grow with your child. However, smaller toddlers might find it difficult to reach the pedals initially.

Fisher-Price Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Trike

Light and Sound Show

If your toddler loves playing police or rescue, this trike from Fisher-Price is worth a look. It’s a Paw Patrol-inspired tricycle, decked out from handlebar to wheel in the popular Nickelodeon series motif. The trike is fun and hits a playful note for any toddler, sparking ideas for imaginative play.

It includes sounds and lights — as your toddler is pedaling, they can groove to the music or listen to popular phrases. The lights will give the rider a feel of an authentic Paw Patrol vehicle while teaching them valuable biking skills.

Once they’ve arrived on the scene, the patroller can call for backup using the included “walkie-talkie.” The wheelbase is wide, aiding stability, while the easy-grip handlebars are comfy to hold on to. The trike also allows for growth since you can adjust the seat.

Pros

  • Fun trike with lights and sounds.
  • Sturdy and stable structure.
  • Features anti-slip pedals and easy-grip handles.
  • Adjustable seat with three positions.

Cons

  • The wheels are hard plastic.
  • The assembly directions aren’t great.

Product Specs

Front wheel size N/A
Tricycle weight 10.45 pounds
Fits children aged 2 to 6 years
Maximum weight 60 pounds
Material Plastic

Our Ratings

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

Personal Perspective

After purchasing this dinosaur-themed trike for my grandson, I noticed it has some great features. The adjustable seat is perfect for growing kids, allowing them to reach the pedals easily and comfortably. The assembly process was a bit time-consuming, but the instructions were clear and helpful. My grandson absolutely loves the various sounds and lights the trike has to offer, adding an extra layer of fun to his rides. The larger front tire provides better traction and less pedaling effort, which is a huge plus. However, applying the stickers can be a bit tricky and requires patience, so be prepared for that small challenge.

Costzon 6-in-1 Baby Foldable Tricycle Stroller

Easy Folding

The baby tricycle is a bit unusual compared to the others on our list, but it’s worth a look.

It folds effortlessly, and when your toddler wants to ride, simply unfold it and stand it upright. This tricycle will teach your little one about steering and balance skills.

It’s lightweight, making maneuvers easy to accomplish. Although it may look less durable, it’s sturdy enough to bring to the park thanks to its scooter-like wheels.

It has foldable pedals, and its wheels are durable enough for a lot of adventures.

Your youngster will love how sturdy and stable it feels to ride — excellent for boosting confidence. It surely will last long with your little one as it can be used as a baby stroller at early as 18 months old and can be converted as a self-riding bike by the age of 7.

Pros

  • Versatile, catering to a wide age range.
  • Durable wheels.
  • Highly convertible.
  • Neutral color.

Cons

  • Pricey, but its longevity justifies the investment.

Product Specs

Front wheel size N/A
Tricycle weight 24 pounds
Fits children aged 18 months to 7 years
Maximum weight N/A
Material Steel, plastic, and Oxford cloth

Our Ratings

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

Community Feedback

Excellent tricycle for little ones with its unique folding feature and adaptability for various ages. I found that this tricycle is not only lightweight but also helps teach steering and balance skills while providing a stable and sturdy ride. The foldable pedals and durable wheels make it perfect for many outdoor adventures, and its high convertibility, allowing usage from 18 months to 7 years old, is a major plus. Although slightly more expensive than other options, its longevity and versatile design make it well worth the investment.

Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson Tough Trike

Best Tricycle for Boys

Designed with the iconic Harley-Davidson theme, this trike mirrors a mini motorcycle for those young thrill-seekers.

The trike showcases flame decals and the emblematic Harley-Davidson logo, while the vibrant “leather” orange seat contrasts brilliantly with the black frame. Silver-colored handlebars mimic chrome, enhancing the motorcycle aesthetic.

Not only is it a visual treat, but it’s also designed for safety and comfort. The trike features broad wheels for stability, large user-friendly pedals, and comfortable handlebars. An added bonus is a compact cargo space beneath the seat for little treasures. It’s ideal for children between the ages of 2 to 5.

Pros

  • Cool theme, fun for toddler boys.
  • Stable structure and wide wheels.
  • Big pedals that are easy to turn.
  • Small compartment under the seat.

Cons

  • The handles are far apart, making it difficult for small users to reach comfortably.

Product Specs

Front wheel size N/A
Tricycle weight 4 pounds
Fits children aged 2 to 5 years
Maximum weight 55 pounds
Material Plastic

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This tricycle has brought smiles to many kids' faces during their first rides. As a tall girl, my daughter found it a bit small for her at two years old, but it seems more suitable for three-year-olds. The quality is great and assembly was a breeze. My son also loved riding it daily, although he needed to grow a bit more to fully reach the pedals. One downside is that the stickers faded extremely fast after just one day outside, becoming unrecognizable.

