Thanks for the info. Just to note that the thread you linked to won't work anymore as a Mod kindly moved it to this forum & merged it with this thread so all the info is back in one place & accessible.MattyK wrote:Some good reading even though a little dated:
http://tview29.wordpress.com/2008/12/02 ... erun-bikes" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Also this thread:
viewtopic.php?f=12&t=14673" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
That is so true in relation to pretty much everything with kids.MattyK wrote:Toddlers and young kids have no preconceived ideas of good vs bad bikes, they will just get on and ride regardless of looks, quality, weight, etc. Almost any feature set requirement will be to pacify your own senses and desires, not theirs. So just pick your budget and go for it.
Perhaps I should forget your earlier remarks & get the BMWMattyK wrote:PS subpoint about saddles: on a balance bike much more weight is borne on the saddle (due to the lack of pedals). And propulsion forces are quite different to a pedal bike (ie front to back, not top to bottom). So saddles should account for this, but few seem to, and most (on metal framed balance bikes) are bicycle styled which I'm not convinced is the best for forward propulsion and comfort. My daughter ended up complaining of a sore crotch after one long ride. Many of the wooden balance bikes use more of a wider spoon shape that I suspect may be better suited. I have no real evidence to back this up though, just conjecture...
Thanks mikedufty & high_tea, it is sounding like kids love em all. Is it wrong that I am laughing with you about your boy high_tea ? I can imagine my little terrorist doing just that. He is so grabby with bikes I am even contemplating keeping my commuter clean so his hands don't get so filthy