Image: MomJunction Design Team
Childhood is so much about learning life skills and being as active as one can be. And teaching a child to ride a bicycle is one of the fun parts of parenting while instilling an important skill in them. So, get the best training wheels and introduce your child to bicycles. Teaching a child how to ride a bicycle can be challenging, especially when they are learning to balance.
The initial phase involves using training wheels to prevent the little ones from falling. So, after doing a pro-level analysis of all these crucial factors, we bring you a long list of the best-selling training wheels that are quality-tested, durable, easy to install, compatible with most bicycles, and will give your child a comfortable ride. We also give you a buying guide to help you choose the perfect wheels. So, keep scrolling and pick a set to teach your child an important life skill.
Top Picks
13 Best Training Wheels For A Safe Ride In 2024
1. Best Compatible:Wald W10252 Bicycle Training Wheels
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 1,163 positive reviews on Amazon.
Wald Bicycle Training Wheels are designed keeping in mind bicycles that measure between 16 and 20 inches. These time-tested plated steel wheels have a 5.5” diameter and are covered with rubber tires. They come in a bright silver color and also include bicycle frame adaptors that are compatible with 0.75 and 1-inch rear frame tubes.
Pros
- Can be used by riders that weigh up to 100lb.
- Strong and long lasting product
- Easy to install
- High-quality rubber and steel
Cons
- Designed only for single-speed bicycles
- May contain less axle threads for some
"The solidity of these training wheels impressed me; they are sturdy and don't bend. Its large steel wheels lend them an edge over the usual aluminum ones. Fitting them was a slight challenge due to the short axle bolts. But once installed, they have made bike riding a safer activity for my kids."
Quick tip2. Best For Stability:Fortop Bicycle Training Wheels
The Fortop Bicycle Training Wheels are heavy duty and give the right kind of support that your child’s first bike needs. These stability wheels easily fit single speed bikes between 12 to 20 inches, provided the track fork end is horizontal and rearward-facing. If you are worried about your child’s safety during late evening and night-time rides, these trusted kids’ bike training wheels are perfect as they light up every time the wheels spin.
Pros
- Made using metal and rubber
- Silent, stable, and lightweight
- Triangle at 45° supports and protects from accidents
- Bright blue makes the training wheels look attractive and it blends well
Cons
- Manual’s instructions may be unclear
- Wheel lights may not last long
"These training wheels fit well on my daughter's cycle, and the glowing effect has been a fun touch for the little one. Installing these training wheels was slightly challenging due to the ill-fitted wrench. Despite this minor issue, the wheels seem sturdy and sustain rough riding well."
3. Best For Balancing:Bell Spotter Trainer Wheels For Bicycle
Manufactured by Bell, the Spotter Trainer Wheels for bicycles are a great tool for teaching your kids how to learn to balance. These bicycle training wheels are not meant to touch the ground when installed and when the bike is stationary. Most of the time, these wheels will be 0.5 inch off the ground, as a way of ensuring balance is maintained. According to the reviewers, the best feature of these bicycle stabilizers is the choice to flip it up when you don’t want to use the support wheels and flip it down when you want to use them.
Pros
- Easy-install training wheels
- Sturdy design
- Ideal for bikes between 18 to 20 inches
- Great for first timers
Cons
- Rider must weigh less than 50lb
- May not be compatible for some bikes
"I installed these training wheels with ease, as they came with all the necessary hardware. They feel sturdy and have a flip-up mechanism, which works great as I have two children who share the bike, and only one requires training wheels. They seem durable, and hence, I am expecting long-term use."
Wald W10252 Bicycle Training Wheels | Fortop Bicycle Training Wheels | Bell Spotter Trainer Wheels For Bicycle | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Silver | Black | Silver, black |
| Dimensions | 10 x 7.75 x 2.5 inches | - | 9.44 x 7.78 x 8.26 inches |
| Weight | 1.36 Kilograms | 600 Grams | 2.42 Pounds |
| Material | Rubber,Steel | Aluminum | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 1,163 | 3,106 | 1,383 |
| Price | $28.99 | $15.99 | $8.88 |
4. Best Easy Installed:Moshay Training Wheels For Children’s Bicycle – Pink
Sporting a bright pink color, the Moshay Training Wheels work best for bicycles between 14 and 20 inches. All fittings come with the training wheel set and can be installed by simply reading the instructions. The metal brackets for support as well as the height of the wheels can be adjusted, making these kids’ training wheels a good choice for growing children.
