How to Use a Balance Bike: A Parent’s Step by Step Guide

Watching your little one take their first glide on a balance bike is one of those unforgettable parenting moments. It’s exciting, nerve wracking, and let’s be honest, a little emotional. If you’re thinking about starting your toddler on their cycling journey, you’re in exactly the right place.

Balance bikes are the perfect first step for children aged 18 months to 4 years. They help build confidence, develop coordination, and make the transition to pedal bikes much smoother (and often training wheel free). But how exactly do you teach a toddler to ride one?

Here’s your step by step guide; tried, tested, and stress free.

Step 1: Pick the Right Bike

Not all balance bikes are created equal. For young children, comfort, fit, and ease of use are everything.

That’s why we designed the YOMO 12 specifically for this age group. With an ultra lightweight alloy, air filled tyres for a smoother ride and an adjustable saddle that grows with your child, the YOMO 12 ticks all the right boxes. It’s built to last through every bump, wobble, and proud little victory.

Step 2: Start Indoors (or Somewhere Super Safe)

Begin in a space where your child feels comfortable, your garden, a quiet path, or even indoors if you’ve got the space. Keep the environment flat and safe while they get used to the idea of sitting on the saddle and walking the bike forward.

Tip: No need to push or balance for them, just let them explore it in their own way. Sitting on it, walking with it, or even carrying it around is totally fine in the first few goes!

Step 3: Check the Fit and Adjust as Needed

The key to a smooth start is making sure the balance bike is the right height. Your child should be able to:

• Sit comfortably on the saddle
  

• Place both feet flat on the ground
  

• Stand up and walk the bike forward with ease
  
  

The YOMO 12 has a quick release seat clamp, making these adjustments super simple. No tools required. We also have our Perfect Size Finder tool if you need some reassurance!

Step 4: Let Them Lead (and Don’t Rush It)

It sounds like 2 steps, but patience is really important. Balance biking is all about confidence and independence. At first, your child might just walk while straddling the bike. Gradually, you’ll see them start to lift their feet, take little glides, and before you know it, coast down the path like a pro.

Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Toddlers learn best when they’re having fun and feel safe trying new things.

Step 5: Practice Makes Progress

Short, regular sessions work best. Even 10 minutes a day can lead to big improvements. Take the bike to the park, on errands, or let your child ride alongside you on walks. The more opportunities they have to practice, the more natural balancing will feel.

And yes, it’s totally normal if they fall over once or twice. That’s part of learning. Just be there with a hug and some encouragement.

Step 6: Look for the Glide (and Get Ready for Pedals!)

You’ll know your child is really getting the hang of it when they start to glide with both feet off the ground for several seconds. That’s the magic moment! From there, many kids transition to pedal bikes without ever needing stabilisers.

 

Ready For Fun On Wheels?

Whether you're just starting or you're a few rides in, remember: every child learns at their own pace. The goal isn't to rush them into pedalling, it's to make riding feel joyful and natural from the very beginning.

Take a better look at our YOMO 12 for your child's first ride. Designed for tiny adventurers, built for big milestones.