Schwinn Roadster Kids Tricycle

Retro-Chic

With a retro-inspired design, this tricycle from Schwinn is a win-win. It’s incredibly stylish and available in colors suited for girls and boys.

Schwinn constructed the Roadster with a sculpted seat, which you can adjust into five lock-in horizontal positions. There’s plenty of room for growing legs to expand while still being able to pedal the trike comfortably.

A retro bike wouldn’t be complete without a rear deck. Your tot can use that for mounting the tricycle, or a friend can tag along for the ride. The deck is made of wood, with a chrome trim, and features a burnt-in Schwinn logo.

The trike features three air-filled tires, capable of going over various terrains while providing ample shock absorption. Over the wheels are chrome fenders to protect the rider from dirt and stones.

For the finishing touches, Schwinn left the handlebars as bare chrome. The fenders are also chrome, with a black chevron trim, and finished with a splash of color, truly playing into the retro vibe.

There are seven available colors to choose from, and the Roadster tricycle is suitable for children aged 2 to 4 years.

Pros

  • Exudes vintage charm.
  • Multi-functional wooden deck.
  • Durable, air-filled tires.
  • Protective fenders on all wheels.

Cons

  • The wheel caps tend to pop off — some parents applied glue.
  • Some parents complained it was squeaky, so they applied some oil to help.

Product Specs

Front wheel size 12 inches
Tricycle weight 21.1 pounds
Fits children aged 2 to 4 years
Maximum weight N/A
Material Chrome

Our Ratings

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

User Experience

From the moment I assembled this trike, I knew it would be a hit with my grandchildren. The adjustable seat and handlebars allowed for a comfortable fit, even though they're 4 and 5 years old. They absolutely love racing these sturdy, well-made trikes in my basement. The retro style is eye-catching, making it a head-turner for anyone over 40, and the quality construction ensures it'll last for years to come.

Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll 'N Trike

Best for the Smallest Users

We recommend the Stroll ‘N Trike from Radio Flyer if you’re looking for a tricycle your toddler can use early on. This 4-in-1 trike seamlessly transforms from a stroller to a steering trike, a learn-to-ride trike, and finally, a traditional tricycle. It can support riders as young as 9 months.

Initially functioning as a stroller, the Stoll ‘N Trike features a handlebar for adults to push, complemented by a three-point harness ensuring the child’s safety. An overhead canopy effectively shields against UV rays, ensuring a comfortable ride.

Once your little one becomes more coordinated, they can begin controlling where you’re going by turning the handlebars while you push. When they’re ready, you can remove the footrests and parent handlebars, enabling them to use the pedals.

Built to last, its sturdy steel frame promises durability, suitable for kids up to age 5 or weighing up to 49 pounds. Moreover, the adult handlebar is fully adjustable and has a comfortable foam grip.

Pros

  • 4-in-1 design evolves with your child’s growth.
  • Protective sun canopy for UV defense.
  • Ample support for small riders.
  • Adjustable handlebar for the parent.

Cons

  • The child’s handlebar does not lock, so they can steer off the path accidentally while you push.

Product Specs

Front wheel size N/A
Tricycle weight 16 pounds
Fits children aged 9 months to 5 years
Maximum weight 49 pounds
Material Steel

Our Ratings

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

Personal Perspective

I've recently purchased this bike for my toddler, and it has been a delightful experience for both of us. My child absolutely loves going for strolls on it and enjoys the outdoors even more now. The sturdy snap-on foot stand and adjustable parent handle make it a comfortable and convenient option for me as well. However, I did notice that the footrest may not be suitable for taller children, and the umbrella could use some improvement in terms of durability.

Radio Flyer Red Rider Trike

Classic Trike

When we want a classic, we’ll always refer to Radio Flyer, and this Red Rider Trike takes us back to the old days. It has a steel frame and is drenched in a vibrant red, and has white-wall tires.

This trike is not just about aesthetics; it’s designed with resilience in mind, well-suited for young adventures. It incorporates an adjustable seat for a growing child and a robust steel frame. Behind the seat is a storage compartment with a lid to keep the cargo safe.

Its quietly-rolling wheels are a standout quality, making it a viable option for indoor and outdoor play. Furthermore, the carry handle on the back is an added convenience for parents. The trike is suitable for children aged 2.5 to 5 years.

Pros

  • Timeless design with nostalgic charm.
  • Durable steel frame.
  • Quiet tires, excellent for indoor play.
  • Storage bin at the back.

Cons

  • Plastic wheels, which aren’t as desirable as rubber.
  • No extras like streamers or a bell.