Pros
- Stable wheel size of 13 cms or 5.25”
- Thickness of metal support is 0.3 cm
- Training wheels with height adjustment feature
- Easy to install
Cons
- Compatible only with single-speed bikes
- May be ineffective for bikes with small axle bolts
"I got these sturdy training wheels for my daughter's bike, and she adores the pink color. They seem durable and have kept my girl's cycle stable even on rocky terrains, which is all I wanted from them. The installation instructions could have been more precise, but all in all, the wheels have held up well."
5. Best Adjustable:Bnkihdd Bicycle Training Wheels For Kids
Designed to be heavy duty and last for years, the Bnkihdd Bicycle Training Wheels are a great starter pack for your child who is just learning to ride a bike. The training wheels also come with a bell and a wrench, making sure they can be installed by all parents in an effortless way. The user-tested wheels are height-adjustable which means you can get more use out of your purchase for a long period of time.
Pros
- Lightweight training wheels: 700 g
- Anti-skid, wear and tear-resistant
- Made of steel, rubber, and plastic
- Compatible with bicycles of 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 inches
- Wheel diameter: 13cm, width: 3cm
Cons
- May be slightly long
- May seem hard to install for some
"These training wheels are very durable, and their material has sustained rain and shine very well. They had a strong smell initially, which eventually disappeared after some airing. Despite that minor issue, they continue to perform well."
6. Best For Smooth Rides:Little World Training Wheels
Ideal for single speed bikes, the Little World Training Wheels are heavy duty and are compatible with track fork ends that are horizontal rearward-facing. These training wheels provide assisted balance to your child. Tested by many reviewers, the training wheels for smooth rides are height-adjustable and give new riders the sense of confidence they need.
Pros
- Suitable for bicycles that are 14, 16, and 18 inches
- Wheel diameters: 5 inch, width: 3 cm or 1.18 inch
- Made of rubber and metal
- Long-lasting and good-quality tyres
- Bracket size: 2.9 x 1.1 x 8.6 inches or 7.5 x 2.9 x 22 cm
Cons
- Not suitable for those with semi-horizontal or vertical dropouts
- May be squeaky
"These training wheels are sturdy and well-built, a definite step up compared to standard ones. They were a bit challenging to install, given the slightly unclear instructions. However, once I figured it out, they provided good stability. Despite a few hiccups in the setup, they have added value to my kid's cycling experience."
Do remember7. Best Stronger:Little World Training Wheels – Stronger Version
The Little World Training Wheels are a stronger version of training wheels made of iron and rubber. The set comes with all the hardware that is required to fasten the wheels onto your child’s bike, making the installation process a fun family activity. If your child weighs under 60lb, these tried-and-tested wheels are ideal and will provide the right support that is needed to make riding fear-free.
Pros
- Easily adjustable features
- Stable during sudden jerks
- No need to hold the back of the saddle
- Wheel diameter: 5.31 inch
- Bracket size: 3.6 x 1.4 x 8.5 inches or 9 x 3.5 x 21.5 cm
Cons
- Only suitable for bikes between 14 and 18 inches
- May be noisy for some
"The rubber coating on these training wheels has kept my little one from tripping even when driving on the gravel pathway. Although the instructions for installations were unclear, with patience and a little mechanical knowledge, they fitted nicely. Overall, they've been a reliable addition to my boy's cycle."
8. Best Multi-Geared:Childhood Bicycle Training Wheels
Designed especially for multi-geared bikes, the Childhood Bicycle Training Wheels are suited for bikes that are 18, 20, and 22 inches in size. Even if your child weighs up to 70lb these training wheels will not compromise on the support and balance they are meant to provide. Ensure that these training wheels for outdoor use are 0.25 inches off the ground, so that the wheels can function accurately.
Pros
- Good-quality construction steel and rubber
- Four flat washers and two extended bolts
- Features wheel bolts, sleeves, and screws each
- Anti-shedding rubber tire
- Can bear up to 100lb
Cons
- Screws may need to be tightened regularly
- May not work on bikes with gears
"Adding these sturdy training wheels to my son's bike has brought me much peace of mind. Although the extender's mismatched nut needed a fix, they have been easy to install and required simple adjustments to stay in place. Despite that minor issue, it's been a beneficial addition for my new rider."
