Category Archives for Balance Bikes

Have you ever driven past a neighbor’s house and seen all the years of bikes in the garage? It’s kind of like passing by a window full of kittens, or seeing the structures kids have built in a sandbox. It’s hard not to think with nostalgia of your first bike, of how it felt making those first turns and cruising over to your friends’ house, freed finally from the need to ask your mom or dad for yet another ride, freed from waiting for what seemed like hours for that ride. For a child, a bike represents a sense of freedom. Being able to ride a bike, even as a toddler, opens up the possibilities for all sorts of adventures and exploration that was not previously possible on two feet. For a parent, buying that first bike can be a little scary.

Having a few toddler bikes in your garage will give you a little jolt of happiness every time you pass by. You’ll know that all is right in the world, now that you have a few very time-sensitive (it’s astounding how fast these kids grow up!) pieces of your kid’s childhood sitting next to your family-size sedan in the garage. Seeing those guys learn how to ride and pedal around on these things is going to be one of the major memories you have of them, and years later, when they’re in college and you’re finally clearing out all of the toys they’ve used throughout their childhood, you’ll come across these bikes, now faded and scratched and dented, and you’ll think back on the day you finally decided to get the first one. A little bicycle is the perfect gift for kids, too!

When you are going about buying a toddler bike, think about what will make your kid happiest. Do they want a certain color? Does your little girl want a Spiderman bike because she’s obsessed with this particular superhero? Does your little boy, for whatever reason, insist on bright pink and purple streamers with a doll carrier? Go with it. We've moved past the days of having specific 'bikes for boys' or 'bikes for girls'. A bike can be a wonderful way for your child to start expressing his or her personality, and it can be exciting to see what they choose. And the options for customization are endless. Ps. Teenage mutant ninja turtles are back in style!

A bike does so many things for a child. Learning to ride helps with coordination (developing their proprioception as well, their ability to perceive where their body is exactly in space, which will come in handy later for a wide variety of sports), their sense of balance, and their ability to navigate and recognize where they are. It strengthens their legs. It gets them away from the TV screen and sends them outside. It gets them in the habit of wanting to go outside, and allows them to feel more in charge of where they are and how they got there. What’s not to love? Of course, there may be the occasional skinned knee, but toddler bikes will generally give them the skills they need, in terms of balance and steering, to make injuries less likely down the line. With your kids and their toddler bikes, you can now roam the neighborhood a bit more before their legs get tired. You can cruise through the park, or around a friend’s yard. You can go on morning rides before breakfast. The options are endless. And they’re a great activity for those who will go on to play sports in school like basketball, soccer, tennis, swimming, or gymnastics, as the sense of balance, for instance, they develop can be applied to each of these. It also teaches children how to learn a new skill and how to improve. They remember that they had to practice for a long time before they could ride around easily, which is a satisfying and rewarding experience. And when they’re trying to learn to swim, for instance, you can remind them how hard riding their bike was for them at first, and how they practiced often and soon could cruise around without any help.

We like the bikes with heroes or cartoons on them. There are:

Spiderman Bikes

Ninja Turtle Bikes

Princess Bikes

Unicorn Bikes

Batman Bikes

There are bikes with streamers. There are bells you can add onto the bikes (be careful though, as these can get quite annoying). There are big-wheel bikes, and bikes with baskets. How to choose? It can be a little overwhelming, having so many options out there. We recommend taking your time to decide, and letting your toddler be a part of the process. Some people like to do the research first, and then to give their child two or three options.

Even if you’re buying a bike online, we recommend checking a few out in person as well, to give you a feel for what the bikes look like, and so that you can speak with a sales person to ask any questions, if you have any. You’ll want to make sure, of course, that you’re buying a bike that’s a good fit for your child. We’ve all ridden bikes that haven’t quite fit us, that were too tall or too short. It’s not the most comfortable experience, and it makes it harder to ride with good technique. Take the time to make sure that your child will enjoy sitting on the seat and can reach the ground or pedals without having to stretch or bend their legs too much.

It’s sometimes fun to watch a few videos online of other children biking, to inspire your kid to learn. If they’re growing frustrated, telling them about how you learned to ride can also be good. And remember, children learn in different ways. Some may want to see you ride your bike and watch you brake, pedal, and steer, so that they can imitate you. Others may want to listen to your instructions on what to do and when to do it. Others who learn by doing may not want to listen or watch at all, but rather just get on the bike and figure it out themselves. Good luck!​

There’s just something magical about a kid’s birthday. The themes, the party favors, the excitement they feel in the week leading up to their birthday. It’s not often that you get to see your child interacting with all of his or her friends. Though stressful sometimes, you have to admit it’s pretty cute.