Product Specs

Front wheel size N/A
Tricycle weight 10 pounds
Fits children aged 2.5 to 5 years
Maximum weight 49 pounds
Material Steel

Our Ratings

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

Community Feedback

My experience with this Radio Flyer tricycle has been overwhelmingly positive. The adjustable seat allowed my small-for-his-age son to easily reach and push the pedals, which helped him learn to ride quickly. The tricycle's design is adorable, and the 'trunk' is a favorite feature for storing toys during rides. While there is some plastic in its construction, it still feels sturdy and has provided lots of fun for our little one.

XJD International 3-in-1 Kids Tricycle

From Trike to Balance Bike

With a three-in-one design, this tricycle is capable of transforming into a balance bike once your youngster is ready. As a trike, it’s recommended for children aged 10 months to 2 years. From the ages of 2 to 3, they can use it as a balance bike.

The trike is easy to assemble and use. As your toddler grows, you can adjust the handlebars and seat to fit.

It has a sturdy design, made of carbon steel with wide wheels that are durable enough for outdoors and quiet for indoors. The handles include soft grips, and the seat features extra padding as well as PU leather.

Equipped with three wear-resistant, non-slip EVA foam tires, they ensure a strong grip on the surface. Once your toddler is ready, you connect the rear wheels and remove the pedals to use it as a balance bike.

Pros

  • Transforms from tricycle to balance bike.
  • Sturdy carbon steel frame.
  • Comfortable handles and seat.
  • Easy assembly.

Cons

  • The bike is small, so toddlers may outgrow it fast.

Product Specs

Front wheel size 7.5 inches
Tricycle weight 7.2 pounds
Fits children aged 10 months to 3 years
Maximum weight 110 pounds
Material Carbon steel

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Size
3 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I've found this tricycle to be a fantastic starter bike for young kids, as it offers adjustable wheels and is easy to assemble. My one-year-old grandson enjoys scooting along without the pedals, while my two-year-old nephew has no trouble accessing the pedals stored under the seat. The durability and materials used in this trike are impressive, though I did find the seat to be a bit wobbly and the hand bar non-adjustable for growing toddlers.

Minnie Mouse 15-Inch Fly Wheel Junior Cruiser

Best Tricycle for Girls

For sassy girls, we found this ultra-pink Minnie Mouse trike. It’s cute and comes with stickers your little one can apply to finish the look.

It’s a classic-style trike with a grossly oversized front wheel. Along with an angled handlebar, this gives it an “Easy Rider” biker vibe. The front wheel measures 15 inches in diameter, suitable for girls aged 3 to 5.

The trike features LED lights on the front wheel. Your little one can see the wheels turn, even in the evening when the lights are low. The seat adjusts easily into three positions to allow for growth.

Although the size states it’s suitable from 3 to 5 years, many parents say the lowest setting was perfect for their 2-year-old. The trike does require some assembly, but most reviewers say it was a breeze.

Pros

  • Colorful and fun for young girls.
  • The wheels feature LED lights (batteries included).
  • Adjustable seat.
  • The batteries for the light are replaceable.

Cons

  • Stickers peel off quickly.

Product Specs

Front wheel size 15 inches
Tricycle weight 10.65 pounds
Fits children aged 3 to 5 years
Maximum weight 70 pounds
Material Plastic

Our Ratings

Safety Features
3.5 / 5
Durability
3 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

User Experience

My experience with this tricycle has been a mix of good and bad. On one hand, the Minnie Mouse design is adorable and my child loves it, plus it's easy to pedal. However, the plastic front wheel tends to slide on slick surfaces, and the back support for the seat can be frustrating as it keeps popping out. Assembly was a bit tricky, especially connecting the rear wheels to the axle, but once it's put together, it's sturdy and durable. This tricycle is great for indoor use, though it can be a bit difficult to ride on surfaces without carpet.

Disney Princess Junior Cruiser

Best Budget Pick

For our budget pick, we’ve chosen the Disney Princess Junior Cruiser. We know that tricycles can be expensive, but this one comes in at a fair price while still providing a ton of fun for kids.

It comes with a bunch of Disney Princess stickers. Your child can choose where to place them during the assembly of the bike, ensuring their favorite cartoons are on display.

The extra wide 10-inch front wheel ensures maximum stability and safety for children. If your little one isn’t quite confident with cycling yet, this is a great starting point.

Kids from two to four years old will love this awesome bike. Plus, the added sound effects — available via the push button at the front — make a trip around the block extra exciting!

Pros

  • Provides stability and control.
  • Cool sound effects.
  • Ergonomic handlebars.
  • Easy and fun to build.

Cons

  • Taller kids’ knees might hit the handlebars.
  • Cheaply made.

