Balance bikes are a great way to help kids master balancing whilst teaching them to ride a bike. Choosing the best balance bike Australia offers could help you avoid electronic addiction and give your kids a way to have some outdoor fun.
There are so many great options out there, knowing which one will be the best fit for your little one might seem a little overwhelming. So, here I’ll share everything you need to know on how to choose the best balance bikes.
I’ll share all the information I found while researching to buy my daughter’s bike. I’ve taken the time to create these in-depth balance bikes reviews to save you time.
I’ll break down the specs for each option. From pricing to recommended age groups, this truly is the ultimate list of the top balance bikes on the market.
“This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.“
Contents
- 1 Top Pick for the Best Balance Bike, Australia: Mocka Rocket Bike
- 2 Balance Bike Comparison Chart
- 3 Balance Bike Reviews, Australia
- 4 What is the Best Balance Bike For Toddlers?
- 5 More Kids Balance Bike Reviews
- 6 What is a Balance Bike?
- 7 What are the Benefits of Balance Bikes?
- 8 Features to Look for
- 9 Recap of Our Favourites
Top Pick for the Best Balance Bike, Australia: Mocka Rocket Bike
I really adore the Mocka Rocket bike. It looks and feels just as great as the other high quality bikes on this list but the price point is incredibly low in comparison to some! It’s a really great affordable yet high quality option that comes in a range of great colours and is very light.
Balance Bike Comparison Chart
Product | Image | Age | Material | Weight | Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mocka Rocket | 2yrs + | Steel | 4.5 kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
Hornit AIRO |
| 18 months and up | Magnesium Alloy | 2.95kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
Kinderfeets Tiny Tot 2-in-1 Bamboo |
| 12 to 24 months | Bamboo | 2.33kg | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
Kinderfeets Classic | 2yrs + | Wood | 2.33kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
Vilac 1025 |
| 3yrs + | Wood | 4.1/5 | Check Price! |
|
Cycling Deal Balance Bike | 2 to 6yrs | Steel | 2.74 kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
Eurotrike Glide |
| 3yrs + | Steel | 2.7 kg | 4.1/5 | Check Price! |
Zoomy Leisure | 18 months to 6yrs | Aluminium | 2 kg | 4.9/5 | Check Price! |
|
Chicc Scuderia Ferrari | 2yrs + | Metal | 3 kg | 4.4/5 | Check Price! |
|
Pink Bike |
| 18 months + | Steel | 3.6 kg | 3.9/5 | Check Price! |
WeeRide Deluxe | 3 to 6yrs | Steel | 6 kg | 4.1/5 | Check Price! |
|
Kazam | 2 to 5yrs | Steel | 4.4 kg | 4.5/5 | Check Price! |
|
Rennrad Convertible |
| 3yrs + | Steel | 11.1 kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
Bluey | 3yrs + | Steel | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
Balance Bike Reviews, Australia
If you’re still not sure which balance bike is the right one for your child, take a look at our reviews to help you decide which is best suited to your needs.
What is the Best Balance Bike For Toddlers?
These first few reviews focus on bikes suitable from a younger age. If your kids are a bit older, scroll further down to see some great options.
Mocka Rocket Bike
4 boys! Each have had one of the Mocka balance bikes and they have all been fantastic. Best practice for learning to ride, makes the transition to a bike a breeze.
– Rin
Specifications
- Age: 2 to 4 years
- Frame Material: Steel
- Weight: 4.5 kg
- Seat Height: 32 to 39 cm
The Mocka Rocket Bike is one of the coolest balance bikes to hit the market and your toddler will love to ride it. The steel framed bike is designed for children ages two to four and has an adjustable height from 32 to 39 cm so it can grow with your child. The bike has solid, sturdy, puncture resistant tyres appropriate for any terrain.
Balance bikes, also known as running bikes don’t have any pedals and this Mocka Rocket bike is no different. Your child will learn how to control the bike with just their feet, including how to get off to a running start and then using their legs to keep their balance and stop without falling. Your toddler will be ready to move on up to a bicycle in no time at all.
