GBP
Strider Balance Bike Vs LittleBig 3 in 1
Choosing between the Strider 12 Sport and the LittleBig Convertible Bike comes down to your time horizon. The Strider 12 Sport is a lightweight, simple balance bike that helps very young riders get moving fast. The LittleBig starts life as a balance bike too—but uniquely grows into a bigger balance bike and then a 14″ pedal bike on the same frame. Below, we compare features, ride feel, and geometry so you can pick the right path for your rider.
If you want a single bike that carries your child from first strides to confident pedalling, LittleBig’s 3-in-1 design, real brakes, and 14″ air tyres offer better control, comfort, and longevity than the Strider 12 Sport (a great starter balance bike, but balance-only with foam tyres and no brakes). For long-term value and an easier transition to pedals, LittleBig comes out ahead.
Pros Across Both
- Confidence-first fit with kid-sized contact points.
- Tool-free saddle height adjustments for quick growth tweaks.
- Balance bikes will always be better than using stabilisers
Features Comparison
| Feature | LittleBig Convertible Bike | Strider 12 Sport |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | 3-in-1: little balance → bigger balance → 14″ pedal bike | 12″ balance bike (balance-only) |
| Wheel size & tyres | 14″ alloy wheels with air (pneumatic) tyres for grip & comfort | 12″ moulded wheels with flat-free foam (EVA) tyres |
| Brakes | Front & rear child-specific hand brakes in all modes | No brakes |
| Frame & fork | 6061 aluminium frame & fork (rust-free, lightweight) | Steel frame & steel fork |
| Weight | 4.3 kg (balance) • 6.2 kg (with pedals) | 3.0 kg (balance only) |
| Age / fit intent | Approx. 2–6 years (spans balance to first pedals) | Approx. 1–4 years (early balance stage) |
| Conversion to pedals | Yes — add LittleBig pedal kit (same bike, no frame swap) | No — separate 14″ pedal bike required later (and these cost a lot more than the equivalent balance bike!) |
| Value for money | One purchase covers multiple stages and years | Great early starter; limited to balance-only phase |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty on frame & fork; 2 years on parts | 2-year limited warranty |
Weight
Weight plays a huge role in a child’s confidence. The Strider balance bike is impressively light for small toddlers, making it easy to push and lift. The LittleBig, while slightly heavier, balances this with stable geometry, low center of gravity and the ability to grow into a pedal bike. For families wanting one bike for multiple stages, the extra functionality of LittleBig outweighs the small weight difference.
Saddle Height Range
One of the key factors in how long a bike lasts is the saddle height range. The Strider 12 Sport fits younger riders early on, but the LittleBig’s wider height range means it can start low for balance practice and extend much higher as kids grow—and even handle the transition to pedals on the same frame.
Components & Quality
The Strider balance bike keeps things simple with a steel frame and foam tyres and plastic bushings on moving parts. The LittleBig adds premium touches like aluminium frame and fork, air-filled tyres for comfort, sealed cartrige wheel bearings and front and rear hand brakes. These higher-quality components give the LittleBig a smoother, more controlled ride on a variety of surfaces and are easily replaced or repaired at any bike shop.
Long-Term Value
Buying a Strider balance bike covers the early balance stage, but you’ll need a separate (far more costly) pedal bike later. The LittleBig saves families money and hassle by converting from balance to pedal mode on the same frame. Its higher build quality and longer fit range mean it can serve siblings or stay in the family for years.
Geometry Comparison Chart (If It's Your Thing!)
These measurements matter because they determine 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 12 Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Saddle height range (balance) | 30–52 cm | 28–43 cm |
| Saddle height range (pedal) | ~37–52 cm (low start in pedal mode) | N/A |
| Handlebar height range | Broad adjustment for both balance & pedal stages | 46–56 cm |
| Tyre contact & ride feel | Air tyres absorb bumps, grip better on varied surfaces | Foam tyres are maintenance-free but firmer with less grip |
| Growth adaptability | Frame “grows” into bigger balance, then adds pedals—same bike, familiar fit | Height adjusts for growth within balance phase only |
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick Strider 12 Sport if you want a simple, lightweight entry into balance-only riding for very young kids if you’re happy to buy a separate pedal bike later. Choose LittleBig if you want a smoother skills progression (learn balance, then braking, then pedalling) with better traction and comfort from air tyres, and the convenience of converting the very same bike to pedals when your child is ready.
Key Takeaway
For families who prefer one purchase that lasts multiple years and stages, LittleBig offers the stronger long-term value. It keeps the learning curve gentle—kids master balance and braking first, then add pedals—without changing bikes.
