(Last updated on March 6th, 2023)
A toddler’s first bike can be the beginning of a lifelong love of cycling. Hence, it’s important to choose the right one. Whether on a balance bike or a 12” pedal bike, learning how to ride a bike is a thrilling experience. Below, I’ve put together a list of the very best bikes for toddlers to ensure they get started on the right foot and can have fun developing their two-wheeled skills.
- How I Selected the Best Bikes for Toddlers in 2023
- Compare the Best Bikes for Toddlers at a Glance
- Best Balance Bike for Toddlers
- Best Ride-On Toy Toddlers’ Bike
- Best Rim-Brake Pedal Bike for Toddlers
- Best Kids’ First Bike
- Best Overall Pedal Bike for Toddlers
- How to Pick the Right Bike for Toddlers?
- Frequently Asked Questions
How I Selected the Best Bikes for Toddlers in 2023
The world of kids’ bikes is home to numerous types, sizes, and styles but I narrowed down my search by sticking to bikes appropriate for toddlers aged 1 to 3. While that’s still a wide range, I selected five top-notch models that cover the bases when it comes to learning how to ride. This list is informed by many manufacturers’ specs, user reviews, and expert opinions and I gave each bike an overall rating as well as a final verdict. I based the scores according to the specific criteria below:
Ease-Of-Use
Toddlers are just only starting to ride bikes so they require an accessible ride that is comfortable and simple. Easy seat height adjustments and well-designed brakes are a major plus.
Durability
Kids’ bikes have to stand up to daily use, drops, and the occasional crash. I awarded points for tough frames and reliable componentry that help reduce the need for maintenance.
Design
The more kids (and their parents) like the look of a bike, the more likely they are to use it. I appreciate spoked wheels over plastic and several fun color options to match your personal style.
Price
Kids will eventually outgrow their bikes so purchasing a bike at the right price is crucial to ensure it’s a worthy investment. Kids’ bikes are generally affordable but there’s a wide range of costs.
Compare the Best Bikes for Toddlers at a Glance
| Takeaway | Type | Brakes | Weight | Rating | Price |
| Best Balance Bike for Toddlers | Balance bike | Mini V-brakes on rear wheel | 6.6 lbs | 9/10 | $199 |
| Best Ride-On Toy Toddlers’ Bike | Ride-on toy | No brakes | 5.6 lbs. | 8/10 | $63-84.99 |
| Best Rim-Brake Pedal Bike for Toddlers | Pedal bike | Dual rim brakes | 12 lbs. | 8.5/10 | $370 |
| Best Kids’ First Bike | Balance bike | No brakes | 6.7 lbs. | 8.5/10 | $140 |
| Best Overall Pedal Bike for Toddlers | Pedal bike | Coaster | 15.6 lbs. | 9/10 | $235-$275 |
Best Balance Bike for Toddlers
1. Woom 1 Balance Bike
Our Rating
9/10
$199
KEY SPECS
| Type | Balance bike |
| Wheels | Aluminum 12” rims |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs (3 kg) |
| Brakes | Mini V-brake on rear wheel |
| Colors | Red, sky blue, green, purple haze, sunny yellow |
PROS
- Rear rim brake that’s easy to learn
- Steering limiter prevents over-rotating handlebars and boosts safety
- 6 fun and bold colors to choose from
CONS
- A bit pricey for a balance bike
The Woom 1 balance bike is an excellent way to kickstart your toddler’s two-wheeled journey and help them develop the skills they’ll need down the road. Better quality than your average balance bike, the Woom 1 has 12” pneumatic tires, a rear rim brake, and a steering limiter so the rider can’t over-rotate the handlebars. The bike is a good match for kids as young as 18 months and can fit riders up to 3 years old.
Beyond the sleek profile and looking downright fun to use, the Woom 1 packs some serious performance that’s rare to see on toddlers’ bikes. They’ve made the right choice opting for a rim brake rather than a coaster brake which seems to be the current trend among kids’ bikes, better preparing them for making the switch to youth and adult bikes which use hand-actuated brakes. The seat height is adjustable, and the grips are flanged at the end for a more secure grip.
