Balance Bike Reviews

New Colors for the Glide Bikes Go Glider

2012-02-23T13:04:00.000-06:00

Two new colors for the very popular Go Glider balance bike. They have introduced orange and green to their stable of color selections. Both are available at BalanceBikeShop.com

About Glide Bike Balance Bikes: Designed for school age learners, 5 – 10 years, who know that learning to ride a bike should be fun! Unique downhill mountain bike geometry* gives rider a lower center of gravity for greater stability and safer balancing.

Learning Balance with a Balance Bike

2012-01-25T12:44:00.002-06:00

Balance bikes helps children to learn balance, leading to 2-wheeled cycling skill and helps them to be more aware of their actions and consequences of those actions. It will also give them confidence in their abilities which will develop in other areas of their lives. Children that develop balance at an early age also develop confidence. Confidence allows children to learn faster.

Research and plain old common sense explains the importance of children doing regular gentle exercise. Childrens heart rates need to be raised to 140bpm at least once a day in order to improve both physical and psychological health. Balance Bikes are a fun and effective way of achieving this with your child. Children will enjoy taking their balance bike out for a ride and the exercise they are getting from it will benefit them in many ways. Regular exercise in early life increases the likelihood that they will continue exercising when they become adults. Attitudes towards physical activity are established at an early age; parents therefore have a prime responsibility to encourage their children to engage in active play. With a balanced and active lifestyle, children can develop a repertoire of motor skills, achieve success at their own levels, and feel confident in trying out new activities.

The best way to insure children can achieve high-level academic performance with less effort is to have them train their motor skills starting in infancy and continuing in childhood. Dr. Jean Piaget, a Swiss child psychologist and biologist, recognized that for children, sensory-motor intelligence represents the foundation for and integration of a child's later ability to abstract, generalize, analyze, and synthesize natural and social phenomenon. In other words, a child's ability to understand the world around him and communicate with others is based on early, adequate sensory and motor-skill development and integration, as well as a stable emotional development.

In early age we begin to learn to develop a sense of verticality, going through stages like turning, sitting, crawling, standing and walking. The final result should be well coordinated walking, and a balanced and vertical posture with smooth, fluid motions. A well controlled vertical posture and well-coordinated movement should be stable and of very good quality by the age of six to seven at the latest, when exams and tests at school begin. An optimally coordinated movement and vertical posture allow us to listen, communicate, act and interact independently. They are known and recognized today as the basis for developing age-appropriate speech, language and behavior. This level of performance (development) represents the foundation for later movement skills, such as drawing or writing when we are in school, and as adults when performing complex and high-precision motor activities like surgeons, airplane pilots, violinists, figure skaters, etc., must do.

A well-trained and developed sense of balance and coordinated movement are also fundamental and very important skills in developing attention, in concentrating, remaining focused for a long time when learning, communicating, or at work.

Brand New 2012 Strider No Pedal Balance Bike Review

2012-01-11T11:55:00.000-06:00

The folks at Strider Sports have improved their best selling ST-2 Strider balance bike with the new for 2012, ST-3 strider balance bike. Here is our snapshot balance bike review.

We just love the folks at Strider Sports, because they are constantly finding ways to improve their balance bikes. Being the #1 brand of balance bikes didn't happen by accident. it comes from the constant improvement of their products. For 2012, the Strider bike is seeing a higher quality padded handlebar, improved quick release seat post and handlebar for easy adjusting, smaller diameter hand grips and a smaller seat to accommodate a child's small frame. We are most impressed with the smaller seat design, which allows for a snugger, more comfortable fit for a child. The more comfortable a child is on the bikes the safer they are and the quicker they learn balance. Here are a few pictures of the improvements on the 2012 Strider balance bike.

Come check out the new ST-3 Strider balance bike at BalanceBikeShop.com

Hobby-Bike Balance Bike Review: Poor Quality and Value

2011-12-07T19:20:00.001-06:00

I seldom post negative reviews for balance bikes because of all the bikes I retail there rarely arises an issue of such consistent poor quality.

When I post this review of the Hobby Bike; I post it as one who has sold hundreds of the balance bikes since they arrived in the US as one of the first retailers of this balance bike. Actually I was probably second or third because REI and LL Bean both carried the bike before dropping it completely due to quality issues.

First off, I think the concept of the Hobby-Bike is great. A balance bike that allows for the pedals to be added after balance is learned. My son learned to ride a pedal bike on the first year Hobby-Bike.

