Parents often approach the topic of training wheels with a mix of curiosity and concern. As advocates for balance bikes and a direct transition to pedal bikes, we understand the questions and sometimes hushed tones surrounding bikes with training wheels. At usabikers.net, we aim to provide comprehensive and helpful information to guide you through the world of kids’ cycling.
While we firmly believe in the benefits of skipping training wheels, we recognize that every child and family is unique. Even within our own families, experiences vary. Before our son confidently rode a pedal bike, he briefly tried a Bike With Training Wheels. There’s no judgment here – just practical advice.
Let’s address some of the most common questions we receive about bikes with training wheels.
Why the Bad Rap on Training Wheels? Are They Really That Bad?
Let’s clear the air: training wheels aren’t inherently “bad.” Many of us, including myself, learned to ride using them. Likely, numerous professional cyclists started their journey with training wheels and turned out just fine!
The shift away from recommending training wheels and towards alternatives stems from the realization that learning to ride a bike can actually be smoother and more effective without them.
The rise in popularity of balance bikes has revolutionized how children learn to cycle. Balance bikes allow children to master the crucial skill of balance first, before introducing pedaling. This approach often leads to incredibly quick transitions to pedal bikes. It’s not unusual to see toddlers as young as 18 months start on a balance bike and then confidently pedal a bike by 2.5 or 3 years old – all without the need for training wheels. This process is often characterized by fewer frustrations, crashes, and tears compared to the traditional training wheel method, which many of us may remember as a somewhat challenging childhood experience.
Don’t just take my word for it. Here’s a snapshot of my son confidently pedaling without training wheels at just 2.5 years old:
Another significant drawback of training wheels emerges when encountering uneven surfaces. Sidewalk cracks, slants, or even slightly uneven pavement can become major obstacles. Training wheels can become unstable, get high-centered, or lift off the ground, leading to frustrating wheel spinning or tipping. This instability can quickly discourage children and diminish their enjoyment of biking.
Finally, the trend in high-quality kids’ bikes is also moving away from training wheels. Leading brands like Woom and Prevelo design their bikes with the understanding that balance is best learned separately. If you’re looking for a top-tier bike for your child, you’ll likely find yourself considering options designed to be used without training wheels.
Balance Bike or Bike with Training Wheels? Which is the Better First Step?
In almost every scenario, we wholeheartedly recommend starting with a balance bike. Transitioning from a balance bike to a pedal bike, skipping training wheels altogether, is generally the most effective path. Even if your child is slightly older, initiating their cycling journey with a balance bike can still be incredibly beneficial. Consider exploring our guide to the best balance bikes for 3 to 5 year olds for some excellent options.
There are exceptions, of course. If your child exhibits exceptional athleticism and balance, or if purchasing a balance bike isn’t feasible, you could potentially skip it. In this case, start with a pedal bike but temporarily remove the pedals. Have your child practice scooting and gliding on the bike, just as they would on a balance bike. Once they’ve grasped balancing and gliding, reattach the pedals and follow a step-by-step guide on how to teach your child to ride a bike.
Transitioning Away from Training Wheels: How to Ditch Them
If your child is already riding a bike equipped with training wheels, don’t worry – it’s definitely not a cycling dead-end!
You have a couple of effective strategies to transition them away from training wheels. Our primary recommendation is to temporarily set aside the pedal bike and reintroduce a balance bike. Allow them to focus solely on developing a strong sense of balance using the balance bike.
Once they are proficient and comfortable with balancing, you can reintroduce their pedal bike, this time without training wheels. If a balance bike isn’t readily available, you can mimic the balance bike experience by temporarily removing the pedals from their pedal bike. This allows them to scoot and glide, focusing on balance.
Some children may resist the idea of a balance bike, especially if they are already attached to their pedal bike with training wheels. In these situations, try adjusting the training wheels by raising them slightly. The goal is to make the bike tip gently from side to side. This unevenness will encourage them to start engaging their balance and core muscles to stay upright.
As their balance improves, gradually raise the training wheels further. Eventually, when they demonstrate good balance and control, you can remove the training wheels completely. Refer back to our article on teaching your child to ride a bike for guidance on this final stage.
