Choosing Quality Balance Bikes for Your Kid
Balance bikes are getting their fair share of coverage. Parents are now purchasing this kind of bicycle for their children since it offers kids the easiest and safest manner to learn the essentials of bike riding.
These days you will notice that the bicycle industry is swarming with different balance bikes models, so choosing one that will perfectly complement and meet the parent’s and kid’s needs is not an easy task. However, having enough knowledge about the item will make your buying decisions easier, thus here are some tips on how to choose a balance bike for your child.
Mind the frame of the bike
When it comes to the frames, what you choose will always depend on your preference. First, you have to take into account the varying kinds of frames that balance bikes offer. There are available wooden and metal frame models in the market today.
Steel or metal frames are deemed by many as they are more stable and durable material for the bike. The finish on the steel is more hardwearing compared to wood models, thus you will get more service from it.
Steel models also provide handlebar adjustments so kids of varying ages can easily manage the bike. Steel models are often more expensive compared to wooden models though.
People purchase wooden models due to it being the more environmentally-friendly bike. If the bike has been damaged, you can throw the bike away and it will not harm the environment. The only components that you have to manage are its rubber handlebar grips and the wheels.
Consider the steering style
There are balance bikes that feature handlebars with the capability of rotating around 360 degrees, which can be complicated for toddler riders. Other models include steering limiters which only facilitates the handlebars to spin around 40-40 degrees in whichever direction.
However, when it comes to models with limited steering, kids might feel a bit hampered due to the feature. Hence, you have to include this factor when looking for a balance bike.
Look for models with adjustable seat heights
The majority of steel or metal frame balance bikes make use of the standard seat post so one can modify it to a height that will suit the kid. Wood models have a seat that fine-tunes with preset stops so you can get a nearly accurate fix.
It is recommended that you get one with adjustable seats; that way, as your toddler grows, he or she can still use the bike for practice for a few years until they are ready for a bigger kiddie bike.
Take note of the wheels design
Several models feature conventional metal rims that have spokes while some have nylon mag-style wheels. Others also feature a wheel design that is mainly composed of wooden material.
Models with mag-style wheels or spokes run the risk of having the rider’s foot or hand getting caught and likely injured when the wheel is moving. A solid wheel design will prevent this from happening due to the smaller gap where the air valve stem is located.
Take the price into consideration
This is important since not all of us can afford a high-end model. Balance bikes come in a wider variety of prices; there are affordable ones as well as more expensive models too. The costlier models are often made with prime durable materials and have features that are advanced and will make riding easier and more manageable for the toddler.
However, you have to keep in mind not to go for the cheaper ones though because it might be unsafe for your kid. Do some research and look for the difference in pricing.
It is suggested that you spend a bit more on quality bikes that have safety features and are well-designed so you can guarantee that your kids will be out of harm’s way as they learn how to use the balance bike.
You can also refer to reviews and read customer opinions on the bikes they have purchased for additional reference. Safety should always be your main priority when it comes to balance bikes, thus you should always opt for quality models.
