Brakes or no brakes? The higher-spec balance bikes tend to have brakes, scaled down to child size, either on both wheels or just on the rear wheel. Budget bikes tend not to have them. Opinion is divided on what's best: balance bikes can be stopped perfectly well with feet but some argue that it's good to learn about braking before you venture on to a bike with pedals – and better for your shoe leather. We'd say that, roughly speaking, a child probably doesn't have the hand/eye coordination for using brakes until about 2.5 to 3.5 years. The maxiumum seat height is 42cm (16.5 inches) but it also comes with an extra long seat post which extends the maximum seat height to 48cm (19.5 inches) Ideally you will want the bike to last as long as possible. It should be able to last until they are ready for the transition to a bike with pedals. Therefore look for a bike which will grow with your child. This means the seat and the handlebars should be adjustable and the seat can be adjusted higher than they currently need. The Cruzee is super comfortable and therefore enjoyable to ride with soft grips, a super comfy seat and low-profile axle bolts

BIKESTAR Kids First Running Balance Bike with brakes and with BIKESTAR Kids First Running Balance Bike with brakes and with

It weighs just over 3kg (7lbs) so is lightweight which will make it easier for lighter, smaller children to control and use. This allows them to learn balancing faster and more effectively. Your child will be ready for a proper bike in no time. 2. Adjustable saddle The bike weighs 4.25kg which is won't be as light as bikes with foam tyres, but it's a good weight for a bike with larger air filled tyres. An adjustable seat is also great if you have older siblings who may also want to have a go on the bike. You can adjust it to their height so they can have a go as well. However, although it will be a great balance bike for some children it may be an awful choice for others so it’s very important to consider your child’s height when buying this balance bike.With time, they learn how to balance and don’t rely as much on their feet to keep the bike from falling. Cruzee is the crème de la crème of balance bikes for young children. It has some outstanding features and is super durable but the quality is reflected in the price. So what is to love about the Cruzee balance bike? One of the best things about balance bikes is that they are very easy to ride. Even young kids can ride them without any help. The micro bike has been well tested and with their name at stake, Micro will never put out a bike which isn't excellent quality. However, there are bikes such as the Cruzee that give the Micro a good run for their money and may just pip them out the post.

BIKESTAR Lightweight Kids First Running Balance Bike with

Some unique features just to the microbike include the front mud guard and the front suspension which ensures a smooth ride on rough surfaces. They don’t contain air like normal bikes. Instead, they use a foam material. They are solid through and through but still very light. This is a lightweight yet durable balance bike. Your child will not only find it easy and fun to use, they’ll be able to enjoy it for a long time no matter how rough they tend to be with their toys. Where to Buy

Pros

The Micro brand is a leading brand in the world of scooters, and it's name is synonymous with quality and durability. Micro has now ventured into the world of balance bikes, with its creation the microbike. But does the micro bike live up to the same standards as the mini micro scooter is well known for in the scooter world?