I am not sure if the bike was rushed to the marketplace to quickly or a very poor manufacturer in China, but the first year Hobby-Bikes had numerous corrosion, paint and weld issues. Some bikes appeared to have been painted over existing rust; some had weld splatter at the pedal mechanism which prevented the allen bolts from being inserted into pre-drilled holes. Some bikes just appeared to be scratched all over or a non-sufficient amount of paint applied. Things like this you would never expect on a bike that retailed for $129.99!

I was assured these issues would be resolved with the second year models of the Hobby-Bike. There was a noticeable improvement in the frame and paint - many of the first year issues were resolved. The second year brought upon fundamental issues with the chain and pedal mechanism. Not properly engineered so that the chain ring would be parallel to the frame and discourage the chain from hopping off the crank. Although not every Hobby-Bike exhibited these issues; 6 out of 10 did!

What Are Balance Bikes? Frequently Asked Questions.

2011-12-03T09:42:00.000-06:00

What are balance bikes?

A balance bicycle (balance bike, run bike) is a training bicycle that helps the rider learn balance and steering. It has no pedals, no crank set and chain, and no training wheels. It can be a normal bicycle with pedals and related parts removed, or it can be purpose-built (especially for very small children, for whom normal bicycles are generally not available). It can have no brake, or it can have one or two hand-activated rim brakes.

Children as young as 18 months can learn to cruise a balance bicycle within a few hours' practice.

Should I buy a metal or wooden balance bike?
I receive this question a lot from people looking to buy a balance bike or toddler bike. My answer is simply: it's your preference.

The big dilemma. You are at a park and see a toddler riding a balance bike; that evening you go on to your computer and Google "balance bike". At this point you find out how popular these bikes are getting and along with that comes several different brands, sizes, designs and materials that the bikes are made out of. Like most people, you ask yourself, "Which balance bike is better?"

Here's a little background on the various materials that balance bikes are made out of:

Wooden Balance Bikes
Wooden balance bikes in almost all cases are made out of baltic birch plywood of various numbers of layers that are glued together. This method of using a plywood for the bike is far better that say using a solid piece of wood that is susceptible to warpage and cracking. Birch is used due to its lightness yet very strong, durable and is a renewable resource. Common balance bikes that are made out of wood are Smart Gear bikes, ZUM balance bike, Wishbone Designs Bike and Kiddimoto balance bikes. Wood balance bikes weigh anywhere from 9-12 lbs. There are many people that believe these wooden balance bikes will warp easy. This is not necessarily true - the 10-12 ply baltic birch plywood construction and clear sealer protects from the affects of mild exposure to water - although bikes should not be left out in the rain.

Metal Balance Bikes
Metal balance bikes are typically either made out of lightweight steel or aluminum. These metal balance bikes are made using tube steel or aluminum and welded together to from a frame. You can gauge the quality of the manufacturer by examining the welds on the bike. Depending on the thickness of the steel used both aluminum and steel frames often weigh the same. Strider balance bikes are made of a thin-wall steel and weighs approx. 6.9 lbs while the aluminum frame Kinderbike Laufrad E Series weighs in at about 8.1 lbs. Other metal balance bikes usually weigh between 8 and 12 lbs. AS you are aware, steel bikes should not be left out in the rain for extended periods of time due to risk of corrosion which will affect the performance of the bike. The handlebars and seat posts attach to the frames in the same way a regular bike does.

Composite Bikes and Plastic Balance Bikes
Composite bikes are injection molded bikes made up of plastic resins and in some cases mesh material for strength. These should not be confused with a some injection molded plastic toys whereas the materials are composed differently and are not of the same strength and durability as injection molded composite bikes. Bikes made of this material will resist warping, cracking and corrosion and will be of weight a little less than a wood or metal bike but not that significant.

One of the only injection molded composite balance bikes available in the USA is the FirstBike.

Summary
It is our belief that the 3 materials mentioned above create a product that will truly benefit your child and teach he/she to transition to a pedal bike while gaining confidence, coordination of happiness. The most important feature to look for when buying your child a balance bike is the fit. You want to make sure you measure your child's inseam and compare that to the bikes seat range. Your child shod 1" of clearance below their crotch area and the seat.

Why are balance bikes so awesome?

