Training Wheels Bike Safety Tips

Last Updated: 08/2025 by Luca West

Riding a bike for the first time is a milestone moment—but safety always comes first. A kids bike with training wheels gives beginners the support they need to pedal with confidence, but proper setup and gear are just as important as the bike itself.

At retrospec, we create training wheel bikes designed for real-world riding and real kid energy. Whether you're choosing a 12-inch kids bike for a toddler or a 16-inch kids bike for a growing rider, here’s how to make every ride safer from the start.

A child in olive green pants pedals a blue bike with orange wheels and a bright green chain guard, wearing white sneakers.

Choose the Right Bike (and Size)

Getting the right fit makes a big difference. If the bike is too big or too small, even training wheels can’t keep things steady.

Here are the top picks from retrospec:

Koda 12": Designed for kids ages 2–3. A solid first bike with removable training wheels and a low frame for easy starts.
Koda Plus 12": A lighter-weight frame with hand brakes for toddlers ready to level up.
Koda 16": A versatile training wheels bike for ages 4–6, featuring wide tires, dual brakes, and easy-to-remove wheels.
Beaumont Mini: A cruiser-style ride with classic vibes and dependable function.

Use our training wheels bike size guide by age to match wheel size to your child’s height and skill level.

Adjust the Training Wheels Properly

Setting up the training wheels the right way makes all the difference. Too low, and they do all the work. Too high, and your child may tip.

How to adjust training wheels for stability:

Start level: Both wheels should touch the ground at first.
Raise slightly: As confidence grows, lift each wheel about 0.5" off the ground.
Check regularly: Make sure bolts are tight and wheels aren’t leaning in.

This gradual shift helps your child build balance while still feeling supported.

A parent helps a child in a blue and yellow bike with a helmet, preparing for a ride on a paved pathway beside a white fence.

Start With the Basics: Safety First

Before any ride, do a quick check:

✅ Helmet is properly fitted and buckled
✅ Brakes are working smoothly
✅ Tires are fully inflated
✅ Seat height allows both feet to touch the ground

If your rider is on a bike like Koda Plus 12" or Koda 16", double-check the brakes before each ride—they’ll be using them more as they gain speed.

Use the Right Protective Gear

Even with training wheels, your child needs reliable kids safety gear to protect against unexpected spills.

Top picks from retrospec:

Remi Youth Helmet: Lightweight, comfortable, and easy to adjust.
Dakota Youth Helmet: Offers more coverage and durability for adventurous rides.
Protect Pad Set: Full-coverage set for elbows, knees, and wrists. Comfortable enough for all-day wear.

A young child rides a blue retro-style bike on a suburban street, wearing a light blue helmet and casual olive green attire.

Ride Smart: Tips for Safer Sessions

Stick to smooth surfaces
Start with flat sidewalks, paved paths, or empty parking lots. Avoid steep hills or loose gravel.
Keep it short
Young riders build confidence in small bursts. Try 10–15 minute sessions with lots of praise.
Stay hands-off (when ready)
If you’re always holding the seat, they won’t learn to steer or balance. Let them explore—with supervision close by.
Be encouraging, not corrective
Celebrate effort, not perfection. It builds self-esteem and a lasting love for kids active play.

How to Remove Training Wheels Safely

Ready to take the next step? Here’s how to ease into two-wheel freedom:

Remove one wheel first and see how they handle it
Lower the seat so their feet can easily touch the ground
Practice in the grass or on soft pavement
Keep your hand near their back—not gripping the seat

Looking for signs they’re ready? If your child rides for long stretches without leaning on the wheels, it’s time to make the move.

A child rides their bike down a quiet street while their parent watches them with a smile.

Article FAQ

What’s the best kids bike with training wheels for beginners?
Koda 12" and Koda Plus 12" are ideal for toddlers just getting started.

Do I need to adjust training wheels as my child learns?
Yes. Raising them slightly over time encourages your child to build balance and prepare for two wheels.

Is a helmet necessary if my child is using training wheels?
Absolutely. Always use a properly fitting helmet like Remi Youth Helmet or Dakota Youth Helmet.

When should I remove training wheels?
Most kids are ready around age 5, but every rider is different. Look for signs like gliding and leaning without support.

What’s the right bike size for my child?
Check our training wheels bike size guide by age to find the perfect fit based on height and skill.