Best Kids Bikes for Learning to Ride

Watching your kid take off on two wheels for the first time is one of those unforgettable milestones. At retrospec, we believe learning to ride should be fun, fearless, and frustration-free. Whether you're shopping for your toddler’s first balance bike or upgrading to a 20-inch geared model, we’ve got you covered with the best kids bikes to kickstart every ride.

Start With Balance: The First Step to Riding Solo

If you're introducing your little one to biking for the first time, a balance bike is your best starting point. With no pedals or training wheels, balance bikes teach coordination and control from the ground up.

Explore top picks for beginners:

• Cricket: This baby walker bike is perfect for ages 12–24 months. It’s stable, small, and great for developing early movement skills.
  

• Cub: Ideal for 2–4 year olds, it’s a lightweight kids bike with airless tires and an easy step-through frame.
  

• Baby Beaumont: A classic-inspired ride for tiny adventurers. The adjustable seat and soft grips help kids get comfy fast.
  

These bikes encourage independence and make the transition to pedals smoother—no training wheels required.

Move to Pedals: Building Confidence With Every Turn

Once your child has mastered balance and is ready for pedals, it’s time to explore the right size and style. Choosing the right size bike is crucial—too big and they’ll struggle to stop, too small and it won’t grow with them. Here’s a quick guide:

• 12 Inch Kids Bike: Best for 2–3 year olds
  Try Koda 12", a pedal-ready bike with training wheels included and a low standover frame for easy starts.
  

• 16 Inch Kids Bike: Great for ages 4–6
  Beaumont Mini and Koda Plus 16" both offer durable frames, wide tires, and easy-reach V-brakes.
  

• 20 Inch Kids Bike: For 6–8 year olds
  Dart Plus 20" adds gears and features a lightweight frame to help kids tackle longer distances or small hills.
  

Need help deciding? Check out our guide to choosing the right size kids bike to make sure your rider is set up for success.

Prioritize Safety and Comfort

Every ride should feel good and be safe. That’s why gear matters just as much as the bike:

• Kids safety gear: Helmets are a must. Add elbow and knee pads for added protection and peace of mind.
  

• Kids bike accessories: A handlebar bell, water bottle holder, or basket lets kids personalize their ride.
  

• Teaching good habits from the beginning—like stopping at driveways and riding with supervision—is key. See more kids bike safety tips for parents on our blog.

  

Designed to Last (and Love)

Our lineup of affordable kids bikes with durable frames is built to keep up with everyday adventure—from driveway loops to park picnics. Plus, our intuitive designs grow with your rider.

We craft bikes that are lightweight for easy handling, easy to maintain, and built for all-day play. Whether you're after the best kids bike for ages 5 to 7 years old or just starting out with their first baby walker bike, retrospec has everything you need to teach them to ride with confidence.

Article FAQ

What’s the best kids bike for learning to ride?
A balance bike is best for beginners. For kids ready to pedal, Koda 12" or Koda Plus 16" are great next steps.

What size kids bike does my child need?
Bike size is based on height and inseam. Generally: 12" for ages 2–3, 16" for 4–6, 20" for 6–8. See our sizing guide for more.

How can I help my child ride more confidently?
Start on flat, open surfaces. Encourage short sessions, use a properly sized bike, and make sure they’re wearing safety gear.

Are training wheels necessary?
Not always. Starting with a balance bike can often eliminate the need for training wheels altogether.

Why choose retrospec for kids bikes?
We offer lightweight kids bikes for easy handling, thoughtful safety features, and designs built for every stage—at prices that keep things simple.