9. Best Lightweight:YTKD Training Wheels For Bicycle
These training wheels, measuring 4.73-inch in diameter, are made of high-quality materials of rubber and plastic for durability and optimal performance. They have a universal design that is compatible with 16-inch bicycles. These universal training wheels are lightweight and offer noiseless operation, so your child can ride smoothly. As per reviews, riders weighing up to 100lb can easily use these training wheels.
Pros
- Wear-resistant
- Anti-slip design
- Offers extra stability
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Suitable for single-speed bikes only
- May not light up always
"The LED light-equipped wheels light up whenever my child puts pressure on them, which is an excellent pro as it helps me gauge how much she leans on them. The lack of height adjustments is slightly disappointing, but they continue to hold up well despite hours of riding. Hence, they are a win for me and my child."
10. Best Noise-Reducing Design:Huway Training Wheels
The Huway training wheels have multiple features that most bicycle training wheels should have. The wheel diameter is 4.33 inch. These high-quality rubber, metal, and plastic wheels light up when they are spun, and don’t make any noise when rubbed against the road surface. These parent-recommended training wheels with a noise-reducing design are height-adjustable.
Pros
- Accommodates riders weighing up to 100lb
- Suitable for bikes between 12 and 20 inches
- Anti-slip
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Meant for single-speed bikes only
- Screws may be hard to tighten for some
"The assembly process was straightforward, even for someone as inexperienced as me. I had to modify them to fit my son's smaller cycle, but the quiet operation makes up for that hassle. Also, the vibrant color and light-up feature made it easy to teach him to cycle. Hence, they get the approval from this dad."
Caution11. Best Long Lasting:Yjia Bicycle Mute Training Wheels
Providing safe support to your child’s bicycle, the Yjia Pair of Bicycle Mute Training Wheels do not compromise on quality and offer long lasting training wheels. The training wheels with anti-slip treads don’t make a dragging sound and light up when the kids’ bike is ridden, which means you can relax during night time rides and watch calmly from a safe distance.
Pros
- Compatible with bicycles that are 12 – 20 inches
- Wear- and tear-resistant
- Comprised of sturdy steel and ABS
- Anti-skid
Cons
- Installation may be difficult for some
- May not work efficiently on rough terrains
"These training wheels have given my child the confidence to ride her bike fearlessly. It kept his cycle steady even on the uneven surface of the beach, which is a big plus. The installation, though tricky, has been worth it. And the flashing lights are a fun addition and make it easy to keep track of the little one."
Best High-Quality Metal:Little World Bicycle Training Wheels For Variable Speed Bike
The Little World Bicycle Training Wheels are suitable for bikes with variable speed, allowing your child to experience advanced learning at a very early age. These trusted training wheels for balance bikes are heavy-duty and work for uneven terrain as well. All fittings are included with the training wheels, are made of high-quality materials of metal and rubber, and can carry children weighing under 88lb.
Pros
- Suitable for bikes between 18 to 22 inches
- Sturdy wheels with a 5.12-inch or 13 cm diameter each
- Heavy duty training wheels
- Easy to set up
- Solid adjustment capacity
- Bracket size: 21 x 10.5 cm or 8.3 x 4.1 inch
Cons
- Not suitable for bikes with full chain covers
- Not applicable for bikes with quick-release rear tires
"The feature that attracted me to these wheels was that they could handle minor height adjustments, which is a big plus when one has growing children. The installation, although not the easiest, was manageable, and I really liked that the mounting hardware was included. They've held up well, and overall, I've been pleased with their performance."
13. Best Safe:Geminiman Bicycle Training Wheels
The Geminiman Bicycle Training Wheels are heavy duty and are reinforced with good-quality steel, rubber, and plastic. As a parent, the safety of your child is of utmost importance, and these removable training wheels have the ability to give you peace of mind and comfort knowing your kids are in safe hands, or shall we say, wheels!
Pros
- Wheels are anti-skid
- Non-squeaky and noise-free
- Training wheels with reinforced brackets
- Fits bicycles of 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 inches
- Lightweight training wheels of 700 g
- Wheel diameter: 11.5 cm or 4.53 inch, width: 2.85 cm or 1.12 inch
Cons
- Only for single-speed bikes
- Installation may be challenging for some
How To Choose The Right Training Wheels?
Here are a few important points for you to review when choosing training wheels.
- Right size: Getting training wheels that fit your cycle size is the most important aspect that should be considered when making this milestone purchase. There is no way that a training wheel that fits a 10 inch bicycle will fit a 22 inch one, unless it actually says so.
