Balance Bike vs Training Wheels: Which Is Better for Learning to Ride?

When teaching a child to ride a bike, there are two common approaches. Start with a balance bike and introduce pedals later, or start with a pedal bike fitted with training wheels (stabilisers).

I've always recommended learning to balance first. And having spent years designing children's bikes and teaching my own kids to ride, I've seen how much easier the transition to pedals can be when children already know how to balance.

But why does the order matter so much?

Let's look at how both approaches work, what children actually learn and which gives them the best start.

Balance Bike vs Training Wheels: At a Glance

How Does a Balance Bike Work?

A balance bike has no pedals. Children start by walking with the bike between their legs, then gradually begin pushing, striding and gliding with their feet lifted.

As they become more confident, they learn to steer, lean into corners and make the little adjustments needed to stay upright.

They're developing the most important skill in cycling - balance - without having to think about pedalling at the same time.

How Do Training Wheels Work?

Training wheels are small wheels attached to either side of a pedal bike. They help support the bike so children can pedal without having to balance independently.

That can make getting started feel easier because the child can concentrate on pedalling.

But there's a catch. When the training wheels come off, the bike behaves differently, and the child still has to learn how to balance on two wheels.

Which Helps Children Learn to Ride Faster?

One of the biggest differences is the order in which children learn their skills.

Balance Bike: Balance First, Pedalling Later

With a balance bike, children develop balance, steering and control before introducing pedals.

Once they're comfortable gliding with both feet lifted, adding pedalling becomes the main new challenge.

That's why many children who have mastered a balance bike can make the transition to pedalling surprisingly quickly.

Training Wheels: Pedalling First, Balance Later

Training wheels take the opposite approach.

Children learn to pedal while the bike is supported, but when the training wheels are removed, they need to develop balance while continuing to pedal.

For some children, this can make the transition more frustrating than it needs to be.

Steering, Cornering and Bike Control

This is a difference parents don't always think about.

When you ride a two-wheeled bike, steering and balance work together. The bike naturally leans into corners, and the rider makes little adjustments to stay upright.

A balance bike lets children experience these movements from their earliest rides.

Training wheels restrict how far the bike can lean, so children don't develop quite the same feel for steering and cornering.

Once the supporting wheels are removed, they have to get used to how the bike handles without them.

Weight: Which Is Easier for a Child to Control?

I've always believed that a child's first bike should be as light as possible.

A lightweight bike is easier to push, steer, stop and pick up after a wobble. That makes a big difference when you're only two or three years old.

Balance bikes are generally lighter than pedal bikes because they don't need a drivetrain. Training wheels add further weight to an already heavier bike.

Of course, not all balance bikes weigh the same, so it's worth checking the actual weight before buying.

Are Balance Bikes Safer Than Training Wheels?

Neither type of bike eliminates the risk of falling, and children should always ride with a properly fitted helmet in a suitable environment.

But the way the two bikes handle is different.

On a balance bike, children can keep their feet close to the ground while learning to control their speed and direction.

Training wheels work best on smooth, level ground. On bumps, slopes or uneven surfaces, the side wheels can catch or lift, sometimes making the bike unexpectedly unstable.

Whichever approach you choose, I'd recommend starting somewhere flat, quiet and away from traffic.

What About Confidence?

Confidence is a huge part of learning to ride.

On a balance bike, children gradually develop confidence in their own ability to control the bike. They start with both feet on the ground, then naturally begin lifting them as their balance improves.

With training wheels, children may feel confident pedalling while the bike is supported. But removing that support can feel like starting over.

I've always preferred letting children develop their skills gradually, without rushing them onto pedals before they're ready.

Do Children Ever Need Training Wheels?

For most children, I'd recommend learning on a balance bike rather than using training wheels.

But every child is different, and some may benefit from a different approach depending on their confidence, coordination or individual needs.

If your child already has a pedal bike with training wheels, you may be able to remove the pedals and lower the saddle so they can practise balancing first, provided the bike fits properly and can be used safely in that configuration.

For more detail on the drawbacks of stabilisers, read our 10 Reasons Not to Use Stabilisers.

When Should Your Child Move From Balance to Pedals?

There's no particular age when children need to start pedalling.

Instead, I'd look for a few signs that they're ready:

• They can glide confidently with both feet lifted.
• They can steer and change direction smoothly.
• They can control their speed and stop safely.
• They're interested in giving pedals a try.

That last point matters. Children often learn more willingly when they're excited about taking the next step.

For a more detailed breakdown, read our guide to 6 Signs Your Child Is Ready to Start Pedalling.

Can a Balance Bike Convert Into a Pedal Bike?

Yes, and it's something I'd always recommend considering when choosing your child's first bike.

A convertible balance bike allows children to learn to balance first, then move onto pedals when they're ready, without having to get used to a completely different bike.

That's why I designed LittleBig with three stages. It starts as a little balance bike, grows into a bigger balance bike and converts into a pedal bike using an optional pedal kit.

Children can keep learning on the same familiar bike, at their own pace.

Explore the LittleBig Bike

Balance Bike vs Training Wheels: Which Would I Choose?

For most children, I'd choose a balance bike.

Learning to balance first helps children develop the skills they'll actually need to ride independently. Once they're confident gliding, steering and stopping, pedalling becomes the next step rather than a completely new challenge.

Training wheels can help children practise pedalling, but they don't teach independent balance in the same way.

If you're choosing your child's first bike, I'd focus on finding one that's lightweight, fits properly and gives them the confidence to learn at their own pace.

Our Balance Bike Guide explains what to look for, while our Balance Bike Age Guide helps you choose the right size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are balance bikes better than training wheels?

For most children, I'd recommend a balance bike. It develops balance, steering and control before pedalling, which can make the transition to independent riding easier.

Why can training wheels make learning harder?

Training wheels support the bike while children pedal, so they don't need to balance independently. Once removed, children still need to develop that skill.

What age should a child start using a balance bike?

Many children start around two years old, although the right age depends on their size, coordination and confidence. A properly fitting bike matters more than a particular birthday.

Can you remove pedals instead of using training wheels?

Yes, some pedal bikes can be used for balance practice by removing the pedals and lowering the saddle. Make sure the bike fits correctly and that the pedals can be safely removed and refitted.

Can children learn to ride without training wheels?

Absolutely. Many children learn balance first on a balance bike and progress directly to pedalling without ever using training wheels.