Best Kids Bikes in Australia [Top 12 List 2025]

Best Kids Bikes in Australia [Top 12 Picks For 2026]

Our Top Picks For The Best Kids Bikes In Australia [2026]
Kidvelo
Rookie 12"
Cruzee
12″ Balance Bike
Hornit
Airo Balance Bike
Kidvelo
Rookie 14 Balance to Pedal Bike
Kidvelo
Rookie 18 Balance Bike with Pedals
Kidvelo
24 Balance Bike with Pedals

Finding the best kids bike in Australia comes down to one thing: weight. A heavy bike kills confidence fast. Kids aged 2-12 need a bike they can control, lift, and steer without fighting the frame.

We tested and reviewed 12 of the lightest, safest, and best-value kids bikes available in Australia right now – sorted by wheel size so you can jump straight to your child’s size.

There’s nothing quite like riding a bike. The freedom and enjoyment that comes from zooming around under your own power is something that kids and adults alike should experience.

When it comes to choosing a bike for your child it can be hard to know where to begin, there are simply so many to choose from.

One of the key factors to focus on and a great place to begin is ensuring the bike is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre.

With this in mind, we’ve prepared your go-to guide for the best lightweight kids bikes in Australia.

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Let’s dive right in.

How to Choose the Best Kids Bike in Australia

Buying the wrong bikes for kids is the fastest way to put a child off riding. Here is what actually matters before you spend a dollar.

1. Get the Wheel Size Right

Wheel size drives everything – seat height, weight, and handling. Use your child’s inseam measurement, not just their age. Age ranges are a guide only. Kids vary significantly in leg length.

How to Measure Inseam?

Stand your child barefoot against a wall. Place a book snugly between their legs like a bike seat. Measure from the top of the book to the floor. That number is their inseam.

Child AgeInseam RangeRecommended Wheel SizeBike Type
18 months - 3 years28cm - 38cm12 inchBalance bike
2 - 4 years35cm - 42cm12-14 inchBalance bike
3 - 5 years40cm - 50cm14 inchBalance to pedal
4 - 6 years43cm - 56cm16 inchPedal bike
5 - 8 years48cm - 65cm18-20 inchPedal bike
7 - 9 years55cm - 72cm20 inchPedal bike
9 - 12 years62cm - 84cm24 inchPedal bike / geared

2. Check the Bike Weight 

A kids bike should weigh no more than 30-40% of your child’s body weight. For a 15kg toddler, that means a maximum bike weight of 4.5-6kg. Heavy bikes cause kids to tip, fall, and give up. Always check the listed weight before buying.

All-in-One Weight Comparison – Every Bike on This Page 

Kidvelo Rookie weights shown with pedals fitted. Balance-only weights are lower – see individual spec blocks.

best children's bike brands

BikeWheel SizeWeightFrame
Cruzee Balance Bike12"1.9 kgAluminium
Kidvelo Rookie 1212"2.89 kgAluminium
Hornit Airo12"2.95 kgMagnesium
Kidvelo Rookie 1414"6.6 kg (5.2 kg balance mode)Aluminium
SmartTrike Xtend Mg+14"8.11 kgAluminium
Vuly 16 inch16"7.95 kgAluminium
Trek Precaliber 16"16"7.97 kgAluminium
Kidvelo Rookie 1818"7.6 kg (6 kg balance mode)Aluminium
Neo+ 20 inch20"10 kgAluminium
Malvern Star Cruisestar 2020"12 kg+Steel
Apollo Cougar 2424"14 kg+Alloy
Kidvelo Rookie 2424"8.7 kgAluminium

3. Balance Bike vs Pedal Bike, which is better?

This is the most common question parents ask us. Here is the honest answer.

Balance bikes (no pedals, no training wheels) teach children to balance first. Kids who learn on a balance bike transition to a pedal bike faster – often in a single session. They skip the training wheel stage entirely.

Pedal bikes with training wheels teach pedalling first. Balance comes later – usually after training wheels are removed. This is the traditional method. It works, but it takes longer and creates a dependency on the wheels that can be hard to break.

