Can You Use a Pedal Bike as a Balance Bike?

While you can use a pedal bike as a balance bike by removing the pedals — but it’s not ideal. Standard pedal bikes are heavier, taller, and harder for young children to manage. A purpose-built or convertible balance bike, like the LittleBig Convertible Balance Bike, offers a far better learning experience and long-term value.

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Using a Pedal Bike as a Balance Bike

Removing the pedals from a kids’ bike lets them push along with their feet to practice balance and steering. However, it’s not as simple as it sounds — especially if the bike isn’t designed for this setup.

Key Considerations

• Bike Size: Pedal bikes are often heavier and larger than balance bikes, making them difficult for smaller kids to handle.
• Saddle Height: The seat on most pedal bikes can’t go low enough for a young child to reach the ground safely.
• Brakes: Not all pedal bikes have easy-to-use hand brakes suitable for toddlers.

How to Convert a Pedal Bike to a Balance Bike

1. Remove the pedals using a pedal spanner:
   • Right pedal → counter-clockwise
   • Left pedal → clockwise
2. Lower the seat so your child can sit with both feet flat on the ground.
3. Check clearance — many standard bikes remain too tall, even at the lowest seat position.

Pros

• Cost-effective: Reusing an existing bike can save money.
• Smooth transition: Once the child masters balance, pedals can be reattached.

Cons

• Heavier & taller: Difficult for smaller kids to push and control.
• Poor geometry: Standard frames aren’t designed for scooting or gliding.
• Limited adjustability: Kids quickly outgrow the setup.

Why a Convertible Balance Bike Is Better

A bike designed to grow with your child removes all the guesswork. The LittleBig starts as a lightweight balance bike and easily converts to a proper pedal bike when your child is ready — no tools, no hassle, no stabilisers.

LittleBig Advantages

• Lightweight aluminium frame for easy handling.
• Adjustable geometry — grows from “little” to “big.”
• Quick, tool-free conversion between balance and pedal modes.
• Ideal for ages 2–6, replacing the need for multiple bikes.

This means your child learns to ride faster, with more confidence — and you save money in the long run.

How to Remove Pedals from the LittleBig Bike

Designed for easy conversion:

1. Unscrew the pedal kit from the frame.
2. Remove the rear wheel and chain.
3. Refit the rear wheel — it’s now a balance bike.

No special tools or mechanical know-how required.

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How to Remove Pedals and Cranks from a Regular Bike

For comparison, removing pedals and cranks on a standard kids’ bike is more complicated:

• You’ll need a pedal wrench and possibly a crank puller.
• The right pedal unscrews counter-clockwise; the left pedal unscrews clockwise.
• Stuck pedals may require penetrating oil and force.
• Crank removal varies by type (square taper, ISIS, Hollowtech II, etc.).

It’s time-consuming and often not worth the effort — especially if the bike isn’t a good fit for balance training.

Conclusion: Invest in the Bike That Grows With Your Child

While it’s possible to convert a pedal bike, the result rarely matches a purpose-built design. The LittleBig bike eliminates frustration and helps kids develop balance naturally — all in one clever, lightweight package that grows with them from toddler to confident rider.

Give your child the best start on two wheels — and skip the DIY struggle.

Shop the LittleBig Convertible Balance Bike today and make learning to ride simple, fun, and lasting.