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Best Toddler Bikes of 2023

Updated
Watch your child take off on their first ride with one of these toddler bikes.

Is your toddler ready for their first bike, but you’re not sure which one to buy? Bicycles are where memories are made. Learning how to ride a bike was one of the most unforgettable moments of my childhood.

It’s easy to think a toddler is too young for their own bike, but we disagree. My little one got his first tricycle when he was one — perhaps a bit premature, I know, but he loved it.

Whether you’re looking for your toddler’s first bike or an upgrade, there’s a suitable one for everyone, and we’ll help you find the best toddler bike.

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 Kids Balance Bike, No Pedal Training Bicycle, Lightweight...
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 Balance Bike, 12-Inch, Blue
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 12 Inch Kids Bike for 2 3 4 Years Boys, Kids Bicycle with Training...
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 Baby Tricycle, 4 in 1 Children’s Smart Trike w/Removable Push Handle,...
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 Dual Deck 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 Girls Kids Bike 14 Inch with Training Wheels Basket...
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 Kids Girls Bike Bicycle with Basket Training Wheels 14 Inch...
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 Training Wheel Bike, Kids Bike Boys Girls, BMX Mountain with Dual Disc...
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 Bicycle With Training Wheels, 12-Inch Wheels, Red
Best for Boys
Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Kids Bike
  • Fun theme
  • Easy-to-use bike
  • Adjustable seat height
Product Image of the COEWSKE Kid's Bike Steel Frame Children Bicycle Little Princess Style 14 Inch...
Best for 4-Year-Olds
Coewske Little Princess
  • Stylish bike
  • Stable to ride
  • Good-to-have features included


The Best Toddler Bikes of 2023

Here are the ten best toddler bikes to consider.

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 a considerable number of features. One of these is an adjustable seat and handlebar heights which can accommodate ages 18 months to 5 years.

The Strider 12 Balance Bike is constructed in a durable steel frame and puncture-proof tires. Thus, this bike requires less maintenance. Moreover, it is available in five lovely colors.

Your toddler should love this bike. It sports a vibrant blue color and looks like a regular bicycle.

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 adjustable handlebar heights and seat. Nevertheless, it has puncture-proof tires saving you bucks for tire maintenance.

Lightweight and Easy to Carry

A key feature is the lightweight aluminum frame. It’s super light, weighing 6.7 pounds. Your toddler can easily maneuver it as they please.

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 4 years
Color Blue
Item weight 7.5 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

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 speed.

KaZam constructed this bike for the growing child. The handlebars and seat are fully adjustable 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

To help your child grow with the bike, you can adjust the handlebars and seat. With the saddle, you can choose a height between 13.5 inches and 16.5 inches. It’s easy to change, and you don’t need any tools.

For the handlebars, you can adjust to a height between 19 inches and 20.5 inches. 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. They’re puncture-resistant and maintenance-free.

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

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

Assembly Is a Pain

Although Joystar claims the assembly is a breeze even for a novice, many parents said it was a pain. It comes 85 percent pre-assembled, but the instructions for the last 15 percent are nearly useless.

Product Specs

Bike type Pedal with training wheels
Bike wheel size 12-inch
Recommended age 2 to 4 years
Color Blue, ivory, orange, red, and pink
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

Costzon 4-in-1 Kids Tricycle

Best Toddler Bike for 2-Year-Olds

If your baby has just entered toddlerhood, and you want a fun alternative to the stroller, then look no further. This four-in-one tricycle from Costzon is truly unique.

It offers four different ways for a child ranging from ten months to five years to ride. Your little one can learn to pedal with the stability of mom or dad holding on thanks to the removable handle.

Included is an adjustable sun canopy, protecting your little one from the harsh UV rays or poor weather. Surrounding your baby is a guard rail or armrest, and they’re safely strapped in using the three-point safety belt. 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 themselves.

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, blue and white, red and white, and pink
Item weight 18.7 pounds

Our Ratings

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

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. It’s a classic trike, looking like it has stepped out of the ‘80s.

The trike features a double-deck and a bright red color for the classic look. It’s made of a durable steel frame and chrome handlebars, suited with a 12-inch front wheel and rubber tires.

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

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 the look off with 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

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.

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. It will hold any bottom, whether small or large.

What We Like

Lightweight yet Incredibly Durable

The primary materials 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

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. 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 a durable high-tensile steel. It’s durable and 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 wheel. 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 or 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

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 enables 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 light weight, 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 Champagne or 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

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 pink, blue, red and silver.

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. Everything comes in the appropriate colors of pink, blue, silver, and red. The bike sports vibrant hues.

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

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 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 your toddle 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

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 18.7 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 that are for suitable for toddler 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 seem 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

  • 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

Handlebars are essential for steering and control, so it’s vital to choose a bike with handlebars that suit your toddler’s size.

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.

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 it can also throw the driver 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.


Let’s Get Going

A bike is a great investment for your toddler — it’s a fun way to exercise and learn a new set of skills. There are three types of toddler bikes you can choose from — balance, tricycle, and small wheelers. Balance bikes are an excellent way to teach your child how to stay steady on a bicycle.

An essential point to get right is the bike’s size.

For toddlers, their feet should always be fully rested on the ground while they’re seated. If they’re not, the bike is too high. This can be intimidating, and they may fall.

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!

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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.