What we love
- It has real rubber tyres; not foam ones
- Sturdy and easy to assemble
- Wonderful design and lightweight
What we don’t love
- None. My kids love this!
>>>Check current price on Mocka here!<<<
Kinderfeets Classic
This is a well made little balance bike. I bought it for my daughter’s third birthday and she absolutely loves it. It is solid and bears a good amount of weight. It’s sure to last until she is ready for a two wheeler.
– Loletta
Specifications
- Age: 2 years
- Frame Material: Sustainable Birch Wood
- Weight: 2.33kg
This is the bike we chose for our daughter and I can say, with confidence, is one of the best wooden balance bikes if you want something sturdy and reliable.
It’s made from sustainable birch wood and has a water-based non-toxic chalkboard paint finish, meaning your child can customise and decorate the bike themselves and make it completely their own! It also comes in a range of colour options, features wooden pegs for them to rest their feet on while cruising and an adjustable and washable ergonomically designed, cushioned seat for comfort. The tyres are an airless biodegradable material so you don’t have to worry about punctures or your impact on the environment.
All in all, this is a great option for the best balance bike for toddlers as it’s durable and grows well with young children. Adjusting the seat is so easy that even I could manage it on my own!
I highly recommend this classic bike from Kinderfeets. We’ve found it to be a great first bike for kids (our niece has one too) and we love that it’s growing with our daughter so it’s been a smart investment.
What we love
- It has solid construction and you can choose a good range of colours
- You can adjust the seat
- Smooth wheels and easy to manoeuvre
What we don’t love
- Paint easily peels off
>>Check current price on Lime Tree Kids!<<<
Kinderfeets Tiny Tot 2-in-1 Bamboo
My 15 month old LOVES this bike!!! She plays with it all over our house. She’s very petite and on the lowest setting of the bike, she can go anywhere with ease.
– Ben
Specifications
- Age: 12 to 24 months
- Frame Material: Bamboo
- Weight: 2.33kg
- Seat Height: 9 in to 11.5 in
This bike from Kinderfeets is the smallest 2-in-1 balance bike on the market, making it one of the best first balance bikes available for very small children.
This bike starts out as a tricycle for extra stability and can then be converted into a bike once your child has the confidence and the height. It’s made from high quality and strong, sustainable bamboo and the wide base tyres are a hard plastic material.
This bike comes with an adjustable seat, so it can grow with your child once you convert it to two wheels. Just be sure to test the height carefully as their little feet can hit the back tire if not adjusted properly. You can even purchase an additional basket add on so your child can have fun carrying their favourite toys around.
The durability, quality material, and small size of this bike are what truly makes it a contender for the best balance bike for 18-month-old children upwards.
What we love
- You can convert it into a 2 wheel balance bike
- The seat is adjustable so it can grow with your child
- You can purchase separately a basket so kids can carry toys and whatnot
What we don’t love
- Paint easily chips off
>>>Check current price on Lime Tree Kids here!<<<
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Hornit AIRO Balance Bike
If a bike can be scored on the look on a child’s face when they walk in a room and see it, this bike would get top marks straight away. That might seem daft, but if your kids are desperate to ride a bike because they think it looks amazing, then everything becomes a lot easier and a lot more enjoyable.
– Simon
Specifications
- Age: 18 months to 5 years
- Frame Material: Magnesium Alloy
- Weight: 2.95kg
- Seat Height: 29cm to 44cm
We have this Hornit AIRO balance bike at home and my kids are currently hard at work testing it out! Read our full review here!
The first thing that struck me when I picked up the package was just how light it is. The box was large so I automatically assumed that meant heavy but boy was I wrong. The AIRO really lives up to its description of being “levitatingly light” at just 2.95kg. This is mostly thanks to its ultra hard wearing magnesium alloy frame which isn’t just quality but also looks fantastic.
The next thing that impressed me was that it comes fully assembled! I was expecting to have to put pieces together and build something but nope it slides straight out of the box and I just had to adjust the handlebars and seat to the correct height.