Years ago, this bike might have been over-engineered for toddlers but kids’ bikes are much higher quality these days which is a great thing. That said, the Woom 1 is a bit pricey for a balance bike, knocking a point off of my overall rating. The durable components will last for years and an early introduction to rim brakes gets them ready for bigger bikes. And I appreciate the wide range of colors so you can ensure your little one falls in love with their new set of wheels.
RATINGS
| Ease of use | 5/5 |
| Durability | 4/5 |
| Design | 5/5 |
| Value | 3/5 |
OUR VERDICT
A high-quality balance bike with a rim brake, steering limiter, and tons of fun colors.
Best Ride-On Toy Toddlers’ Bike
2. Hape Scoot Around
Our Rating
8/10
$63-84.99
KEY SPECS
| Type | Ride-on toy |
| Wheels | Four small, rubberized wheels |
| Weight | 5.6 lbs. |
| Brakes | No brakes |
| Colors | Green/wood |
PROS
- Solid and aesthetic construction that looks nice indoors
- Rubberized wheels and non-toxic finishes
- Four wheels provide additional stability while learning
CONS
- Riders will quickly outgrow the bike
- Extra wheels don’t teach a sense of balance as much
The Hape Scoot Around is a ride-on wooden bike that’s made for the tiniest of riders. Technically more of a toy than a bicycle, it has four wheels for extra stability and is meant to be ridden indoors. The wood bike is a good fit for toddlers aged 12-18 months as they take their first strides in becoming full-fledged cyclists!
The two-tone green colors and solid wooden construction achieve a nice look that’s worthy of any inside space. It’ll take up more space than other toys but I’d be happy seeing this little four-wheeler roll along my floors anytime. To be sure, the small wheels are rubberized in order to protect your precious floors.
The best way to learn a skill is through playing and the Scoot Around helps toddlers develop muscle strength, balance, and steering abilities. It weighs only 5.6 lbs. which is lighter than most balance bikes so it’s easy to roll around and safe to use. This bike is built well so it can provide years of fun, but toddlers older than 18 months will probably outgrow the toy. The limited use window between 12 and 18 months knocks off some points from the overall rating. If you are searching for a stepping stone before a balance bike, the Scoot Around can’t be beaten.
RATINGS
| Ease of use | 5/5 |
| Durability | 3/5 |
| Design | 4/5 |
| Value | 5/5 |
OUR VERDICT
A well-built and good-looking wooden bike with four wheels, ideal for toddlers aged 12-18. months.
Best Rim-Brake Pedal Bike for Toddlers
3. Cleary Gecko 12”
Our Rating
8.5/10
$370
KEY SPECS
| Type | Pedal bike |
| Wheels | 12” wheels, pneumatic tires |
| Weight | 12 lbs. |
| Brakes | Front and rear rim brakes |
| Colors | punk rock pink, desert green, blue hawaii |
PROS
- Dual rim brakes for better stopping and developing skills
- Wide and knobby tires
- Lightweight aluminum frame
CONS
- Significantly more expensive than other pedal bikes
- More maintenance on the additional parts
Toddlers deserve a great-quality pedal bike when they are first starting out and the Cleary Gecko 12” prepares them for success. This model is more tricked-out than the typical 12” kids bikes since it comes with front and rear rim brakes, wide and knobby tires, and a lightweight aluminum frame. The $370 price tag may shock some potential buyers but if you’re looking for the best performance from a trusted and kid-oriented brand, it can be worth the investment.
The Gecko 12” is appropriate for youngsters aged 2 to 4 years old. The dual rim brakes are perfect for advanced riders who want to develop their braking skills just like on the adult bikes they’ll be riding in a few years. They are quality Tektro junior V-brakes with XS brake levers so their tiny hands can grasp the brakes. Buyers can pick between a freewheel version or a coaster brake if they want the additional braking option.
I’m a big fan of the wide 2.15” knobby tires that’ll let your little one explore off-road terrain with confidence and get traction in tight corners. Even with all these additional parts on a small pedal bike, the entire Gecko 12” weighs only 12 lbs so it’s highly maneuverable even for the youngest riders. The steep price tag makes me knock off a point from my rating but I can say confidently that I would have loved this adventure machine when I was learning!
If you’re unsure about which bike size is right for your child, Cleary Bikes has posted this useful bike size chart on their website.