You only get so many of these before the kid is telling you she wants to spend her birthday with her friends, that she doesn’t even want you to make her a cake because she’s gluten-free anyway. Now is the time to truly savor your kid’s birthday, to make it special. We still remember a few of our first birthdays, and these memories are some of the best we have. The beloved strider bike is a fantastic option for the kiddos. They’ll always remember their first bike (especially if you don’t get around to selling it until they’re in college). Buying online is a great way to ensure that the item ships within a certain amount of business days. Just be sure to check the shipping rates.

Birthdays are a great occasion for buying your child a bike. You’re celebrating a stage in their life, and a new bike is a wonderful way to show them that they’re growing older and ready to take on new challenges. Biking is such a good way to stay health, to commute without using fossil fuels, to have fun, and to break out of your comfort zone. Providing a way for your kids to start biking young helps build muscle memory and technical skill, creating a foundation that they’ll use their whole lives. A bike can be a great source of independence for middle and high schoolers, as it’s the first way they start getting around by themselves. You could even make a bicycle-themed cake!

What is a strider bike, exactly? Well, these are small bikes that help your child develop the skills she needs to move toward a pedal bike. They help improve balance and steering, without the added complexity of pedaling. The bikes are often quite adjustable, so that the bike can, in a sense, grow with your child. And they’re usually pretty lightweight and simple to toss in the car for day at your favorite park or at grandma’s house. You can walk your bike while standing, or you can sit down and push your feet on the ground. After your child gets used to this feeling, he or she will begin to cruise while lifting their feet in the air. People love how these bikes teach kids to do something called counter steering, which is when, to turn sharply, you quickly steer for a moment in the opposite direction (like if you’re trying to make a sharp turn in a large truck). These people think that training wheels often can slow kids’ learning by giving them bad habits that are hard to get rid of later.

This kind of training bike has been around since 1817. It was first made by a man named Karl Draise. He called it the Dandy Horse. Over the years, a large variety of these bikes were made. Some were fairly simple, crafted from wood. Others look much like a normal bike, except of course that they don’t have pedals.

We recommend buying a bike when your children are around the 18-month mark. Then, when they’re four or even five, you can get them on a pedal bike.

Strider bikes are popular in other countries, especially in Europe. Some parents prefer them to training wheels and use them in place of the training wheels, as they teach the balance your kids need. Other parents use a strider bike and then also use training wheels. It all depends on the kid. For many children, it’s great to grow more and more confident and comfortable on this bike before trying to pedal. Plus, you can learn how to ride on the road, how to move around or over obstacles like cracks in the sidewalk, how to steer and stop, and how to balance, without worrying about falling and getting hurt.

Another great benefit of strider bikes is that it helps bring you closer to your child in a way that creates much less stress than when they’re learning to balance on a pedal bike. If any of you have tried to teach someone to ride a bike by running alongside the bike, helping balance, and then letting go, you know what we’re talking about. Because they’ll already be able to balance somewhat, they’ll be able to focus on pedaling when the time is right.

A few factors people like to consider when doing their homework about these bikes:

Based on these factors, here are just a few of our favorite strider bikes to get you started. Whether you opt to buy a bike online or want to go to a store and check them out first is up to you. We like the ease of ordering online. Check out the comments to see what other users thought of these bikes.

Balance Running Bike

Great for a wide variety of ages, from 12 months to 5 years.​

Too-Too Balance Bike

Only weighs 8 pounds, and comes in some cute colors!​

Ace of Play Balance Bike

Affordable and durable

And, our favorite, the Cruzee Balance Bike: This bike is incredibly light (4.4 pounds), comes in a ton of colors, and is comfortable to ride. Users love the high quality of the tires and how sturdy this one is. Plus, it’s light enough for your toddler to put it back in the garage all by herself! Easy to assemble, as well. Does your toddler or your friend's toddler already have a strider bike? There are plenty of graphic tees, water bottles, or kids style "workout clothes" that your little sports fan can wear while cycling.​

Balance bikes are a critically important step in teaching young children how to make the transition to “big kid” style bikes. Known as pre-bikes and running bikes, balance bikes are bicycles that are free of pedals and require children to use balance with the ultimate goal of fostering bike-riding skills.

Offering children confidence through the sense of autonomy they gain from maneuvering their bicycles independently; balance bikes are an essential tool in teaching kids how to achieve physical goals through the mastery of movement.

