Teaching your kids how to ride a pedal bike is one of the biggest difficulties as they get older. With balance bikes, however, a lot of the difficulty is actually solved. The child learns to balance without pedals rather than learning how to pedal with training wheels, which isn’t really the hardest part anyway, right? Like Strider Balance Bikes, with the newest Hotwalk Balance Bikes, kids are definitely getting all that and then some, which is great for any parent who wants their child to enjoy bike riding as much as they do.

The Review

The Hotwalk is designed to really stand up to anything and everything that your child might throw at it and still come out on top. In fact, it’s built like a mountain bike in many respects, so you definitely know it’s going to withstand pressure and a whole lot of abuse. As a balance bike, it’s designed to help your preschool age child get the hang of what riding a two-wheel bike is really going to be about and how they will need to balance in order to be really successful.

Proper Sizing

This pedal bike has two different versions for boys and girls with the girl’s version featuring a traditional step-through section of the frame, which is common in regular two-wheel bikes as well. Unfortunately, while the seat does adjust to accommodate larger and smaller children, there’s not a whole lot of flexibility and it only moves about 4”. This can reduce the versatility for children who are a little larger or a little smaller than average, making it important that you measure your child and the bike itself. It can range from about 13” to 17”, so make sure your child is able to sit with this configuration.

Overall Comfort

There’s an integrated footrest that makes it easier for your child to get their feet off the ground and make sure they’re really balanced as they’re riding down the sidewalk or down that hill. There is also plenty of padding in the seat to make it more comfortable to ride for longer periods of time and to make sure they don’t get jostled too much if the area they’re riding on is a little bit bumpy. It also has air tires that make for a smoother ride and ensure that your child is getting a more natural ride.

Where some balance bikes use plastic tires to increase balance, this bike uses a traditional bike tire that really makes sure your child will be comfortable and happy when they switch over to a traditional bike. They won’t have to get used to an entirely new ride yet again by trying to switch out the tires. It’s also designed exactly the same as a bike, only without the pedals and without a brake. That makes it easier to get used to the new bike when your child gets there.

Careful Consideration

This bike is designed for smaller children, about 2 ½ - 4 years of age, but the most important indicator of whether it’s going to work for them is their size. Make sure to measure them before you purchase this or any balance bike. Larger children will have difficulty using this bike for an extended period of time and even those who are 4 may have some trouble using it as they may feel a little bit cramped or a little too big for the bike even if they’re not quite ready to move on to a two-wheel bike.

Keep in mind also that this bike has no brakes. Though this is common with balance bikes, it means that your child will need to be able to move their feet quickly from the footrests in the back to their sides when they want to stop the bike or when it coasts to a stop in order to avoid falling. The design of the footrests makes this simpler, but it can still take a bit of teaching for your child to get the hang of moving their feet quickly to catch the bike and themselves before it topples over.

Buying Your Own​

There are two different versions of this bike with one designed for girls with the lower frame bar and one designed for boy riders with the higher one. Both of the bikes have the same range when it comes to seat height (seat tube length), however, and the frame is really the only difference.

The tires on the bike are 12”, which is very similar to what a child of similar size would have on a standard two-wheel bike. It helps them to get used to what they are doing and how their bike is going to feel when they do start riding.

The frame itself is made with premium aluminum alloy to improve the durability and make sure it stands up to anything and also to make sure the bike is light enough that your child can at least move it around on their own, though they won’t want to carry it.

There are no brakes and there’s no limiter to keep them from going too fast, so it’s important to watch where they are riding and make sure it’s going to be safe. Overall, this bike has a lot of great features and definitely will help your child get ready for the next stage in bike riding. They’ll definitely be able to feel more comfortable when they get there.