RATINGS
| Ease of use | 3/5 |
| Durability | 4/5 |
| Design | 5/5 |
| Value | 3/5 |
OUR VERDICT
High-quality but an expensive pedal bike with front and rear rim brakes.
Best Kids’ First Bike
4. Strider 12 Balance Bike
Our Rating
8.5/10
$140
KEY SPECS
| Type | Balance bike |
| Wheels | 12” wheels, flat-free foam rubber tires |
| Weight | 6.7 lbs. |
| Brakes | No brakes |
| Colors | 7 color options |
PROS
- Excellent value that makes a great first bike
- Long, adjustable seat post accommodates a range of heights
- Tons of colors to choose from
CONS
- Rubber tires that aren’t as cushioning as pneumatic tires
- No extra features like brakes or steering limiter
The Strider 12 is a straightforward balance bike that’s reliable and cost-effective. When searching for the appropriate two-wheeler for their toddler, parents look for something that’s going to inspire confidence and this model hits all the right notes. Strider is the most recognizable brand of balance bikes and their bikes are trusted stepping stones to pedal bikes.
The Strider 12 is simpler than the Woom 1 and more affordable, too. There are no brakes so riders can focus on learning how to glide and improve their balance without worrying about using their hands. There’s also no steering limiter but that’s not an issue as long as you keep speeds to a controlled level while practicing. There’s a padded section in the middle of the handlebars as well as generously-flanged grips to prevent hands from slipping off.
A major plus is the long, adjustable seat post that accommodates inseams between 12-20 inches so your kids can keep improving their skills even as they grow. I recommend this bike for youngsters between 18 months and 4 years old.
The solid construction features durable components like the 5-spoke plastic wheels. One downside, though, is the solid rubber tires that aren’t as comfortable as pneumatic tires which lowers my rating. The Strider is available in seven distinct colors— the most options out of any bike on this list— so you can choose your favorite paint job.
RATINGS
| Ease of use | 5/5 |
| Durability | 4/5 |
| Design | 4/5 |
| Value | 4/5 |
OUR VERDICT
A reliable balance bike that’s simple to use and available in tons of colors.
Best Overall Pedal Bike for Toddlers
5. Specialized Riprock Coaster 12
Our Rating
9/10
$235-$275
KEY SPECS
| Type | Pedal bike |
| Wheels | 12” spoked wheels, 2.3” tires |
| Weight | 15.6 lbs. |
| Brakes | Coaster brake |
| Colors | acid pink, white/orange, neon blue, candy red |
PROS
- Easy-to-use coaster brake instead of rim brakes
- Wide 2.3” tires offer cushion and extra grip
- Compatibility with training wheels
CONS
- A bit pricey for a coaster brake model
- Heavier than the Cleary Gecko
The Specialized Riprock 12 is a classic first bike. This well-designed pedal bike has 12” wheels, a coaster brake, and compatibility with training wheels. Generations of cyclists have learned to ride on bikes like this while Specialized has updated the components to make it easier to use and lower maintenance than ever.
The lightweight aluminum frame is available in four distinct colors and the spoked wheels are an upgrade over hard plastic rims. The 2.3” tires are even wider than the Cleary Gecko and offer a super-cushy ride that’ll smooth out the bumps. Although I’m not a huge fan of plastic chain guards (they make maintenance much more difficult), this one seems sturdy and I like the design.
The $275 price tag is relatively competitive given the recent uptick in bike costs but there are more affordable pedal bikes out there. It still skews high so I have to take away a point from my rating, but the Riprock 12 made its way on this list because of its solid construction that’s sure to last for years and can be passed down to younger siblings.
RATINGS
| Ease of use | 4/5 |
| Durability | 5/5 |
| Design | 4/5 |
| Value | 3/5 |
OUR VERDICT
A classic take on a pedal bike with quality parts and plush, wide tires.
How to Pick the Right Bike for Toddlers?
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
Toddler bikes are the smallest bikes out there which can make some of them appropriate for indoor use. Ride-on toys and balance bikes— as long as the speeds are kept to a safe limit— can be ridden inside under the watchful eye of parents who can help their child with balance, too. That said, indoor spaces can have dangerous obstacles like stairs or table corners that don’t mix well with bikes so make sure the room is set up accordingly!
