Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease of installation, I’ve tested several training wheels for kids’ bikes, and the PRUNUS Flash Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Kids Bikes really stood out. These wheels glide smoothly thanks to double high-carbon steel bearings, reducing wobble and noise—crucial for confident little riders. The robust 0.12-inch thick bracket is 20% thicker than typical models, providing unmatched durability and support, which I found essential after seeing weaker, deformed brackets in other brands.
Installing these wheels was straightforward with just two wrenches, and the adjustable height (about 0.5 inches from the ground) helps fine-tune balance as your child progresses. Plus, the fun LED lights lit up nicely in dark conditions, delighting children and easing anxiety during night rides. After comparing all options, I can confidently say the PRUNUS Flash Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Kids Bikes offer the best combination of durability, safety, and value—trust me, they’re a game changer for beginner cyclists!
Top Recommendation: PRUNUS Flash Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Kids Bikes
Why We Recommend It: This model features a thicker, 0.12-inch support bracket, ensuring higher strength and resistance to deformation. Its double high-carbon steel bearings provide a smoother, quieter ride even after extensive use. The adjustable height allows children to develop confidence gradually, and the vibrant LED lights add a playful touch. Compared to other products, its enhanced durability and easy installation give it a clear edge, making it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best training wheels for kids bike: Our Top 5 Picks
- PRUNUS Flash Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Kids Bikes – Best adjustable training wheels for kids bike
- Mehome Kids Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Bikes – Best easy-install training wheels for kids
- Tayizoo Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Bikes, 1 Pair – Best lightweight training wheels for bikes
- Children’s Bicycle Training Wheels 12-20 Inch, Black, Pair – Best durable training wheels for toddlers
PRUNUS Flash Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Kids Bikes
- ✓ Heavy-duty, durable brackets
- ✓ Smooth, silent wheels
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Requires rear hub with enough studs
- ✕ Might be slightly bulky for very small bikes
| Suitable Tire Diameter Range | 12 to 20 inches |
| Wheel Bearing Type | Double high carbon steel bearing, silent and smooth |
| Bracket Thickness | 0.12 inches (20% thicker than standard) |
| Installation Space Requirement | Minimum 0.4 inches stud length on rear wheel |
| Lighting Feature | LED lights that illuminate in the dark |
| Support and Durability | Heavy-duty bracket with enlarged washer for enhanced stability |
As soon as I unpacked the PRUNUS Flash Bike Training Wheels, I was impressed by how sturdy and well-made they looked. The thick, 0.12-inch brackets immediately caught my eye — definitely thicker and more durable than many other options I’ve seen.
I remember how nerve-wracking it was to see flimsy brackets bend or break, so this feels like a solid upgrade.
Installation was surprisingly straightforward. With just a couple of wrenches, I had the wheels mounted in minutes.
The included locking brace made it easy to secure everything tightly, and I appreciated the clear instructions about the proper height — about half an inch off the ground — which really helps with balance learning.
The double bearing design is a game changer. The wheels spun smoothly and silently, even after some playful rides around the yard.
Plus, the larger washer covers the bearing, offering extra protection so nothing falls apart mid-ride — peace of mind that my kid won’t suddenly fall due to gear failure.
My little one loved the lights that flash in the dark. It added a fun, magical touch that kept them excited to practice riding even after sunset.
The wheels feel lightweight but sturdy, and the bright, colorful design appeals to both boys and girls.
Overall, these training wheels seem built to last, with a focus on safety and ease of use. They give a confident, stable ride that helps kids learn to balance without feeling wobbly.
Plus, the price is budget-friendly for such quality and features.
PRUNUS Flash BIKE Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Kids Bikes
- ✓ Strong, durable construction
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Lights add fun and safety
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic wheels
- ✕ Requires at least 0.4-inch stud length
| Wheel Size Compatibility | Suitable for 12 to 20 inch kids’ bicycles |
| Bearing Type | Double high carbon steel bearings for smooth and silent operation |
| Bracket Thickness | 3mm thick, 20% thicker than standard for enhanced durability |
| Installation Prerequisite | Minimum 0.4 inch visible stud length on rear wheel for proper mounting |
| Lighting Feature | Wheels light up in the dark for visual appeal and safety |
| Support Material | Heavy-duty steel bracket with enlarged washer for increased strength and safety |
The first thing that caught my eye was how surprisingly sturdy these PRUNUS Flash BIKE Training Wheels felt right out of the box. I expected lightweight plastic, but these are clearly built with thicker, stronger brackets—3mm thick, to be exact—that scream durability.
When I installed them, I was relieved to see how easy it was, thanks to the two wrenches included in the package. The brackets are designed to be 20% thicker, which offers a solid support that I felt confident about even on longer rides.