With a balance bicycle, the rider learns balance first, pedal last. In contrast, with a normal bicycle fitted with training wheels, the rider learns pedal first, balance last. Although opinions differ regarding which learning sequence is easier for most riders, it is generally agreed that a bicycle with pedals is too difficult for most very young childrenand that training wheels may encourage the rider to learn some behaviors which later must be unlearned.

Are the bikes heavy?

No. Balance bikes sold on this website weigh between 8 and 10 pounds. This is to ensure that the child is always able to control the bike and not be over powered by it

What age will my child transition to a pedal bike?

When your child has mastered the balance bike at about age 4 to 6, you can introduce a bike with pedals. Balance bikes usually continue to be a favorite toy for long after they can ride a pedal bike.

How long does it take to learn?

Our children were able to walk/ride the first time they sat down. That of course was after the bike lay on the garage floor for about 2 - 3 weeks. They were able to coast with their feet up after a week or two. Learning curves are different for different children.

Why are there no pedals on balance bikes?

The primary design focuses of balance bikes are to allow children to develop their gross motor skills. Learning to balance and steer the bike is much easier without pedals. The up and down movement of pedaling causes the child to shift their body weight from side to side throwing them off balance making them lose direction and riding stability. Balance bikes allow the child to drop their feet to the ground when they feel they are losing balance, quickly steadying themselves and preventing a fall.

Are spare parts available?

Spare parts are available for all bikes sold and most parts are covered by product warranty.

New Limited Edition "Apple A Day" bike by Wishbone Designs

2011-12-03T09:00:00.001-06:00

One thing they have down to a science at Wishbone Designs is the execution of limited edition balance bikes with unique designs from artists around the world.

Isn't this one just gorgeous?  Check out our brand new Apple-a-Day Limited Edition design.  
This is THE gift for a baby's first birthday.

Available for a limited time so don't wait to order.

Our Apple Bike was designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith of the UK.  We think Coralie's done a

gorgeous job illustrating our bike to communicate about the importance of healthy eating for happy

kids.

Check out our bike photos to read more about all the healthy stuff in an apple.   Wishbone Bike is

the perfect toy to encourage exercise and physical activity in young children.  Now we've coupled

our bike with an age-old message about daily healthy eating habits.

Get an Apple Bike and be inspired to feed your kids fantastic, fresh food every day.

Wishbone Bike - a TIME Magazine Design 100  product.  Its pure joy to ride.
Start at 12  months on three wheels, learn  to balance on two wheels, then flip the wishbone frame

to fit your  growing 5 year-old for offroad rides. 
Recommended for walkers from age 1 to 5 years.

Get your Wishbone Designs Apple a Day Bike at BalanceBikeShop.com.

New Bikee Balance Bike by Trikke Review

2011-11-23T15:07:00.000-06:00

Bikee Balance Bike

This is an exciting new design for balance bikes to hit the market. The folks at Trikke came out with their First Generation balance bike earlier this year and had great success. They took their first design and made design changes to the frame to add integrated foot rests. I think it is a great idea to have the sleek design of the foot rests that do not interfere with the the gliding motion of their legs.

The Bikee balance bike retails for $69.99 and comes in 3 great colors and the follwoing features:

* Seat adjusts from 14.5" - 20"
*Steering limiter

* Made of Steel

* 12" airless tires

* Adjustable Seat and Handlebar

* Lightweight, easy to carry and manage

* Bikee is safety tested and approved according to CPSC (frame safety), CPSIA (free of toxic materials) and European Conformity CE standards.

* Product weight: 7 pounds

* Recommended Age: 2-5 years old

* Suggested Weight Limit: 45lbs

Check out the new Bikee Balance Bike and others balance bikes at BalanceBikeShop.com

Black Friday Balance Bike Sales

2011-11-23T10:42:00.002-06:00

Hello Everybody.

Tune in Thanksgiving Day for the start of several Black Friday deals on balance bikes at BalanceBikeShop.com.

We will have prices that are too low to advertise on favorites like: Strider Sports, Kinderbike, Smart Gear, ZUM, Wishbone Designs and more. Some prices are subject to change but check out balancebikeshop.com for details.

We also have the $9.99 Prorider helmet promo with any bike purchase.