The Hornit AIRO comes in a choice of 4 colours; candy floss pink, hot chilli red, orca white and hammer yellow. We have the yellow option that you can see in the image above and it looks fantastic. It’s eye catching and sleek with an attractive matt finish.
This balance bike also features grippy footrests for easier free wheeling, air filled tyres, a padded stem for safety, soft grip rubber handles and is fully safety tested for children aged 18 months and up.
Still on the fence? The Hornit AIRO even comes with a free lifetime warranty on the frame and forks which shows just how much they believe in their product!
What we love
- Amazingly lightweight. Kids can easily manage it on their own
- Impeccable quality and design
- The foot rest is non slip
What we don’t love
- None! Awesome bike!
>>>Check current price on their website<<<
>>>Check current price on Amazon<<<
Vilac 1024 Natural Wooden
Specifications
- Age: 3 and up
- Frame Material: Sustainable Plantation Timber & BPA Free materials
- Weight: Not stated
If you’re looking for one of the best balance bikes 3 year old children or tall for their age children can ride, the options for wooden balance bikes become a little more limited but this one is a little bigger than other wooden bikes.
It’s made from sustainable timber and designed and manufactured by leading French toy brand Vilac and all materials used are BPA free. The tyres are airless and made from a really solid material to withstand bumpier ground. The adjustable seat can easily grow with your child and it comes in bright and fun colours.
What we love
- Pretty easy to assemble and comes with clear instructions
- Built is solid and great quality wood
- Seat is adjustable to three different heights
What we don’t love
- There is a plastic that makes noise when the wheel turns
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
More Kids Balance Bike Reviews
Cycling Deal
If you’re looking for a budget balance bike option but you still want something high quality, this cheap balance bike from Cycling Deal is super affordable.
Specifications
- Age: 2 to 6 years
- Frame Material: Steel Anodizing and Blast Sanding Surface
- Weight: 2.74 kg
- Seat Height: 29 cm to 41 cm
The frame is made from lightweight adonized steel, is blast sanded for durability and the whole bike weighs just under 2.8kg. It has a colourful design with a cute puppy image and the wheels are 12 inches and made from durable moulded plastic.
This bike has a plastic seat with a leather coating that is adjustable in height, from 29cm to 41cm, and it has adjustable handlebars, from 48cm to 61cm, with soft plastic grips for added comfort. It’s suitable for kids aged 2 to 6 years and the frame comes with a lifetime warranty!
What we love
- Super easy to assemble
- Cute design that kids will love
- Lifetime warranty!
What we don’t love
- Some reviewers encountered missing parts when buying this product
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Eurotrike Glide
Specifications
- Age: 3 and up
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 2.7 kg
- Seat Height: 34 cm and up
Kids will love the motorcycle design of this option for kids ages 3 and up (max rider weight 25kg) and parents will like the high quality despite the really low price tag.
It’s durable and something you can be sure will last, in part, thanks to its hard-wearing, fade, and chip-resistant coating. The bike is super lightweight thanks to the steel frame and weighs in at a tiny 2.7kg, making it easy for parents to carry and young kids to use. This bike has 12″ moulded plastic, puncture-proof tyres on lightweight mag wheels with sealed bearings to provide a smoother ride.
It also features a low riser, adjustable handlebars, which provide a more comfortable riding position, and neoprene padded, a multi-adjustable mini seat from 34cm and up.
What we love
- Cool design that kids will love
- Durably built and quality coating
- Affordable price!
What we don’t love
- I can’t think of anything yet
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Zoomy Leisure Kids Bike
Specifications
- Age: 18 months to 6 years
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 2 kg
- Seat Height: 25 cm to 46 cm
The Zoomy leisure is one of our favourites on this list thanks to being super lightweight, affordable, looking fantastic, and coming in a wide range of colour choices.
The frame on this bike is made from really lightweight aluminium, making it the lightest balance bike on the market at just 2kg! It also has a rust-free anodised sapphire finish giving it a super high quality and stylish look and even comes in a choice of six different colours. The tyres are 12″ puncture-proof foam-filled plastic meaning they are durable and the maintenance-free sealed bearings provide a smooth ride.
