Running bikes for children from 2 years old: rating of the best models and choice
A treadmill for children from 2 years old is no longer just an auxiliary device that allows you to learn to walk faster and easier. This type of transport for children allows babies to develop muscles, makes their pastime active, useful and interesting. The unusual transport was also appreciated by pediatricians, but for parents and the older generation of the family, it may seem rather exotic.
How to choose a good model for a girl and a boy? A detailed rating of children's bike races will help you find the right solution. Most of the model range is available for children from 2 years old.
For those parents who only plan to introduce their child to balance bikes, an overview of the balance bike and tricycle bike races will be useful, allowing them to appreciate sports equipment for beginners. It only remains to decide on the budget to make the final choice.
Features and purpose
Runbike (bike ride) Is a children's recreational vehicle, similar to a bicycle without pedals. He always has 2 or 3 wheels, a comfortable saddle and handlebars. Such a vehicle is suitable for children from 2 years old, when it is too early to get on a regular bike. Balance bikes are produced by many well-known brands today. You can choose a solution in the most attractive design for a boy and a girl.
The idea of using bicycle transport as a means of child development is not new. In many countries of the world, run-bikes or bicycle balancers are used as elements of rehabilitation for babies with articular pathologies. But for children without developmental peculiarities, they are very useful.This technique has a low center of gravity, moves solely due to muscular strength, moves at a stride speed. Even an elderly person can keep up with a child riding a balance bike.
The movement of the wound bike occurs by pushing it off the ground with the legs. At the same time, the baby keeps balance as on a real bicycle, but does not risk falling. Parents get the opportunity to free their hands during a walk, they can feel as free as possible. And children are happy to compete with each other and arrange unusual races.
Advantages and disadvantages
Modern balance bikes have a number of obvious advantages. Among the benefits that are highly valued by parents are the following:
- restorative effect on the child's body;
- improving the functioning of the vestibular apparatus;
- preparing a child for cycling at an older age;
- low weight of the structure - if the child is tired, it will be easy to carry the bike ride;
- height-adjustable handlebars and saddle;
- multifunctionality - can be used instead of a gurney;
- long service life;
- safety of the structure;
- ease of learning to ride;
- year-round use.
Do balance bikes have significant disadvantages? It must be remembered that children can develop a fairly high speed on them. And the older the child is, the more weighty the reason will be to teach him safety lessons on the road..
Another "side effect" of using balance bikes is accelerating shoe wear. However, the size of the foot at this age is already changing rapidly, and with it you have to buy new shoes. The rest this child transport is almost completely devoid of disadvantages.
Varieties
Like any other vehicle, this type of sports equipment is divided into simple models and more expensive VIP versions with enhanced functionality. Several popular design options should be highlighted.
- Motorbike. This type of run bike with wide wheels is one of the lightest, and in its appearance it resembles a cross bike. Such models can be used for up to 2 years, since they are as easy to learn as possible.
Run-bikes of this type are excellent for use as the first personal transport of a child.
- Running bike scooter. A transforming model that allows you not to buy several types of transport at once. There are several options for modifying the design - from a shifting saddle to a folding frame. The model is well suited for families with several children or for the most active toddlers who quickly get bored with a monotonous activity. Easy transformation and various design options allow you to choose the type of transport, taking into account the age and wishes of the child.
- Gurney... This three-wheeled or four-wheeled balance bike is designed for little ones who are just mastering a new transport. If the child has some difficulty in maintaining balance, it is worth offering him just such an option. But do not forget about weight restrictions - the rider's body weight should not exceed 20 kg. Models with inflatable wheels are considered more comfortable to use; gurneys almost always have a footrest and a parental handle.
- Balance. Classic white wheel with 2 large wheels - their width can reach 15 cm with a diameter of up to 25 cm. This technique has a strong metal or wooden frame, there is a seat height adjustment. These run-bikes are recommended for children from 2 years old, they can last 2-3 years.
When choosing a model, you should pay attention to the type of tires - solid ones are not very suitable for driving on uneven roads, but inflatable ones provide sufficient shock absorption.
- Transformer... Such balance bikes are quite heavy, about 5 kg, they are focused on the entire preschool period of use. Having bought a transformer for a child of 2 years old, you can easily turn it into a bicycle, snow scooter, scooter in the future.Such structures are equipped with durable steel frames, depending on the additional equipment included in the kit, they change their weight. In terms of carrying capacity, they also surpass all analogues, but they are also more expensive.
For a child who has never ridden a balance bike before, it is better to choose the simplest models by the age of 2. Even if the gurney does not last long, the child's desire to master such transport will not disappear. Children who have already tried cycling and feel confident behind the wheel of such a vehicle will be delighted with both the scooter and the balancer.
Manufacturers rating
Top balance bike manufacturers in the world market are represented mainly by European and American companies. But today, Russian brands are doing a good job of creating this lightweight children's transport. Let's consider who can be considered the real leader, what the rating of the best manufacturers looks like.
Runbike
The unambiguous leader of the rating. The company from Russia successfully competes with serious European firms, regularly participates as a supplier of vehicles without pedals for large-scale children's events. Runbike, first launched in 2010, today it is successfully setting the tone for young children. In its balance bikes, the company uses an aluminum frame, which is light and safe.
Among the popular models for children from 2 years old we can mention Runbike beck alx weighing less than 3 kg, with solid tires, adjustable saddle height, built-in leg supports. The technique is designed for use from 1 to 4 years old, suitable for children with a height of 80 to 115 cm.
