Tagged with 'learn to ride'

The best bikes for 10-year-olds

the-best-bikes-for-10-year-olds

In this guide, we’ll explore the best Frog Bikes for 10-year-olds, covering every riding style, from everyday adventures to road racing, gravel exploration, and mountain biking. One of the many added benefits of choosing a Frog bike is its lasting value: when your child eventually outgrows it, you can pass it on to a sibling or friend, or even resell it, with many families typically recouping around 60% of the original retail price.

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What bike is best for a 7-year-old?

Frog Bikes: What-bike-is-best-for-a-7-year-old

Choosing the best bike for a 7-year-old can feel overwhelming, as there are many great options to choose from, but it doesn’t have to be. At Frog Bikes, we design lightweight, child-specific bikes that build confidence, support independence, and make every ride an adventure.

Whether your child is commuting to school, racing on tarmac, or exploring gravel trails, this guide will help you choose the perfect Frog bike for their age, height, and riding style.

 

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Are balance bikes better than stabilisers?

Are balance bikes better than stabilisers?

Teaching a child to ride a bike is one of those magical parenting milestones. But before the joy of that first wobbly ride without help comes the big question: What’s the best way to learn? On a balance bike or on a bike with stabilisers (a.k.a. training wheels)?

Today, more and more parents and cycling experts are turning to balance bikes as the smarter, smoother path to independent riding. Not only do they make learning easier, as the toddler learns the feeling of handling a bike before cycling on one, but they also give kids a real head start in confidence, coordination, and fun.

Let's look at why balance bikes are now considered the gold standard. Here are 6 reasons why balance bikes are better than stabilisers:

 


1. Mastering balance: the core skill

 Balance first, pedals later

Holding balance is the hardest part of cycling. Pedalling is simply the add-on. A balance bike strips away the distraction of pedals so children can focus on developing the fundamental skills: balance, coordination, and steering, right from day one.

Once those skills are second nature, pedalling becomes a much smoother step.

 

Why stabilisers hold kids back

Training wheels do the opposite. They hold the bike upright artificially, meaning kids don’t learn to lean into turns or countersteer. Essential habits for safe cycling. 

Research backs this up: studies show stabilisers delay proper balance development, leaving children with extra hurdles to overcome later. (source)

 

2. Lightweight, nimble, and toddler-friendly

Why weight is a key factor

Kids' bikes are often surprisingly heavy. Sometimes half a child’s body weight.

By contrast, Frog Bike’s 12-inch balance bike, the Tadpole, only weighs 4.17kg. This makes them easier to push, lift, and manoeuvre for small kids. But also for parents who inevitably end up carrying them home from the park. Parents love how easy they are to sling over a shoulder when little legs get tired.

 

Frog Bikes: built for kids' needs

Frog’s balance bikes are super-light and ergonomically designed with young children in mind. Features like narrow handlebars, small grips, and proportionate brake levers ensure comfort and control. They’re available in 10-inch’ and 12-inch wheel sizes for toddlers taking their very first steps into cycling, and also in a versatile 14-inch option that bridges the gap between balance and pedal bikes. Perfect for children growing in confidence at their own pace. 


"We have two Frog bikes – the Tadpole Plus balance bike and a first pedal bike – and the quality is outstanding. The Tadpole Plus in particular has been brilliant for my daughter: it's lightweight, well-built, and comes with a proper brake, which gave her the confidence and control she needed to transition to her first pedal bike." – Dan


3. Confidence, safety & skill-building go hand in hand

Confidence from day one

With both feet flat on the ground, kids can feel secure and in control. Instead of wobbling and tipping (common frustrations with stabilisers), they can scoot forward with confidence. Many little riders even start gliding within days. An exhilarating moment that motivates them to keep going.

 

Beyond cycling skills

Balance bikes don’t just prepare kids for cycling—they support overall motor development. Using a balance bike builds core strength, postural control, and coordination, engaging key muscles like the quadriceps, calves, and gluteals. These skills also benefit other sports and physical activities.

 

Safety by design

Frog Bikes go further by including clever child-first features:

Steering locks prevent dangerous overturning.


Chunky tyres provide stability on uneven ground.


Small, responsive brakes give children control and teach safe stopping early on.


"We bought the Frog Tadpole balance bike for my boy and couldn't be happier with it, it's transformed his riding and confidence. He's happy riding on the pavement, in the park and at the BMX track. The back brake, steering over lock, weight and size are its best features."  - Mr B


4. A faster, smoother transition to pedals

Parents are often amazed at how quickly balance bike graduates hop onto pedal bikes. With balance already mastered, the only “new” skill is pedalling.