This bike also features a comfortable plastic seat with a waterproof synthetic leather cover and an adjustable height (25cm to 46cm) seat with quick-release clamps for easy adjustment. The Zoomy is recommended for kids aged 18 months to 6 years or 60cm to 120cm with a max rider weight of 27kg.
If you want something super high quality that looks incredible and won’t break the bank, the Zoomy will be a firm favourite with any kid and grows with them so you really do get your money’s worth.
What we love
- There is a lot of colours to choose from
- Lightweight and kids can easily use it
- Easy to assemble
What we don’t love
- Some reviewers said that the seat and handlebar clamps are not quick release
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Chicco Ride On Scuderia Ferrari
Specifications
- Age: 2 years +
- Frame Material: Metal
- Weight: 3 kg
- Seat Height: up to 60 cm
This balance bike would be great for any little one obsessed with race cars or all things Ferrari.
The ultra-light metal frame means that this bike only weighs in at around 3kg so it isn’t too heavy for little ones to handle and is recommended for ages 2 years +. The design boasts official Ferrari logos and colours, giving it a great look.
The bike also features anti-puncture wheels, an adjustable soft seat with quick release clamp, and handlebars that can be adjusted to up to 60cm.
What we love
- Cool official Ferrari logos and colours
- It’s very lightweight
- It has anti-puncture wheels
What we don’t love
- I can’t think of anything
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Pink Bike
Easy to put together. Sturdy kids balance bike. Daughter loves it.
– Linda
Specifications
- Age: 18 months and up
- Frame Material: Steel
- Weight: 3.6 kg
- Seat Height: 34 cm to 43 cm
This bike has a steel frame to make it super lightweight, meaning it won’t be a burden if parents end up having to carry it. The tyres are 12″ pump up tyres which give a slightly smoother ride than the moulded plastic alternatives.
This option also features an adjustable, padded saddle for comfort, padded handlebars and stem for extra safety, and a quick-release seat clamp to make adjustments super easy.
It’s built for kids as young as 18 months to master balance and steering before upgrading to a bike with pedals and there is even a rear parent grip handle so you can easily help your little one get their confidence up at first.
What we love
- The saddle and handlebars are padded
- Quick-release seat clamp that makes adjustments easy
- You can carry it around easily
What we don’t love
- None!
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
WeeRide Deluxe
Specifications
- Age: 3 to 6 years
- Frame Material: Steel
- Weight: 6kg
- Seat Height: 45 cm to 52 cm
If you’re looking for one of the top-rated balance bikes, the WeeRide Deluxe comes highly recommended and is great for slightly older children in that 3 to 6 year age range. It is a bit heavier, larger, and a lot more stylish so could be the best balance bike for 6-year-old children.
The steel frame is hard wearing and a bit heavier than many of the other options, which is why it’s unsuitable for younger kids. The beautiful paint finish gives the WeeRide Deluxe a seriously trendy and high-quality feel, which is added to by the soft two-tone padded seat.
The adjustable seat has a range of 45cm to 52cm, so it’s great for taller children. This bike also features non-slip hand grips, quick release seat clamp for easy adjustments, and a rear brake with easy touch brake levers.
What we love
- It has rear brakes
- Easy to assemble
- Cool and sturdy design
What we don’t love
- Some reviewers find it heavy and quite big for a 3 year old kid
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Kazam Step-Through
If you’re looking for the best kids balance bike that can double as a scooter to provide endless hours of fun, take a look at the Kazam Step through, a balance bike/scooter hybrid that’s built to last!
Specifications
- Age: 3 and up
- Frame Material: Metal
- Weight: 4.4 kg
- Seat Height: 14 in to 17 in
This is not a lightweight option, but it is built for durability and the metal frame is powder painted for scratch resistance. It features an adjustable seat and handlebars that will grow with your child. The non-slip footrest allows them to balance with ease and gives them a place to rest their legs while freewheeling.
This bike also features a quick-release seat and handlebars for easy adjustment, air-inflated tyres with steel spokes for a comfortable ride and it comes in a choice of four colours, so you’re sure to find something to suit any child’s taste.
