Schwinn has been a trusted name in bicycles for generations, and their balance bikes are no exception. With six distinct Schwinn Balance Bike models available, each with varying price points and features, choosing the perfect one for your child can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive review breaks down the differences between the Schwinn Elm, Koen, Skip 1, Skip 2, Skip 3, and Skip 4 balance bikes to help you make an informed decision.
Schwinn Balance Bike Lineup: A Detailed Look
Rating: Recommended
MSRP: $59 – $80 (Check current prices on Amazon)
Best For: Toddlers learning balance and coordination before transitioning to pedal bikes.
Key Features at a Glance:
- Seat Height: Varies by Model (See detailed comparison below)
- Tires: Varies by Model (Foam or Air-filled)
- Weight: Varies by Model (Lightweight for easy handling)
Find the perfect Schwinn Balance Bike on Amazon
Pros:
- Low Step-Through Frame: Easy for toddlers to mount and dismount independently.
- Padded Seat: Provides comfort during longer practice sessions.
- Plastic Bolt Covers (Elm & Koen): Enhanced safety and aesthetics.
- Foam Tire Option: Maintenance-free and puncture-proof.
Cons:
- Limited Seat Height Range: May not accommodate rapid growth spurts for all models.
- Steering Can Be Basic (Elm): Simpler steering mechanism compared to higher-end models.
- Foam Tires Offer Less Traction and Cushioning: Best suited for smooth surfaces.
In-Depth Review: Schwinn Balance Bike Models and Performance
Schwinn’s range of six balance bikes aims to cater to diverse family needs and budgets. While all models are designed for children of roughly the same size (typically fitting kids in 3T/4T clothing), subtle yet significant differences exist between them. Let’s explore each model to pinpoint which Schwinn balance bike will best support your child’s learning journey.
Schwinn Balance Bike Models: Key Differences
The Schwinn balance bike lineup includes a mix of current and older models. It’s important to note that the Schwinn Elm and Koen are the latest iterations, designed to eventually replace the Skip series.
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Schwinn Elm (Girl’s) and Schwinn Koen (Boy’s): These are the newest models for 2020 and beyond, representing an upgrade from the older Skip series. They are widely available online, particularly on Amazon.
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Schwinn Skip 4 (Discontinued but may still be found): Previously considered the top pick among Schwinn balance bikes, the Skip 4 stood out with its air-filled tires and quick-release seat post adjustment, offering a good balance of features for the price.
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Schwinn Skip 2 and Skip 3 (Available but with a caveat): On paper, these models appear to be budget-friendly options. However, a significant design flaw in the seat post clamp of the Skip 2 and Skip 3 makes them difficult to recommend. The clamp’s inability to securely hold the seat post at the desired height means the seat tends to slip down to the lowest setting when a child sits on it. This effectively limits these bikes to a single seat height, negating adjustability and limiting their usability as children grow.
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Schwinn Skip 1 (Original Model – Not Recommended): Schwinn’s original balance bike design features a wide footrest that has proven problematic for many young riders, often interfering with their stride. With superior Schwinn balance bike options like the Skip 4, Koen, or Elm now available, the Skip 1 is no longer a recommended choice.
Schwinn Balance Bike Model Comparison Table
To clearly illustrate the differences between the core Schwinn balance bike models, here’s a comparison table:
| Model | Elm | Koen | Skip 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $69 on Amazon | $69 on Amazon | $59 on Amazon |
| Tire Type | Foam | Foam | Foam |
| Seat Height | 14.25″ – 16.75″ (Measured) | 14.25″ – 16.75″ (Measured) | 15″ – 17″ (Measured) |
| Weight | 8.4 lb. (Measured) | 8.5 lb. (Measured) | 7.2 lb. (Measured) |
Note: MSRP and availability may vary. Seat height and weight are based on independent measurements.
2020 Elm and Koen Updates: Key Improvements
The Schwinn Elm and Koen balance bikes represent the latest evolution in Schwinn’s balance bike design. Continuing the legacy of the Skip models, they are sized for children around 3T/4T clothing sizes and feature a convenient quick-release seat post for effortless height adjustments. While offering a seat height adjustment range of approximately 2.5 inches, which is somewhat limited compared to some balance bikes, they incorporate notable improvements.
Frame Design: Both the Elm and Koen boast a step-through frame design. This thoughtful feature significantly eases mounting and dismounting, promoting independence and confidence in young riders. The frame geometry of these 2020 models is a clear upgrade from the previous Skip series, offering enhanced ergonomics and aesthetics.
Child’s Riding Position: The interplay of frame shape, seat height, and handlebar height on the Elm and Koen results in a slightly more forward-leaning, or “aggressive,” riding posture compared to earlier models.
As illustrated in the image below, a taller 2.5-year-old tester’s arms are nearly fully extended to reach the handlebars on the Elm. In contrast, observe the same tester on the Skip 4 balance bike, where their arms are bent, facilitating a more upright, relaxed riding position.
Skip 4 vs. Elm: Riding Posture Comparison
This more aggressive positioning on the Elm and Koen is well-suited for confident children who enjoy speed and leaning into turns. Conversely, a more casual, upright posture is generally preferable for beginners or children who are more hesitant or still developing their balance skills.
Wheels and Tires: The Koen and Elm models are equipped with foam tires mounted on plastic rims. Foam tires are advantageous due to their puncture-proof nature and zero maintenance requirements (never going flat). However, they offer minimal cushioning and reduced traction, particularly on uneven surfaces or loose terrain.
For children who anticipate riding on varied surfaces, including curbs or unpaved trails, the air-filled tires of the Skip 4 would provide superior performance.