Balance bikes and pedal bikes are ideal for outdoor use where there is plenty of room to glide along and build their skills. A slight decline allows kids to use gravity to their advantage and focus less on pedaling hard and concentrate on balance or steering.
Type of bike
Ride-on toy
These are technically toys rather than two-wheeled bicycles that introduce young toddlers (12 to 18 months old) to scooting along and steering. They commonly have three or four wheels for extra stability and less of a chance of tipping over. Ride-on toys can be used inside and won’t take up as much space as a bike.
Balance Bike
Bikes with two wheels but no pedals are called balance bikes. They are designed to help toddlers develop their sense of balance as they glide or stride along by pushing off the ground with their legs. It’s safer to remove the pedals altogether since toddlers’ legs aren’t long or flexible enough to straddle the bike without hitting the pedals (whereas adults are able to do this when they learn on a standard bike).
Tricycle
One of the most famous types of bikes for young kids, tricycles utilize an extra wheel to add stability. This style is less of a specific method for learning how to ride a two-wheeled bike and more of a fun and different rider experience that’s easy to pedal. If a three-wheeled scooter is more up your alley, explore some great scooters for toddlers.
Pedal Bike
Like mini versions of standard adult bikes, this category has pedals! Depending on the model, there are either rim brakes or a coaster brake used for stopping. The smallest wheel size is 12” and it increases from there to the adult wheel diameters.
Learn more about our picks for the best kids’ bikes in 2023.
Safety Features
Kids’ bikes are all about safety. This means they are well-built machines with safety features such as rounded or integrated bolts and flanged grips so a rider’s hands won’t slip off. Another cool feature that’s available on some kids’ bikes (such as the Woom 1) is a steering limiter that prevents riders from over-rotating the handlebars and causing a sudden crash.
You already know this, but always remind your little one about wearing a helmet and the correct protective gear when riding a bike, especially when first learning. Check out our list of the best bike helmets for toddlers.
Size and Skill Level
Kids grow and learn at different rates so there’s no one-size-fits-all guide to toddler bikes. Each of the bikes above includes a suggested age range and every kids’ bike webpage has this information listed as well. Consider your child’s measurements and their bike skills to pick a bike that’s appropriate for them now and will serve them for a good while into the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kids aged 3 and up can start riding pedal bikes with 12” wheels. If they need more support and practice before pedaling, they can begin with a balance bike that doesn’t have pedals, but I recommend a pedal bike for toddlers aged 3 and 4.
The right bike for most toddlers (between 1-3 years old) is a balance bike. This type of bike has small 12” wheels and no pedals so the rider can focus on gliding and striding along the ground in order to develop their sense of balance and steering. Ride-on toys and pedal bikes can also be appropriate for toddlers.
Absolutely! 2-year-olds can typically start with pedal bikes but may want to begin on a balance bike if they need to boost their riding confidence first. Training wheels are also an option but continue to fall in popularity due to the effectiveness of balance bikes that prepare toddlers for success on 12” pedal bikes.
Not necessarily, but they might be ready to level up to a pedal bike. Most balance bikes like the Strider 12 and Woom 1 are appropriate for 3-year-olds, however, once your youngster has mastered balance and steering, they are ready to move on to pedaling.
The critical skill for toddlers is their sense of balance on two wheels. Start with a balance bike and have them glide along, pushing themselves forward with their legs. They are ready to place their feet on pedals as they get a handle on steering and take progressively longer strides without touching the ground.
Ride-on toys like the Hape Scoot Around are great, accessible options for toddlers as young as 12 months old! While not technically a two-wheeled bicycle, these toys can start them off on the right foot. Toddlers can start with balance bikes around the 18-month mark and progress to pedal bikes as their skills improve.
Jeffrey Brown is a writer, editor, and professional bike mechanic with over 7 years of experience working in full-service and community-based bike shops. As a bicycle educator, he has supported youth programs across the US that teach bike mechanics and life skills to prepare the next generation of cyclists.
Jeffrey began his professional mechanic career at his university bike co-op, so he recognizes the grassroots power of the cycling community. Initially self-trained as a mechanic, his subsequent positions as manager and lead educator gave him official training. He has won various awards and grants for his role as a bicycle and environmental advocate.
