Best Kids Bikes for Beginners
Shopping for your child's first bicycle is a big moment, and who better to trust than parents who have already been through it? This curated list comes directly from the experiences of moms and dads with kids that successfully learned to balance, pedal and explore on these very bikes.
Don't steer yourself in circles with online searches – these are real-life recommendations for reliable kids bikes for beginners that have earned the stamp of parental approval. From lightweight frames that make maneuvering a breeze to thoughtfully designed features that prioritize safety and comfort, these are the bikes that helped pave the way for countless cycling adventures.
As you browse these kids bike reviews, we encourage you to share your own experiences. If your child learned to ride on one of these bikes, or if you have another safe bike for new riders to recommend, please leave a review or add your favorite pick to the list. Let's build a valuable resource together!
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amazon.com
Strider Sport Balance Bike
Jennie Utsinger said: Strider dominates the balance bike market with its adjustability and quality construction. The Sport is the most popular model and comes in a variety of colors. The handlebars and seat adjust with ease to transition between your toddler and preschooler.
Ages 18 months - 5 years
2 reviews
amzn.to
Schwinn Grit and Petunia
The Schwinn Grit (for boys) and Petunia (for girls) are beginner bikes featuring 12-inch wheels, training wheels, and a removable parent push handle with a water bottle holder, making them suitable for toddlers learning to ride. These single-speed bikes have a rear coaster brake for intuitive stopping and a quick-release adjustable seat post to accommodate a child's growth.
Erin P. said: This is a great beginner bike! The parent push handle actually steers the bike and can be easily removed when a child is ready to ride alone.
1 review
guardianbikes.com
Guardian Bikes
Guardian Bikes are known for their focus on quality and safety, and the children's bikes company has grown significantly since its appearance on Shark Tank. Its patented SureStop braking system lets kids brake with one lever that safely distributes force to both wheels.
Alexandra F. said: We love our Guardian bikes! I got them after a friend recommended them, and have been recommending them in turn to anyone looking for a beginner bike for their young kids! They are sturdy and high quality, but also light enough that little ones can easily control and balance them. It is also easy for kids to use the brakes, so they can stop with confidence as soon as they start riding. Both of my boys (age 4 and 6 at the time) were able to ride their Guardian bikes within the first hour of getting them as they transitioned away from their balance bikes - we skipped training wheels altogether! We've had them for almost two years now and will stick with this brand when we are ready for the next size up.
1 review
woom.com
Woom Bike
Woom kids bikes are thoughtfully designed, lightweight bicycles built specifically for children of various ages. These bikes prioritize safety, comfort, and ease of handling, with child-specific components and geometry to make learning and riding more enjoyable and intuitive, especially for beginners.
Sarah Calamita said: The WOOM bike is expensive, but worth it! So light, has hand brakes and so easy to ride. My 4 year old learned in a day it was such an easy ride.
1 review
Primary photo: Tatiana Syrikova on Pexels
Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.
