Balance bike

[2][3] Balance bikes descend from the earliest two-wheeled bicycle, a Laufmaschine or dandy horse, invented by Karl Drais in 1817.

[4] These early balance bikes consisted of a simple wooden frame with two wheels and no pedals, and were designed for adult use.

Eventually, the rider feels comfortable enough to run or scoot while riding the bicycle, then to lift both feet off the ground, pushing and gliding while balancing on two wheels.

Increased speed results in reduced foot contact with the ground and children are able to glide for longer distances.

It must be small enough for the rider to be able to walk the bicycle while sitting comfortably in the saddle, putting both feet flat on the ground.

[9] Manufacturers initially introduced a micro-reach brake lever designed for small hands as an optional extra.

They have been increasingly included as a standard feature on most balance bikes since the early 2010s, especially following the work of British designer and competitive cyclist Isla Rowntree.

[20][21] An ideal balance bike saddle is designed with a scooped shape to ensure that children remain secure while gliding and scooting, both backwards and forwards.

This safety mechanism restricts the handlebars from twisting excessively and ensures that the brake cable remains intact.