What we love
- The rubber wheels provide great traction
- A great tool to teach kids how to balance
- High-quality bike making a smooth riding experience
What we don’t love
- None. Awesome bike!
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Rennrad Convertible 2 in 1 14″
Specifications
- Age: 3 and up
- Frame Material: Steel Alloy
- Weight: 11.1 kg
If you’re looking for something that will convert to a pedal bike, later on, the Rennrad convertible will grow with your child and when they are ready for pedals it’s simple to convert.
The steel alloy frame on this bike is really solid and because it converts into a pedal bike it is a little heavier than some of the other options on this list but they really are built to last. The bike is actually available with either 12″, 14″, 16″, or 18″ tyres so even those latecomers to cycling can try a balance bike first.
The bike features inflatable tyres with puncture protection for a smooth ride, a comfortable and adjustable seat that grows with your child, handlebar impact protection, and a cantilever/coaster brake system. The one-piece pedal system easily attaches to the underside of the seat system when your child is ready and it even comes with reflectors and a bell.
What we love
- It is convertible so it will grow with your child
- It is built to last
- It comes with reflectors and a bell!
What we don’t love
- A little heavier than some of the other options
>>>Check current price on Amazon here!<<<
Bluey Balance Bike
Specifications
- Age: 3 and up
- Frame Material: Steel
- Weight: Not Stated
If you are looking for a balance bike to help your toddler transition to the next step after their ride on toys, then this Bluey Balance Bike might be the right choice for you. This lightweight, but sturdy bike has an adjustable seat that can grow with your child. The bike has no pedals for their little feet, instead they will have to rely on their feet and legs to walk and keep their balance on the bike.
This bike is designed for toddlers age 3 and up, has a tough steel frame, and puncture proof all terrain EVA tyres. Your toddler will get hours of entertainment, and exercise from this Bluey Balance bike and the price is quite reasonable as well. The blue colour and adorable dog characters are sure to be loved by boys and girls alike as well.
What we love
- Super cute design that kids will love
- Great tool to learn balance
- Reasonably priced and great quality
What we don’t love
- None!
>>>Check current price on Catch.com.au here!<<<
What is a Balance Bike?
If you’re unfamiliar with balance bikes, many consider them to be the best learner bike out there. With a traditional bike, your child will lead with pedalling, rather than their own balance, which can cause problems when training wheels are removed.
With a balance bike, however, there are no pedals and kids learn to balance first, by using their legs to propel themselves forward. Learning to master balance and fine motor skills first with this option means it can be the best first bike for 3-year old toddlers or even younger!
I highly encourage considering a balance bike as it allows for a much more natural progression of learning to ride a bike.
Toddler age is a great time to start when your child can walk confidently and push themselves along. It’s possible to start later though, as they’re great fun even for slightly older kids.
What are the Benefits of Balance Bikes?
When it comes to choosing the best balance bike for kids, there is a wide range of benefits to choosing them over traditional bikes.
The top balance bikes provide a great level of safety, allowing your child to build confidence gradually, encouraging coordination skills, improving depth perception as well as health and fitness.
When they move on using a regular bike with pedals, they already have the confidence to cruise along, and all they need to do is learn how to power the pedals.
Features to Look for
If I’ve sold you on the idea of shopping around for the best kids’ balance bike, you may be wondering how to choose one. Below I’ll be going over each of the key features you’ll need to keep in mind.
You’ll also notice that some options come as a hybrid. The best hybrid bikes let your child use them as a balance bike, to begin with, to gain confidence, and then convert into a traditional bike with the addition of pedals.
Size
Size is the most important factor to consider and you’ll need to consider, not only their current size but how much you expect them to grow in the coming years if you really want to get value for money. Choosing a bike that is too big or too small will make it uncomfortable and could discourage them from wanting to ride it.
You should find a bike in terms of size that they can easily stand over and walk while standing. You’ll also want to make sure they can reach the handlebars and that the seat can be adjusted as they grow.
Tyres
The next feature to look at is the tyres and their material. Tyres come in a variety of options, such as a standard inflated tyre (commonly referred to as pneumatic), foam, rubber, or even hard plastic.