Our recommendation: For children under 5, start with a balance bike. For children aged 5 and up who have never ridden before, a convertible balance-to-pedal bike (like the Kidvelo Rookie range) gives you both options in one frame.

4. Air Tyres vs Foam Tires 

Air tyres (pneumatic) absorb bumps, grip better on uneven ground, and give a smoother ride. They can puncture, but this is rare on kids bikes. We recommend air tyres for outdoor riding.

Foam tyres (EVA foam) are puncture-proof and maintenance-free. They are lighter and ideal for footpath and smooth surface riding. The trade-off is a harder, bumpier ride on grass or gravel.

5. Australian Safety Standards 

Look for bikes that comply with AS/NZS 8124 – the Australian and New Zealand toy safety standard. This covers structural integrity, brake performance, and sharp edge requirements. All bikes on this list meet or exceed this standard. Always pair your child’s new bike with a correctly fitted helmet certified to AS/NZS 2063.

Table of Contents

Best Kids Bikes In Australia At A Glance

The Best 12-inch Kids Bikes for Toddlers 2 to 5 Year Olds

BrandWhat Makes It GreatRRP
Kidvelo Rookie 12Best Value Lightweight Beginner Bike$229.00
Cruzee 12 Balance BikeBest Colour Range In Lightweight Balance Bikes$249.00
Torker 12 Balance BikeBest Budget Option For Lightweight Learner Bikes$169.00
Hornit Airo Balance BikeBest For Durability, Suited To Adventurous Little Learners$289.00

The Best 14-inch Kids Bikes For 3 to 6 Year Olds

BrandWhat Makes It GreatRRP
Kidvelo Rookie 14Best overall for longevity, convertible and adjustable with hand brakes$469.00
SmartTrike Xtend Mg+Best for extendability, the frame, handlebars and seat are all adjustable$349.00

The Best 16-inch Kids Bikes For 4 to 6 Year Old

BrandWhat Makes It GreatRRP
Vuly 16 inch BikeBest comfort features in a lightweight bike - ergonomic seat, pedal, hand grips$329.00
Trek Precaliber 16” CoasterBest for extendability, the frame, handlebars and seat are all adjustable$399.95

The Best 18-inch Kids Bikes For 5 to 8 Year Olds

BrandWhat Makes It GreatRRP
Kidvelo Rookie 18Best lightweight, unisex, convertible bike$489.00
Malvern Star Cruisestar 20 SLBest for kids still wanting fun, playful design options$599.95

The Best 20-inch Kids Bikes For 7 to 9 Year Olds

BrandWhat Makes It GreatRRP
Neo+ 20”Best lightweight single-geared bike for 5-8-year-olds$439.00

The Best 24-inch Kids Bikes For 9 to 12+ Year Olds

BrandWhat Makes It GreatRRP
Apollo Cougar 24”Best lightweight bike for street and offroad trail use$475.00
Kidvelo Rookie 24Best for later learners 9 years to adults. Convertible between balance and pedal bike$699.00

Top 12 Best Kids Bikes You Can Buy In Australia Online (2026)

Our Top 12 Best Kids Bikes For 2026 That You Can Buy Online in Australia.

Riding a kids bike is a great way to get your kids outside and active while having lots of fun. With tons of benefits including improving balance and coordination, there’s no wonder why kids bikes are becoming increasingly popular with kids of all ages.

However, with so many different kids bikes on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for your child. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best kids bikes for 2026, to help make your decision a little easier.

Kidvelo Rookie 12 inch Kids Balance Bike
Rated 5 out of 5
best balance bikes for kids ROokie 12

Kidvelo Rookie 12 inch Kids Lightweight Balance Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

The Kidvelo Rookie 12 Balance Bike in Neon Red is designed in Sydney, Australia, to provide your child with the perfect foundation for a lifetime of riding.

We designed the Rookie 12″ bike to be easy to ride and learn how to ride with a super lightweight aluminium frame, fully adjustable seat height and handlebar height, a real headset, and durable air-filled tires.

