A tricycle or trike is a great way for kids to learn some aspects of bike riding such as cycling and steering. It is also a super fun toy for kids to play with in the house and out in the backyard.
There’s a wide variety of designs and styles of tricycles to choose from including versatile trikes that transform as your child grows, puncture-proof EVA tricycles and foldable trikes that are great for travelling.
Most parents buy tricycles in anticipation of buying a real 2-wheeled bike a bit later on.
It’s true that tricycles can help kids learn how to ride a bike. They help them practice how to pedal and steer. They also help them develop the leg power needed to ride a proper bike later.
However, if your aim is to help your child to learn how to ride a bike as quickly as possible I recommend a balance or push bike instead.
A balance bike has two wheels but lacks pedals and a drive train (the chain and hub). It helps kids learn how to balance and steer more quickly than a tricycle.
That being said, a tricycle is great in certain situations. For very young children for instance – between 1 and 3 years – a tricycle might be a better option.
If you are not in a hurry to get your kids a proper bike until they are a bit older, then a trike is also a great choice. It’s still lots of fun and exposes kids to the basics of riding a bike.
Also, a tricycle is more than just a 3-wheeled bike to train kids how to ride. It’s also a fun toy that your kid will love.
Benefits of a Tricycle
- Helps kids learn how to pedal and steer a bike.
- Helps kids develop the leg power they need to properly pedal a bicycle.
- They help young kids improve their coordination and balance.
- They are fun to ride.
What to Consider When Choosing a Tricycle for Kids
Since you are most likely buying the trike for a young child, safety is important. Look for a trike that is well made. If you are buying one for a toddler who is less than 2 years old, make sure it comes with a safety harness.
It’s also very important that you choose the right size. Check the manufacturer’s age recommendations and make sure you child can comfortably reach the pedals and handles when on the tricycle.
If your child is less than 2 years old, they most likely don’t know how to pedal or don’t have the strength to do it. So you’ll need to push them around.
To save your back, find a trike that comes with a push bar.
Finally, make sure you buy a sturdy well-made tricycle that will last long. Like any other kids toy, it will get bashed around a lot. Get one that will withstand lots of abuse.
The Best Trike for Kids Reviews [UK Market]
1. Kiddo Blue 4-in-1 Children’s Tricycle
This is a versatile tricycle that grows with your child from when they are just 18 months up to 5 years. Most of the components can be adjusted or even completely removed as your child grows.
For young kids it can be used as a simple push chair. Place them on the removable padded seat and secure them with the 3-point harness. There are also removable arm barriers on the sides for added safety and a removable canopy to keep the sun out.
For the parent’s convenience, there is a push bar at the rear to steer the tricycle. A grocery bag attached to the push handle allows you to store your stuff or shopping.
There are adjustable footrests for kids who can’t yet peddle.
As your child grows older, you can remove most of the parts including the canopy, arm barriers, safety harness and footrests and let them control the bike on their own.
A rear storage bucket provides space for them to carry their smaller toys. There is also a bell to add a bit of fun to the riding experience.
The bike is well made. It will easily last for years.
What we like about it:
- One of the most versatile tricycles you can buy for your child.
- A well-made trike that will last long.
- Plenty of safety features for younger riders.
2. Radio Flyer 97168 Fold 2 Go Trike, Pink
If you are looking for a portable tricycle, this is one of the best.
It has a folding design that makes it easy to stuff in the trunk of your car. It also takes up very little storage space at home.
The design is simple but beautiful. The red and white streamers are a nice addition. There is also a covered storage bucket at the rear where kids can store their smaller toys.
The tricycle is very light which makes it easy to ride even for younger kids. A low centre of gravity makes it more stable while a limited turning radius prevents oversteering which could cause the bike to topple.
It’s designed for use between 18 months and 3 years. As your child grows taller, you can adjust the seat backwards for more leg room.
The bike is delivered in several parts but it’s easy to assemble them. Folding is also easy and you don’t need any special tools.
What we like about it:
- Foldable design that makes it highly portable and easy to store.
- Adjustable seat to cater to a growing child.
- Safe and durable.
3. Speelgoed My First Ride Multi-Coloured Outdoor Pedal Trike with Horn
This is not just a trike to help your kid learn how to pedal and steer; it’s also an awesome outdoor toy packed with lots of fun features your kids will love.
It’s rated for use with kids aged 3 years and up.
The saddle is big enough for a growing child and the construction is sturdy enough to withstand the extra weight as they grow.
Rear and front baskets provide fun storage places for other toys. Two other fun features include a pretend ignition key and a horn with several sound effects.
The wheels are made from hard plastic and can be used on different surfaces including gravel, grass and even indoors on the carpet or hard floor.
It’s really easy to assemble once it’s delivered. You don’t need any special tools and there are clear instructions to guide you.
What we like about it:
- Available in several colour styles including multi-coloured and pink.
- Sturdy construction that will last long.
- Plenty of fun features for kids to enjoy.
4. Xootz Tricycle for Kids
This is a compact and ultra-light trike for kids aged 3 and up. It only weighs 2.3kgs, making it easy to ride around the house.
Despite being very light, the frame is durable and designed to withstand plenty of abuses from kids. It will last through their childhood years while still in good shape. You can adjust the seat as they grow to ensure the bike is comfortable and safe to ride.
The wide saddle provides stability and comfort while riding. The soft grip handlebars are perfect for their little delicate hands.
The wheels are neither hard plastic (which tend to feel rough and bumpy) nor pneumatic (which are harder to maintain). Instead they are made from puncture-proof EVA foam which provides a comfortable ride.
The EVA wheels are ideal for many kinds of surfaces including carpet, grass and gravel. If a nail or rock gets stuck inside the wheels, you simply pull it out. It will not damage the wheel.
Putting the bike together is easy and you don’t need any tools. Because of its compact and lightweight design, it doesn’t take up much space in your car, making it perfect for travelling.
What we like about it:
- Sturdy and durable design.
- Light, compact and highly portable.
- Cool aesthetics.
5. Kiddo Blue 3 Wheeler Smart Design Trike
Designed for 2-5 year olds, this trike is great as a toy and also as a way to teach your child how to cycle and steer before they get a real bike.
It is delivered in several components but you should have no trouble assembling it. It takes a bit more time to put together compared to most tricycles but the instructions are simple and very detailed.
The saddle is wide and very comfortable. The handlebars have a soft grip that is perfect for their tiny and delicate hands. The bike also includes a front basket where the child can carry their smaller toys.
The main frame is strong and designed to last for years. The wheels are made from EVA foam, which means you don’t have to worry about punctures or inflating the tires.
The bike is good for both indoor and outdoor riding. The EVA wheels maintain strong traction on different surfaces including hard flooring, carpet, gravel and grass.
What we like about it:
- Sturdy and durable design.
- Puncture-proof wheels that are maintenance-free.
- Includes a front basket for more fun.
- Cool-looking blue and black styling – perfect for both boys and girls.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a tricycle safe for a 1 year old?
Yes, it is. As long as your child can walk properly, they can operate a trike. Just make sure you get one that’s designed for 1 year and older kids.
However, most manufacturers recommend their tricycles for kids aged at least 18 months or 2 years.
2. Should I get a tricycle with a harness?
For younger kids between 1 and 2 years, a harness is important to keep them safe. But for kids aged 2 years and older, they can safely use a tricycle without a harness.
3. Can a tricycle be ridden indoors?
Yes, most trikes can be ridden indoors. The foam wheels do not damage the floor and are safe to use on smooth flooring.
The biggest concern is kids bringing a dirty trike indoors and leaving dirt marks all over the floor.