Many kids who start with a balance bike can ride a pedal bike very quickly, without stabilisers, and without needing to learn to balance and pedal all at once. 

 

5. Teaching tips: keeping it fun

Frog recommends a simple, joy-first approach:

  1. Sit – let your child get familiar with their balance bike. Encourage them to walk it around, sit on it indoors, or push it in the garden.
  2. Scoot – as confidence grows, they’ll naturally start to push off with their feet.
  3. Glide – Soon, they’ll lift both feet and glide—sometimes giggling, sometimes squealing—always learning.


The key? encouragement, patience, and celebration. Every tiny step is progress.

But never forget to put a helmet on your child for their safety!

 

6. Why frog balance bikes?

Frog’s balance bikes stand out for their child-centred design, informed by sports scientists and real-world testing.

  • Optimised fit & ergonomics – lightweight aluminium frames, low standover heights, and kid-sized components ensure a comfortable, natural riding position.
  • Room to grow – adjustable saddles and a range of models mean there’s a perfect fit from 18 months upwards.
  1. Tadpole mini (10") for ages 18 months-2 years
  2. Tadpole (12") for ages 2-3 years
  3. Tadpole plus (14’’) 3-4 years
  • Seamless step to pedals – models like the Frog 38 (14") and Frog 44 (16") are lightweight pedal bikes that can double as balance bikes until your child is ready to pedal. Simply take off the pedals.

Final word: balance bikes vs stabilisers

So, are balance bikes better than stabilisers?
 Yes, in almost every meaningful way.

Balance bikes help kids:

  • Learn naturally, by mastering balance before pedalling
  • Gain confidence and independence faster
  • Build coordination and strength
  • Transition smoothly (and often instantly) to pedal bikes
  • Training wheels, while traditional, often slow the process and instil habits that have to be unlearned later.

 

The best bikes for 5-year-olds

The best bikes for 5-year-olds: Frog Bikes

When your child turns five, a whole new world of cycling opens up. They’re more confident, adventurous, and ready to ride further and faster. 

But what’s the best bike for a 5-year-old? 
At Frog Bikes, we know how important it is to get the right fit, so your child can ride safely, comfortably, and with a big smile on their face.

Here’s everything you need to know, plus our top bike recommendations for how to choose a bike for a 5-year-old...

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Is it better to get a bike that my child will grow into?

3 children riding Frog bikes in the forest

Should I buy a bigger bike so my child can grow into it?

As parents, we’re always thinking ahead, buying bigger shoes, slightly oversized coats, and school uniforms with “room to grow.” It’s a smart way to save money over time. But when it comes to children’s bikes, buying one that’s “a bit big for now” is not the best idea.

 

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The best Frog bikes for beginner cyclists

The best Frog bikes for beginner cyclists

The best Frog bikes for beginner cyclists

Our top picks for beginner cyclists

Watching your child learn to ride a bike is one of those unforgettable parenting moments, right up there with their first steps or first words. It’s a mix of wobbly starts, big smiles, and the proudest high-fives. At Frog Bikes, we know just how important it is to get that first bike right. So we’ve created a range of kids’ bikes that support kids (and their parents!) every step of the way.

Here’s our guide to the best Frog bikes for beginners and how they can make learning to ride easier, safer, and way more fun.

 


But first - a balance bike! - Tadpole balance bike (Ages 18 months to 4 years)

Before pedals come balance skills and the Tadpole 12” balance bike is where it all begins.

This isn’t just a cute little balance bike for toddlers, it's a secret weapon for learning to ride. The Tadpole helps little ones develop balance and coordination from the get-go, so by the time they’re ready for pedals, they’ve already nailed the trickiest part. And since there are no stabilisers or clunky training wheels in sight, they can focus purely on building their confidence.

 

  • Light as a feather: The lightweight frame is easy for toddlers to push, glide, and even carry (or for parents to carry when energy runs out!).
  • Sized just right: With an adjustable seat and handlebars, the Tadpole grows with your child, because we all know toddlers don’t stay one size for long.
  • Brakes made for tiny hands: Tektro child-friendly brakes help kids learn how to stop safely, even at a gentle roll.
  • Packed with personality: Available in a rainbow of colours and three sizes (Mini, Regular, and Plus) based on your child’s inside leg measurements, so you can find the perfect fit and style. The three balance bikes from Frog are perfect for young kids with an inside leg measurement between 24–47cm. Find out more here…

Why parents love the Tadpole

  1. Encourages balance and coordination
  2. Makes the transition to pedal bikes smoother
  3. No need for stabilisers
  4. Durable, quality construction (but not heavy!)