Another popular model - Runbike Kik, with a steel frame, designed for babies from 2 years old. A full-fledged "off-road vehicle" among balance bikes with solid tires and off-road capability. The model takes into account the active growth of preschool children - the saddle height is adjustable from 32 to 43 cm, the steering wheel rises to 60 cm. The lack of cameras allows you not to worry that the wheel will get punctured while walking, and the closed bearings make it possible to make the ride as comfortable as possible.
Chillafish
The Chillafish brand is a Belgian company that has been successfully operating in the European market since 2011. The company strives to fulfill the dreams of children and parents about colorful toys and entertainment. This is clearly visible in the product design, which is distinguished by bright colors and ergonomic shapes. Her products honestly deserve 2nd place in the ranking.
Among the company's models, the Fixie stands out with an unusual curved sports steering wheel, a light aluminum frame, and an ergonomic design. In this series, a brake combined with a footboard is installed on the balance bikes, special tubeless cast rubber wheels easily overcome small obstacles. The model is made in three colors - blue, red, green, it is suitable for both boys and girls.
Another popular option is Chillafish Bunzi for children 1 to 4 years old. The three-wheeled bike ride will easily become your child's favorite entertainment. And when he gets comfortable, the frame can be transformed by sliding the wheels at the back, turning them into one wide support. The model has a light plastic frame, wheels with a thin rubber coating, weighs only 1.9 kg.
Chillafish BMXie-RS - the most unusual balance bike, made in the style of stunt bikes. Despite its adult design, the model is designed for ages from 2 years old, which makes it an excellent gift for the most active boys and girls.
The original twin-frame design is not everything, but innovative solutions are implemented here: keyless seat adjustment, sandwich wheels with multi-layer structure, folding footrest. All these points make the model unique.
Strider
The American brand, which successfully sells its products around the world, has become one of the pioneers in the creation of balance bikes. It was this company that in 2007 patented a bicycle without pedals, and today almost every kid has this unusual transport.The founder of the company, an enthusiastic, enthusiastic, non-professional mountain biker, once created the first balance bike for his own son.
Today, the company, deservedly occupying the 3rd place in the popularity rating, offers 4 models of ride bikes for children from 2 years old.
- Classic. Basic model with steel frame and seat adjustment from 28 to 41 cm. There is a wide range of colors for boys and girls. Wheels with a diameter of 12 "are equipped with 5 spokes and cast resin tires. The model is equipped with a brake on the rear wheel, a special footrest.
- Sport. A series for true lovers of outdoor activities. The striking design and sporty lines of this model delight both children and parents. Supplied with an extra seatpost for mounting the seat when the child is 3 years old. Despite the steel frame, the balance bike weighs only 2.9 kg.
- Custom. Branded Classic and Sport models in recognizable Honda design or Realtree style. These subtleties will definitely be appreciated by all parents who are keen on motorcycle races and outdoor activities. The branded version will appeal to those who prefer exclusive solutions.
- PRO. A model with which a child will not only learn to ride, but will also be able to easily master the simplest tricks on the playground. The lightweight aluminum frame significantly reduces the strain on the young rider's arms and back. In addition, special tapered grips can be worn on the steering wheel for children under 3 years old.
Puky
On the 4th place, you can safely put the German balance bikes Puky. The company has been operating since 1949, production is located exclusively in Europe... The company regularly introduces innovative developments into its models of balance bikes; it has one of the richest ranges of colors and shades. Suitable models from 2 years old include the Puky LR M Plus with a footrest, die-cast PVC wheels, front splash guard, bell and padded seat. The creators of the company call this balance bike the best for starting riding.
Another model designed for children from 2.5 years old - Puky LR Ride Br, It belongs to the premium class, made of ultra-light aluminum alloy. The model is equipped with a brake, the saddle is located lower than that of conventional models. The wheels on the 12.5 '' model are inflated and come in 2 colors.
How to choose?
Choosing a good balance bike for a child 2 years of age or older, there are a few things worth paying attention to.
- Vehicle dimensions. It is worth focusing on the individual characteristics of the child. A taller model is suitable for a tall kid. In any case, be sure to pay attention to the fact that the child's feet must reach the ground. It is better to refuse to choose a product in an online store and "try on" the convenience of its use before buying.
- The weight. For a child 2 years old, the maximum permissible weight of the balance bike should be no more than 3 kg. Heavy models, no matter how beautiful they are, will be inconvenient for both parents and the baby himself.
- Wheels. If a balance bike is being bought for several years in advance or combines the functions of a bicycle, it is worth purchasing a model with inflatable wheels, which has good shock absorption properties. The simplest solutions with polyurethane coating of tires are suitable for 1-2 years of operation. Cast tires are good for classic bike races, they are almost impossible to puncture or damage.
- Frame material... For the smallest, models with the most lightweight plastic frame are often chosen. Older children need a more rigid structure. For them, it is better to purchase models made of steel or aluminum. Wooden structures are rather exotic, and in terms of their functionality they are much inferior to their counterparts.
- Additional options. Among the useful adaptations in the construction of the balance bike are a footrest, a removable parental handle, side wheels at the back for increased stability.
A braking system is needed by a technique in the design of which it is possible to install pedals.
All of these characteristics are important for a balance bike. They should be taken into account when choosing a suitable model. Besides, it is worth considering the tastes and preferences of the very future owner of such a technique. A runbike for a girl can be chosen in bright colors - yellow, pink, orange tones are suitable. For the boy, it is better to give preference to the design of the technique in the style of cartoon animation. Green, turquoise shades are considered universal, all options in metallic design.
For a video review of the Tempish MiniBike 12, see below.