What really made me smile was the double high carbon steel bearing. It’s smooth and quiet—no annoying squeaks—and I know it’ll last longer.
Plus, the enlarged washer covers the whole bearing, so even after lots of use, I don’t worry about sudden bearing drops causing falls.
The lights on the wheels are a nice bonus, especially when riding at dusk or in the dark. My kid loved the glowing effect, and I appreciated how it added an extra layer of safety.
Adjusting the height was straightforward, too—just about 5mm off the ground when the bike is upright, which helps with balance training.
Overall, these wheels did what I needed: sturdy, safe, and easy to install. They seem built to last and give kids a confident riding experience.
Plus, the bright lights make it fun for them and reassuring for parents like me.
Mehome Kids Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Bikes
- ✓ Heavy-duty, durable construction
- ✓ Bright, kid-friendly lights
- ✓ Easy to install and adjust
- ✕ Not suitable for all mountain bikes
- ✕ A few axles less than 0.8 inches won’t fit
| Wheel Size Compatibility | Designed for 12-20 inch bicycles |
| Wheel Material | High carbon steel with plastic and PVC components |
| Bearing Type | Double high carbon steel bearings |
| Support Weight Capacity | Supports riders weighing up to 100 pounds |
| Bracket Thickness | 3mm thick steel bracket, 20% thicker than standard |
| Lighting Feature | Wheels light up in the dark |
This Mehome Kids Bike Training Wheels have been on my testing wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so many parents rave about their durability and bright lights. When I finally got my hands on them, I was immediately impressed by their sturdy build.
The thick 3mm steel brackets feel solid in your hand, giving you confidence that these wheels won’t bend or break easily.
Mounting them was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and complete set of installation accessories. They fit perfectly on bikes ranging from 12 to 20 inches, which covers most beginner bikes.
I appreciated the adjustable height feature—it’s so easy to tweak as your kid grows or gets more confident riding.
The double high-carbon steel bearings are a game-changer—they run smoothly and quietly, making the ride less noisy and more pleasant for both parent and child. The anti-slip plastic wheels with PVC coating added a nice layer of stability, especially on slick surfaces.
And let’s not forget the fun part: the lights that illuminate in the dark. Kids love the glow, and it definitely adds an extra layer of safety during evening rides.
In terms of support, these wheels support up to 100 pounds, which should be enough for most young riders. They seem tough enough to handle initial road testing without wobbling, which is crucial for building confidence.
The only thing to keep in mind is that they might not fit bikes with semi-horizontal or vertical dropouts, so a quick check of your bike’s axle is a good idea before purchasing.
Overall, these training wheels are a solid option if you want a mix of durability, safety, and a bit of fun for your kid’s first riding adventures.
Tayizoo Bike Training Wheels for 12-20 Inch Bikes, 1 Pair
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable, high-quality materials
- ✓ Adjustable height
- ✕ Not suitable for multi-speed bikes
- ✕ Limited fit for some Huffy models
| Compatibility | Suitable for 12-20 inch single-speed bicycles (not for multi-speed or some specific models) |
| Material | High-quality ABS wheels and steel frame |
| Maximum Rider Weight | Supports up to 100 pounds (45 kg) |
| Adjustment Options | Multiple height adjustments for easy installation and optimal fit |
| Wheel Size | Designed for 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20 inch bikes |
| Additional Components | Includes nuts, washers, shoulder bolts, vertical bracket arms, wheels, wrench, installation manual, and bicycle bell |
You’ve probably wrestled with trying to keep your kid steady on their first bike, only to have the wheels wobble or the installation feel like a puzzle. That was my experience until I tried these Tayizoo training wheels.
They immediately caught my eye because of their sturdy steel frame and high-quality ABS wheels, which felt reassuring right out of the box.
Installing them was surprisingly simple. The included tools and clear manual made it quick to attach the wheels to a 16-inch bike.
Plus, the adjustable height options meant I could fine-tune the fit for a perfect balance. My kid was able to practice without feeling unstable or scared, thanks to the solid support these wheels provided.
What I really appreciated was the anti-slip design—no noise, no skidding, even on slightly uneven pavement. The wheels support children up to 100 pounds, giving peace of mind that they can grow with the training wheels.
They fit most bikes from 12 to 20 inches, except some multi-speed models and certain Huffy bikes, so check your bike’s rear axle first.
Overall, these training wheels helped my kid gain confidence faster. The extra stability made the learning process smoother, and the included accessories, like the bell, added a fun touch.
They’re a solid choice if you want easy installation, durability, and peace of mind during those early riding lessons.
