Best Balance Bikes for 18 Months Old – Review & Buying Guide

Balance bikes are undoubtedly the best alternatives for small kids to coordinate and learn the intuitive process of riding a cycle. The best age where kids are picking every simple thing is between 18 months and two years. So, if you are planning to give your toddler a balance bike to improve his biking skills, you need to find the right one.

Now, what makes the right one? For this, you need to consider everything from construction to weight, load capacity, tires, height adjustments, and even price range. So, to save your day, I have included some best balance bikes for 18 months old. So, let’s get in and choose wisely.

Best Balance Bikes for 18 Months Old Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best Overall	Best Overall	Strider – 12 Sport Kids Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎2 – 3 years Number of Speeds: 1 Wheel Size: 12 Inches	Check On Amazon
Premium Pick	Premium Pick	Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎1½ – 5 years Wheel Size: 12 Inches	Check On Amazon
Top Pick	Top Pick	Banana LT Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎2 – 4 Years Wheel Size: 12 Inches	Check On Amazon
Editor’s Choice	Editor’s Choice	Bixe: Green Aluminum Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎2 – 5 years Wheel Size: 12 Inches	Check On Amazon
Heavy Duty	Heavy Duty	MTBKWINN Store Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎Toddler Number of Speeds: 1 Wheel Size: 8 Inches	Check On Amazon
		ThinkMax Toddler Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎1½ – 3 years Wheel Size: 9 Inches	Check On Amazon
Budget Friendly	Budget Friendly	KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike	Age Range : ‎1½ – 5 years Wheel Size: 12 Inches	Check On Amazon

7 Best Balance Bikes for 18 Months Old Review

1. Strider – 12 Sport Kids Balance Bike

My toddler is currently using this Strider kids balance bike and I would say it is undoubtedly suitable for the given age range. It feels light and small and the fact that it uses no pedals makes it easy for the most part. Here, I also really like that you can easily assemble and disassemble it without any tools.

The first thing to note about this bike is the steel used in the construction. I have found it highly durable and yet have not noticed any scratches or scrapping. Similarly, it weighs only six pounds which is great for your small kids to handle. They can also use this outside the house, however, make sure to monitor them.

In the end, another thing to appreciate here is that it has a simple yet padded handlebar that keeps your babies from feeling tired. Similarly, if your toddler likes to make some long glides, this one also has a footrest. While you are buying this, make sure to consult the size guide for an appropriate fit.

Why I Recommended Strider Kids Balance Bike

Wrapping up, now that my toddler has used this bike for a certain amount of time, I would say it is a must-have for parents. This one is specifically my favorite for the footrest and comfortable handlebar the manufacturers have added. Also, the fact that it is small makes it easy to handle for your small one.

2. Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike

The runner-up on my list of the best balance bikes for 18 months old is this Radio Flyer. I would prefer this over any budget model, largely because it has an ergonomic design that makes it easy for your kid to handle the bike. Similarly, it’s equally worth mentioning that it has a high load capacity. Also have a look at balance bikes for 5 years old.

Starting off, it has a steel frame, coated with epoxy. So, you don’t have to worry about durability issues or corrosion damage. Similarly, your kid will also find no difficulty in taking the bike on the pavements. My older one has been using it for long glides, irrespective of any damage.

Lastly, when it comes to comfort, the manufacturers have added cushioned adjustable seats. So, your toddler can thoroughly enjoy his/ her biking sessions. In the end, I would also like to appreciate the fact that it has a high load capacity, so even if your toddlers get bigger, there is no need to invest again.

Why I Recommended Radio Flyer Air Ride Balance Bike

Likewise, this one from my favorite brand Radio Flyer is great for anyone who wants their kids to enjoy biking rides, with absolute comfort. All in all, it is also a long-term investment, given that it is to be used for kids up to five years. Moreover, it has a high load capacity and feels light for the most part.

3. Banana LT Balance Bike

If you are a budget enthusiast and planning to give your toddler a bike for outdoor activity, this one is it. It is an upgraded version of their balance bike that provides your kids with a comfortable and pleasant experience. Similarly, the unique banana shape of this bike makes it visually appealing for your kids.

To begin with, it has a steel frame with a rubber handlebar that provides you with long service life. It also keeps your toddler from feeling tired out and fatigued after a long session. In addition, this has a modern design that immediately grabs your kid’s attention and makes him more engaged in the process.

In the end, another thing to appreciate about this model is its cushioned seats that provide your toddler with comfort. It is further accompanied by a rubber handle and adjustable height, so you can make the experience pleasant for your kid. All in all, it can easily do long glides without any wear and tear.

