GBP
Strider 14x Vs LittleBig Balance to Pedal Bike | In Depth Comparison
We’ve been asked a few times recently about the difference between the Strider 14x and the LittleBig bike. At first glance they seem similar since they can both convert from a balance bike to pedal bike, but in reality they have a number of differences. Both the LittleBig and the Strider 14X are designed to bypass training wheels and instead the rider goes straight from a balance bike to pedalling on the same convertible bike.
If you want one bike that grows with your child from toddler to confident pedaller, the LittleBig 3-in-1 offers more stages, lighter weight, real hand brakes from day one, and a lifetime warranty.
The Strider 14x is a decent 2-in-1, but it lacks brakes in balance mode, uses a heavier steel frame, and offers a shorter overall fit window. For most families looking for a single purchase that lasts years and makes learning to pedal easier, LittleBig comes out ahead.
Frame and Fork
LittleBig Bike
Designed and hand assembled in Ireland, the LittleBig has a unique sleek frame design with a high quality finish. LittleBig has 3 modes: little balance bike, big balance bike and big pedal bike. The LittleBig available in 6 colours, all with a brushed alloy downtube: Silver Storm, Glitter Pink, Rocket Red, Indigo Go, Kingfisher Blue and Jungle Green.
Strider 14X
Made by balance bike giant Strider, the Strider 14x is the larger version of their popular balance bike, but pedals can be fitted too. It comes in two colours: Awesome Blue and Fantastic Green.
Brakes
LittleBig Bike
Front and rear hand operated alloy V brakes with kids specific short reach alloy levers. Using a balance bike with brakes allows kids to stop more easily and safely than using their feet.
Having front and rear brakes on a balance bike is particularly important for bigger, more confident riders or while going downhill.
If kids learn to use brakes on a balance bike, they won’t need to master this additional skill when transitioning to pedalling, making the process smoother and easier.
Strider 14X
USA versions of the Strider 14X come with a rear coaster (back pedal brake) only. This means it’s not possible to brake while in balance bike mode (since there are no pedals fitted to operate the brake) In pedal mode only the rear wheel is slowed which can lead to skidding.
The UK version has a front and rear sidepull brakes with plastic brake levers, these brakes are not as powerful as V brakes and require more hand power to slow the bike.
Wheels
LittleBig Bike
Cartridge bearing alloy hubs laced to 14″ alloy rims with 20 spokes. 1.95″ wide pneumatic (air) tyres to provide cushioning and grip on varied terrain.
Strider 14X
14″ alloy rims laced to alloy hubs with chrome spokes. 1.75″ wide pneumatic tyres.
Saddle Height and Age Range
LittleBig bike
The LittleBig bike normally suits kids age from 2 to 6 years old. We’ve even seen some kids pedalling at age 2 and a half!
The LittleBig saddle height ranges from 30cm-53cm (14″-22″) as shown in detail in our sizing guide.
Strider 14X
Strider recommends their bike for kids age 3-6 years old.
The Strider 14X saddle ranges from 38cm-55cm (15″-22″)
Pedal Conversion Kit
LittleBig Pedal Kit
The LittleBig’s pedal kit comes with a full width resin body for plenty of comfort and grip.
89mm alloy cranks to provide sufficient leverage while not requiring too much bend at the knee at the top of the pedal stroke. 28 tooth chainring with 14 tooth rear sprocket.
Pedal kit is sold separately to the LittleBig balance bike.
Strider 14X Pedal Kit
Strider 14X “Easy Stride” pedals have a narrow design to help riders to push off the ground while starting off. However these will not provide as much grip while pedalling.
75mm long cranks are okay for smaller, powerful riders but not for those with longer legs. 28 tooth front chainring with 16 tooth rear sprocket. Pedal kit is sold separately to the Strider 14X balance bike.
Controls
LittleBig bike
500mm wide, 80mm rise alloy handlebar. Alloy aheadset (threadless) stem with sealed ball bearing headset for smooth, rattle free steering and longevity. Velo soft rubber grips with flanged ends, Velo kids specific padded saddle.
Strider 14X
68mm rise with alloy/ steel stem and plastic bushing headset. Strider grips with flanged ends. Strider foam saddle with extra long seatpost.
