What kind of bike to get after a balance bike?

*Collaborative post

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Our kids grow up fast. It’s almost like we can’t catch up with them. There is too much new information that we need to learn, like when can they start eating solids, and when they should start learning how to write, but what about what kind of bike they should use after a balance bike?

Kids’ balance bikes are usually really easy to navigate for the children, but the next bike will not be as easy.

How do you know your child is ready for the next bike?

If you’re new to this, let’s make this easy for you. Here are some signs to watch for:

  • Confidence and coordination: If a child can slide and balance himself for some time, then one can conclude that he or she has mastered the basics.
  • Interest in pedalling: As the child gains more confidence and familiarity with the current bikes, they begin to inquire about pedal bikes.
  • Physical growth: When your child’s legs are too bent when they sit on their balance bike, it is time to level up.

Confidence has a lot of importance for a child, especially when it comes to this transition in his/her life. If they are confident enough to ride without training wheels then the process is much less of a challenge for both the child and the parent.

What size bike should you get?

The best way to measure the right bike size for your child is to measure their inside leg length, and match this to the minimum saddle height. A good fit means your child can sit on the saddle, touch the ground with their feet, and feel comfortable learning to pedal and brake. This helps them feel confident and in control while riding.

Obvious as this might sound, buying a larger, but more substantial bike for “growing into” actually works toward making them feel less confident and in control. It makes it even more appropriate to choose a bike that they can ride right now. An exception is if your kid is growing quite fast; in this case, you can skip a size or sometimes even two.

Brands like Bobbin Bikes have many bikes in different sizes and colours. This makes it easier to find a bike that’s both functional and stylish for your little rider.

Also, because of such variety, we think you might find your kid’s favourite colour bike on there!

How can you help with the transition?

Some children may find transitioning to be really difficult. It can feel like they need to learn how to ride a bike all over again.

Here are a few tips to make the process fun and stress-free:

  1. Practise in a safe space: Find a flat, non-too crowded open place, free from traffic, with no obstacles. This gives your child room to practice pedalling and braking without fear.
  2. Hold the bike, not the child: When helping them learn, hold onto the bike rather than their body. This allows them to feel the balance and control on their own.
  3. Start without pedals: To mimic the feeling of a balance bike, let your child practice gliding on their new bike without using the pedals. Once they’re comfortable, reattach the pedals.
  4. Encourage short sessions: Keep practice sessions short and enjoyable. Praise their efforts and progress to build their confidence.
  5. Incorporate games: Turn practice time into a game with challenges like stopping on a line or weaving through cones. This makes learning engaging and fun.

Remember, you must be patient. Every child learns at their own pace, and it’s important to celebrate their successes, no matter how small.

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