Models that are great values often tend to lack components that more expensive bikes have. With no pedals, kids scoot themselves along, constantly balancing on their legs instead of falsely relying on the skewed center of gravity training wheels can cause. adroll_pix_id = "OTY7KI5DHJHAFIQNOEF3HX"; Heavier bikes can be difficult for young children to maneuver, which can be a serious safety issue. Retrospec Cricket Baby Walker Balance bike with 4 Wheels for ages 12-24 months (3659) Watermelon, One Size (B082XXVG13), We can't tell which price type is featured in the, Retrospec Cricket Baby Walker Balance bike with 4 Wheels for ages 12-24 months (3659) Watermelon, One Size | Amazon price tracker / tracking, Amazon price history charts, Amazon price watches, Amazon price drop alerts | camelcamelcamel.com. Keep em riding with air-free tires, making tube replacements a thing of the past. As we mentioned above, both the seat and handlebars are adjustable using a standard style quick release clamp. Shop by Brands So if the ones offered now have slightly different branding, no need to be alarmed. A lot of similarities can be drawn to the balance bike brand Strider. Also, the stock handlebars are quite wide. Thats why many balance bikes are adjustable. The minimalistic steel constructed frame design Retrospec created is timeless. The Baby Beaumont's step-thru durable steel frame is easy to mount for little legs. Refunds & Returns Policy Balance bikes encourage kids to use their own bodies to safely find balance, improve bilateral coordination, and confidently ride without the use of training wheels. For our kids, we removed the grips carefully and cut 1 inch off of each side to make them narrower. With training wheels, kids can acquire bad bicycle-riding habits by relying on them too much. All Rights Reserved. Some balance bikes come with adjustable seats and handlebars. This is the price charged by third party merchants for items in Used condition. In addition to being able to lower the seat height, we also appreciate the extremely low stand over height. gibberish barbaric speak gibberish barbaric speak gibberish barbaric speak. We also really appreciate that you dont need any tools in order to make the adjustment. Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in the category. Cricket baby bike helps control their speed, keeping their feet constantly in touch with the ground and working to improve their bilateral coordination. Your toddler already thinks they own the place. The graphics are much more minimal and timeless on the Cub. Always keep a water bottle handy and encourage frequent water breaks. With training wheels, kids can acquire bad bicycle-riding habits by relying on them too much. Parents dedicated to seamlessly teaching their young children to ride should look into balance bikes. For example, some models come with a steering limiter to prevent oversteering and promote straight riding, while others do not. 2022 Specialty Toys Network, Get them started early! It was also a 12 balance bike, but less adjustable and didnt have a step through design. Take material into consideration, too, as it determines how much the balance bike will weigh. Balance bikes range widely in price. We knew he would ride when he felt ready and trusted our instincts to not rush him. These are denoted with an *. Woohoo! 1 priority. The Cubs extra large footrest platform offers plenty of room for kids to rest their feet, but is simply too big! Fast forward two years and hes finally big enough to give it a go. When a tiny rider is riding a Cub balance bike, their feet are always on the ground. Local Pickup at Pufferbellies: Curbside pickup available Monday-Saturday 11-6. Many of the local bike shops offer this size tire now, even more online, EVA foam gives a little extra cushion and vibration dampening in lieu of suspension, Lastly, they are a bit more environmentally friendly than rubber bike tires. A top-notch balance bike, like the Woom 1, comes with metal wheels, pneumatic tires, a hand brake, a steering limiter, lighter weight, and overall nicer components. California Residents: Do Not Sell My Personal Information. 5 Best Balance Bikes For Your Toddler & How To Choose! No maintenance means more time spent riding. Toys, games, books and more from the biggest family-owned toy store in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. It stays strong and indestructible. Therese rekindled her love for bike riding when she was introduced to dirtbikes and mountain bikes. Some design elements that separate and elevate the Cub outside of the cost savings is: The Retrospec Cub is a steal, but what are you missing when compared to higher end balance bikes? It has one of the strongest frame design made of high-tensile steel a material known for its longevity and unmatched durability. COPYRIGHT THE E.W. Other balance bikes, like Strider, have a footrest placed in a similar position, but they are much smaller and tucked back far enough to prevent contact with kids legs. This makes it easy to grab a socket or any basic adjustable wrench to make sure they arent going anywhere. While we usually recommend pneumatic (air) tires for the additional traction they provide, for families who dont want to do any bike maintenance, foam tires can be a plus. Ski Helmet Headphones | Electronics | Buy Yours Today! 