Are Balance Bikes Better Than Stabilisers For Your Child?

Choosing your child’s first bike is a big moment, for them and for you. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or a thoughtful aunt or uncle, the question often comes down to this:
Should you start them on a balance bike or a bike with stabilisers?

While both options have been around for decades, balance bikes are quickly becoming the top choice for toddlers. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences, weigh the pros and cons, and explain why a balance bike might just be the smartest way to get your little one riding confidently without the wobble.

What Is a Balance Bike?

A balance bike is a small bike with no pedals. Instead of pedalling, your child pushes along with their feet, learning to balance and steer from the start. These bikes are lightweight, simple, and made to fit toddlers as young as 18 months.

Best for:

• Ages from 18 months upwards
  
• Developing balance, coordination and independence
  
• Building confidence before transitioning to a pedal bike
  
  

What About Bikes with Stabilisers?

Bikes with stabilisers (known sometimes as training wheels) are traditional pedal bikes with two small support wheels on the back. They help keep the bike upright, allowing children to focus on pedalling rather than balancing.

Best for:

• Older children (usually 3+)
• Children already confident with balance or coordination
• Families who grew up with this method and prefer familiarity
  

 

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature Balance Bike Bike with Stabilisers Balance First Yes – core skill Delayed until later Lightweight Easier for toddlers to handle Often heavier and more awkward for small hands to carry Builds Confidence Encourages independence Can create reliance Ease of Transition Direct to pedal bike (no stabilisers needed) May require re-learning balance later Age Range Ideal from 18 months Usually from 4 years up Fun Factor Kids LOVE the freedom Slower progress in many cases

 

Why We Recommend Balance Bikes for Toddlers

At YOMO, we believe balance bikes are the best start for any toddler. Here’s why:

1. They Learn to Balance Naturally. Balance is the hardest skill when learning to ride. With a balance bike, your child builds this skill gradually and confidently. No support wheels, no fear of falling when they come off.

2. No “Unlearning” Later On. Children who start on stabilisers often struggle when the wheels come off. Balance bike riders, on the other hand, go straight to a pedal bike without fuss.

3. They’re Lighter and Easier to Handle. Bikes like the YOMO 12 are designed with toddlers in mind: lightweight aluminium frame, grippy tyres, and an adjustable seat. This makes it easier for small hands and legs to take control, without needing your help every few minutes.

4. Confidence Grows with Every Ride. There’s nothing quite like seeing your child ride down the path on their own, smiling from ear to ear. Balance bikes give that sense of freedom early and safely.

Final Verdict

If your child is between 18 months and 5 years old, a balance bike is by far the best first bike. It helps them build balance, confidence and independence, all while having fun. Bikes with stabilisers still have their place, but they often slow down learning in the long run.

So whether you’re a new parent or a gift-giving friend or relative, give them the best start on two wheels.

Ready to Roll?

Explore our bestselling balance bike, the YOMO 12. It’s perfect for ages 2–5, beautifully designed, and built to last.

And when they’re ready for the step up to a pedal bike, we offer a full range of these too, available at a discount to current YOMO bike owners through our YOMO BikeTrade Program. This means they can have fun on wheels all the way through their childhood, with specially-designed bikes for them, whilst you save up to 50% when trading in your old model.

Browse our full range and help your little one fall in love with cycling from the start.