GBP
Smartrike Vs LittleBig 3 in 1 Kids Bike Comparison
Both the Smartrike Xtend and the LittleBig Convertible Bike promise a “bike that grows with your child,” but they take very different approaches. The Smartrike uses an extendable frame with add-on pedal kit, while the LittleBig transforms from a little balance bike, into a bigger balance bike, and finally into a proper 14″ pedal bike—all on the same lightweight frame.
If you want a bike that feels like a real bike from day one (with proper air tyres, brakes, and quality components), LittleBig’s 3-in-1 design offers a smoother learning curve, better control, and longer-lasting value.
The Smartrike has an expandable concept, but at over 9.5 kg, only a front brake in balance bike mode, and with lower end construction, it can be a more difficult ride for little riders.
Pros Across Both
- Multi-stage use (balance + pedal options).
- Adjustable design to grow with your child.
- Encourage balance-first learning before adding pedals—proven better than stabilisers.
Features Comparison
| Feature | LittleBig Convertible Bike | Smartrike Xtend |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | 3-in-1: little balance → bigger balance → 14″ pedal bike | Adjustable 3-stage frame + optional pedal kit |
| Saddle height range | 30–52 cm | 39–54 cm |
| Brakes | Front & rear child-specific hand brakes (balance & pedal modes) | Front hand sidepull brake in balance mode, back-pedal coaster in pedal mode |
| Frame & fork | 6061 aluminium frame & fork (light, durable, rust-free) | Plastic and magnesium hybrid extendable frame |
| Weight | 4.3 kg (balance bike) • 6.2 kg (pedal bike) | 6.7 kg (balance bike) • 8.3 kg (pedal bike) |
| Age / fit intent | Approx. 2–6 years (spans balance to first pedals) | Approx. 3–7 years (heavier for younger riders) |
| Conversion to pedals | Yes — add LittleBig pedal kit so kids can start with saddle as low as 39 cm | Yes — but note cranks are short and pedals are narrow |
| Value for money | One bike, multiple years & riding stages, high-end finish and serviceable parts | Expandable frame, but heavy and lower quality |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty on frame & fork | 2 years |
Weight
Weight is crucial for kids’ confidence. At over 6.7kg in balance bike mode (55% heavier than LittleBig balance bike!), the Smartrike Xtend is much heavier than most children’s pedal bikes—making starts, stops, and simple handling more difficult. The LittleBig, by contrast, keeps things light: just 4.3 kg as a balance bike and 6.2 kg with pedals. That difference means kids can manage the LittleBig independently, giving them more freedom and confidence earlier.
Saddle Height Range
The Smartrike’s extendable frame allows it to fit from around age 3, but it doesn’t start as low as the LittleBig. LittleBig’s saddle starts from 30 cm and grows all the way up to 52 cm, covering the balance phase and the first years of pedalling. The reach also grows on both bikes, the Smartrike via the telescopic downtube, and the LittleBig through the patented twisting frame design.
Components & Quality
The Smartrike is built more like a toy with lower quality components and protruding wheel bolts, saddle prone to tearing, difficult to read instructions and flimsy tools. The LittleBig is built like a real bike: aluminium frame, air tyres, sealed cartridge bearings, and dual brakes—meaning it rides more smoothly, handles more safely, and can be repaired or upgraded at any standard bike shop.
Brakes
Braking setup makes a big difference in how safe and confident kids feel. The Smartrike Xtend has a front hand brake, but it only works in balance bike mode. Relying on a front brake alone can risk sudden stops and the chance of pitching over the bars. Once converted to pedal mode, the Smartrike adds a coaster (back-pedal) brake. Coaster brakes can be more difficult for kids to control when learning to pedal, as they stop the wheel suddenly skidding the wheel. As noted by TwoWheelingTots - "When the bike has a coaster brake, this back pedaling will cause the bike to stop, the child will lose their momentum, and is likely fall or crash."
The LittleBig includes both front and rear child-specific hand brakes in all modes. This lets kids learn to modulate braking smoothly and safely from the start, while also giving them the same kind of brake setup they’ll find on bigger bikes later on. It’s a more natural and confidence-building way to learn braking skills. Read more about the importance of brakes on a kids bike here.
Long-Term Value
The Smartrike Xtend expands as your child grows, but its weight and toy-like parts may shorten its usable lifespan. The LittleBig’s higher-quality build, customer support and genuine bike feel mean it can easily last through siblings, and be passed down to family or friends for years.
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick the Smartrike Xtend if you’re mainly riding smooth pavements, want an expandable frame, and don’t mind the heavy weight.
Choose the LittleBig if you want a lightweight, “real bike” feel with air tyres, proper brakes, and a simpler path from balance to pedals that make it easier and safer for kids to learn at their own pace.
Key Takeaway
For families who want a genuine bike that lasts through multiple stages, the LittleBig 3-in-1 stands out. It starts earlier, weighs less, rides better, has premium quality and makes the transition to pedalling smoother—all while lasting longer and offering better value over time.
More Bike Comparisons
- Strider balance bike Vs LittleBig 3 in 1
- Strider 14x vs LittleBig Bike
- LittleBig vs Decathlon BTwin 2-in-1
- Woom Go 2 Vs Frog 38 Vs LittleBig Bike
- Guardian Vs Woom Vs LittleBig 3-in-1
References:
https://smartrike.com/products/xtend-bike
https://www.mumsnet.com/reviews/smartrike-xtend-3-stage-bike-review
https://www.twowheelingtots.com/smart-trike-xtend-mg-convertible-balance-bike/