New FirstBike Composite Balance Bike Review

2011-10-05T10:51:00.001-05:00

This new balance bike really rocks! I have been waiting to get my hands on this new balance bike for some time now. These composite frames are virtually indestructible; won't warp, won't rust and won't crack! The FirstBike fits an array of sizes with the seat adjutable from 14" - 18" - go even lower with an optional lowering kit that brings the seat down to 11"!!

We are proud to feature the FirstBike Balance Bike, Shop Now.

Designed in Germany

FirstBike features the highest quality materials and parts. Educational benefits, style and great fun are why FirstBike is first choice for toddlers and parents worldwide.

Education

FirstBike gives children a head start. Experts agree that through the development of balance, gross motor skills and a sense of independence, children are given the confidence they need for further success, both socially and in the classroom.

Materials

FirstBike is both durable and safe. The high quality composite frame is designed to minimize risk and maximize comfort. Unlike wooden or metal equivalents, FirstBike will not swell, scratch, splinter of rust.

Growth

FirstBike grows with your child. The innovative lowering adapter allows children to ride from as young as 22 months. The fully adjustable seat and FirstBike’s durability and reliability enable children to enjoy riding up to 5 years of age.

Award Winning

Winner of toy awards across Europe, FirstBike can be enjoyed in the home, at the park and is an ideal travelling companion on walks. For boys and girls, FirstBike is the essential educational toy.

Safety Stop

SAFETY STOP is the adequate and precise rear drum brake. It gives the child optimal control over the FirstBike and promotes the training of bike handling skills.

Lightweight! weighs only 3.5 kilograms

Weight with drum brake 3.9 kilograms. Length 84 cm, width 36 cm, height 56 cm, wheelbase 54 cm.

Shop for the FirstBike Balance Bike at BalanceBikeShop.com

NEW Schwinn Tiger Balance Bike Review

2011-09-14T19:45:00.000-05:00

We are extremely happy to be able to offer the Schwinn Tiger and Tigress Walk-n-roll Balance Bike! I really don't think any one needs any background information on one of the most notable and popular bicycle companies in the USA and the world - Schwinn!

Schwinn offers their high quality bikes in the smallest of sizes - 12" balance bikes. Here are the specifications for these high quality metal balance bikes:

Frame - Schwinn Balance Beam alloy Velocipede walking bike

Fork - Schwinn N' Gauged Hi-Ten Steel

Rims - Steel 12" 16 hole

Hubs - Steel sealed mechanism bolt on front and rear

Spokes - 14 G stainless

Tires - Schwinn Scrambler 12"x2.125"

Handelbars - Steel with 4" rise

Stem - 1" alloy steel

Headset - 1" threaded

Grip - Schwinn Approved single density Kraton rubber

Saddle - Schwinn padded youth with hand hold

Seatpost - Steel pillar, 25.4

Extras - Handle bar bag girl, water bottle on the boys bike

The bike comes equipped with a handle on the seat for that intro guidance - after that the kids will be on their own. One thing I notice on the Schwinn balance bikes is the quality of the frame welds, paint, rims and spokes.

The Balance bikes help kids to develop the motor skills and balance
necessary to ride a two wheeler. The Schwinn Walk N Roll allows kids to learn these skills on a seat with a low center of gravity so they feel safe and confident. Both the seat and handlebars are adjustable to adapt to children ages 3-5 years.

The Schwinn balance bike are on sale for $109.99 at BalanceBikeShop.com.

New Exciting Balance Bikes for this Fall.

2011-08-30T09:53:00.000-05:00

We have 4 new balance bikes that will be debuting this fall at BalanceBikeShop.com.

(1) This new bike will be injection molded and designed in Germany!

(2) This new bike will boast an aluminum frame, made by a British Company known for high-end bikes and will come with 2 seat-posts!

(3) This new bike will be introduced by a leader in the balance bike world and will feature removable pedals!

(4) This metal balance bike is brought to you by the most recognized bicycle company in the world!

Stay Tuned - this should be an exciting fall.

New Kinderbike Morph Balance Bike - Preview

2011-08-16T23:42:00.000-05:00

Kinderbike is on a roll these days. The Kinderbike Laufrad has been constantly named the #1 balance bike by independent reviewers and of course the well-known New York Times review. Now they are preparing to unveil the new Kinderbike Morph Hybrid Balance Bike.