Weighing in at 2.90kgs, our Rookie 12 is the lightest balance bike for kids with REAL air tyres in Australia.

Our Verdict:

The Rookie 12 is our top pick for Australian toddlers aged 2-4. The air tyres handle footpaths, grass, and gravel with ease. At under 3kg, most kids can pick it up themselves – which builds confidence faster than any bike feature. Best for active, outdoor kids.

Cruzee 12 inch Kids Balance Bike
Rated 5 out of 5
Cruzee 12 inch Balance Bike​

Cruzee 12 inch Kids Balance Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

A Cruzee Balance Bike is a lightweight, durable, safe, adjustable, and fun bike for your child. Since it is made with an aluminum frame, a Cruzee Bike weighs in at just 1.9 KG, and it will not rust.

A Cruzee 12″ Balance Bike will survive no matter where your child leaves it for the night, while the punctureless tires ensure durability and hassle-free riding.

The adjustable handlebar and seat height mean a Cruzee Bike will grow like your child.

It even has a long seat post to extend the sizing options. Suitable for children aged 18 months to 5 years of age.

Our Verdict:

The Cruzee is the lightest kids bike in Australia at 1.9 kg. It is perfect for very young toddlers or smaller children. The foam tyres are puncture-proof – ideal for footpaths and smooth surfaces. If your child rides mainly indoors or on smooth ground, the Cruzee wins on weight. For rougher terrain, consider the Kidvelo Rookie 12 with air tyres.

Hornit Airo 12 inch Kids Balance Bike
Rated 5 out of 5
Hornit Airo 12 inch Balance Bike​ yellow

Hornit Airo 12 inch Kids Balance Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

The AIRO, from the British brand Hornit, is far superior to other lightweight balance bikes.

Weighing only 2.95kg, it is an excellent choice for toddlers who may struggle with heavier models.

Despite its lightweight, the AIRO is incredibly durable.

The magnesium alloy frame is extremely hard-wearing, which is why AIRO offers a lifetime warranty on the frame and forks.

The scooped saddle provides extra stability for young riders and is adjustable to accommodate children with an inside leg measurement of 30-48cm.

This ensures that you can make the most of this balance bike as your child grows.

The tires are chunky yet lightweight, allowing them to handle bumpy terrain effortlessly.

Additionally, the frame features built-in footrests, contoured for kids to rest their feet on while freewheeling.

We adore the cool matte yellow and black styling. Our five-year-old tester even said it looked like a motorbike, which is truly the highest praise for a balance bike.

Our Verdict:

The Hornit Airo is built for kids who are rough on their gear. The magnesium frame is virtually indestructible and the lifetime frame warranty backs that up. It is the best 12-inch balance bike for outdoor trails and adventurous toddlers. Slightly heavier than the Cruzee but the air tyres and magnesium construction justify every gram.

Kidvelo Rookie 14 inch Convertible Balance Bike with Pedals​

Kidvelo Rookie 14 inch Kids Convertible Balance Bike with pedals

Rated 5 out of 5

The Rookie 14″ Balance Bike with Pedals is a revolutionary training bike from Kidvelo that allows kids to learn how to balance and ride without the use of stabilizers or training wheels.

Featuring an ultra-lightweight 6061 aluminium frame and alloy components, the Rookie 14 quickly converts between a balance bike and a first pedal bike by adding the included easy-ride pedal kit.

This transition is made simple and fast, allowing kids to have instant success in riding and retain the same geometry when switching modes.

Parents will love the convenience of this 2-in-1 bike that is sure to please even the most discerning of them.

Our Verdict:

The Rookie 14 is the best value 14-inch kids bike in Australia. It is effectively two bikes in one frame. Kids start in balance mode at 5.2 kg and add pedals when ready – without buying a second bike. The V-brakes are an important safety upgrade over coaster-only options. Best for children aged 3-6 with an inseam of 41-58cm.

