Secondhand Beginner Bike

[BeccaBean]

Hello. Feel like we’ve left it quite late to get a bike for our very tall, almost 5 year old. She’s never ridden a bike before and is quite cautious. Really want her to learn this summer. Has anyone got any tips around what type of bike, preferably one we can find secondhand, would suit? Is she too old / big for one that starts as a balance bike or should we go for stabIlisers. Thanks x

Islabikes and frog bikes are fab for beginners - good luck!

Thanks Latemumma! Anyone have thoughts on stabilisers v balance bike for almost 5 year old? Thanks x

I would look for a cheap second hand bike and take the pedals off so she can get the hang of balance. Put them back on when she is ready to learn next stage and then maybe a new bike for Christmas/Birthday.

In my experience, at her age she will be two enough for a normal bike, don't bother with stabilisers, but at first you can take the pedals off so she can use it as a balance bike.

There are plenty of bikes that will so the job, you don't have to fork out hundreds for an isla or frog (even second hand!). Just make sure it's not too heavy.

Put her on a normal bike. We have an Islabike which we used as a balance bike for a week or so before putting the pedals on.

Get a bike in the right frame size and take the pedals off.

I was in a similar position last year. I found a second hand SCOOT balance bike which comes with a spare seat-rod to raise the seat high for taller kids. Just took a few attempts with it before she could ride a regular bike with no stabilisers.

Get a bike with large wheels in relation to frame size, Islabikes are brilliant and are easy to sell on again when outgrown.

Pinnacle bikes from Evans are also nice and light.

Another recommendation for Islabikes here. My DS age 4 has just learned to ride one within a day and a half, having struggled with an old far heavier bike. The difference was astonishing and I am now extolling their virtues to everyone I know.

Thanks so much for everyone's tips!