The most common types available will generally be pneumatic tyres and foam. Inflatable tyres provide a cushioned ride and a good grip. They come in a few tread options, ideal for road riding or even a little more durable for adventurous kids who want to go off-road. They are, however, prone to punctures if not cared for properly but can easily be fixed.
Foam tyres, on the other hand, generally are not as cushioned nor do they have as good of a grip. They are usually cheaper and do not puncture through, so they do serve some benefits to the right buyer.
Frame Material
There are several options for the frame material, so you’ll need to consider which suits your needs best. You’ll find a variety of balance bikes utilizing steel, aluminium, plastic, and wood.
Steel is a very durable material and can stand up against being knocked and crashed by small boisterous children. They are usually a little more costly and a bit heavier than aluminium though. This material is probably best for older kids who can handle the extra weight and if you know you won’t end up having to carry the bike for them when they get bored.
Aluminium bikes are also durable but are much more lightweight and resistant to rusting. This material would be our top pick, especially for younger children. They are easy to transport and some even come with a shoulder strap so you can carry them hands-free when your little one gets tired or bored of riding.
With some cheaper options for particularly young children, you may see plastic used. These are not durable like the other materials, and we wouldn’t advise investing in them if you want something more long term.
In recent years, wooden toys and kids’ equipment have become much more popular, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find many modern balance bikes made from wood as well. They are much more stylish with a classic feel and can even be recyclable. They do tend to deteriorate much easier if left outside in harsh weather so you will need to make sure you take a little extra care with these options.
Weight
The overall weight of a balance bike is very important to consider as some heavier options may be harder for your child to use. If they struggle with it, it could make them not want to use it at all.
Also, consider how heavy you want the bike to weigh in the event you end up carrying it around because they lose interest while out and about.
Also, on the subject of weight – most balance bikes have an upper weight limit, so be sure to consider this when choosing one for your child.
Brakes
When children reach a certain skill level, they may be ready to start using brakes instead of their feet to stop themselves. The brakes on a balance bike are generally operated by hand so it’s important that your child can easily reach the brake while riding.
Footrests
A footrest is not a standard feature nor is it an essential thing to have, but it can be nice for comfort reasons.
They’re ideal for children who use a lot of strength to push themselves or are comfortable going downhill and want a place to rest their feet while coasting.
Not all footrests are the same, however, so be sure to look out for non-slip surfaces so your child does not lose their footing.
Recap of Our Favourites
Product | Image | Age | Material | Weight | Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mocka Rocket | 2yrs + | Steel | 4.5 kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
Hornit AIRO |
| 18 months and up | Magnesium Alloy | 2.95kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
Kinderfeets Tiny Tot 2-in-1 Bamboo |
| 12 to 24 months | Bamboo | 2.33kg | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
Kinderfeets Classic | 2yrs + | Wood | 2.33kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
Vilac 1025 |
| 3yrs + | Wood | 4.1/5 | Check Price! |
|
Cycling Deal Balance Bike | 2 to 6yrs | Steel | 2.74 kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
|
Eurotrike Glide |
| 3yrs + | Steel | 2.7 kg | 4.1/5 | Check Price! |
Zoomy Leisure | 18 months to 6yrs | Aluminium | 2 kg | 4.9/5 | Check Price! |
|
Chicc Scuderia Ferrari | 2yrs + | Metal | 3 kg | 4.4/5 | Check Price! |
|
Pink Bike |
| 18 months + | Steel | 3.6 kg | 3.9/5 | Check Price! |
WeeRide Deluxe | 3 to 6yrs | Steel | 6 kg | 4.1/5 | Check Price! |
|
Kazam | 2 to 5yrs | Steel | 4.4 kg | 4.5/5 | Check Price! |
|
Rennrad Convertible |
| 3yrs + | Steel | 11.1 kg | 4.8/5 | Check Price! |
Bluey | 3yrs + | Steel | 4.6/5 | Check Price! |
Do you have a hard time finding the best present for your toddlers? Take a look at my ultimate guide to find the best toys for 2-year-olds.