The first glide
Every child has a moment on a balance bike when the walking turns into a run, and the run turns into a glide with both feet off the ground. That second of balance is the whole point. The pedals are gone, so there is nothing to think about except staying upright and steering where they want to go.
The low seat keeps both feet flat on the ground, which builds confidence on the first few rides. A wobble is fixed by putting a foot down, not by a fall. Over a few weeks the glides get longer as they learn to trust their balance and keep their feet up for longer. From there they move on to steering around corners and riding down gentle slopes, and by school age they are ready for a pedal bike.
Built to outlast the phase
The frame is powder-coated steel, finished in a soft matt vintage blue. It takes the knocks of kerbs, driveways and being dropped on the lawn, and the finish wipes clean after a muddy park visit. Extra wide tyres on 12-inch spoked wheels roll over grass, footpaths and playground paths more comfortably than small plastic wheels. Ball bearings and nylon bushings keep the wheels turning freely, so small legs don't work against drag.
The seat adjusts from 30cm to 45cm, and the front wheel can be mounted at two heights. That is what lets one bike cover the stage from toddler walker to confident school-bound rider rather than being outgrown in a season. At about 5.2kg it is light enough for a two-year-old to steer and for you to carry home when they've had enough.
Dimensions: seat height 30cm to 45cm, 12-inch wheels, weight about 5.2kg as a balance bike.
What to know before you buy
This is the two-wheel version, with a steel frame and a seat range of 30 to 45cm. Some assembly is needed, so allow a little time to put it together. Trybike also makes a wheel set that converts the frame to a tricycle, sold separately. Ride on smooth, dry surfaces such as paths, driveways and parks, always with a helmet and shoes that cover the toes. It is silent in use, which suits quiet streets and shared paths.