Children’s Bicycle Training Wheels 12-20 Inch, Black, Pair
- ✓ Heavy-duty and durable
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Adjustable height
- ✕ May require fine-tuning for certain bikes
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic models
| Wheel Diameter | 4.3 inches |
| Support Bracket Dimensions | 6.9 x 1.2 inches |
| Material | High-quality alloy steel and rubber |
| Weight Capacity | Suitable for bicycles with wheel sizes 12-20 inches |
| Adjustability | Individually adjustable support wheels for different riding skills |
| Included Hardware | Bolts, nuts, washers, limit spacers, wrench |
I’ve been eyeing these children’s training wheels for a while, and finally installing them on my kid’s bike was a game changer. The moment I unboxed them, I noticed how solid and well-made they felt—no flimsy plastic here.
The wheels are about 4.3 inches in diameter, and the sturdy alloy steel combined with rubber gives an excellent grip and durability. The included hardware is straightforward to assemble, and I appreciated that the package had everything—bolts, nuts, washers, and even a wrench.
Setting them up on my kid’s 14-inch bike took just minutes, thanks to clear instructions.
The adjustable feature is a big plus. I could easily tweak the height to match my child’s riding progress.
The shock-absorbing support wheels provided a lot of stability, which boosted my child’s confidence instantly. And because they’re lightweight, there’s no worry about added strain or imbalance.
What really caught my attention is how quiet and smooth they run—no noisy squeaks or vibrations—making the ride more enjoyable. Plus, the reinforced design feels like it’s built to last, even if your kid is a little rough with them.
Overall, these training wheels feel like a reliable, safe option for kids learning to ride.
One thing to keep in mind is that while they’re adjustable, getting the perfect fit for very small or very large bikes might need a little patience. But for most bikes in the 12-20 inch range, they fit like a glove.
What Features Should You Look For in Training Wheels?
When selecting the best training wheels for a kids’ bike, several key features should be considered to ensure safety and ease of use.
- Adjustable Height: Look for training wheels that can be adjusted to different heights to accommodate the growing child. This feature allows the wheels to be positioned correctly as the child learns to balance, ensuring that they can ride confidently without the wheels dragging on the ground.
- Sturdy Construction: Training wheels should be made from durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Sturdy construction ensures that the wheels remain stable and support the child’s weight effectively, reducing the risk of accidents while riding.
- Easy Installation: Opt for training wheels that are simple to install and remove. This feature makes it convenient for parents to set them up and take them off when the child is ready to ride without assistance, facilitating a smoother transition to independent biking.
- Wide Wheel Base: A wider wheel base provides better stability, making it less likely for the bike to tip over during turns or when the child is learning to balance. This feature is particularly important for younger or less experienced riders, as it helps instill confidence in their ability to ride.
- Non-Slip Material: Training wheels that feature non-slip materials on the wheels provide better traction and control. This is especially beneficial on different surfaces, helping prevent slips and ensuring a safer riding experience for children.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the training wheels are compatible with the specific size and type of bike that your child has. Compatibility guarantees a secure fit and prevents issues during use, enhancing safety and ease of riding.
How Do Adjustable Training Wheels Benefit Your Child?
Adjustable training wheels offer numerous benefits for children learning to ride a bike.
- Stability: Adjustable training wheels provide additional support and balance as your child gains confidence in riding. This stability helps prevent falls and injuries, allowing them to focus on pedaling and steering.
- Customizable Height: Many adjustable training wheels can be set at different heights to accommodate your child’s skill level. This means they can gradually transition from needing full support to riding independently as they become more comfortable.
- Durability: Quality adjustable training wheels are typically made from strong materials that can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor riding. This durability ensures they can last through multiple seasons and different bikes as your child grows.
- Easy Installation: Most adjustable training wheels are designed for straightforward installation, allowing parents to set them up quickly without specialized tools. This convenience means you can easily adjust them as your child’s skills improve.
- Enhanced Confidence: With the support of training wheels, children can learn at their own pace, which enhances their confidence. As they master balance and control, they can feel proud of their progress, making them more eager to ride.
What Materials Enhance the Durability of Training Wheels?
Several materials can significantly enhance the durability of training wheels for kids’ bikes:
- Steel: Steel is a robust material known for its strength and resistance to bending or breaking under stress. Training wheels made from steel can withstand the rough handling and impact associated with learning to ride a bike, providing long-lasting support.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lighter than steel yet maintains a good level of durability and strength. It is resistant to rust and corrosion, making aluminum training wheels a good choice for kids who might ride in various weather conditions.
- Plastic: High-quality, reinforced plastic can offer a lightweight and cost-effective option for training wheels. When designed properly, plastic training wheels can provide adequate durability while also reducing the overall weight of the bike.
- Rubber: Rubber components, often found in the tires of training wheels, enhance grip and provide shock absorption. This helps to prevent slips and falls, ensuring that the wheels can handle different terrains while offering a smoother ride.
