A glider bike, also known as a balance bike, is an amazing first step for young children eager to explore the world on wheels. These ingenious bikes help toddlers and preschoolers develop essential skills like balance, steering, and coordination, paving the way for a smooth transition to pedal bikes, often skipping the need for training wheels altogether. For parents looking to give their little ones a head start in cycling, choosing the Best Glider Bike is crucial.
Kids as young as 18 months can start enjoying the fun and freedom of a balance bike, and many models are designed to grow with children up to kindergarten age and beyond. Whether it’s outdoor adventures or indoor play (space permitting!), glider bikes are perfect for family outings and neighborhood explorations. Investing in a quality balance bike is also a smart choice financially, as they often hold good resale value. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, exploring the secondhand market for a gently used glider bike can be a great idea. And remember, safety first! Don’t forget to check out recommendations for the best kids helmets to ensure your child is protected on every ride.
After extensive research, including over 80 hours of hands-on testing with 26 different balance bikes and feedback from enthusiastic kid testers, we’ve identified the top contenders in the market. We’re confident that the Guardian Balance Bike stands out as the best glider bike overall. But depending on your child’s needs and your priorities, other models might be a better fit. Let’s dive into our top recommendations.
Top Balance Bike Picks for Gliding Adventures
Guardian Balance Bike – Top Pick
Guardian Balance Bike angled view on white background
The Best Overall Glider Bike
The Guardian Balance Bike truly impressed us with its robust build and user-friendly design. Assembly is a breeze, and features like air-filled tires, a steering limiter, and a handbrake set it apart. This handbrake is particularly valuable, helping children learn to stop using their hands, a crucial skill for transitioning to pedal bikes. However, it’s worth noting that this model might not be ideal for taller children.
Key Features:
- Sturdy and easy to assemble
- Air-filled tires for a smooth ride
- Steering limiter for added control
- Handbrake to prepare for pedal bikes
Pros:
- Excellent build quality
- Effective handbrake system
- Smooth ride due to air-filled tires
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- May not be suitable for taller kids
Best for: Ages 2 to 4
Weight: 8.5 pounds
Stand-over height: 7 inches
Handbrake: Yes
Buying Options:
- $149 from Guardian Bikes
REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Kids’ Balance Bike – Runner-up
REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Kids’ Balance Bike in green and black, studio shot
A Durable and Reliable Glider Bike
If the Guardian Balance Bike is unavailable or if you have a taller child, the REI Co-op Cycles REV 12 Kids’ Balance Bike is a fantastic alternative. This glider bike boasts a taller seat-height range, accommodating growing children for longer. While it doesn’t include a handbrake and is slightly heavier, its durability and comfortable ride make it a strong contender. Kid testers particularly appreciated the wider handlebars and the speed they could achieve on this model.
Key Features:
- Durable construction
- Taller seat-height range
- Air-filled tires
- Easy assembly
Pros:
- Suitable for taller children
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Comfortable for kids to ride
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- No handbrake
- Slightly heavier than top pick
Best for: Ages 3 to 4
Weight: 9 pounds
Stand-over height: 8.5 inches
Handbrake: No
Buying Options:
- $149 from REI
Banana Bike GT – Budget Pick
Banana Bike GT balance bike in yellow and black, studio shot
The Best Affordable Glider Bike
For families seeking a budget-friendly option, the Banana Bike GT is an excellent choice. While it may not have the polished finish of higher-end models and assembly can be challenging, it delivers where it counts: performance. Its lightweight frame and low stand-over height make it ideal for young beginners. The air-filled tires perform well on various surfaces, although they can be a bit slippery on smooth indoor floors.
Key Features:
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight design
- Low stand-over height
- Air-filled tires
Pros:
- Very budget-friendly
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Good for young beginners
Cons:
- Assembly can be difficult
- Less refined finish
- Tires can be slippery on smooth indoor surfaces
Best for: Ages 2 to 4
Weight: 6.4 pounds
Stand-over height: 8 inches
Handbrake: No
Buying Options:
- $66 from Amazon
- $78 from Walmart
Woom 1 – Upgrade Pick
Woom 1 12-Inch Balance Bike in red and black, studio shot
The Premium Glider Bike for Discerning Parents
The Woom 1 is for parents who want nothing but the best for their little cyclists. This expertly crafted balance bike excels in every aspect: easy assembly, high-quality components, and ideal geometry for young riders. It’s incredibly lightweight, features a very low stand-over height, and offers excellent adjustability. The Woom 1 also includes a handbrake designed for small hands, further enhancing its appeal for bike-enthusiast families.
Key Features:
- Premium quality and design
- Extremely lightweight
- Very low stand-over height
- Handbrake designed for small hands
- Easy assembly
Pros:
- Uncompromising quality
- Ideal for the smallest riders
- Excellent handbrake system
- Lightweight and agile
Cons:
- Higher price point
Best for: Ages 18 months to 3 years
Weight: 6.6 pounds
Stand-over height: 7 inches
Handbrake: Yes
Buying Options:
- $249 from Amazon
- $249 from REI
- $249 from Woom
Strider 14x Sport – Best for Older and Taller Kids
Strider 14x Sport balance bike in blue and black, studio shot
The Best Glider Bike for Growing Children
The Strider 14x Sport is designed to accommodate older and taller children. It’s unique as a two-in-one balance and pedal bike (pedal kit sold separately), making it a versatile option that can grow with your child. With larger 14-inch wheels and a higher seat and handlebar range, it’s perfect for kids who might be too big for standard 12-inch balance bikes. Its adaptability and robust construction make it a top choice for extending the balance bike years.
Key Features:
- Designed for older and taller kids
- Convertible to a pedal bike (kit sold separately)
- Larger 14-inch wheels
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
Pros:
- Ideal for older preschoolers and early elementary ages
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Durable and grows with your child
Cons:
- Pedal kit is an additional purchase
- Heavier than smaller balance bikes
Best for: Ages 3 to 5
Weight: 12.5 pounds
Stand-over height: 10 inches
Handbrake: No
Buying Options:
- $220 from REI
- $210 from Amazon
- $210 from Walmart
What to Look for in the Best Glider Bike
When choosing the best glider bike for your child, consider these key features:
- Adjustable Features: A balance bike with adjustable seat and handlebars is essential as it allows the bike to grow with your child, providing years of use.
- Quality Tires: Air-filled rubber tires offer superior grip and cushioning, making the ride smoother and more comfortable, especially on uneven surfaces.
- Low Step-In Height: The bike’s frame should have a low step-in height, allowing your child to easily straddle the bike and comfortably place their feet on the ground.
- Appropriate Weight: The weight of the balance bike is crucial for young riders. Ideally, it should be less than 30% of your child’s weight, ensuring they can maneuver and control the bike easily.
Choosing the best glider bike is an investment in your child’s development and enjoyment. Each of these top picks offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and budgets. Consider your child’s age, size, and riding experience, as well as your priorities in terms of features and budget, to select the perfect glider bike for your little adventurer. Happy gliding!