- Type of training wheels: The style of your bicycle will also denote the type of training wheels you need to get for them. The direction and shape of track fork ends demand training wheels that will only match the specifications. When it comes to training wheels there is no such thing as a close match, It’s either a perfect match or no match at all!
- Age of your child: Children grow up very quickly, and it is natural that they also grow out of things very soon. The same goes for bikes and training wheels. If you want to future proof your child’s bike, consider an adjustable seat and make sure you also purchase one with height adjustable training wheels to meet your child’s growing needs.
- Comfort: When choosing and installing training wheels for bicycles, make it a point to place the bike on a flat surface and check that the ground clearance is the same on both sides. When clearance is will be equal, your child will be able to have a comfortable ride while feeling safe on the bike, and will not want to end riding lessons abruptly
- Safety: Children start learning how to ride a back very early, sometimes even as toddlers, and if there is one thing a mother should not compromise on, it is the safety of her little one. When choosing bicycle training wheels, a field test is a must to check how safe and secure the attachment is between the bicycle and training wheel. Even after installation, regular checks are necessary to ensure the bolt on the axle is tightly secured.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do training wheels actually help?
Training wheels are useful during the initial stage when a child is introduced to a bicycle as they offer extra stability. They help the child focus on their upright posture and pedaling without having to worry about maintaining their balance.
Jordi Sadurní, a sports scientist and cycling coach says, “Carefully guide your children so they can learn to balance while pedaling and steering. Another important aspect for them to learn while having the training wheels is how to break. It should be done gradually and gently as it can cause some falls if done abruptly.”
He adds, “Training wheels are just a tool in your child’s learning phase. Increase the height or try to remove them once your child has learned how to pedal properly“.
2. At what age should my child begin using training wheels?
It depends on when your child’s motor skills are honed enough to progress from a tricycle to a bicycle. Most children are ready for bikes with training wheels between the ages of four and eight years (1).
3. How should I determine what size training wheels my child needs?
The size of the training wheels is always in proportion to the size of the bicycle wheels and the weight limit they can bear. For instance, most five-inch diameter training wheels are suitable for bicycle wheels between 14 and 20 inches. Read the product details for a precise evaluation.
4. Why are training wheels bad?
Training wheels are, often, only good enough to teach a child to pedal with confidence, but they may not always help teach them how to balance a bike properly.
5. How should my child ride without training wheels?
Once your child is familiar with the cycle’s mechanisms and has developed more coordination and agility along with a sense of balance, you could increase the height of the training wheels from the floor. As your child gets comfortable with this change, you can then remove the wheels and walk alongside them helping them maintain balance until they know how to ride alone safely. If they are unable to maintain their balance persistently, extend the use of the kids’ bike or switch to a balance bike for a while (1).
6. Are training wheels supposed to touch the ground?
No, training wheels are to be at least 0.25 to 0.5 inches off the ground for the bike’s wheels to function properly without any restriction.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah, an experienced in-house writer and reviewer, brings you this list of the best training wheels to help your child learn to ride a bicycle safely. He has listed products that support single-speed bicycles and are durable, sturdy, anti-skid, safe, and easy to install. He selected these products after evaluating numerous product reviews and ratings available on trusted websites to meet your requirements. Further, he has provided a brief description of each product and highlighted their notable features, along with a comprehensive buying guide.
The Bottom Line
Training wheels make the process of learning how to ride a bicycle way less scary for children. They help your little one keep balance and save them from falls and accidents when learning how to pedal. And since they serve an important function, they should be sturdy, durable, anti-skid, and wear- and tear-resistant. Hence, our top recommendations include the Wald W10252 Bicycle Training Wheels featuring a universal mount, the Fortop Bicycle Training Wheels that light up while spinning, and the Bell Spotter Trainer Wheels For Bicycle, which can be flipped up when not in use. Moreover, you should find the right size for your child’s bike, ensure it is easy to install, and factor in the maximum load-bearing capacity.
Infographic: How To Select Training Wheels For Bikes?
If you plan to teach your child how to ride a bike, choosing the right training wheels is important for a safe and successful experience. The following infographic presents a helpful buying guide to help you choose the perfect training wheels for your child’s bicycle, ensuring their safety and happy bicycling journey.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Buying A Bike for Your Child:
https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=buying-a-bike-for-your-child-1-2954
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