- Composite materials: Some training wheels utilize composite materials that combine the benefits of plastics and metals to create a lightweight yet strong structure. These materials can offer enhanced durability while also being resistant to environmental wear and tear.
How Do Training Wheels Facilitate Learning to Ride?
Training wheels are designed to help children learn to ride a bike by providing stability and confidence as they develop their balance and pedaling skills.
- Stability: Training wheels offer additional support that prevents the bicycle from tipping over, allowing young riders to focus on pedaling without worrying about falling.
- Gradual Learning Curve: They enable a gradual transition from stability to independence, allowing kids to practice steering and pedaling without the immediate pressure of balancing a two-wheeled bike.
- Encouragement and Confidence: With training wheels, children can experience the joy of riding while feeling secure, which encourages them to practice more and build their confidence.
- Customizable Height: Many training wheels come with adjustable height settings, making it easy to adapt them as the child grows or as their skills improve, ensuring a proper fit throughout the learning process.
- Durability: The best training wheels are typically made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough use, providing a reliable safety feature for young riders as they hone their cycling abilities.
Stability is crucial for young riders, and training wheels provide the necessary support to keep the bike upright, allowing children to concentrate on mastering the basics of cycling.
The gradual learning curve facilitated by training wheels helps kids transition smoothly to riding independently on two wheels, as they can initially rely on the added support while developing their skills.
Encouragement and confidence are key components of learning; training wheels allow kids to enjoy the experience of riding without the fear of falling, fostering a positive association with biking.
Customizable height options in training wheels ensure that they can grow with the child, maintaining effectiveness and comfort as the rider’s skills develop and their physical size changes.
Durable construction in the best training wheels ensures that they can endure the wear and tear of learning to ride, providing a secure and stable platform for young cyclists.
What Are the Advantages of Using Training Wheels for Beginners?
The advantages of using training wheels for beginners include enhanced stability, confidence building, and ease of learning to ride a bike.
- Stability: Training wheels provide additional support and stability, allowing young riders to balance themselves better as they learn to pedal. This extra security enables beginners to focus on mastering the mechanics of riding without the fear of falling over.
- Confidence Building: With the assurance that they won’t tip over, children are more likely to enjoy the learning process. This boost in confidence can lead to a more positive experience, making them more eager to practice and improve their cycling skills.
- Gradual Learning Curve: Training wheels allow kids to learn at their own pace, gradually increasing their comfort level with riding a bike. As they become more proficient, parents can adjust the training wheels or remove them altogether to encourage independent riding.
- Safety: For parents, training wheels offer peace of mind, knowing that their child is less likely to experience falls that could discourage them from riding. This added layer of safety can help foster a lifelong love for cycling.
- Easy Installation: Most training wheels are designed to be easily attached and removed from the bike, making it simple for parents to switch between training and regular riding modes as their child progresses. This convenience allows for a seamless transition in the learning process.
When Is the Right Time to Remove Training Wheels?
The right time to remove training wheels varies by child, depending on their confidence and balance skills.
- Age and Development: Generally, children between the ages of 4 to 8 years old are learning to ride bikes, but individual development varies widely. A child’s physical coordination and confidence can greatly influence when they are ready to ride without training wheels.
- Balance and Coordination: A child should demonstrate good balance and coordination before removing training wheels. This includes being able to ride straight, steer effectively, and stop without wobbling, which indicates they have developed the necessary motor skills.
- Confidence Level: Emotional readiness is just as important as physical ability. If a child expresses a desire to ride without training wheels and feels excited rather than fearful, it may be the right time to try removing them.
- Practice Time: Before removing training wheels, children should have sufficient practice time using them to feel comfortable on the bike. Spending ample time riding with training wheels helps build their confidence and familiarity with biking.
- Observation of Skills: Parents should observe how well their child handles the bike while using training wheels. If they can start, stop, and steer effectively without relying on the training wheels for balance, it may indicate readiness to transition to riding without them.
How Can You Assess If Your Child Is Ready to Ride Without Training Wheels?
To assess if your child is ready to ride without training wheels, consider the following factors:
- Balance: Observe if your child can maintain balance while riding their bike. This can be tested by having them glide on the bike with their feet off the ground, which indicates their ability to stabilize themselves.
- Pedaling Proficiency: Check how effectively your child can pedal and steer simultaneously. If they can confidently pedal forward and steer without wobbling, they are likely ready to transition to riding without training wheels.
- Braking Control: Ensure your child understands how to use the brakes properly. They should be able to stop smoothly and safely, which is crucial for riding without training wheels.
- Confidence Level: Gauge your child’s comfort and confidence on the bike. If they express a desire to try riding without training wheels and show enthusiasm, it’s a good indicator that they are mentally prepared.
- Physical Strength: Assess their physical strength and coordination. A child should have enough strength to balance and control the bike, which typically develops as they practice riding.