Bolt Safety: A common characteristic of budget-friendly balance bikes is the presence of rounded or exposed axle bolts. These bolts are prone to scratches and dents and can potentially scrape a child’s legs, especially when wearing shorts. The 2020 Elm and Koen models address this issue with a simple yet effective solution: screw-on plastic dome caps that protect the underlying axle bolts, enhancing both safety and the bike’s overall finish.
Schwinn Skip Balance Bikes: Understanding the Differences
Frame Size and Wheelbase
The Schwinn Skip balance bike series (Skip 2, 3, and 4) presents variations primarily in frame size and tire type. The Skip 2 and Skip 3 share an identical frame (differing only in paint color), while the Skip 4 features a slightly larger frame with an extended wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheels). Despite these dimensional differences, all three Skip models are designed to accommodate children in the 3T to 4T clothing size range.
The longer wheelbase of the Skip 4 offers notable benefits: it enhances stability, making the bike easier to balance, and provides increased room between the seat and handlebars, which is particularly advantageous for taller riders.
Tire Type: Foam vs. Air
The second key differentiator within the Skip series is tire type. The Skip 2 is equipped with foam tires, while the Skip 3 and Skip 4 feature air-filled tires. The Skip 4 further distinguishes itself with wider air tires compared to the Skip 3. Air tires generally offer superior traction and cushioning compared to foam tires, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride, particularly on uneven surfaces. However, air tires do add slightly to the bike’s overall weight and carry the possibility of punctures. In most cases, the enhanced ride quality and traction provided by air tires outweigh the minor weight increase and potential for flats.
Schwinn Skip Balance Bike Line: Feature Variations
Size and Adjustability
The Skip 4 offers a seat height range of 14.5″ to 17″, slightly lower than the Skip 2 and Skip 3, which range from 15″ to 17″. Despite having a larger frame, the Skip 4’s saddle design allows for a lower minimum seat height of 14.5″. However, it’s worth noting that all three Skip bikes offer a relatively limited seat height adjustment range, providing minimal room for growth.
A 2.5-year-old tester wearing 3T clothing found a comfortable fit on all three Skip models. However, during the initial walking and scooting phase of learning, the slightly lower seat height of the Skip 4 provided enhanced maneuverability and confidence.
The Skip 4 also features adjustable handlebar height, offering a 1.5″ range of adjustment. This allows customization of the riding position, from a more upright, beginner-friendly stance to a more forward-leaning, aggressive posture for adventurous riding. For novice riders, raising the handlebars on the Skip 4 can promote a more comfortable, upright position, even with the bike’s longer wheelbase. The handlebars on the Skip 2 and Skip 3 are not adjustable.
2-Year-Old Riders on Schwinn Skip Balance Bikes
The original Schwinn balance bike model, while not part of the Skip series, has the lowest minimum and maximum seat height among Schwinn’s offerings. However, its large, protruding footrest poses a significant drawback. This footrest often interferes with a toddler’s natural stride, causing their legs to bump into it while walking or running with the bike, making it less suitable for average to petite-sized toddlers.
The Skip 2, Skip 3, and Skip 4 models wisely omit a footrest. In general, balance bikes without footrests are often preferred, as footrests are frequently unnecessary and can be poorly designed, as seen in the original Schwinn model.
Problematic Footrest on Original Schwinn Balance Bike
Seat Post Clamps and Bolt Quality
A significant difference lies in the seat post clamp mechanism between the Skip 2 and Skip 3 versus the Skip 4. The clamp used on the Skip 2 and Skip 3 is of notably poor quality. Testing revealed that it could not be tightened sufficiently to prevent the seat post from slipping downwards during use. This critical flaw renders the Skip 2 and 3 essentially unusable for taller children and prevents the bike from growing with the child, severely limiting its lifespan and value. In contrast, the Skip 4’s seat post clamp performed reliably, securely holding the seat post in place.
Similar to most balance bikes in the budget price range, all Schwinn models feature exposed bolts, which present a potential risk of scratching a child’s legs during riding.
Bottom Line: Choosing the Best Schwinn Balance Bike
Among the Schwinn balance bike lineup, the Skip 4 consistently emerges as the top performer, boasting air tires, adjustable handlebars, and a reliable seat post clamp. However, it’s important to note that the Skip 4, along with the Skip 3, has been discontinued. While you might still find them available through some retailers, availability is becoming increasingly limited.
For very hesitant or timid riders, the lightweight Skip 2 could be a viable option for neighborhood use, but the problematic seat post clamp remains a significant concern, limiting its long-term usability.
As for the original Schwinn balance bike with the obtrusive footrest, the newer Koen and Elm models are undoubtedly superior choices, offering improved frame design and eliminating the problematic footrest.
Overall Recommendation:
- Best Overall (If you can find it): Schwinn Skip 4 (for its features and performance)
- Best Current Models: Schwinn Elm and Koen (for updated design and safety features)
- Budget Option (with caution): Schwinn Skip 2 (for very lightweight riders, acknowledging seat clamp issue)
- Models to Avoid: Schwinn Skip 1 (due to footrest issue) and Skip 3 (due to seat clamp issue, similar to Skip 2).
When selecting a schwinn balance bike, consider your child’s confidence level, riding environment, and budget. The Elm and Koen represent solid, readily available choices, while the Skip 4, if you can locate one, offers premium features at a budget-friendly price point.
FTC Disclosure: This review includes affiliate links. No monetary compensation was provided for this review. The balance bikes reviewed were purchased by Two Wheeling Tots and not provided by the manufacturer. All opinions and images are the property of Two Wheeling Tots LLC. All content and images are copyrighted and should not be used or replicated without permission. View our Terms of Use.
