A large number of synonyms are used for this type of children's transport. It is called a velokat, a bicycle scooter and many other similar words. But they mean one thing - this is a bicycle without pedals. This intricate type of children's transport has gained immense popularity around the world. The balance bike is quite simple to operate and has a positive effect on the physical development of the child. You can read about all its advantages and selection rules in this article.
What is a balance bike?
Invented it back in 1817 and was called a "running machine", but it gained popularity only in the 21st century. This was facilitated by the German designer Rolf Mertens, who made a balance bike for his two-year-old son. Then he, together with his brother, founded a company and began to actively sell the product. In 2010, the children's bicycle without pedals won over consumers in the US and Europe,after which he reached Russia. Today, a balance bike is included in the list of must-have purchases that contribute to the physical development of the child.
It looks more like a regular bicycle, but without pedals. And for mechanical control - on a scooter, since you need to move on it with the help of repulsions from the ground. This type of transport is the first step to the development of a bicycle. On it, the child will learn to set the direction of the ride with the help of the steering wheel and maintain balance.
Benefit or harm of a balance bike?
Due to the lack of pedals, movement on this transport is possible only with the help of repulsive movements from the surface. Such a ride does not cause fear, unlike cycling. The child is always in contact with the road, making it easy to keep balance. And the presence of the seat evenly distributes the load on the spine. Thus, the balance bike contributes to the development of the vestibular apparatus and improves coordination of movement, strengthens muscles and gives positive emotions to the child.
Also, the scooter will be useful for the parents of the baby. It weighs much less than a conventional bike, which allows you to carry it in your hands if necessary. Its weight is from 3 to 5 kg, depending on the design. Also, buying a balance bike can save the family budget well. It will please for several years if you choose a model with adjustable handlebar and seat height. And a child who is passionate about riding will be less likely to ask to be held.
How to choose the right balance bike?
When buying children's transportyou need to focus on two main criteria: step size and age of the child. These parameters will help you choose the right balance bike.
Step size - to determine it, you need to measure the inside of the leg from the groin to the floor. While riding the balance bike, the child's legs should be in a bent position. To do this, subtract 2-3 cm from the length of the step size. If the selected model has an adjustable seat, then you should focus on the minimum height.
Balance bikes are divided depending on the age of the child:
- For 1 year old - the lightest model, its maximum weight is up to 3 kg. This balance bike has three or four wheels.
- From 2 to 2, 5 years old is the most optimal age for mastering this type of transport. This model weighs up to 4 kg.
- 3 years and older - the weight of such a product is up to 5 kg.
Which wheels are better?
There are 2 types of tubes for cycling: air, like on a bicycle, or made of foam concrete, which do not need to be inflated. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Airless - these wheels do not need to be pumped up, they do not puncture and have a long service life. These tires are quite light in weight and suitable for off-road driving. But if the tire wears out, it will be necessary to install a new wheel.
Air - this type of wheel is able to smooth out rough roads, which provides a comfortable and soft ride. But they can be punctured or torn duringtrips. Also air wheels are quite heavy compared to airless ones.
Wooden balance bike with your own hands
In Europe and Japan, the popularity of products made from environmental materials has increased. Therefore, plastic and wooden balance bikes for children are most in demand there. With us, they are no less popular. A distinctive feature of wooden balance bikes is their unique, original design. Although there are many rumors around this product about their fragility. But this is not reality. Runbikes are constructed from many layers of B altic birch glued together, which gives the product strength. Compared to solid wood, which can crack due to changes in temperature or humidity
Due to popularity, the price of a bicycle without pedals has risen significantly. Therefore, many parents have learned to make it on their own. A balance bike is easy to make from improvised means, products from plywood are especially relevant. You can make a two- or three-wheeled wooden balance bike.
It is usually made from birch, which is known for its strength and lightness. Such a product weighs from 4.1 to 5.4 kg. To make a wooden balance bike, you need to use 10-12 layers of B altic birch plywood and a good sealant that will protect it from water. But you should not use such transport in the rain.
Materials needed to make a balance bike:
Sanded plywood sheet 12mm.
Bolt set.
Piece of hairpin orrod.
· A piece of plywood 4-5 mm for making the seat.
Foam rubber 50 mm.
Piece of leather or fabric for the seat.
Wheels.
After that, the balance bike is assembled according to the given drawing. After the product is made, you can decorate it.
You can make a wooden balance bike yourself, or you can use the described recommendations and buy it. In any case, the presence of such transport in a child will only positively affect his physical development. Judging by the reviews, wooden balance bikes are gaining popularity every day.