SmartTrike Xtend mg+ 14 inch Balance Bike with Pedals ​

SmartTrike Xtend Mg+ 14 inch Convertible Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

The Xtend balance-to-pedal bike was designed to give your child the skills and confidence they need to ride a pedal bike without training wheels.

Thanks to the easy pedal installation system, you can take your child from balance bike to pedal bike in seconds, with three simple screws.

The innovative design of the Xtend Mg+ means that you get three products for the price of one.

Start your kids off with a fun sturdy balance bike, when they are ready add pedals and teach them to ride, and finally extend their bike and let it grow with them.

The innovative design of the Xtend Mg+ means that you get three products for the price of one.
 
Start your kids off with a fun sturdy balance bike, when they are ready add pedals and teach them to ride, and finally extend their bike and let it grow with them.
 
For a bike to grow with a child, it needs to last with a child.
 
We built the Xtend Mg+ out of the highest quality materials so that you can hand it down from child to child as your kids get older, allowing the whole family to enjoy their bike for years.
 

Our Verdict:

The SmartTrike Xtend Mg+ is the best option for families who want a single bike that genuinely grows with a child. The extendable frame is a real differentiator – most 14-inch bikes become too small within a year. At 8.11 kg it is heavier than the Kidvelo Rookie 14 in pedal mode, but the extendability adds real longevity. Best for budget-conscious families who don’t want to buy two bikes.

Vuly 16 inch Kids Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

Vuly is proud to launch a bike that is ready for any adventure your kids are looking to go on.

Our bikes are designed to be durable, easy to ride and include a number of features to make riding enjoyable no matter the trail.

Vuly’s award-winning design team brings you the Vuly 16-inch bike.

Our 16-inch bikes are the perfect outdoor ride for kids aged 3-6 years old, prioritizing quality and safety. These are some of the best bikes for 5 year olds in Australia.

Our Verdict:
The Vuly 16 stands out for comfort. The ergonomic saddle, soft grips, and well-positioned pedals reduce fatigue on longer rides. At 7.95 kg it sits at the lighter end of the 16-inch category. Best for 4-6 year olds making the transition from a balance bike to their first proper pedal bike.

Trek Precaliber 16” Kids Coaster Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

This kid-friendly bike has a handle integrated right into the saddle so you can help guide your child while they ride, plus a coaster brake and tool-less training wheels that can be installed and removed at the turn of a dial.

Plus, the lightweight aluminium frame is easy to manoeuvre.

You want to make sure that your child’s first bike is comfortable, durable and fun.

Each of our Trek 16″ bikes, all the way down to the smallest size, is built to our highest standards, so you can feel confident when you choose Trek for your family.

Our Verdict:
The Trek Precaliber earns its price through two standout features: the parent handle on the saddle and the tool-less training wheel removal. Both are genuine time-savers for parents teaching a child to ride. The coaster brake is safe and intuitive for beginners. Best for children who are starting from scratch on pedals and need extra parental support during learning.

Kidvelo Rookie 18 Inch Kids Convertible Balance Bike with Pedals
Rated 5 out of 5
Kidvelo Rookie 18 inch Kids Convertible Balance Bike with Pedals​

Kidvelo Rookie 18 inch Kids Convertible Balance Bike with pedals

Rated 5 out of 5

The perfect balance bike for older kids from 5 to 8 years of age, the Kidvelo Rookie 18 is the largest in the 2-in-1 range.

Created with an aluminium frame and alloy components, it’s lightweight and durable enough to never rust.

The balance bike quickly converts into a first pedal bike, simply by adding the included pedal kit.

This conversion process only takes a few minutes and since it still has the same geometry and handling during both modes of operation, it will be easier for your child to transition from balance to pedals.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your young one, then look no further than this revolutionary Rookie 18 Balance Bike with Pedals from Kidvelo!

Our Verdict:
At 6 kg in balance mode and 7.6 kg with pedals, the Rookie 18 is one of the lightest 18-inch convertible kids bikes in Australia. The 100 kg max rider weight is notable – this bike can genuinely handle larger, older children without flex or instability. Best for children aged 5-8 who missed the balance bike stage and want to learn without training wheels.

