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Picking the right bike for your little one can be a little overwhelming, especially if they're aged between 18 months and 4 years old.

When you're picking out a bike for your child, it's important to make sure it's just right for their age, abilities, and what they want to do with it. That way, they can have a blast riding it while staying safe!

This article is all about the best bikes for kids who are newbie riders! If you're a parent with a little one between 18 months and 4 years old, then this is for you.

Two kids in the outdoors sitting on a Strider bike

Lightweight, Ergonomic, and Properly Sized Bikes

All good kids' bikes have a few things in common; they are lightweight, ergonomic, and properly sized. Lightweight bikes are essential because they help kids develop their riding skills faster and more enjoyably.

Heavy and awkward bikes make it challenging for kids to lift their bikes, which can discourage them from cycling.

A good ergonomic design ensures that kids can reach the brake levers and shift gears without any difficulty.

Their hip ratio is much narrower than adults, so a well-designed bike helps them pedal comfortably without splaying their legs out to the sides.

Having a bike that fits properly is important so that kids can pedal and steer without any discomfort. Kids go through growth spurts, which means it's important to choose a bike that fits well during these times.

To choose the right bike, measure your child, pick the bike that fits them now and exchange their bike as they grow. The right-sized bike will fit just right, and they'll find it easier to steer and pedal, building their confidence.

Best Beginner Balance Bikes

For toddlers and young children, balance bikes are an excellent choice for teaching them how to ride a bike. Unlike bikes with stabilisers, balance bikes teach children how to do exactly that - balance - which is key to riding confidently.

When children start cycling on a balance bike, they learn steering and balance, developing these skills that greatly reduce any chance of falling.

When they are riding around in circles, it's time to put on the pedals. Pedals extend the glide they already understand.

The Frog Tadpole is another excellent choice for toddlers who are just starting to learn how to ride a bike. It's a safe and fun bike for them to explore their surroundings, which comes with a comfortable seat, easy-to-use brakes, and adjustable handlebars. The bike's durable construction means that it can withstand rough handling.

The Frog Tadpole Mini is also an excellent balance bike and one we think will suit any child who is beginning their love of cycling.

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Best Beginners First Pedal Bikes

Once your child has outgrown their balance bike, they are ready to move on to their first pedal bike.

There are many excellent options for kids who are just starting to learn how to ride a pedal bike. One popular choice is the Frog 40.

This lightweight bike is designed to be easy to handle and is sized perfectly for young riders. The ergonomic design ensures that kids can easily reach the brakes and shift gears without any difficulty.

The Forme Cubley 14 is another great option designed with ergonomics in mind. This bike is lightweight and equipped with easy-to-use brakes and gears, making it simple for kids to gain confidence and improve their abilities.

The Woom 2 is another popular choice among parents looking for the perfect bike for their little ones. The lightweight frame makes it easy for kids to handle, and the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and safe riding experience.

The Woom 2 has a kickstand, which is convenient for kids who want to park their bikes by themselves.

The Woom 2 is an excellent option for parents looking to buy a high-quality bike for their child who is just starting to ride on a pedal bike.

In Conclusion...

Choosing the right bike for your child can make a big difference in their biking experience. When selecting a bike for your child, keep in mind the importance of lightweight, ergonomic design, and proper sizing.

For beginners, it's best to start with a balance bike to help them learn the essential skills of balance and steering before moving on to a pedal bike. With the right bike, your child can develop a love for biking that will last a lifetime.

Some of the Most Common Questions Asked About Beginner Bikes

What Size Bike for a 4 Year Old?

Depending on your 4-year-old child's levels of confidence, they can either ride a balance bike or pedal bike.

If you are thinking of choosing a pedal bike, we'd suggest making sure that they're able to regularly push off confidently with their balance bike.

What is the Best Bike for 5 Year Olds?

Hands down the best bike for a 5-year-old is a pedal bike. Along with balance bikes, it's one of the best children's bikes to help with their gross motor skills.