Peer influence can also be a powerful motivator. Riding with other children who are confidently biking without training wheels can highlight the limitations of training wheels. Observing their peers effortlessly going faster and performing simple tricks might spark a desire in your child to ride without training wheels as well.
What’s the Right Age to Remove Training Wheels?
The simple answer is: as soon as possible! The earlier children develop their balance skills, the easier and more seamless the entire learning process becomes.
Take those training wheels off! At the very least, raise them to encourage balance. If balance is still a hurdle, revert to a balance bike or create a makeshift one by removing the pedals from their pedal bike.
My Child Loves Training Wheels! They Refuse to Take Them Off! What Now?
In this scenario, patience and understanding are key. If your child is genuinely enjoying their bike with training wheels, that’s fantastic! The most important thing is fostering a positive association with cycling. Pressuring them too much can backfire, leading to frustration and a loss of enthusiasm for biking.
If training wheels bring them joy, let them ride on with training wheels. Rest assured, they won’t be riding to middle school with them! Peer influence and natural progression will likely lead them to want to remove them eventually. Focus on fun and positive experiences for now.
Should Training Wheels Be Uneven? Is That Normal?
Yes, ideally, training wheels should be slightly uneven. Initially, if your child feels unstable or uncomfortable with uneven training wheels, you can temporarily adjust them to be more even for a short period to build confidence.
However, as they become more comfortable and confident on the bike, it’s beneficial to raise the training wheels again, making them slightly uneven. This intentional unevenness is designed to encourage your child to lean and balance subtly. This gentle side-to-side tipping is crucial for developing the balance needed to eventually ride without training wheels.
How to Adjust Training Wheels: A Quick Guide
Adjusting training wheels is straightforward. To raise or lower them, you’ll need to loosen the nuts that secure the training wheels to the bike frame. Position the wheels at your desired height – slightly uneven is generally recommended for learning. Then, securely retighten the nuts.
Observe your child as they ride. If they seem wobbly or unstable, you might lower the training wheels for a bit more support. If they appear to be riding too rigidly and not engaging their balance, raise the training wheels incrementally to encourage more leaning and balancing.
Training Wheel Safety: Ensuring Proper Installation
Safety is paramount when using training wheels. Improperly installed training wheels can not only hinder the learning process but also pose safety risks.
First and foremost, verify that the training wheels are compatible with your child’s specific bike size and model. While some training wheels are marketed as “universal,” they often don’t fit correctly on all bikes. If you encounter fitment issues, it’s best to seek assistance from your local bike shop for professional installation or advice.
Once installed, regularly inspect the training wheels. The mounting bolts are prone to loosening over time due to vibrations. Give the training wheels a wiggle test periodically. If they feel loose, tighten the bolts promptly. However, avoid overtightening, as this can potentially damage the bike frame.
Also, check for any signs of damage to the training wheels themselves, such as bending or cracks. This is especially important after any falls or if the bike has been dropped. Training wheels are often constructed from less durable materials and may not withstand significant impacts.
Which Training Wheels to Buy? Our Recommendation
If, after considering the alternatives, you decide that training wheels are the right choice for your child, prioritize durability and adjustability.
Our top pick is the Wald 1216 training wheels. These are designed to fit bikes ranging from 12″ to 16″ wheels and are readily available online at retailers like Amazon and often found at local bike shops.
More Resources For Your Cycling Journey
[Link to articles about balance bikes]
[Link to articles about teaching kids to ride]
[Link to best kids bikes article]
About Us: Rascal Rides – Your Family Cycling Resource
We are the Rascals – Kristen, Blair, and Parker. Rascal Rides began when Parker arrived, and we were determined to keep our passion for biking alive and share our experiences. Over the years, we’ve rigorously tested hundreds of kids’ bikes, helmets, trailers, and all things family cycling.
Kristen is a certified USA Cycling coach, dedicated to sharing her love of cycling with families. Blair is our resident bike expert, mechanic, and mountain bike enthusiast. Parker is our invaluable product tester and the inspiration behind Rascal Rides.
If you spot us on the trails, please say hello! We’re always happy to connect with fellow cycling families.