Malvern Star Cruisestar 20 SL Kids Bike
Rated 5 out of 5

Malvern Star Cruisestar 20 SL Kids Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

Malvern Star’s 20” wheel kids bikes are their last fun step before progressing to the world of ‘gears’.

They have adjustable saddle & stem height for a better fit and low gearing for easy pedalling.

Back pedal brakes are safe and intuitive and reach-adjustable front brakes are easy for little hands to use.

It’s this attention to detail that makes us the most well known and trusted bicycle brand in Australia.

Our Verdict:
The Cruisestar 20 is the best choice for kids who want a fun, retro-styled bike before they move to gears. The reach-adjustable front brake is a genuine safety improvement over fixed-reach levers. The steel frame adds durability but also weight at 12 kg+ – heavier than the Neo+ 20. Best for flat-area riding on footpaths and bike paths where weight is less of a factor.

Neo+ 20 inch Kids Bike
Rated 5 out of 5

Neo+ 20 Inch Kids Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

The Neo+ 20 Boy’s is ideally suited for zipping around flatter areas without hills. Its single-speed drivetrain allows kids to master the core skills of cycling without worrying about the use of gears.

Kids stay in control and gain confidence while riding thanks to the kid-friendly short brake lever for the front, and coaster rear brake, along with a low standover frame design so kids can easily touch the ground when they need to.

Our Verdict:

The Neo+ 20 is the lightest 20-inch option on this list at 10 kg versus the Malvern Star’s 12 kg+. The aluminium frame is the key difference – steel-framed alternatives in this size range regularly exceed 12-14 kg. Best for flat-area riding where a single speed is not a limitation. Not recommended for hilly suburbs or trails.

Apollo Cougar 24 inch Kids Bike
Rated 5 out of 5

Apollo Cougar 24 inch Kids Bike

Rated 5 out of 5

The Apollo Cougar is a 24 inch kids mountain bike ideal for 9-12+ year olds.

Perfect for riding around bike paths, parks and some easier trails, the Apollo Cougar is the ideal bike for getting out and about with family or friends.

The Cougar is made with an alloy frame for lightweight control, which is much easier than a steel framed equivalent, it also makes it easier to transport and pull in and out of the car.

The front suspension fork helps absorb some of the bumps and is a little introduction to what the world of mountain biking is like.

A suspension for on kids will improve comfort and make their ride a bit more forgiving.

The 7-speed drivetrain lets the little ones keep up on a family ride and helps them keep riding up the hills rather than having to get off and push.

While V-brakes offer excellent braking control for a youth bike.

The Apollo Cougar is the ideal stepping stone to get the 9-12+ year old onto a bike that features 7 speed gears and traditional brakes.

The Cougar is excellent value, with an alloy frame, suspension fork and 7-speed drivetrain giving young riders the chance to grow and ride a bike that is a bit more grown up.

Our Verdict:

The Apollo Cougar is the best entry-level 24-inch kids bike for children who want to ride trails as well as paths. The 7-speed gearing and front suspension set it apart from single-speed 24-inch options. At 14 kg+ it is heavier than the Kidvelo Rookie 24, but the suspension fork justifies the extra weight for trail use. Best for active 9-12 year olds in hilly areas or families who ride off-road together.

Kidvelo Rookie 24 Kids Convertible Balance Bike with Pedals
Rated 5 out of 5
Kidvelo Rookie 24 Convertible Balance Bike with Pedals and Autoshift Gears​

Kidvelo Rookie 24 inch Convertible Balance Bike with Pedals and Auto-shift 2 speed gears

Rated 5 out of 5

The Rookie 24″ is our largest-sized 2-in-1 balance bike that truly grows with you like no other balance bike on the market.

The Rookie range of balance bikes from Kidvelo will revolutionize how boys and girls of all ages and abilities learn to balance and ride a bike, without ever needing stabilizers or training wheels.

Like all of our top-rated balance bikes, the Rookie 24 is incredibly lightweight and durable compliments of a 6061 aluminum frame and alloy components that will NEVER rust.