Parent Tip: Many children go straight from a Tadpole to a pedal bike without ever using stabilisers. It’s that effective.

 


Ready to pedal! - Start with the Frog 38 (Ages 3-4)

Your little one has mastered the art of balance, now they’re ready for their first pedal! The Frog 38 is our newest and smallest 14” pedal bike (which has now replaced the Frog 40), created for children with an inside leg of 36-41cm. If your child is 3-4 years old and itching to ride “like the big kids,” this is your go-to kids’ bike.

 

  • Built just for kids: Every part of the Frog 38 is made with small riders in mind, from the crank length to the brake lever reach.
  • Scientifically designed: Our patented FrogFit Technology, developed with experts at Brunel University, ensures the perfect ergonomic fit.
  • Ready to ride: It comes with all the essentials, bell, reflectors, and mudguards, right out of the box.
  • Full of flair: Choose from a range of vibrant colours to suit your little cyclist’s personality.

Why the Frog 38 is ideal for first-time pedal riders

  1. Lightweight frame (just 6.46kg!)
  2. Child-specific components = better control
  3. Low centre of gravity for easy balancing
  4. 10 year warranty on frame and forks for peace of mind

Parent Tip: The Frog 38 is perfect for kids coming off a balance bike—it’s small, sturdy, and gives them instant confidence.

 


Frog 44 (Ages 4-5)

As your child grows in height and confidence, it’s time to level up. The Frog 44 16” kids’ bike is the natural next step, designed for children with an inside leg of 40-53cm and ready for more independent riding.

Whether they’re zipping down the pavement or exploring the local park, the Frog 44 offers a stable, supportive ride that helps kids go further and feel prouder every time.

  • Still lightweight (6.39kg), so your child can handle it with ease.
  • Child-specific build for better posture, control, and comfort.
  • Patented FrogFit Technology ensures a comfortable, confident riding position.
  • Comes with the extras: bell, reflectors, and mudguards included.
  • Cool factor included: Multiple colour options.

Why parents love the Frog 44

  1. Great for kids who are gaining endurance
  2. Fits slightly taller beginners perfectly
  3. Easy to manoeuvre and safe to ride
  4. 10 year warranty for long-term value

Parent Tip:  Both, the Frog 38 and Frog 44, can be used as a balance bike by simply removing the pedals. Why not try it if your kid is not ready to cycle just yet.


Final thoughts

Learning to ride a bike is one of those magical childhood milestones, and it’s even better when it’s stress-free and fun. At Frog Bikes, we’re here to support you with smart design, science-backed sizing, and bikes built just for kids.

Whether you’re watching your toddler glide along on their first balance bike or cheering them on as they pedal off independently, a Frog bike makes that journey smoother, safer, and full of joy.

Ready to begin your child’s biking adventure?
Explore our beginner-friendly range here >>

 

And, remember - don't forget your helmet! - Safety first!

How to choose the right bike for your child’s next adventure

How to choose the right bike for your child’s next adventure

As kids grow, so do their ambitions for outdoor fun and exploration. Whether they’re embarking on their first pedal-powered adventure or gearing up for longer rides, choosing the best bike for kids is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

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The ease of switching bike sizes as kids grow with Frog bikes

Switching bike sizes with Frog bikes

Every parent knows how quickly kids grow, and with that growth comes the need to update everything from shoes to clothes, and, of course, kids’ bikes! Finding the best bike for growing children can be a challenge, but Frog Bikes has revolutionised the way families approach this issue. Our innovative designs, lightweight frames, and adjustable features make it easier than ever to transition to the next size bike as your child grows.

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5 Screen-free ways to entertain kids this spring

5 Screen-free ways to entertain kids this spring

5 Screen-free ways to entertain kids this spring 

As the days get longer and the weather warms up again, spring is the perfect time to encourage kids to step away from indoor activities, such as spending a lot of time in front of screens, and instead embrace the great outdoors. At Frog Bikes, we know the value of fresh air, physical activity, and family adventures. Here are six fun, screen-free ways to keep your kids entertained this season.