The concept for this bike is what a lot of parents have been waiting for: removable pedals! That's right; use the Kinderbike Morph as a balance bike and then when your child is ready just add the pedal attachment. I have a lot of experience in the past with Hobby-Bikes version of a balance bike with removable pedals. I like the looks and concept of the Hobby-Bike, but the pedal mechanism still has some manufacturing issues that need to be worked out. The pedal attachment on the Hobby Bike consists of the crank being part of a bottom bracket/bottom tube assembly and works like a cassette piece that inserts into the fame and is locked in place with 2 allen bolts. Issues with chains being too loose or the pedal/crank assembly being out of alignment have made the pedal attachment useless in some cases.

The Kinderbike Morph balance bike uses a slightly different approach. You insert the pedal mechanism into the bottom bracket opening on the frame - the Plug and Play system as they call it at Kinderbike. Here is a listing of some of the other features the Kinderbike Morph will have:

Color Choices: Red, Blue, green, Silver
Frame: 6061 Aluminum
Rims: Single Wall Alloy
Rear Disc Brakes
Plug and Play Drivetrain
Lifetime Warranty

Stay Tuned for more information as it becomes available. We anticipate this bike will be available by Early October 2011.

At this time the MSRP for the Kinderbike Morph is $149. Visit us at Balancebikeshop.com - your authorized Kinderbike dealer!

Kinderbike Laufrad Balance Bike Review

2011-08-07T19:58:00.000-05:00

Function

From the time your child begins to walk well, she can use the Kinderbike. The bike comes in three models, each designed the accommodate the stature of children at different ages, from 18 months to more than 5 years of age. When your child sits astride the bike, she uses her feet to make the bike move. This teaches balance, steering and control, all at the same time, without having to coordinate pedaling and maintaining a certain speed to balance. As your child becomes more proficient at these skills, you can more easily transition her to a pedaled two-wheeler.

Price

Compared with other comparable balance bikes on the market, all bikes within the Kinderbike line are reasonably and competitively priced. The manufacturer suggested retail price for a Kinderbike, depending on the model, ranges from $85 to $100, as of February 2011, which is actually a drop in price since 2010. With these balance bikes being durable enough to hand down to younger children, the Kinderbike makes a good investment as a plaything for your child.

Company Support

From the factory, the Kinderbike already comes 95 percent assembled. All you need to do is install the handlebars. The bike also comes with a limited lifetime warranty compared to the typical one-year warranty of other manufacturers.

Safety

The Kinderbike design provides a low center of gravity, making the bike inherently easier to balance and control. The deep slop of the frame makes mounting the Kinderbike easy. The hand-grip linear-pull V-brake makes stopping both quick and controllable. Steering on the Kniderbike provides a full range of motion for easy and safe maneuvering. Also, Kinderbikes do not use foot pegs or rests or steering limiters. This requires your child to use her feet to stabilize the bike, which is much safer.

Check out the Kinderbike Laufrad and the new Morph Hybrid at BalanceBikeShop.com.

This review was written by Frank Whittemore for Livestrong.com

Berg Biky Balance Bike Review

2011-08-04T09:53:00.000-05:00

This is sort of an announcement to a new balance bike that we have at Balancebikeshop.com; a formal review will be coming shortly. The Berg Biky balance bike is now available for shipping.

A little background on Berg Toys. Some of you may have been on a Berg Toy if you ever rented one of those large, heavy-duty pedal go-karts at a campground or other recreational resort. Apart from go-karts, they also manufacture other outdoor toys such as trampolines, balance bikes and construction toys. Not only do they design their own range of toys at BERG Toys, but they also manufacture most of them in their own factory in Holland. At BERG Toys they use the best quality materials and manufacturing techniques.

Balance Bike Sale

2011-07-19T16:02:00.001-05:00

We are happy to extend a couple great deals on balance bikes while supplies last at BalanceBikeShop.com.

Bikee Balance Bike - $54.99 (Free Shipping)

Skuut Balance Bike - $69.99 (Free Shipping)

NEW Plasma Bike Balance Bike from Plasmart Review

2011-07-09T09:19:00.000-05:00

Everyone probably has seen the Plasma car ride-on toys where you use your arm and wiggling ability to move around. Well the makers of the Plasma Car are now adding a plastic balance bike called the Plasma Bike to their lineup of offerings.