But, it goes a step further: The Rookie 24 quickly and easily converts from a balance bike to a first pedal bike by simply adding the included easy-ride pedal kit.

Transitioning from balance mode to pedals, and back again is accomplished in mere minutes for instant riding success! Plus, since it retains the same learn-to-ride geometry and handling between modes of operation, the learning lag from balance to pedal is virtually non-existent.

The Rookie range of 2-in-1 balance bikes that easily converts into a pedal bike is sure to please even the most discerning of parents.

Our Verdict:

At 8.7 kg, the Rookie 24 is the lightest 24-inch kids bike on this list – by a significant margin over the Apollo Cougar at 14 kg+. The 120 kg max rider weight means it can genuinely carry an adult, making it the only bike on this list suitable for older or heavier riders who are learning from scratch.

Best for later learners aged 9+, larger children, or any rider who wants to learn without training wheels regardless of age.

best kids mountain bike australia

At Kids Bikes Online, we’re passionate about helping Aussie kids get outdoors and embrace a love of bike riding.

Our range of high-quality, lightweight kids bikes has been carefully selected to deliver all the best features at competitive prices. On top of all brand-specific warranties, we offer an added 2-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Our 30-day 100% Love Your Ride satisfaction guarantee means you can ride your chosen bike and if it isn’t as expected, return it to us for a refund.

With flat-rate shipping available Australia-wide, finding the perfect bike for your child has never been easier. Browse our online store today and experience the Kids Bikes Online difference.

Final Thoughts On Shopping For Australia's Best Childrens Bikes.

At Kids Bikes Online, we’re passionate about helping Aussie kids get outdoors and embrace a love of bike riding.

Our range of high-quality, lightweight kids bikes has been carefully selected to deliver all the best features at competitive prices. On top of all brand-specific warranties, we offer an added 2-year warranty for your peace of mind.

Our 30-day 100% Love Your Ride satisfaction guarantee means you can ride your chosen bike and if it isn’t as expected, return it to us for a refund.

With flat-rate shipping available Australia-wide, finding the perfect bike for your child has never been easier. Browse our online store today and experience the Kids Bikes Online difference.

FAQs

If you’re opting for a balance bike over a pedal bike, a child can enjoy riding a bike from as young as 18 months without support.

For pedal bikes, the ability to ride without the support of training wheels or stabilisers will vary based on the skill level of the child in question.

Generally, between the ages of 5 and 7 children will have the coordination and balance needed to ride a pedal bike without added support. However, it may require added practice if they have never ridden before.

For a child to be able to manage a 14-inch bike, it is recommended that they be between 100-118 cm in height. This is roughly between 3 to 6 years of age.

As height recommendations are based on averages, always measure your child before deciding on the correct size of bike.

If your child is aged 5 to 8 years of age and measuring 115-133 cm tall an 18-inch bike is likely going to be a good fit.

Always measure your child first to be sure as these recommendations are based on averages.

Bikes under 18 inches will often have the ability to convert to a pedal bike from a balance bike and back again.

While larger kid's bikes from 20-24 inches are not usually offered as a balance bike, Kidvelo’s 24-inch balance to pedal bike allows for this.

Use your child's inseam measurement - not their age. Measure from the floor to their crotch while they stand barefoot. Match that number to the wheel size chart near the top of this page. When in doubt, size down: a slightly small bike is easier to control than one that is too large.

A kids bike should weigh no more than 30-40% of your child's body weight. For a 15 kg child, aim for a bike under 5-6 kg. Heavier bikes reduce control and confidence. Always check the listed weight before buying - it is listed in the spec block for every bike on this page.

A balance bike has no pedals. Children push themselves forward with their feet and learn to balance naturally. Training wheels prop the bike upright so children never learn to balance independently. Kids who start on a balance bike typically transition to a pedal bike faster and with fewer falls.

When your child's knees are higher than the handlebars while seated, or the seat post is fully extended, it is time to size up. Most children move up a wheel size every 1-2 years. Use our size chart at the top of this page to find the next appropriate size.

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