9 Best Bike Trailers For Your Kids & How To Choose! For what this bike is intended for, simple is definitely better. Without wanting to drop another $199+ on buying the test ride bike, we found the Retrospec Cub on Amazon and decided that it was worth the shot. Rent Gear Online They share their joy of riding with their two young boys, Cuatro and Ez. You can find them out at Wheelie Ranch, building bike lines and dirt tracks or out at their local tracks, bike parks and trails. He loved checking it out while on display in his room, but he was scared of the size. adroll_version = "2.0"; Parents will appreciate that the bike requires just one step for assembly, so kids can get riding just a few minutes after the bike arrives. Plus, the activity allows youngsters to travel independently, visiting friends and neighbors as they please. Just as we expected, our son was super excited about the new Retrospec and jumped on immediately. Easily adjust the height so your little cyclist rides comfortably even after tacking on a few extra inches. Retrospec is constantly updating and rotating new options available as well, even some collaborations with influencers. They either absolutely love it and want everything to be themed after whatever the latest trend is, or they have no interest in it at all. Some balance bikes come with adjustable seats and handlebars. Privacy Policy But after 2 years of multiple kids tip overs and spills, its honestly taken a beating and still looks pretty darn good. Kids feel in control of their ride, limiting the possibility of speeding faster than their comfort zone and getting hurt.Kids can ride more intuitively on this bike, developing balance and coordination. A low stand-over height, step-through frame, and no-pop tires makes Cub as durable as it is adorable. It might be worth finding a pad at the local BMX shop for protection. You should always keep a first aid kit nearby in case you need it. Its also important to understand the fit of the balance bike youre purchasing. The pros of those bikes might be that theyre slightly lighter, faster rolling, and include extra features like brakes, but they are really intended for parents and kids who already love riding. It wont be a huge bust if they arent interested in riding it right away because it can grow with them during their balance bike years. Please note that most, though not all, of the links on our site are affiliate links. Parents should never pressure their children to switch from a balance bike to a classic pedal bike. Hydration Accessories - Hydro Flask & CamelBak. SCRIPPS CO., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Its also important to understand the fit of the balance bike youre purchasing. The Cubs easy-to-climb frame is constructed from lightweight high-tensile steel and features a miniature city comfort saddle for easy riding (and balancing!). If your child learns quickly and will not need to rely on the balance bike for a long period of time, growth is not an issue. Take material into consideration, too, as it determines how much the balance bike will weigh. Again, we tend to recommend metal rims and spokes, but in some cases plastic wheels are okayparticularly when you are on a budget. The tires of balance bikes are typically not as durable as regular pedal bike tires. Buying toys and introducing new hobbies for your kids are always a bit of a gamble, am I right?! When it comes to shopping for new products, price is always a top concern. In that case, any balance bike should do well to suit your needs. Tiny components dont minimize the durability of our balance bike. We purchased a $150 balance bike in blue to reveal his gender during a surprise family party we hosted. Please note that many of the links on our site are affiliate links. Site by Thrive - A Boise Web Design Co. adroll_adv_id = "QEGVJPVWJVHGZPQ5LYJ2IL"; * since Apr 26, 2020. If purchasing online, be sure to measure the balance bike rider to ensure proper fit. The overall proportions and scale of the bike is perfect for a 23-year-old to learn on. The top tube is sloped downward, which means that the bike is easy for kiddos with little legs to get on and off. Sometimes we have the seat slammed as low as possible to allow for the most room and control for our little rascals. And our almost 4-year-old still enjoys playing with it occasionally. The Retrospec Cub is generally playful and inviting at first glance but offers more than just a fun look. At