There are plenty of ways that you can help your child learn how to ride a two-wheel bike, but bikes with training wheels are definitely starting to be seen as less than ideal. Instead, a balance bike can help your child really enjoy riding and learn how to do the most difficult part, balance. With the Hotwalk Balance Bike, you’re getting a whole lot for your little one, and you’ll definitely be able to see why they would want to use this one in particular. It’s going to make learning a whole lot more fun and stylish.​

Indoor training with a stationary trainer roller and resistance unit for your bike is one way that you can get in better shape and have a lot of fun while you’re doing it. It’s just like riding your bike out on the road, but it’s definitely safer and possible to do no matter what it’s like outside. Training in this way, helps you to improve your heart rate, Bike trainer cycling rollers allow you to hook your bike up to a machine that helps you move easily, with a little more freedom than a traditional trainer. You’re definitely going to have no problem getting the hang of any of these and hooking them up to your favorite bike for an indoor cycling session.

Kreitler Kompact Hot Dog 3.0

Priced around $450, the Kreitler Kompact Hot Dog 3.0 is a great bike trainer that provides you with just the right amount of resistance so you can get a great workout in. Made entirely in the United States, this system has 10” wide drums and work great for riders who are looking for a bit of a challenge. You get everything you need to ride, including a base that works well for 38” to 42” wheelbases. Designed to be lightweight and easy to carry around, this system is definitely a great choice and it’s going to be simple to use.

The drums and caps on this system are made with aluminum and are designed to give you a super smooth ride and to do it very quietly as well. The bike roller system is extremely sturdy and will keep you riding safely without having to worry about wobbling or other damage that could occur over time. You’ll get plenty of space and you’re going to get a realistic riding experience that you’re definitely going to love and that you won’t have a problem keeping up throughout the bad weather and the cold of winter.

SportsCrafters OverDrive Pro Rollers

Slightly lower in price, the SportsCrafters OverDrive Pro Rollers provide a smooth and simple surface that you’ll definitely be able to get the amount of resistance that you want and a whole lot more. The system uses a magnetic resistance process for harder resistance when you pedal harder, which is definitely a benefit for most. It also provides low-speed stability because of the setup and you’ll have smooth drums that still keep your bike right where it needs to be for safety. It’s also a quiet system that makes it easy to ride even when there are other people in the house.​

You can easily fold up the system when you’re not using it so it’s ready to go whenever you want. This makes it simple to transport and also simple to stow away if you need the space. There are rubber floor protectors on the base that keep you from scratching the floor and the system itself is made of aluminum and steel, so it’s definitely high quality. Made in the United States, it’s designed to last a lifetime and make it much easier for you to get the workout and the experience that you’re looking for in riding indoors.

Elite Arion Mag Parabolic Rollers

With the Elite Arion Mag Parabolic Rollers, you’re getting a moderately expensive system that provides you with a whole lot of advanced features. This bike roller system offers 3 different magnetic resistance levels and parabolic shaped drums. This provides you with more control when it comes to riding and makes sure that you are going to get the intensity of workout that you’re looking for. It’s easy to adjust and setup and because it’s lightweight and foldable you’ll have no problem transporting it whenever you want. Not only that but you’ll be able to carry it with the integrated handle.

There’s very little noise when it comes to using this system and you’re going to have less wear on your tires because it’s made with a composite plastic that reduces static and a whole lot more. It works great with any bike you may have including road bikes and mountain bikes and though it takes a bit of work to get over the learning curve, it’s really going to make sure you have a great workout and that you can ride while you’re doing anything that you want, which is definitely going to be a lot of fun.

CycleOps Alloy Rollers

The CycleOps Alloy Rollers are very simple but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s not going to give you just what you’re looking for. They don’t have any kind of bumpers on the outside, which means you need to be careful when you’re riding so you don’t slide right off. They also have a very slick surface, which means you’re going to have no problem at all getting a smooth and fast ride whenever you want. Because they have a moderate size you’re also going to have plenty of space and you’re going to have everything ready to go when you open the box.

The bicycle rollers themselves are pre-installed and the frame can be folded and unfolded easily to make sure you have enough space wherever you are for your indoor training. The moderate price is great for those interested in getting a bike trainer system of this type and the aluminum makeup means that it’s going to be sturdy and ready for absolutely anything. There are five different levels of resistance and the entire thing is made in the United States. Even better, it has a lifetime warranty, so you know you’re getting exactly what you’re looking for and that the system is going to last for a very long time.

