Kids' bikes, scooters and skateboards: how to choose the ideal one

Kids' bikes, scooters and skateboards: how to choose the ideal one

Buying a children's bicycle , balance bike , scooter , or skateboard seems simple… until it's time to decide: what's the right size? Two or three wheels? With brakes? What protections? This guide helps you choose with confidence — focusing on safety, durability, and comfort.

What you will find in this guide

  • How to choose a children's bicycle based on fit (not "age")

  • When does a balance bike make sense?

  • How to choose a children's scooter (3 wheels vs 2 wheels, handlebars and brakes)

  • Practical tips for choosing a children's skateboard

  • Safety: helmet, protective gear and standards (EN 1078 / EN 14120 / EN 14619)

1) Balance bike (without pedals): the best "first step" on 2 wheels

A balance bike (also known as a "pedal-less bike" or balance bike ) is excellent for learning balance and steering without the complexity of pedals. The idea is simple: the child pushes with their feet, gains confidence, and then transitions to a "normal" bicycle much more easily.

What to check before buying

  • Saddle height: ideally, the child should be able to safely place their feet on the ground (at least the front part of the foot), so they can stop without surprises. This principle is also used to assess the fit of bicycles in general.

  • Bicycle weight: the lighter the bike, the easier it is to control (especially on climbs, rides, and maneuvers).

  • Tires and wheels: wider tires tend to be more stable on sidewalks and uneven surfaces.

  • Weight and parts limit: confirm the maximum weight and whether there are spare wheels/bearings (important for longevity).

Common mistake: buying "a bigger size so it lasts longer". A bicycle that is too big reduces control and can discourage the child from riding.

2) Children's bicycle with pedals: how to get the right size (without guessing)

The best rule is: adjust first, mark later .

Quick fit test (works in-store or at home)

According to pediatric recommendations, check:

  • Sitting on the saddle , with hands on the handlebars, the child should be able to place the balls of their feet on the ground .

  • When positioned at the center of the frame (center bar), there should be approximately 2–3 cm (approx. 1 inch) of clearance between the body and the frame.

  • If the bicycle has hand brakes , confirm that the child can reach and squeeze the brake levers with sufficient force.

What's worth looking for in a children's bicycle?

  • Predictable braking: rear wheel brake (or well-adjusted brakes) inspires confidence.

  • Chain guard: reduces dirt and pinching.

  • Adjustable saddle and handlebars: increases lifespan without compromising fit.

3) Children's scooter: 3 wheels or 2 wheels? And what is the correct handlebar height?

The scooter is often the perfect "bridge" between playing and getting around — and can be used daily, as long as it's done safely.

3 wheels vs 2 wheels

  • For younger children, a 3-wheeled bike is usually better because it provides more stability .

  • Depending on their dexterity, some children adapt to two wheels early on.

Brakes: what changes

  • There are scooters without brakes, with brakes on the rear mudguard (activated by the heel), and models with brakes on the handlebars (more common among older children).
    The key point is simple: the child has to be able to brake well (strength + coordination).

Handlebar height (rule of thumb)

For a comfortable and controlled position, a helpful reference point is to have the handlebars between your hips and your navel , with your back straight and arms extended.
And make sure the handlebars are height adjustable and lock properly , to accommodate growth and prevent play.

Safety standard for "motorless" scooters

If you are looking for a technical standard, there is the EN 14619 standard for kick scooters (user-powered scooters), which includes requirements and test methods.

4) Skateboarding for children: how to choose the right board to start safely.

In skateboarding, progression is heavily influenced by stability and control .

For beginners, focus on:

  • Stable deck: "comfortable" width for foot size (too narrow makes it insecure).

  • Wheels and bearings: wheels that don't "stick" too much and smooth bearings help build confidence.

  • Trucks should be very tight at the beginning: less "wobbling," more stability (it can loosen up later as you progress).

Where to use: Start in smooth, wide areas (without traffic) and, when possible, in a skatepark with beginner areas.

5) Safety: helmet and protective gear (what to buy and how to confirm)

Helmet: mandatory or recommended?

For children, the right question is: "Are you going to use it?" — the answer should always be yes .

  • A Portuguese consumer safety association recommends helmets for all wheeled activities (even "just in the backyard").

  • For helmets, make sure you have the EN 1078 standard (and don't rely solely on the CE marking).

  • The EN 1078 standard applies to helmets for cyclists, as well as for users of skateboards and roller skates .

How it should fit on your head (quick check)

  • It sits centered on the top of the head and doesn't "fall" onto the forehead or the nape of the neck.

  • It should cover the forehead and fit snugly; the chin strap should be secure.

Legal note (Portugal): there is a specific framework for motorized vehicles (e.g., certain e-bikes/electric scooters), where the Highway Code mandates the use of a helmet; for bicycles without motors, helmet use is widely treated as recommended (and not mandatory) in public communications and legal analyses.

Protective gear (knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards)

For scooters and skateboards, falls are part of the process. Look for protective gear that meets EN 14120 (standard for wrist/palm/knee/elbow protectors).
APSI explicitly recommends the use of these protections on scooters.

Quick checklist before buying (save this notepad)

Children's bicycle

  • Adjustment confirmed (foot on the ground + play in the frame)

  • Accessible brakes (if they are handbrakes)

  • Adjustable seat and handlebar height

  • EN 1078 helmet

Balance bike

  • Saddle low enough to control with your feet.

  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver.

  • Tires suitable for the surface (pavement vs. smooth surface)

Kids scooter

  • 3 wheels for more stability at the beginning (if it makes sense)

  • Adjustable and securely locked handlebars

  • A lock that the child can use.

  • Helmet + protective gear

Kids' skateboard

  • Stable and comfortable deck

  • Protective gear (wrists/knees/elbows) + helmet

FAQ

Is a balance bike better than a training bike?
For many children, yes, because it develops balance and control early. Avoid "too big" and focus on the fit.

How do I know if the bike is too big?
If the child cannot control the stop safely (foot on the ground) or there is not enough slack when straddling, they are too big.

Which helmet should I buy for my bicycle, scooter, and skateboard?
A helmet with EN 1078 is a good reference because the standard covers cycling as well as skateboarding/skateboarding.

Can I buy a second-hand helmet?
Rule of thumb: not recommended — it may suffer internal impact damage and lose effectiveness. (If there is a history of drops/impacts, replace it.)