We just got our shipment of the Plasma bike in and were eager to pull it out of the box to check them out. We were curious to what European company was making these for Plasmart and were delighted to find out it was Injusa. Injusa, based out of Spain is a well know maker of battery-operated and foot-to-floor ride-on toys. One thing I have noticed with Injusa and Big products that are NOT made in China is the quality of the plastic, very durable and thick. This is very important when buying a ride-on toy that is primarily plastic. The wheels are pretty cool. They have a bearing system located internally in the center of the wheel that provides for a smooth ride.

This is a great first bike for the really young that may be not ready for a regular balance bike. The extra wide wheels, about 5" wide aid in balance and stability while still giving them the benefits of learning balance, steering and confidence. The Plasma Bike is available in red with black wheels and black with red wheels for $69.99 which includes shipping at BalanceBikeShop.com.

NEW BIT Toddler Ride-On Car or Balance Bike

2011-06-28T13:09:00.000-05:00

Here's a cool new rode-on toy for young kids who aren't ready for a balance bike yet. I am pleased to introduce the BIT Toddler bike from Glodos. I have had this toy on my radar for awhile and it is finally available and ready to ship. Not only does it have a neat artistic design, but wider wheels for added stability.

BIT is the ultimate machine to help children take their first steps in the world of two wheels, run on their own and develop their balance and coordination. BIT features wide wheels to help keep balance and stability, while the ergonomic, innovative handlebars are integrated into the chassis to ensure a good driving position. The handlebars become a convenient carrying grip as well as a hanger in small spaces. Made from curved wood, aluminum and EVA, the BIT is an artisanal toy with cutting-edge technology for the world of today.

The BIT ride-on toy is available in Blue, Green, Pink and Orange at BalanceBikeShop.com for $124.99

NEW - Monster Jam STRIDER No-Pedal Balance Bike

2011-06-27T16:26:00.000-05:00

New from Strider. Check it out!!

If your Toddler can Walk, the officially licensed Monster Jam STRIDER Bike will get your Toddler smashing dirt, grass, and pavement, NOW!

With 7 different Officially Licensed Monster Jam frame sticker options included in every box, its easy to customize their STRIDER just the way they like it!

Designed for children, ages 1 - 5, the Monster Jam STRIDER No-Pedal Balance Bike is lightweight, easy to control and features an adjustable seat and handlebars to accommodate a growing child. Most importantly, STRIDER teaches your child balance, coordination and develops glittering confidence.

And the STRIDER is steady, stable and safe. At the first feeling of instability, your child will instinctively place his feet securely on the ground. So there are no "tricycle tip-overs" or "training-wheel wobbles" that stir-up a fear, hesitancy, or dislike of bike riding.

Parents will be happy to learn that the STRIDER's assembly is a breeze.

So buy a STRIDER and give your child a safe, confident bike riding experience.

The Monster Jam STRIDER is mechanically the same as a standard STRIDER, but Silver in color. The best part is the custom Monster Jam box and the custom Monster Jam sticker options! If you're a Monster Jam fan, the stickers are a must have for your little rider! Plus, changing the stickers every few months keeps the bike new and interesting for your child maximizing the return on your investment.

Check out the cool custom graphics and purchase your Strider Monster balance bike from BalanceBikeShop.com.

Super Glider Adult Balance Bike now available!

2011-06-20T11:20:00.000-05:00

It's here and we are excited. A formal Super Glider balance bike review will be coming once we receive our inventory. I have had numerous occasions where some parents are looking for balance bikes for older children and adults. Ed at Glide bikes has been working on his latest creation and now it is available at BalanceBikeShop.com for $289.99.

The Super Glider is based on the concept of their best selling Go Glider and Mini Glider balance bikes but has 20" wheels to fit adults.

Designed for riders 5' to 6' 2", the Super Glider™ is just right for older learners and Special Needs youths and adults. With unique design features, Folding up foot pegs, removable pedals and comfort saddle with built in shocks, the Super Glider™ is the latest model in development. Why the Need for the Super Glider? After 5 years designing and selling Balance Bikes our customers asked for it. Older kids who have not learned to ride a bike, Special needs kids and adults that just want to join the fun and get exercise. Anybody who can walk can glide. Gliding covers 2 times more distance with half the effort at twice the speed.

Elderly communities, can benefit by getting older adults outside moving, exercising ,getting blood flow and muscular skeletal resistance. As well as keeping motor skills and balance. Can be used for Rehab and physical therapy as well allowing leg, hip and foot injury patients to slowly put weight on injured limb while giving them ability to get around. Commuters can use the Super Glider to ride on sidewalks from bus or train stop to stop. Can be legally ridden on sidewalks with out pedals installed. Once Balance is Mastered pedals can be added with just 1 Screw and a chain master link. Once pedals are added the patented slow speed balance geometry translates into an easy to ride lightweight , maneuverable bike. Bike rack and basket can be added for luggage.

