Balance Bikes
Give your little one the best start with a balance bike, a great way for children aged approximately 18 months to 5 years to learn how to ride. With no pedals to get in the way, balance bikes teach steering and balance first, helping children built the confidence they need to progress to a pedal bike without needing stabilisers. Choose from 10 and 12-inch balance bikes, including lightweight frames and favourites from Apollo, Carrera, Pendleton and Disney. Use the sizing guide below to find the right fit for your child.
About Halfords Balance Bikes
Halfords balance bikes are available in a choice of materials, with a steel frame balance bike being the most popular option. The best balance bike for your child is one they feel most comfortable on, but having a lightweight frame that your child can manoeuvre with ease is important, especially as your child progresses to running and gliding with their feet off the ground.
We have a great range of the best balance bikes from many of the top brands. Our range features the latest styles and designs from the likes of Apollo, Disney, Carrera, Kiddimoto, My Buddy Wheels and more. We also stock the exclusive range of Wiggins kid's balance bikes, ideal for any young ambitious cyclist. The Wiggins balance bike range is ultra-lightweight and easy to control - thanks to the excellent Tektro V-brakes. So not only will your child learn on a great first bike - but they'll also look the part too!
Baby Bikes from the UK’s leading bike store
If you’re looking for a baby bike, our balance bikes are the perfect first taster of cycling for your child. Halfords have got you covered as when your child outgrows their first bike, we have a fantastic range of kids bikes - opens in a new tab followed by junior bikes - opens in a new tab when they reach 117cm.
The Best Balance Bike for You
You can filter our large range of balance bikes easily to find the perfect one you’re looking for. You could choose between different wheel sizes, child height and price. Whether you’re looking for a girls balance bike or a boys balance bike, Halfords have a fantastic choice of both. Not only this, but you can filter by age so that you can find balance bikes for 2 year olds, 5 year olds and more.
With delivery options available, getting hold of your new bike couldn't be easier. You can also order online and choose to collect from your local Halfords bike store - opens in a new tab, where we'll even build the bike for you - for free! If you're still unsure which bike to choose for your little one, check out our bike buyers guide - opens in a new tab for more information. Or, why not take a look at the balance bikes we currently have in stock above, or check out our full range of kids bikes for more great options.
At what age can a child start on a balance bike?
Most children are ready for a balance bike between 18 months and 2 years, once they can walk confidently, and many keep riding one until they are 4 or 5. Rather than focusing solely on age, the clearest sign that your child is ready is when they can sit on a saddle with both feet flat on the ground.
Balance bike or stabilisers?
For most children, a balance bike makes learning to ride easier and quicker than stabilisers. Because they teach balance from the start, children usually skip the wobbly stabiliser stage and move onto a pedal bike with more confidence.
Balance bike FAQs
Are balance bikes better than stabilisers?
For many kids, balance bikes make learning to cycle easier and more enjoyable. Since they teach balance right from the start, most children skip the wobbly stabiliser phase and can move to pedal bikes with more confidence.
Can you add pedals to balance bikes?
Not all balance bikes are built for pedals, but a few models are adaptable. If this is an important feature for you, Halfords has some great balance bikes that can be converted as your child grows.
What is a balance bike?
A balance bike is a small children's bike without pedals, designed to help young riders learn how to balance and steer on two wheels. Children move the bike by pushing along with their feet before lifting them to glide as their confidence grows. By learning balance first, children can often make the transition to a pedal bike more easily.
What size balance bike for a 2-year-old?
For most 2-year-olds, a balance bike with 10-inch or 12-inch wheels is usually suitable. The most important factor is the seat height, your child should be able to sit comfortably with both feet flat on the ground and their knees slightly bent.
When should my child move to a pedal bike?
When they can glide with both feet off the ground, steer smoothly and stop with control. This is usually somewhere between ages 3 and 5, but depends on the child.