Balance Bike vs. Training Wheels — Which Is Best in 2025?
When it comes to helping children learn how to ride a bike, most parents and educators are familiar with two primary options: training wheels or balance bikes. But which approach sets kids up for long-term biking success? In this article, we explore the key differences between these two methods—and why balance bikes are now widely recognized as the best way to start.
What Are Training Wheels?
Training wheels are small, stabilizing wheels mounted on either side of a traditional pedal bike’s rear wheel. They are designed to keep the bike upright while children learn to pedal and steer. As kids become more confident, the training wheels can be adjusted or removed entirely. However, because they prevent the rider from tipping, they don’t allow children to experience the sensation of true balance.
What Is a Balance Bike?
A balance bike is a pedal-less bicycle designed specifically to help kids learn to balance and steer without the added complexity of pedaling. Children propel themselves forward using their feet, lifting their legs once they feel confident, which mimics the real motion of riding a two-wheeled bike.
At All Kids Bike, we use Strider Balance Bikes—durable, lightweight, and child-sized models—to help children nationwide build the foundational skill of balance before ever attempting to pedal.
Why Balance Bikes Are the Superior Choice
Although both methods aim to teach kids how to ride, balance bikes are now the preferred approach by leading educators, physical therapists, and cycling advocates. Here’s why:
• Mastery of Balance Comes First
Studies show that balancing is the most difficult part of learning to ride a bike. Balance bikes remove pedals entirely so kids can focus on developing this essential skill from the start. A 2023 study published in Pediatric Physical Therapy found that children using balance bikes transitioned to pedal bikes on average six months earlier than those using training wheels.
In contrast, training wheels delay the need for balance, which can make the transition to a two-wheeled bike more stressful and drawn-out.
• Builds Confidence and Independence
Children naturally feel more in control on a balance bike. Since they already know how to walk and run, using their feet to glide and stop feels instinctive. This familiarity encourages exploration and risk-taking—important elements of learning—without the fear of tipping over. It’s a confidence boost that keeps them motivated.
• Encourages Physical Activity
Balance bikes offer a full-body workout that strengthens legs, improves core stability, and refines coordination. According to the CDC, fewer than 25% of children ages 6–17 meet recommended physical activity guidelines. Introducing balance biking in early childhood helps combat sedentary lifestyles by making movement fun and accessible.
• Adjustable for Growing Kids
Many balance bikes, like the Strider model used in the All Kids Bike program, feature adjustable seats and handlebars to accommodate kids from ages 4 to 7. This adaptability means the bikes can be used year after year—supporting up to 10 kindergarten classes throughout the lifespan of the All Kids Bike program.
The Nationwide Impact of Balance Biking
At All Kids Bike, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to ride. Since launching our Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program, we’ve placed bikes in over 1,700 schools across all 50 states, giving over 170,000 kindergartners the chance to learn this milestone skill during the school day.
Our ready-to-teach program includes:
- Teacher training & Certification
- Comprehensive Curriculum featuring 8 structured lessons
- 24 Strider Balance Bikes
- 24 Pedal Conversion Kits
- 24 Fully Adjustable Helmets
- Instructor Bike with Pedal Kit and Helmet
- 2 Custom-Designed Rolling Storage Racks
- Program Support
Help Us Get More Kids Riding
All Kids Bike is a national movement powered by the Strider Education Foundation, and our goal is simple: teach every child in America how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class.