the same time, it sometimes helps our backs a bit to raise the handlebars up a few inches while pushing them around. Unlike the new shoes they got last week, Cub is intuitively designed to grow with your little one. The seat is a very traditional size with a little bit of firm foam. Balance bikes are a positive alternative to training wheels that help kids learn how to ride before making the switch. If purchasing online, be sure to measure the balance bike rider to ensure proper fit. We will text and email you when your order is ready. For this reason, you should stick to low-impact surfaces, like grass and dirt, when using balance bikes. By clicking on them, Rascal Rides gets a small commission on any sale. Aluminum bikes are lighter than steel models. If your kiddo ends up loving it, you can always splurge on a nicer bike later on. Training wheels are the one thing theyll be glad you took away. Somehow, the frame is lightweight at 9.2 lbs. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Balance Bike you should buy. Everyone knows how quickly kids grow. McU Sports, All Rights Reserved. Something to note, the bike doesnt have any brakes, so they wont be learning how to brake. Learning to ride a bicycle is an essential part of childhood. This allows for a significantly larger size range, meaning the bike can accommodate a growing child with ease. However, most kids at this age instinctually resort to the Fred Flintstone style feet brakes for quite a while. That means parents can simply adjust the bike each time their child undergoes a growth spurt (which, depending on age, can be quite often). Its made to last and on the affordable end of the balance bike market. The Cub has an arched down tube on the frame, allowing little riders to step through and over the frame instead of the traditional move of swinging their leg over the rear tire. Parents dedicated to seamlessly teaching their young children to ride should look into balance bikes. Balance bikes eliminate the need for training wheels in the first place, allowing for a smooth transition to pedal bikes. Steel models are a good choice if youre planning to use balance bikes for a longer period of time. This approach makes getting on a bike less scary and ultimately sets them up for an easier transition to a big kid bike. We then create one easy-to-understand review. Be sure to measure the circumference of your childs head before purchasing and try it on before use. Sign up for price drop alerts and begin tracking this product by completing the form below. Youth Footwear & Socks | Buy Yours Today. Events A few weeks later, he saw another kid riding an even more expensive model at a pump track with free bikes available for test rides. When it comes to shopping for new products, price is always a top concern. Men's & Women's Sunglasses | Buy Yours Today! They dont leave skid marks which made us feel more confident in letting them sit and do some light riding on the bike indoors after wiping down the dust. The quick release clamps allow you to change and set the bike seat height and handlebar height quickly. We thought orange was fun and clicked buy now. We looked at the top Balance Bikes and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Cub doesnt have pedals; instead, tiny riders move forward with their feet. The fit of the helmet is perhaps the most important part after all, it wont be able to do its job if it doesnt cover and protect your childs head properly. They have something for the mild side with white, brown, and black options; and the wild side being bright and fun with yellows, blues, pinks, and many others. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Jobs The baddest beginners bike on the block is designed for new cyclists 20 months to 5 years of age. Adjustable handlebars and seat tube allow Cub to keep up with them, while they catch up to you. Thats why many balance bikes are adjustable. Bike-riding helps kids learn motor skills that are crucial as they develop and eventually begin to play sports, drive vehicles or operate machinery. Our Cubs no-pedal form bears a low down tube and kid-friendly frame so your little one can easily get on and off their new set of wheels. Since then, weve recommended multiple Cubs via word of mouth to friends, neighbors, and extended family who have asked for a balance bike option for their little rascals. Most balance bikes will display what ages theyre suited for, so look there before purchasing. It really is a great beginner bike, and it has been a great bike addition to our fleet with both of our kids getting plenty of seat time out of it. Its a little slippery with its round edges. SpecificationDesigned for toddlers ages 12-24 months of age to develop the motor skills needed to walk and eventually ride!Crickets design ensures your childs feet are always touching the ground so they stay in control of their speed, stopping, and