No matter whether you prefer to ride a mountain bike or a road bike, it can be difficult to ride during all parts of the year, but you’re definitely going to be able to do it when you have an indoor bike roller trainer. Just make sure that what you have is high quality and is going to stand up to the test of time. After all, you definitely don’t want something that doesn’t provide the right level of support or the right amount of resistance. With any of these rollers, you won’t have to worry about that.​

Balance bikes are the newest thing in teaching your child to ride a two-wheel bike and they actually do a great job. After all, there’s a whole lot of difference between riding a pedal bike with training wheels and one without. The balance is the most difficult part. But there are definitely ways that you can help your child and with these bikes, they’re going to have no problem checking out that two-wheel bike when you get it for them. There are many great balance bikes out there for kids, such as the Kazam Balance Bike, The Strider Balance Bike, FirstBike Balance Bike, and the Schwinn Balance Bike. However, below is our list of some of the best balance bicycles out there for this year in this balance bike review.

WOOM 1

The WOOM 1 is designed for kids who are at least 18 months or 32” up to about 4 years old or 39”. The bike itself is available in Canada primarily and comes in two different colors, quality training wheels, and an adjustable seat so you can get exactly what you’re looking for to make it easier for your little one to learn to ride. It has a lightweight frame made of aluminum tubes, which makes it easier to balance as well as easier to carry. Even better, this pedal bike offers a hand brake that makes it easier for your child to stop when they get moving too fast or when they’re just done riding.

The hand brake and style of the bike help your child feel more comfortable with a two-wheel bike when they get to it and the durability of the bike means that it’s going to be great for your child and even for another child to really get the best out of it.

Islabikes Rothan 12”

A little more expensive, the Islabikes Rothan is lightweight and has air filled tires to provide plenty of stability and a more traditional feel. It has a classic bike look with a comfortable, padded seat that’s adjustable to fit an average 18-month-old on up. In fact, the adjustable seat can move from 11” to 15” for comfort and easier riding for most children of different ages, getting them ready to move on to their ideal two-wheel bike. It also has few protrusions, which makes it safer for small children and uses narrow handlebars and grips to make it easier to hold for smaller children.

The turning limiter makes sure that your child doesn’t turn too sharply and the handlebar brakes make sure they can always stop when they want to. Heavy-duty aluminum for the frame makes the bike sturdy and durable but keeps it from being too heavy for a small child. This makes it easy for your child to maneuver around and even easier for you to transport whenever you want to.

Yedoo Too Too

Lower in price than any of the others here, the Yedoo Too Too is great for just about any child. It’s ideally sized for smaller and younger children of around two years and old and up because of the small frame and it provides a lot of versatility in seat height from 12” to 18”. Even better, this balance bicycle has traditional air filled tires, quality pedals, and a hand brake to make it easier to slow down whenever you get where you want to stop. It’s available in a range of different colors and has an ergonomic saddle style seat and premium tires.

Made from aluminum, the bike itself is easy enough to move around or carry when you want to and it has comfortable handlebars made with the same high-quality aluminum and grips. All you have to do is have them sit on it and you’ll know it’s great for your little one to learn how to ride and make sure they’re ready to move on to a larger bike.

Frog Tadpole

​The Frog Tadpole is priced close to the Yedoo but has a few different features that you’ll want to take a look at. Ideal for children between the ages of 2 ½ and 3 ½, this bike has a padded seat and cushioned tires that make sure it can take some abuse and some hard jumps as well (we all know how children like to explore). This bike works well on rough and smooth roads and trails and also adjusts for height quickly and easily. You can also slide it forward or backward, which is a bonus you don’t get often with these types of bikes.

The grips on the handlebars are very high quality and lock to ensure your child won’t slip when they’re trying to hold on. There’s also a brake directly on those handlebars so it’s easy to stop the bike wherever you want and whenever you want, plus the brake can be switched from right to left.

LikeaBike Jumper

The LikeaBike Jumper is a little more expensive but it’s an excellent bike for toddlers that are definitely interested in being on the go. It doesn’t have a footrest or brakes, which parents may not be as impressed with, but it does have a lightweight aluminum frame, a limiter, quality pedals, and plenty of seat adjustability. In fact, this bike can adjust from 13.4” – 18.5” easily. What’s really great for the kids, however, is that it works great on rough terrain for even more fun while riding.

