Bikes for Kids between 3 and 4 years old
These kids are starting to think about pedal biking but may not have the skills yet to do so. They may even be stuck on training wheels and are afraid with and without their training wheels on.
Training wheels can actually make kids more fearful than secure. So getting a balance bike at this age is perfect! Within the next year or less, these kids will definately be riding their pedal bike - with NO training wheels!
Things to think about for this age:
- Kids turning 3 are basically the prototype size for most balance bike companies. Most bikes are going to fit - at least for awhile. But it's always good to still measure the inseam and get a bike that has alittle growing room and isn't still too big.
- Kids closer to 4 years old can start to fall in the "difficult to fit" size. If your child is a very tall 3 year old or close to 4 years, review the next size page up for additional ideas and information.
- Most kids this age can handle extra features on balance bikes - such as a heavier bike, handbrakes, foot rests, so this doesn't have to weigh as much into your decision when kids are over 3 yrs.
This age (especially 3 - 3 1/2) will have the most choices between different brands of balance bikes.
1. Kinderbike Laufrad and (Morph NOT expected for the 2014 holiday season): The Laufrad balance bikes have good adjustability in both seat and handlebar with a seat range up to 17" and starting in Oct 2014 (when the 2015 model is released) the XL seat post will be included in your purchase to extend the seat to at least 19". Very popular bike with good track history and rated best bike by NEW Times Review. The Morph has not yet been produced - but is close - but don't count on this for the 2014 holiday season. This bike will have a plug and go pedal feature to add when your child is ready to try pedal biking.
2. Tyke Byke 12": This bike has visual appeal and many features true to a real bike. Air tires with spokes, handbrake and cool colors. Seat range of 13" - 17.5 with adjustable handlebars makes this a great grow as you go bike. Available in different colors depending the season
3. FirstBIKE This is a great high end bike for kids in this age range. Handbrake, fast rolling air tires, easy to adjust large padded seat. Really top of the line of balance bikes. Seat lowering kit to bring it down to 12.5" gives kids alittle more room when starting out and makes it a great pass down bike to younger siblings.
4. Glide Bike Mini Glider 12" The Glide bike offers more wiggle room in the body of the bike, which is great for taller toddlers. This bike has handlebars that rotate forward/back as well as up/down, making it more adjustable and usable for several age ranges. This bike comes with EVA tires, making it lighter than many with air tires. The pegs are removeable if desired and comes with a handbrake. seat range is 12" - 17.5" and an XL seat is available for kids who want to keep using it longer!
5. Scoot by Ridgeback This is a high quality bike made by a well known bike company in the UK. This has a great seat range for preschoolers, making the bike rideable from ages 3 - 6 yrs old with a seat range of 14" - 20". Air tires and handbrake with a sleek look. Definately top of the line in quality and high pickin our book. They now produce an XL 14" Scoot with a seat range of 16" - 22" for kids 4 - 8 yrs so this is a consideration if your child is close to 4 yrs and on the tall side.
6. MUNA: This fun bike has all the features many parents are seeking and at an affordable price (with good reviews!). Rugged air tires, great seat range up to 18", great adjustability in the handlebar range and rear drum handbrake.
7. Kazam The Kazam has been around for several years and was recently featured in Shark tank! A new lighter model in the no brake version is set to release around Oct. 2014! Great improvements on seat design, body design, foot pad size, and weight is going to make this a highly sought after bike!
8. Early Rider Classic and Evolution wooden bikes These bikes are perfect for this age range and are truly a work of art. XL seat posts now available to last even longer. High quality parts, excellent wheels, and meant to last. If you want a wooden balance bike, you shouldn't go with cheap brands on the market. We have carried cheaper brands in the past and they rarely made it through 1 child and we were always replacing parts. Invest in a wooden balance bike and it will last forever.