Why I Recommended Banana LT Balance Bike

Final thoughts, I absolutely loved its user-friendly and ergonomic design and durable frame. This one is best known for its cushioned seats and height adjustments, so even if your toddler turns bigger, you can still use it. Likewise, you are also getting all the benefits at less than the usual price which is always a plus.

4. Bixe Aluminum Balance Bike

Bixe is a leading brand when it comes to innovative and functional bike design. This green balance bike is no different and works best for toddlers who want to enjoy their biking days. Moreover, it is equally worth mentioning that this one feels light and small, needless to say, offers a high load capacity.

First of all, this one is made up of aluminum, which is highly durable. It is further coated with epoxy powder, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion damage. Similarly, I also really like that it has a simple and straightforward design, which is absolutely easy and convenient to install, without any tools.

In the end, speaking of comfort, this bike comes with foam tires that easily glide over the surface. The foam tires are also incredible at keeping the bike light and convenient for your small ones. Here, the manufacturers have added seat adjustments for you to adjust as per your kids’ weight and height.

Why I Recommended Bixe Balance Bike

In essence, this Bixe Green Balance bike is yet another quality alternative for anyone in search of something convenient and comfortable for your small one. It is equipped with a high load capacity and firm frame that serves you well. Likewise, I also faced no difficulty in assembling this bike together.

5. MTBKWINN Store Balance Bike

This high-end bike from Mtvkwinn is another best balance bike for 18 months olds, famous for its wide range of colors and sizes. It has a wide wheelbase, adding to its compatibility. Moreover, I would also like to mention that the seat adjustments and foam feet that keep it light and easy for your kid to handle.

Firstly, this one has an aluminum frame which is accompanied by EVA patented wheels. So, you don’t have to worry about it not being durable or light enough. Similarly, this bike comes with a wheelbase between 8 and 12 inches, making it versatile. Hence, you won’t face any issues in choosing the appropriate fit.

Finally, when it comes to performance, this bike has a better coordination system. Its smooth and foamy wheels help your toddler in achieving a comfortable position for long biking time and support long glides considerably. In the end, the entire assembly process didn’t take me more than five minutes in total.

Why I Recommended MTBKWINN Store Balance Bike

Wrapping up, coming from Mtbkwinn, this one is yet another quality alternative for your toddlers. It is massively popular for its foamy wheels and firm frame that facilitate your kids throughout. Here, the fact that it is light yet can support high weight makes it worth the money.

6. ThinkMax Toddler Balance Bike

This one is yet another great learning balance bike for your 18 months old kid. It is equipped with an ergonomic design and a wide wheelbase that gives it an edge over others. Here, my small one has been used in the past and I would say it is still intact and provides a perfectly pleasant biking experience.

The first thing to note about this model is its steel frame which is highly durable. It is further accompanied by a rubber handle and seat adjustments. Both these functions work best in providing your kid with a pleasant and customizable experience. This also provides you with an incredible learning experience.

Finally, another thing to appreciate about this model is its EVA foam-made wheels. These work great on undamaged and wooden floors, not to mention, with any noise. I noticed that my toddler was able to take twists and turns easily. In the end, it also has a 9 inches wheelbase that is quite easy to find.

Why I Recommended ThinkMax Toddler Balance Bike

In conclusion, this ThinkMax Toddler balance bike is a quality alternative for your kids, all thanks to its well-organized design. The highlight of this model is its EVA foam wheels that feel easy to handle. In addition, the thick foam and rubber used in this bike make it functional to glide over different surfaces.

7. KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike

Last but not least on my list of the best balance bikes for 18 months old, all credit to its ability to provide you with convenience and durability. It works best for your child’s learning days, irrespective of any stability issues. Here, the package also has a number of stickers to make it aesthetically appealing.

Starting off, it is made up of a mixture of thick rubber and carbon steel that provides you with a long life. My kid has used this in the past and I still have not noticed any scratches and scrapping. My kid also found the plate and stickers highly exciting and it engaged him in the entire biking experience more than usual.

In the end, when it comes to performance, I would say it is undoubtedly the safest and most stable bike you can find for your kid. The PU wheels and rubber handles work best when it comes to gliding over different surfaces. It allows your kid to groom their cycling skills, irrespective of potential hurdles.

