GBP
Strider 14x Vs LittleBig Balance to Pedal Bike | In-Depth Comparison
Both the LittleBig and the Strider 14x help kids skip stabilisers and learn real balance skills early. LittleBig uniquely grows from a little balance bike to a big balance bike and then a 14" pedal bike on the same frame, while the Strider 14x is a 2-in-1 that converts from balance to pedal. Below we compare features, fit, and long-term value so you can choose what suits your rider best.
Pros Across Both
- Confidence-first fit with kid-sized contact points
- Tool-free saddle adjustments for quick tweaks as they grow
- Balance-first learning path before pedalling
Features Comparison Table
| Feature | LittleBig Convertible Bike | Strider 14x |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | 3-in-1: little balance → big balance → 14″ pedal bike | 2-in-1: 14″ balance bike → 14″ pedal bike |
| Wheel size & tyres | 14″ alloy rims, cartridge-bearing hubs, 1.95″ air tyres | 14″ alloy rims, alloy hubs, 1.75″ air tyres |
| Brakes | Front & rear child-reach hand brakes in all modes | UK front sidepull brake in balance bike mode, adds coaster in pedal mode. USA, no brake in balance bike mode, coaster in pedal mode. |
| Frame & fork | 6061 aluminium frame & aluminium fork | Steel frame & steel fork |
| Headset / steering | Sealed ball-bearing headset; threadless stem | Plastic bushing headset; alloy/steel stem |
| Age / fit intent | Approx. 2–6 years; grows through three stages | Approx. 3–6 years |
| Conversion to pedals | Yes — add LittleBig pedal kit | Yes — Strider Easy-Stride pedal kit |
| Warranty | Lifetime on frame & fork; 2 years on parts | 2-year limited |
| Value for money | One bike covers multiple stages & years | Covers two stages; no braking practice in balance mode |
Weight
LittleBig: 4.3 kg (balance) • 6.2 kg (with pedals).
Strider 14x: around 5.5–5.7 kg (balance) • about 6.9–7.0 kg (with pedals).
Lower weight helps with starts, stops and confidence; LittleBig balances light weight with stability and a low centre of gravity through all three stages.
Saddle Height Range
LittleBig: 30–53 cm in balance mode, with a low start retained when adding pedals (~37–53 cm).
Strider 14x: 38–55 cm.
A lower start makes it easier for kids to flat-foot when they first begin pedalling.
Components & Quality
Brakes: LittleBig includes front and rear V-brakes with short-reach levers from day one, so kids learn hand-braking early.
Strider 14x balance mode has front sidepull brake in the UK and adds a coaster (back pedal brake in pedal mode); US versions have no brake in balance bike mode, and only a coaster in pedal mode. Neither of these options is ideal as discussed in our post
Wheels & ride feel: LittleBig’s air tyres and cartridge-bearing hubs provide grip and comfort on mixed surfaces. Strider 14x also uses air tyres but narrower.
Controls & cockpit: LittleBig uses an alloy bar and threadless stem with a sealed bearing headset; grips and saddle are kid-sized for control and comfort. Strider 14x uses a plastic bushing headset and foam saddle.
Servicing & spares: LittleBig is built with standard bike parts you can service at any shop; we also stock all spares. Strider 14x uses several proprietary parts typically sourced via Strider’s retailer network.
Pedal kits: LittleBig’s pedal kit uses 89 mm alloy cranks and full-width resin pedals for grip (28T × 14T). Strider’s Easy-Stride kit uses 75 mm cranks with a narrower pedal profile (28T × 16T).
Long-Term Value
Buying once to cover more stages usually saves money and hassle. LittleBig’s three modes and higher-spec components mean it can serve for longer, then pass on to siblings. UK example pricing: LittleBig £325 (bike + pedals via our shop); Strider 14x about £308 (bike + pedals). US example pricing: LittleBig $380 (ex tax); Strider 14x about $290 (ex tax). Exact retail prices may vary by region and promotion.
Geometry Comparison Chart (If It's Your Thing!)
These measurements help explain when a child can safely start, how stable the bike feels, and how long it fits as they grow.
| Geometry / Fit | LittleBig Convertible Bike | Strider 14x |
|---|---|---|
| Saddle height range (balance) | 30–53 cm | 38–55 cm |
| Saddle height range (pedal) | ~37–53 cm (low start retained) | 38–55 cm |
| Handlebar / steering | Wide alloy bar; sealed bearing headset | Rise bar; plastic bushing headset |
| Tyre contact & ride feel | 14″ air tyres for grip and comfort | 14″ air tyres, narrower |
| Growth adaptability | Frame grows from little to big balance, then adds pedals — same bike, familiar fit | Height adjusts within balance phase; pedals add a second stage |
Should You Choose Strider 14x Balance Bike Vs LittleBig 3 in 1?
Pick Strider 14x if you want a larger balance bike that can convert later and you’re comfortable with no brakes in balance mode. Choose LittleBig if you want higher-quality touchpoints, real brakes from the start, a lower-start pedal setup, and one bike that spans more years with fewer compromises.
Key Takeaway
If you want the longest useful life, lighter weight, real hand brakes, and the smoothest transition to pedalling, LittleBig stands out. Strider 14x remains a capable 2-in-1, but LittleBig’s three-stage design, braking, and warranty make it the stronger one-and-done choice for most families.
