What Features Should I Look For in Balance Bikes?

Balance bikes are the coolest thing since sliced bread, at least for kids, anyway. If you've got a young child between the ages of one and five, and are looking for one of these - then it's not difficult to find. With an assortment of suppliers and the internet, you'll always have a wonderful range to choose from. However, some manufacturers stand apart in terms of quality. Here are a few features you should look for when buying a balance bike.

• Adjustable seat: Balance bikes are perfect for kids between the ages of one to five. This means that as your kid grows, you need to be able to adjust the seat for his or her size. An adjustable seat is pivotal as it will enable you to keep the same bike for over four years. You won't need to continue to buy bigger bikes for your toddlers.

• Foot rests: The whole point of a balance bike is to teach kids how to balance on two wheels. They do this by pushing off and gliding on the bike (instead of pedaling). Make sure that the balance bike you are looking at has adequate foot rests for your kids. So that when they do glide, they can have their feet supported.

• Puncture Proof Tyres: Find a manufacturer who provides puncture proof tyres. If you're cycling with your kids in open places there is a danger of getting a flat tyre. If a piece of glass or other dangerous object flattens your child's tyre it can stop your kids riding and they could fall and hurt themselves.

• Metallic Frame: While there are wooden frames available in a balance bike, it is advisable to purchase the sturdier, long-shelf life metallic frames. The metallic frame has been designed in such a way to actively improve your child's motor-skills and co-ordination making it an essential feature when purchasing a balance bike. It also looks more like a real bike - how many adults do you see on wooden bikes?

• Colour: Find a supplier who has an assortment of colours to choose from. Usually, most manufacturers will only have two or three colours. Find a supplier who provides a variety of colours. This way your kid gets what they really want, rather than settling for what is available.

Remember that when it comes to purchasing toys for your kids quality should always be the first criterion. Find quality balance bikes and watch as your child's confidence and motor skills increase.

Melanie Thomas (CEO Melrose Kids Ltd) is a mother of two boys and lives in London, England. Melrose Kids Ltd are the official distributor of the strider bike and other learning toys in the UK and Ireland. To find out more about balance bikes visit the Strider Sports website.

The Strider PREbike teaches children how to ride a bike. It helps children to learn steering and balance without stabilisers. It also helps develop co-ordination and confidence while mastering obstacles. The Strider PREbike is great for toddlers aged 18 months to 5 years! It comes in six great colours - Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Pink and Orange.The unique features of a Strider PREbike are: Super light design (just 6.9Ibs/3.1kg!); Puncture proof EVA Polymer tyres; Welded steel frame and fork;Frame-integrated Launchpad footrests for advanced riding development; and Adjustable handlebar and saddle height for growing children from 30"-42" (76-106cm tall). An optional seat with a longer post for older (4+ years old) and taller children is also available.