10 Best Balance Bike For Older Kid 2026 in the United States

The Strider 20x balance bike is designed for older kids aged 8 and above, and even adults who have yet to learn how to ride a bike. This bike features 20-inch wheels and a durable alloy steel frame, ensuring stability and longevity. One of its strongest points is the adjustable seat and handlebars, making it adaptable for a wide range of heights and inseam lengths. This makes it suitable for growing kids and ensures a comfortable riding experience.

The bike also includes dual drum handbrakes, which are essential for safety, especially for older beginners who need to develop confidence in stopping the bike effectively. Additionally, the bike has a kickstand, which is a convenient feature for parking the bike securely. However, the Strider 20x does have some drawbacks. The bike is relatively heavy at 25.8 pounds, which might be cumbersome for younger or smaller kids to handle. Moreover, while the optional pedal kit allows for conversion to a pedal bike, it is sold separately, which may be an additional cost to consider. The absence of suspension might limit comfort on rough terrain.

These minor drawbacks considered, the Strider 20x is a solid choice for older kids and adults looking to master balancing before transitioning to a pedal bike.

The Bixe Balance Bike is a solid choice for kids aged 4 to 9 who are ready to learn how to ride without training wheels. Its 16-inch wheels are larger than many starter balance bikes, making it well suited for older or taller children who need more room to grow. The frame is made from alloy steel, which provides durability and strength but adds some weight compared to lighter materials like aluminum. The bike weighs about 4.75 kg (10.5 lbs), which might be a bit heavy for very small kids but is manageable for the intended age group. The seat and handlebars are adjustable, allowing the bike to grow with your child and ensure a comfortable fit over time.

It uses coaster brakes, which are generally simple for kids to use, though they may not offer the same stopping power as hand brakes found on some other models. The tires are rigid with no suspension, which is typical for balance bikes and appropriate for smooth surfaces like pavement or playgrounds. Assembly is straightforward since the bike comes mostly put together, making it easy for parents to get their child riding quickly. The bike is designed with safety in mind, featuring tamper-proof clamps and washers on the wheels for added security.

While it doesn’t have some premium features like lightweight aluminum or advanced braking systems, its sturdy construction and child-friendly design make it a practical and fun option for kids ready to develop balance and coordination before moving on to a pedal bike.

The Strider 14x Balance Bike, designed for children aged 3 to 6 years, provides a great way for kids to learn balance and steering before moving onto a pedal bike. It features 14-inch wheels, which are ideal for older kids within the specified age range. The frame is made from alloy steel, making it durable yet relatively lightweight at 12.5 pounds, which is significant for young riders.

The bike includes padded seats and kid-size grips that enhance comfort and usability, along with a performance footrest for a better riding experience. The standout feature is its adjustable seat and handlebars, allowing the bike to grow with your child. The seat height ranges from 15 to 22 inches, fitting a wide range of inseam lengths (16-23 inches). Another advantage is the optional pedal kit, enabling easy conversion from a balance bike to a pedal bike when your child is ready, although the kit is sold separately.

The tires are all-purpose rubber, suitable for various terrains, but the bike lacks a braking system, which might be a concern for parents wanting extra safety measures. Despite needing assembly, the process is straightforward, and the necessary tools are provided. The Strider 14x is best suited for parents looking for a versatile and long-lasting balance bike that will assist their child’s transition to pedaling without training wheels.