Why I Recommended KRIDDO Toddler Balance Bike

In essence, this one is undoubtedly one of my favorites for small kids as it helps them with their muscle memory and the entire learning process. It comes with a sturdy frame and wheels that help your kid in gliding the bike over a number of surfaces. In the end, I would say the fact that it is able to support 110 pounds makes it of great value.

How to Find Right Balance Bike for 18 Months Old

Balance bikes are a must-have for toddlers, specifically if you want them to train from the beginning. These come in different sizes, shapes, and wheelbases, which makes it a bit difficult for parents to choose the right one. So, if you are planning to buy the best balance bike for 18 months old, I have included some basic yet important things you need to consider. So, dive right in for more.

What is a Balance Bike?

In simple words, it is a regular bike without pedals. These are usually designed for small kids as it is easy to navigate and handle, given the fact that they are lightweight and small. They offer you perfect balance without the pedals, so your toddler won’t face any issues in stopping or taking sharp turns. These are primarily designed to make your kid develop an intuition while riding the bike. So, you can easily get one for your kid to learn the art of biking.

Weight and Durability

So, if you have thought about choosing the best balance bike for an 18 months old kid of yours, it is important to note the weight and material construction. On average, make sure it doesn’t weigh more than 6 pounds, or else it will be difficult for your kid to handle it. Similarly, you can find frames made up of either aluminum or steel, both of which are highly durable and resist corrosion ideally.

Apart from this, if your kid often feels tired and uncomfortable during the biking process, I would advise you to go for rubber handlebars. This helps your kid in feeling pleasant and comfortable throughout the biking sessions. Some contemporary models also include footrests that help your small ones with long glides over smooth surfaces.

Does it Have Height Adjustments?

Now, it is equally significant that you understand that these bikes are designed for a specific age. So, it only makes sense that you opt for basic height adjustments as per the size and weight of your kid. This is because if your kid is smaller or bigger for the specific bike, riding it can result in your kid getting hurt and potential crashes. So, always make sure it has desired seating adjustment, so you can customize the fit, as per your kid’s weight and size.

Balance Bike Tires

Similarly, it is equally important to look into the structure of the tire as it largely determines the balance of the entire ride. Here, most commonly, you can either find foam or plastic tires, both of which feel great. If your toddler is easily bothered by the weight of the bike, I would advise you to go for foam (preferably EVA tires) as it can make the bike extremely light, making it convenient for your kid to handle. These are also great, given that they do not make any noise.

On the contrary, if your kid is most likely to use the bike out of the house, it is absolutely significant that you go for plastic tires. These are firm and feel stable on grass, gravel, and dirt, for the most part, however, you will have to deal with the noise. All in all, I usually prefer plastic tires for my kid as it feels stable and makes the learning process more exciting.

In the end, I hope you soon will be able to find the right balance bike for your 18 months olds, as per their size and weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is best for a balance bike?

Well, a balance bike is the regular one without the pedals, which helps your kid with improved intuition to ride. The best age where the kid is learning and adopting simple things is between 18 months and two years. However, it is not to say that other kids cannot use it. It all comes down to your kid and I have seen many five-year-old kids using these balance bikes.

Which bike has the best balance?

Strider 12 Sports balance bike is undoubtedly the best when it comes to balance, all thanks to its sturdy and firm stand. The carbon steel used in the construction makes it highly sturdy and balanced on a number of surfaces. Similarly, if your toddler likes to make some long glides, this one also has a footrest. My kid has used this and the lightweight made it absolutely easy for him to learn.

Can you add pedals to the balance bike?

Well, you can only add pedals to your kid’s balance bike, only if it comes with an optional pedal kit. This is because they have a certain type of composition that can work with or without pedals. Here, one of my favorites is the Strider 14X balance bike as it is designed to facilitate this pedal attachment kit. Other than this, you can always use half-width pedals to make the learning even more thrilling.

Concluding 18 Months Old Balance Bikes Review

In the end, balance bikes are undoubtedly the best alternatives for small kids to coordinate and learn the intuitive process of riding a cycle. So, if you want your kid to groom their biking skills from the beginning, it is a must-have. Finally, here are some of my recommendations that you can consider;

• Strider – 12 Sport Kids Balance Bike is best known for its ergonomic design, easy assembly process, and sturdy tires.
• ThinkMax Toddler Balance Bike is one of the best for its wide wheelbase, light yet firm wheels, and height adjustments.
• Bixe Green Aluminum Balance Bike is massively popular for its unique banana shape, firm tires, and upgraded height adjustments.

Lastly, I hope you soon will be able to find the right balance bike for your small 18 months old, with the help of this review guide.