This bike works good on jumps and can get your child to be quite adventurous, which is great for getting them to be more excited about riding and the padded seat makes sure that it’s comfortable for them to ride for an extended period. Entirely made with high-quality aluminum, this is a bike that everyone will love.

These balance bikes are great for any child who is getting ready to start riding a bike. They’ll help your child learn and help you to teach them, which is definitely going to make sure they are ready to go. No matter how old your child is, learning to ride a bike is going to make for a whole lot more fun for them and a whole lot more confidence when they start riding with their friends. So take a look at each of these bikes and see just how it’s going to help your little one when they get old enough to really ride.​

So, it's that time of year again. Summer's here and you're back into all those outdoor sports you've always loved and especially cycling. Are you a mountain biker but don’t like the hassle of outfitting yourself for the sport? Well, you should know that the mountain bike clothing you wear can be crucial to your safety, comfort, and health—and this very much includes cycling shorts! The best Lycra or Duraflex shorts will offer you protection with extra padding and an additional liner while you ride—and prevent abrasions caused by friction. After all, we know just how sore we can get from long periods on the saddle! Furthermore, they will provide cyclists a shield from the weather and help you stay warm on chilly days and cool in the heat. Here is a list of the top five mountain bike shorts presently available for riders:

5. Zoic Ether Stretch

If you need to watch your dollars, but don't want to purchase a low-quality pair of shorts that you simply won't enjoy wearing, then the Zoic Ether Stretch is the brand you want. These shorts perform quite well for most cyclists and are also very cheap without sacrificing quality for the sake of saving. Even on short rides, you will feel the difference. They use Duraflex material, better quality zippers, and an improved method of waist adjustment. Some of the best features of the Zoic Ether Stretch are:

Just about the only negative concerning the Ether shorts is that their durability is slightly compromised because their fabric is more lightweight than that of other brands.

4. Troy Lee Ruckus

The Troy Lee Ruckus mountain bike shorts have many positive points to them. Designed more for the rougher and more rugged courses, they are also excellent for use in the bike park and shuttle runs. Made to be pedal friendly, these shorts are heavier than the Airmatic or the Zoic brands. This means that while they provide great protection as well as durability, they might not be the best option for gruelling days in the sun. Some of the top features of Troy Lee Ruckus mountain bike shorts are:​

One of the negatives about these shorts is as follows:

3. Pearl Izumi Elevate

​While these shorts are great for shuttle runs and downhill biking, they do exhibit less pedaling ability. This is the result of an attempt to make them easier to use with knee pads. The amount of leg covered is great, but the overly long inseam works against the user's pedaling capability. However, they are extremely durable and provide a lot of protection. Some of the best features of these shorts are:

There are some other negatives to consider too:

2. Kitsbow A/M

These mountain bike shorts make for great trail and cross country biking. Also, don't let the baggy appearance of these shorts fool you. They still fit excellently and pedaling is no problem. The style is sleek and durable while it will provide protection from the rain or any moisture. The Schoeller material has been treated with 3xDRY and you can sweat and still remain cool and dry.

One of the positive features of these shorts is:​

There really aren't any negatives to point out about these shorts. Most people who wore them had no complaints.

All in all, these are considered to be top of the line mountain biking shorts that are excellent to wear for just about any biking purpose.

1. 100% Airmatic

Although it may be a little expensive the 100% Airmatic raises the high bar when it comes to quality for all endure and trail shorts. If you are a true blue-blooded mountain bike rider, who enjoys a dynamic trail and endurance riding, then these are the shorts for you. With easy to use Velcro pull tabs, these shorts manage to be both comfortable and offer protection, so you need have no worries about the brand's durability. Here are some other quality features that the 100% Airmatic mountain biking shorts have:

When all is said and done, what you need to keep in mind is that the best mountain biking shorts are really the ones that you like the best and that suit your purpose. But one of these brands should appeal to you and if so, don't hesitate and go buy them today.