movement.Non-slip, no-scratch wheels prevent scratched floors and provide a secure grip both indoors and outdoors.Soft handlebars, a cushy seat, and a steering limit keep your child safe, comfortable, and in control the entire time.Assembly instructions included. Women's Swimwear - Tops, Bottoms, One-piece Swimsuits, & More, Boys | Please Contact Us With Any Questions. Along with our in-house experts, our team analyzes thousands of product reviews from the most trusted websites. This balance bike gives your toddler a chance to develop confidence before moving on to a big kid bike. The Retrospec Cub offers injection molded plastic rims with 12 diameter by 2 wide high density EVA foam tires. Usually, theyre made of foam or plastic to absorb bumps and shocks. If youre looking to introduce your little rascals to the world of independence that riding a bike can bring, and want to do so with minimal investment, the Retrospec Cub is a great balance bike to try out first. Balance bikes are great for all ages, but the younger kids begin using them to practice their skills, the better. The Retrospec Cub is adjustable and ready to grow with your child. Make sure to check the weight of your balance bike before purchasing to confirm it will work for your child. Contact The low-to-the-ground design prevents any major spills while thick air-filled 12x2.125 tires, a bell for safety (and cuteness), and ball-bearing steering and wheels put your little rider ahead of the pack. Pair that with Retrospecs 50-day return policy and it pretty much makes trying out bikes at a young age a total no brainer. It really depends on your childs general size, but our 2-year-old has no problem picking up the front wheel and turning around if need be. This is the price charged by third party merchants for items in New condition. Warren grew up riding dirtbikes at a young age, which expanded into mountain biking and BMX racing. Some also have adjustable handlebars. With a material like steel, youd think it would be heavy. Our Services The step-thru design incorporated in the frame gives it a low profile. adroll_current_page = "product_page"; Hydration Packs | Bottles | Flasks | Tumblers | Mugs | Buy Yours Today! As you can see in some of the orange bike photos, there are some paint scuffs and minor dings. Hydration should be your riders No. About Us Read our full privacy policy for more information. When we found out we were pregnant with our first child, we knew the first thing we wanted to buy our baby was their first bike. Experts say kids can learn how to ride a bicycle quickly by using a balance bike because they can concentrate on learning to balance and steer before adding pedaling to the mix. Therefore your kid will have an easy time getting on and off the bike. The Retrospec Cub balance bike also comes with quick release clamps for the seat post and handlebars. The benefit of the Retrospec Cub is that you can introduce your child to a balance bike without breaking the bank. If your child learns quickly and will not need to rely on the balance bike for a long period of time, growth is not an issue. Hydration Packs - CamelBak | Buy Yours Today! The graphics and colors offered on the Cub are great. It has a highly adjustable seat and handlebars. camelcamelcamel receives a commission on all purchases made through our Amazon links. The handlebars are a very simple, welded T-style tubing with a slight bend. Adjustable handlebars, seat post, plastic wheels, EVA foam tires, rounded grips with bumpers, and a simplified bike frame aesthetic. When it comes time to transition to a two-wheeled bicycle with pedals, balance bikers ride better, faster, and are more secure. The tires are air-free and won't pop when little ones are riding around the backyard. It has high-quality paint design and is really safe for kids. Heavier bikes can be difficult for young children to maneuver, which can be a serious safety issue. That means there are no innertubes inside the tires meaning NO FLATS! kids can learn how to ride a bicycle quickly by using a balance bike because they can concentrate on learning to balance and steer before adding pedaling to the mix. Most balance bikes come with adjustable seats, which can be raised as your child grows taller. While wiping excited tears from our eyes, we knew he just didnt have the right bike at home. Not to mention the color schemes available being much more Instagram worthy. We were excited! adroll_products = [{"product_id":"66893","price":"49.99","category":"bikes | please contact us with any questions"}]; Bikes | Please Contact Us With Any Questions, Lizard Skins Neoprene Chainstay Protector. However, we wish the Cub had a bit of grip tape on the area where a kids feet land. Anyone riding a bicycle should always be wearing a helmet on their head. Some additional reasons EVA foam tires might be right for your family: The wheels themselves are plastic.