Come check out the Super Glider 20" adult balance bike here.

NEW Quadrabyke is now Shipping

2011-05-25T14:57:00.000-05:00

Ahh! The wait is over. The Quadrbyke is now available for shipping in the USA. We just love how accommodating this bike is.

This exciting new play bike for kids ages 3-6 is so versatile – it’s three bikes in one! Quickly adapts from a four wheeler mini quad bike, to a trike, and then your tot’s first two wheel bicycle! Features highly efficient band brakes (front & rear), wide puncture proof rubber wheels for extra stability and quality construction. The unique axle system allows parents to quickly change this wheeled toy from 4 to 3 to 2 wheels. Quadrabyke 'grows' with the child's development between age 3 to 6, an investment in your child's safety, comfort and development have been carefully planned, designed and built to be both functional as well as easy to use.

On sale for $139.99 at BalanceBikeShop.com.

New BIKee balance bike from Trikke

2011-04-19T18:19:00.000-05:00

I know what everyone is thinking; another balance bike?? The craze of balance and run bikes is bringing a lot of new bike brands to the market.

Well the BIKee balance bike from Trikke is not one of these newer companies introducing a balance bike. Trikke has been around until I believe 2002 when it introduced its first Trikke recreational vehicle and was voted one of the Best Inventions of the Year by Time Magazine - cool eh? Here is a picture of one of their Trikke vehicles:

We would like to just take the time to introduce the BIKee balance bike. At 7lbs, it is one of the lightest balance bikes on the market. Among its features are EVA foam tires, adjustable seat and handlebar, and lightweight-yet strong steel frame. Come check out one of the best buys of balance bikes at BalanceBikeShop.com, you won't be disappointed.

New ZUM CX Balance Bike Review

2011-04-13T14:36:00.000-05:00

We are a big fan of the ZUM balance bike due to its quality and low price. We are even happier now that the new ZUM CX wood balance bike is now available. This isn't an entirely new makeover but the one change that will stand out is that the wood frame can be flipped over to accomadate children with inseams at small as 12".
Below are photos of the bike in both positions. The two frame adjustments allows the wood balance bike seat to adjust from 12" to 17"

BUY NOW

Why buy a balance bike? What is the best balance bike?

2011-03-29T14:33:00.000-06:00

Balance bikes are also referred to as; prebikes, kid bikes, toddler bikes, glide bikes, push bikes, training bikes and run bikes. What makes a balance bike so unique and in demand is the developmental benefits that it provides to children. The one skill that is needed to effectively learn to ride a two-wheel pedal bike is balance. Children who use a balance bike for 20-30 minutes twice a week showed the following improvements:

-Substantial improvements in both static and dynamic balance.
-Substantial improvements in bilateral coordination.
-Observable improvements in physical self-confidence.

What are balance bikes?
A balance bicycle (balance bike, run bike) is a training bicycle that helps the rider learn balance and steering. It has no pedals, no crank set and chain, and no training wheels. It can be a normal bicycle with pedals and related parts removed, or it can be purpose-built (especially for very small children, for whom normal bicycles are generally not available). It can have no brake, or it can have one or two hand-activated rim brakes.

Children as young as 18 months can learn to cruise a balance bicycle within a few days practice.

Should I buy a metal or wooden balance bike?

I receive this question a lot from people looking to buy a balance bike. My answer is simply: it's your preference. There are many opinions out there from people who say one is better than the other. Some people say the metal bikes rust and corrode and others say the wood bikes split and crack. It is true that without the proper care and maintenance a metal balance bike can start to corrode.

Neither of the two types of bikes should be left out in the rain and if they are, a simple wipe down with a dry towel will keep the water corroding certain parts. Riding a bike in the rain (kids love doing it) will not damage the bike while leaving the bike out in the rain for an extended period of time can cause and may cause damage. A number people have asked if these bikes are durable enough to ride on the beach in the sand and salt water. I would keep this sort of activity to a minimum due to the corrosive properties of salt water and sand. There is no concrete data to show how well they show up in these conditions. Some people have the misconception that wood bikes split and crack over time. These wooden frames are constructed of 10-12 ply baltic birch plywood with a polyurethane seal. The plywood construction makes the frame stronger than solid wood in that it resists cracking, warping and splitting. As with the metal bikes, wood balance bike should not be left out in the rain. One of the neat things with wood bikes is the capability of them being able to be custom painted. With the simple dis-assembly of these bikes to a bare frame condition, many people have given them their own unique touch with paint and/or decals.