Product Specs

Front wheel size 10 inches
Tricycle weight 5.24 pounds
Fits children aged 2 to 4  years
Maximum weight 35 pounds
Material Plastic

Our Ratings

Safety Features
3.5 / 5
Durability
2.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

For someone seeking an affordable tricycle for their little one, this tricycle has its pros and cons. While I found the assembly process a bit challenging, especially with the second wheel, my granddaughter enjoys riding it around the house. The design is cute and reminiscent of popular characters like Bobby's World and Lilo & Stitch. However, the tricycle is on the smaller side and may be outgrown within a year. Additionally, the quality is just okay, so don't expect it to be a long-lasting investment.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Front wheel size Tricycle weight Fits children aged Maximum weight Material
Infans Lightweight Tricycle Overall 10″ 8.5 lbs 2 – 5 yrs 55 lbs Steel
Fisher-Price Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Light & Sound Show N/A 10.45 lbs 2 – 6 yrs 60 lbs Plastic
Costzon 6-in-1 Baby Tricycle Easy Folding N/A 24 lbs 18 months – 7 yrs N/A Steel, plastic, Oxford cloth
Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson Boys N/A 4 lbs 2 – 5 yrs 55 lbs Plastic
Schwinn Roadster Tricycle Retro-Chic 12″ 21.1 lbs 2 – 4 yrs N/A Chrome
Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N Trike Smallest Users N/A 16 lbs 9 mos – 5 yrs 49 lbs Steel
Radio Flyer Red Rider Trike Classic Trike N/A 10 lbs 2.5 – 5 yrs 49 lbs Steel
XJD 3-in-1 Kids Tricycle Trike to Balance Bike 7.5″ 7.2 lbs 10 mos – 3 yrs 110 lbs Carbon steel
Minnie Fly Wheel Junior Cruiser Girls 15″ 10.65 lbs 3 – 5 yrs 70 lbs Plastic
Disney Princess Junior Cruiser Budget Pick 10” 5.24 lbs  2 – 4 yrs 35 lbs Plastic

How to Choose a Tricycle for Toddlers

Size

Although tricycles are considerably small, some are not suitable for toddlers. A trike that’s too large will make it difficult for the rider to reach the pedals and possibly even the ground. Most manufacturers specify an appropriate age range, so you can determine if the size is suitable for your child.

We recommend you take the time to look through user reviews if there is any doubt about the size. Many parents disclose their child’s age when writing about the suitability of the product.

Another option is a multi-purpose tricycle — these generally come as either two-in-one or three-in-one configurations. They work as a stroller for small toddlers, and then you can transform them into a trike when they’re ready. Others can change from a trike into a balance bike by modifying the rear wheels.

Fun Factor

When dealing with toddlers, you always want something appealing that can spark imaginative play. Most tricycles do resemble toys, so this one is fairly easy.

Fun features such as lights and sounds are especially appealing to young toddlers. For older toddlers, a favorite character theme might suffice.

Another feature we put a lot of emphasis on is onboard storage — a small basket or bin for toys or snacks. Toddlers love hauling their favorite toys and often use the storage for imaginative play, which can offer long-term benefits (1).

Durable Material

When it comes to trikes, some are made from less durable materials than others. Many are designed to resemble toys rather than tricycles.

The typical materials used are steel and sturdy plastic. Other brands may use chrome, which is common among retro-inspired trikes.

Plastic is fine as long as it’s robust — user reviews will often tell you how a product holds up.


FAQs

What is the Best Tricycle For a Toddler?

The best tricycle for a toddler is one that’s stable, appropriately sized, and easy to pedal.

Popular choices include the Radio Flyer Classic Red Tricycle and the Schwinn Roadster Tricycle, known for their durability and child-friendly design. But the INFANS Kids Tricycle Rider is our pick for the best overall tricycle for toddlers.

What is the Best Tricycle Brand?

Some of the best tricycle brands are Radio Flyer, Schwinn, and Little Tikes. These brands are renowned for their safety features, sturdy construction, and designs that cater to various developmental stages of toddlers.

Do Toddler Tricycles Have Brakes?

Some toddler tricycles do come with brakes, usually simple push-down brakes that are easy for little hands to operate. However, many toddler tricycles rely on the child’s feet for stopping, as this is easier for younger kids to manage.

Do Toddlers Need Helmets For Tricycles?

Yes, toddlers should wear helmets when riding tricycles. Even though tricycles are lower to the ground, wearing a helmet instills safe riding habits and provides protection in case of falls.

What Age Should a Toddler Get a Tricycle?

Toddlers can start using a tricycle as early as two years old. It’s important to choose a tricycle that fits their size and skill level to ensure they can ride comfortably and safely.

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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.