The kids’ cycling phases (or stages of learning to ride a bike) typically progress through several key milestones as children develop balance, coordination, and confidence. While every child develops at their own pace on their kids bike, here are the general cycling phases every parent should know, focusing on skills and kids bike type.

Balance Bike Phase (1,5–4 years): Learning Balance

  • Bike type: Balance bike (no pedals, 2 wheels).
  • Skills developed: Balance, gliding, braking with feet, and handling control.
  • Why it matters: Kids who start with balance bikes often skip training wheels entirely.

The push bike (also called a balance bike) is a game-changer. With no pedals or training wheels, kids learn to balance naturally while gliding with their feet.

It helps children develop core strength and coordination — skills that make transitioning to a pedal bike much easier later on.

Tip: Choose a lightweight junior bike with an adjustable seat height so your child can place both feet flat on the ground.

Pedal Bike with Training Wheels (3–6 Years): Building Confidence

  • Bike type: Small pedal bike with training wheels (12–16”).
  • Skills developed: Pedal coordination, confidence, and muscle control.
  • Transition tip: Gradually raise training wheels until the child balances without them.

Once balance is mastered, kids are ready for their first pedal bike — often equipped with training wheels for extra support.

This stage introduces the rhythm of pedaling, braking, and steering all at once. The training wheel gives children the confidence to ride independently while maintaining safety.

Gradually, parents can raise or remove the training wheels as the child’s balance improves — marking another big step in their cycling journey.

Pedal Bike without Training Wheels (4–7 years): Independent Riding

  • Bike type: Standard kids’ bike (no training wheels).
  • Skills developed: Balance + pedaling + braking + turning — all together!
  • Key milestone: The “first solo ride” — a big confidence boost for kids.

This is the moment every child (and parent) remembers — the first solo ride without training wheels.

At this stage, the kids bike transforms from a learning tool into a gateway to freedom. Kids begin to master balance, control, and maneuvering, and start exploring short rides in parks or safe open spaces.

Encourage them to wear proper cycling gear and teach them basic safety rules before hitting the road.

Skill Refinement (6–10 Years): Growing with a Junior Bike

As children grow taller and more confident, it’s time to upgrade to a junior bike — a larger and more robust bicycle for kids designed for longer rides.

This stage is all about refining riding skills such as cornering, using gears (if available), and learning to ride uphill or downhill safely.

Many children start to develop their riding style here — some may prefer mountain biking, while others enjoy smooth paths on a hybrid kids bike.

Suggested models: Polygon Relic 20 MTB Junior | Polygon Relic 24 MTB Junior | Polygon Razor BMX

How to Choose the Right Bicycle for Kids

When buying a bicycle for kids, consider:

  • Size and Fit: Check the kids bike size chart to find the perfect frame height.
  • Bike Type: Start with a push bike for toddlers, move to a pedal bike with training wheels, and then transition to a junior bike.
  • Safety Features: Ensure the bike has reliable brakes, non-slip pedals, and comfortable grips.

Kids Bike Size Guide: Finding the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right size bicycle for kids ensures comfort, control, and confidence. Here’s a quick reference guide to help you find the ideal kids bike size based on height and age:

Age (Years) Height (cm) Wheel Size (inches) Bike Type Recommendation
2–4 85–100 12” Push bike / Balance bike
3–5 95–110 14” Pedal bike with training wheels
5–7 110–125 16” Pedal bike / Junior bike
7–9 125–135 20” Junior bike / MTB kids
9–12 135–150 24” Junior mountain / hybrid bike

Tip: Always ensure your child can touch the ground with their feet when seated on the saddle.

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Start Their Cycling Journey Today

Each phase of learning to ride a bicycle for kids is an exciting part of growing up. From the first glide on a push bike to the thrill of mastering a pedal bike, every ride helps build strength, coordination, and confidence.

At Rodalink bicycle shop Singapore, you’ll find a wide selection of kids bikes and junior bikes designed for comfort, safety, and fun — perfect for every age and riding style. Shopping at Rodalink also comes with exclusive benefits that make your purchase even more rewarding:

  • Official Warranty – Enjoy peace of mind with genuine product warranty for every bike purchase.
  • Flexible Instalment Plans – Ride now and pay later with convenient 0% interest installment options.
  • Free Shipping – Get your new bicycle for kids delivered straight to your door at no extra cost.
  • Rodalink Points Rewards – Earn bonus points with every purchase and redeem them for discounts or accessories on your next order.

Shop the best bicycle for kids at Rodalink Singapore bike shop and start your child’s cycling journey with confidence, quality, and unbeatable benefits!

Benefit Member Rodalink