With the simple dis-assembly of these bikes to a bare frame condition, many people have given them their own unique touch. check out the picture of this custom painted Skuut.

So when shopping for your first toddler balance bike, take into consideration your child's preference for color and most importantly the size of the bike. You may have your heart set on a certain brand or design, but if the bike doesn't fit, then your child will not be able to enjoy it right away.

Why are balance bikes so awesome?
With a balance bicycle, the rider learns balance first, pedal last. In contrast, with a normal bicycle fitted with training wheels, the rider learns pedal first, balance last. Although opinions differ regarding which learning sequence is easier for most riders, it is generally agreed that a bicycle with pedals is too difficult for most very young children and that training wheels may encourage the rider to learn some behaviors which later must be unlearned.

Are balance bikes heavy?
No. Balance bikes sold on this website weigh between 8 and 10 pounds. This is to ensure that the child is always able to control the bike and not be over powered by it

What age will my child transition to a pedal bike?
When your child has mastered the balance bike at about age 4 to 6, you can introduce a bike with pedals. Balance bikes usually continue to be a favorite toy for long after they can ride a pedal bike.

How long does it take to learn?
Our children were able to walk/ride the first time they sat down. That of course was after the bike lay on the garage floor for about 2 - 3 weeks. They were able to coast with their feet up after a week or two. Learning curves are different for different children.

Why are there no pedals on balance bikes?
The primary design focuses of balance bikes are to allow children to develop their gross motor skills. Learning to balance and steer the bike is much easier without pedals. The up and down movement of pedaling causes the child to shift their body weight from side to side throwing them off balance making them lose direction and riding stability. Balance bikes allow the child to drop their feet to the ground when they feel they are losing balance, quickly steadying themselves and preventing a fall.

Are spare parts available?
Spare parts are available for all bikes sold and most parts are covered by product warranty.

Where can I buy a balance bike?

www.balancebikeshop.com

Care.com Review

2011-03-23T11:39:00.000-06:00

My wife and I currently use Care.com and have nothing but great stuff to say about it. We have 2 children, ages 4 and 8 and have the dilemma of both having a 1/2 hr commute to work and our children's school start times of 8:15 and 8:50 respectively. My wife is a elementary school teacher which makes her job not very flexible. So we were left with the issue of how to keep our full-time jobs and get our children dressed, fed breakfast and ready for school in the comfort of our home.

In walks Care.com. My wife created our profile and then put out a request. We were delighted to have prospected caregivers emailing us within the first day of posting. The candidates varied from college students to retirees and everything in between. We chose the college ages students who were majoring in elementary education and another who was a business student who both had child care backgrounds. We were able to screen our candidates based on their expected pay rates, schedule available and child preferences. We originally had 2 students split the 5 weekdays based on their schedule; working 7 am - 8:30 am. These two students could only work first semester as their second semester schedules did not allow for this. So we now have a new college graduate who watches our boys in the morning and takes them both to school everyday - we could not be happier.

Check them out, you have nothing to lose. They also refer dog walkers and house cleaners!

Gyrobike Gyrowheel Review

2011-03-23T09:57:00.001-06:00

This is a pretty cool alternative to training wheels or balance bikes.

From the Gyrobike website:
Gyrobike’s patented technology adds stability to bicycles, particularly when traveling at slow speed. The company’s flagship product, Gyrowheel, revolutionizes the way children learn to ride a bike and renders training wheels obsolete. Gyrowheel senses unbalanced biking and re-centers the bike underneath the rider’s weight at the point when tipping starts to occur. With Gyrowheel, riders experience a faster, safer, easier and more fun way to learn to ride a bike. Gyrobike’s current focus is providing children’s products. The company plans to release adult models in the future as well. All Gyrobike products are designed in the United States. Gyrobike was founded in 2007 and its technology was developed at Dartmouth College. The company is headquartered in San Francisco, Calif.

Check out this demo video:

Check out both 12" and 16" models at BalanceBikeShop.com