Balance bike from 2 years: what to look for when buying

For many children, a balance bike is their very first set of wheels. Without pedals, they learn balance and steering along the way, and the switch to a bike later often works without training wheels. Here you'll learn when a balance bike is a good fit, how to find the right size and what matters when buying.

When does a balance bike make sense?

Most children get on a balance bike between 2 and 3 years. What really matters, though, is not age but size: your child must be able to stand securely with both feet on the ground while sitting on the saddle. That's why it's worth checking the manufacturer's information on saddle height and body height.

• From 2 years: According to the manufacturer, the Holzspielerei Superbike is recommended from 2 years. The saddle adjusts up to 40 cm.
• From about 85 cm tall: According to the manufacturer, the Banwood balance bike First Go fits children aged 3 to 5 years who are about 85 to 115 cm tall. Tall two-year-olds often reach this height earlier.

Finding the right size

Measure your child's inseam: have them stand barefoot against a wall, slide a book between their legs and measure from the floor to the top edge of the book. As a rule of thumb, the lowest saddle height should be a little below this value so that both feet stand flat on the ground. As your child grows, simply raise the saddle and handlebars.

What to look for when buying

1. Weight

A balance bike should be light, because your child has to push it, steer it and pick it up again. The Banwood First Go and the Holzspielerei Superbike each weigh about 4.5 kg.

2. Tires

Air tires cushion stones, roots and curbs better than solid rubber or plastic. The Banwood First Go and the Holzspielerei Superbike both have 12-inch air tires.

3. Adjustable saddle and handlebars

A balance bike that grows with your child will be used for several years. On the Banwood First Go, both saddle and handlebars are height-adjustable, and it holds up to 25 kg.

4. Frame: wood or steel?

Wood feels warm and looks natural. The Superbike has a frame made of multi-layer glued wood. Steel is especially sturdy and can handle rain and rough paths too. The Banwood balance bikes have a steel frame and fork.

5. Extras kids love

For many children, a basket at the front is the highlight: soft toys, chestnuts and sticks come along for the ride. The Banwood Balance Bike has a removable wicker and rattan basket and vegan leather-look grips.

Our balance bikes at a glance

• Holzspielerei Superbike: wooden frame, 12-inch air tires, saddle up to 40 cm, 4.5 kg, from 2 years. Delivery only within Germany.
• Banwood First Go in Forest, Teal, Blue, Beige and Dusty Pink: steel frame, 12-inch air tires, for about 85 to 115 cm, up to 25 kg.
• Banwood Balance Bike in Pink, Pale Mint, Cream and Marest Allegra Black: retro look with wicker basket, 12-inch wheels, 3 to 5 years.

We often only have small numbers of the Banwood models in stock. You'll find all colors currently available under Balance bikes and in the Banwood collection.

Balance bike, tricycle or straight to a bike?

A tricycle stands on its own and suits children who prefer to roll along at a relaxed pace. On a balance bike, on the other hand, they learn balance, and that's exactly what they'll need on a bike later. That's why many families start straight away with a balance bike. If you like both: the Banwood Trike Vintage is designed for 3 to 6 years.

Staying safe

A helmet belongs on from the very first ride, for example a Banwood Eco Helmet to match the balance bike. Balance bikes are toys and not meant for use in traffic. Kids are best off practicing on car-free paths, in the park or in the schoolyard on weekends. Check tire pressure and screws every now and then.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can a child ride a balance bike?

Most children start between 2 and 3 years. What matters is that both feet can reach the ground securely while seated. According to the manufacturer, the Holzspielerei Superbike is recommended from 2 years, the Banwood First Go for a height of about 85 to 115 cm.

What size balance bike do I need?

Measure your child's inseam. The lowest saddle height should be a little below it, so that both feet stand flat on the ground.

Air tires or solid rubber?

Air tires cushion bumps better and give a more comfortable ride outdoors. The Banwood First Go and the Holzspielerei Superbike have 12-inch air tires.

Wood or steel for a balance bike?

Wood looks natural and feels warm. Steel is especially sturdy and weatherproof. With our models, both versions weigh about 4.5 kg.

How heavy can a balance bike be?

As light as possible, so your child can push and pick it up on their own. Our balance bikes weigh about 4.5 kg.

Does my child need a helmet on a balance bike?

Yes, from the very first ride. In small children, the head is large and heavy relative to the body, and falls happen quickly.

Is a balance bike a good gift for a 2nd or 3rd birthday?

Yes. It builds balance and confidence and, with an adjustable saddle, gets used for several years.