While there are myriad balance bike product offerings available on the market today, Radio Flyer has long been a consumer favorite for its top-quality construction, unparalleled levels of safety and security, and overall affordability.

Radio Flyer’s esteemed reputation is resultant from its status as a household name since 1917. Building quality bikes, wagons, and scooters for children of all ages, Radio Flyer is an internationally-recognized brand that continues to sell best-selling classic-themed products in a market saturated with high-tech, newfangled inventions.

With their best-selling balance bike offerings, Radio Flyer is a perfect choice for children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old. Offering plenty of customization options, your child’s new Radio Flyer Balance Bike can be outfitted with adorable ringing bells, streamers that fly in the wind, custom nameplates, and a steel or wood construction frame in classic red or delicate pink. As an added bonus, Radio Flyer also installs seats on all of their balance bikes that are able to accommodate growing children.

Consumers will appreciate an option to opt for robust all-terrain air tires that enable children a smooth ride on sidewalks and pavement despite rougher terrain with the tire's ability engage in traction control and to hug the road securely.

A perennial favorite of families with children, Radio Flyer continues to be the go-to choice for balance bikes, scooters, wagons, and more.

If you are interested in purchasing a new Radio Flyer balance bike for your child and would like to find out the top models available in 2017, read on below for comprehensive, information-packed reviews that will help you make the best choice for your child’s highly individual needs.

1. Radio Flyer Glide & Go Balance Bike Red

The Radio Flyer Glide & Go Bike is a popular option amongst parents and children for balance bikes. Fashioned in a classic candy-apple red color, the familiar Radio Flyer aesthetic features white-walled rims, thick black tires with plenty of traction and wide handlebars featuring comfortable rubber ribs for little one’s hands.

The sturdy steel frame features a strong and robust construction and will give parents the utmost peace of mind. Both parents and children will appreciate the fully adjustable seat that can easily accommodate growing children.

With its ringing bell and available options for coordinating streamers and a customized nameplate, children ages from 2 ½ to 5 will be delighted with a wide range of new experiences in addition to achieving critically important boosts in confidence as they ride and glide their way into familiarity with the biking experience.

An ideal way to teach your child balance, the Radio Flyer Glide & Go Balance Bike is a quintessentially perfect way to further bond with your child.

PROS:

2. Radio Flyer Glide & Go Balance Bike with All Terrain Air Tires

Nearly identical to the original Radio Flyer Glide & Go Balance Bike, this model features twelve inch all terrain air tires that function to not only provide an overall smoother ride across varied forms of terrain but also to assist children in overcoming their fear of falling. The air tires grip the road with their increased traction control and offer children additional security while they engage in their first cycling experiences.

A great option for parents with children who are especially afraid of falling, the Radio Flyer Glide and Go with Air Tires enables children as young as 2 ½ to use the bike with additional security provided by its the tire’s tight grip on sidewalks and pavement.

Like the original Radio Flyer Glide & Go Balance Bike, the air tire equipped model comes standard with a fun ringing bell, fully adjustable seat cushion that easily accommodates growing children, a lightweight, high-quality, durable steel frame, and pedal-free functionality that allows children to independently learn balance and movement.

PROS:

3. Radio Flyer Classic Glide & Go Wooden Balance Bike

The Glide and Go Balance Bike from Radio Flyer is a classic that is beloved by parents and children. Commonly available in a durable steel frame, the Glide & Go is now available for purchase in an ultra-retro wooden frame that is absolutely adorable and will remind children of their favorite wooden toys, blocks, and figurines.

The wooden frame is made from premium-grade wood for exceptional durability. 12-inch air tires accent the bicycle and provide accessibility for kids to hop on and balance and glide without fear of falling.

Additional benefits include a cushioned seat that is fully adjustable and can accommodate growing children up to age 5.​

PROS:

For more valuable information on the different kinds of Radio Flyer Balance Bikes available on the market today, visit us at bikingtribe.com.

In recent times, tricycles have become increasingly popular for both men and women. Unlike regular bikes, you don’t have to struggle with balance. Moreover, they are easy to use and perfect for people of all ages. What’s more, they require no experience and they are easy to mount.

However, amidst all these benefits lies a major challenge: How do you get to choose the best brand with numerous options to choose from?

Fortunately, this guide will help you settle on the right adult trike of 2017.

Types of Tricycles

Upright Tricycles

If you’re looking to carry items in a stable adult trike, then upright tricycles are a good choice. Available in different styles, you can either opt for semi-recumbent or recumbent options. For a more classic and stylish look, a chopper tricycle will do the trick.​

Industrial Tricycles

These types of tricycles are meant for commercial purposes. They are used to transport heavy loads from one area to another.