Weight
LittleBig bike
Balance bike: 4.3kg(8.8lbs)
Pedal bike: 4.9kg (10.8lbs)
Strider 14X
Balance bike: 5.5kg (12lbs)
Pedal bike: 7.0kg (15.5lbs)
Servicing
LittleBig Bike
The LittleBig is built like a real bike, not a toy and many of the parts can be serviced or repaired at your local bike shop.
Alternatively, we stock all parts of the bike so can send replacements if ever needed (like if you reverse over the bike after your little one left it in the driveway!).
Strider 14X
The Strider 14x uses many of Strider’s own parts cranks, saddle, headset etc) which would need to be sourced from Strider directly.
Strider has a network of bike retailers and resellers so it may be difficult and take time to find the correct place to direct your questions.
Warranty
LittleBig Bike
Lifetime warranty on frame and fork, 2-years on all other parts. No registration required. Full warranty info here.
Strider 14X
2-year warranty against manufacturing defects
LittleBig Price - United Kingdom
£325 for the bike and pedals from littlebig bikes shop. We have an ongoing discount for signing up to our newsletter.
Strider 14X Price - United Kingdom
£308 for bike and pedals from striderbikes.co.uk
LittleBig Price - United States
$380 for the bike and pedals (ex tax).
Strider 14X Price - United States
$290 for bike and pedals (ex tax). StriderBikes.com
Choosing your child’s first bike can be a daunting decision—balance bike or pedal bike? Lightweight or sturdy? Will it grow with them? Here we compare two popular convertibles: the LittleBig Convertible Bike (3-in-1) and the Strider 14x (2-in-1). This side-by-side look focuses on the facts so you can confidently pick the right ride.
Comparison Table
| Feature | LittleBig | Strider 14x |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Conversion | 3-in-1: little balance → bigger balance → 14″ pedal bike | 2-in-1: 14″ balance → 14″ pedal bike |
| Key Features | Grows through three stages on one bike Lightweight alloy frame & fork Dual child-specific hand brakes in all modes Kids-sized cockpit and components |
Converts to pedal bike with kit Steel frame & fork Coaster brake in pedal mode; no brakes in balance mode Child-sized cockpit |
| Age Range | Approx. 2–6 yrs | Approx. 3–6 yrs |
| Saddle Height — Balance Mode | 30–52 cm | 38–55 cm |
| Saddle Height — Pedal Mode | 37–52 cm | 38–55 cm |
| Weight | 4.3 kg (balance) / 6.3 kg (with pedals) | 5.7 kg (balance) / 6.9 kg (with pedals) |
| Brakes | Front & rear hand brakes in all modes | No brakes in balance mode; coaster brake with pedal kit |
| Frame & Fork | 6061 alloy frame & alloy fork | Steel frame & steel fork |
| Headset | Smooth ball bearin headset | Polymer plastic headset |
| Warranty | Lifetime on frame & fork; 2 years on parts | 2-year limited warranty |
| Value for Money | One bike covers multiple stages (little balance → big balance → pedal bike) | Covers two stages; coaster brake does not allow braking practice before moving to pedals |
Why LittleBig Shines for Parents
More Usable Years
Three distinct setups (little balance, big balance, pedal) extend the fit window from about age 2 through 6, so you buy once and ride for years.
Lighter, Easier Handling
Low overall weight makes starts, stops, and steering easier for smaller riders.
Real Brakes from Day One
Child-friendly front & rear hand brakes in balance mode let kids learn proper braking early, then carry that skill straight into pedalling (no coaster to “back-pedal brake”).
Lower Start in Pedal Mode
The clever drive setup keeps the seat low even with pedals installed, so kids can flat-foot when they’re new to pedalling.
Built-to-Last + Peace of Mind
Durable alloy frame & fork with a lifetime warranty provides long-term confidence.
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 3-stage design, braking, and warranty make it the stronger one-and-done choice for most families.
Conclusion on Strider 14 X vs LitteBig bike
Okay, hands up, I’m biased but we wanted to be as objective as possible in this comparison and read a number of other reviews including twowheelingtots.com, MadeForMums, Enduro MountainBike Magazine, Road.cc, Seth’s Bike Hacks, striderbikes.com along with hundreds of customer reviews.
If you have any questions not answered here, check our our Best Balance Bike Guide, FAQ’s page, learn more about us, or contact us and we’d be delighted to help.