1. Go on a family bike ride

There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of spring than by cycling together as a family. Whether it’s a ride through your local park, a nature trail, or planning a trip further away from your home, biking keeps kids active and engaged, while providing numerous health benefits for the whole family. Plan a spot for a packed picnic for the whole family, explore new routes in your county and make it a memorable family outing by capturing special moments with photos.

Encourage your kids to set small cycling goals, such as reaching a landmark, completing a certain distance or any other challenge that you can think of. Get inspired by our Fun & Games page and start planning your next cycling trip as a family to welcome the sun back. You can also bring a nature journal to document interesting sights along the ride and challenge your kids. This is a great way to welcome the sunshine, spend a sustainable Saturday together, and enjoy a healthy, environmentally friendly activity. There are no excuses, Winter is over and even though springtime can be unpredictable, even in the rain a cycling tour is great for the entire family to enjoy. 


Here you can find some great routes to explore in the UK>>>


2. Create an obstacle course for your kids

Transform your garden, local park, or nearby woods into an adventure zone for your children! Use cones, ropes, hula hoops, and even natural elements like logs or stones to design an exciting obstacle course and add games to it. Enhance the experience by incorporating fun challenges, games, and cycling elements to build confidence and improve bike handling skills and most importantly, celebrate your kids' learning experiences and track their improvements together as a family. 

Encourage your kids to complete the course as quickly as possible or introduce creative variations, such as weaving between obstacles, or balancing with one hand in the air. This activity is perfect for beginners learning to ride their first pedal bike or balance bike, as well as for experienced, adventure-loving kids on their MTBs. It’s a great way to develop coordination, build confidence, and most importantly, have fun!


3. Try a nature scavenger hunt

 

Encourage kids to explore the outdoors more and engage with nature through a fun scavenger hunt. Our Fun & Games page offers great activity sheets to help your kids complete challenges while becoming more aware of their outdoor surroundings. You can also create a list of spring-themed items such as blooming flowers, buzzing bees, bird nests, or even different shades of Frog green. Then, take a walk or let your kids hop on their Frog bikes to see how many they can find this spring! This activity is a great way to inspire curiosity, observation skills, and a love for the outdoors.


4. Plan a Bike and Hike Adventure

Combine biking and hiking for the ultimate outdoor experience. Choose a scenic route on your Hybrid or MTB, for example and cycle to a picturesque destination such as a forest, lake, or nature reserve. Once you arrive, park your bikes and set off on foot to explore the area. 

Check out this Frog list to get inspired on where to start your bike and hike adventure >>>

Encourage your kids to observe wildlife, listen to birdsong, and look for interesting natural treasures like pinecones, unique stones, or different types of leaves. Bring along a small notebook so they can sketch what they find or jot down observations.

Take regular breaks to enjoy a snack or picnic in a beautiful setting, making the most of the fresh air and peaceful surroundings. This adventure is not only a fantastic way to boost fitness and endurance but also helps kids develop an appreciation for nature, navigation skills, and a sense of adventure. Whether it’s a short excursion or an all-day journey, a bike-and-hike trip promises plenty of fun and discovery!

 


5. Start a Mini Garden

Spring is also a fantastic time to introduce kids to the joys of gardening. After a long bike ride, the fun of planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables is another great activity in spring. Let your children choose their own seeds and get their hands dirty in the soil, which fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for their environment. As they nurture their plants and watch them grow, they'll develop patience and an appreciation for the environment.

Gardening is not only a relaxing and rewarding hobby but also an opportunity to teach kids about sustainability. Encourage eco-friendly habits by using rainwater for watering, composting food scraps, and avoiding chemical pesticides. You can even link gardening to other sustainable actions, such as cycling to school instead of driving and cooking healthy, homegrown meals together as a family. Add more sustainable habits to your family routine and enjoy them together. These small steps help kids understand the importance of caring for nature while making fun, lasting memories outdoors.


 

With so many exciting screen-free activities to try, spring is the perfect season for kids to get outside, stay active, and have fun with family. Whether you’re cycling with Frog bikes or gardening, these activities create lasting memories and encourage a love for the outdoors.

So, grab your Frog bikes, put your helmets on and make this spring an adventure-filled season with your family!

 

 

How to celebrate your child’s progress on two wheels

how-to-celebrate-your-child-s-progress-on-two-wheels

Seeing your child gain confidence and skills on their bike is a milestone worth celebrating! They may have mastered balancing on a balance bike, pedalled independently for the first time, or conquered a challenging trail - each achievement is significant to them!

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