Folding Tricycles

If you have limited space and really want a tricycle, folding tricycles are an excellent choice as they are easily foldable.

Electric Tricycles

These come with an option of no pedaling or pedaling. The only drawback is that electric tricycles are expensive compared to other types of tricycles.

Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Tricycle

Features

Tricycles come with a variety of features, such as dual brakes, single and multi-speed settings, sturdy construction, stylish fenders, and a collapsible basket. In as much as these features are important, it’s essential to find a trike that suits your body and one that won’t cause injuries.

Installation

You can find tricycles assembled, non-assembled, and pre-assembled. If you would rather not deal with all the setup, an assembled trike would be ideal. If you love DIY, you can choose a non-assembled trike and follow the guidelines in the installation manual to assemble the tricycle.

Age of the User

The user’s age is an important consideration when shopping for a tricycle. You need to also consider the size and weight of the user to ensure that it meets your needs and demands. A trike with good pedals helps in muscle strengthening as well as exercise which is best for users of any age.

Ease of Use

The tricycle you choose should be easy to use and assemble. Determine if you need a lightweight trike, but also check to ensure that it’s build of durable material.​

The Top 5 Adult Tricycles

Raleigh Bikes Tristar 3-Speed Trike

A perfect trike for tall people, this Raleigh bike features a three-speed system that makes it easy for riders to run it on varying speeds. This means that when you’re riding this tricycle, you are sure that you won’t get injured or topple over.

With this tricycle, you can run your daily chores as it has a heavy loading rear basket that is able to carry around 45 pounds. Being easy to ride, the trike is ideal for those who ride both in residential areas and in the city.

What’s more, it’s easy for riders to mount and features a three-wheeled design that allows you as a rider to maneuver without any issues. The fact that it’s a stable ride and features high-quality parts make this tricycle durable. Its compact design features a durable steel frame.

Schwinn Meridian 26-Inch Bike

Featuring a fast single-speed design, this Schwinn Meridian tricycle has a large footprint and features a durable, lightweight aluminum frame. The convenient design makes this tricycle stable while the wheels are ideal for riding on all types of terrains including off roads and tarmac roads.

Furthermore, the tricycle has a sturdy construction made of stainless steel ensures that the rims do not bend easily. This adult tricycle has upright handle bars, padded cruiser saddle, and a rear basket that easily foldable. This makes your ride exciting.

With an adjustable seat height, you can easily change to what makes you comfortable. Enjoy a speed of seven miles per hour which helps you to speed up when needed.

Razor DXT Drift Trike

Razor offers an amazing tricycle excellent for anyone interested in trike racing. What’s more, you can do several trikes, for example, complete a 180-degree turn. An excellent steel construction that makes the DXT time durable; the steel material makes this tricycle resistant to corrosion.

Enjoy the BMX design pedals, 10-inch rear wheels, alloy crank mechanism, short handlebars, and flexible front wheels. Perfect for both indoors and outdoors, this tricycle provides excellent performance without slipping. Other important features that make this tricycle a great choice include a well-designed bearing, hook attachment, bucket seat, and grip tape.

Worksman Port-o-Trike Adult Tricycle

One of the most efficient and lightweight trikes around, the Worksman Port-o-Trike features stable accessory that is user-friendly. With a 3-speed feature mechanism, you can run the trike at your own pace while enjoying safety.

The Worksman adult tricycle has 20-inch wheels that allow you to ride on any terrain. The rear cargo basket is coated with vinyl and allows to store your groceries and other shopping items while on the move.

Ideal for both men and women, this trike has a simple step-through structure and is easy to mount with a 215-weight capacity; this tricycle has a foldable design, making it an excellent choice if you have limited storage. The tires improve stability and grip on wet surfaces.

Komodo Cycling Adult Tricycle

Available in two derailleur shifters, the Komodo adult tricycle has a low frame, making it one of the simplest to mount, with a weight capacity of 240 pounds, the adult tricycle has a comfortable set and set up through construction which is perfect especially for seniors. Other additional features include three fenders, a loud bell, and a wire basket. To back up its claim to be one of the most durable trikes, the manufacturers provide a one-year warranty. The 6-speed mechanism is perfect if you love commuting on a bike.

In conclusion, there are various styles of tricycles in the market. When shopping for one, determine the ease of use, what type of rider you are and any other features that may come in handy such as a shopping basket. You could opt for a fully assembled trike to avoid the hassle of doing it by yourself.​