Kidvelo to release two new balance-to-pedal bikes

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Kidvelo are a relatively new kids bike brand who launched in autumn 2021 with their Rookie 12 balance bike. The company was set up by some balance bike industry veterans who knew they could build better bikes and improve balance bike design.

You can read more about their story here, or listen to the Balance Bike episode of the Family Cycling Podcast for even more background on the trials and tribulations of setting up the company during Covid lockdowns!

We've reviewed the Rookie 12 balance bike and were very impressed, so are really excited that the next two bikes in the range are due for release later in the year.

Photos are now available so we can take a peek at these balance-to-pedal bikes.

I'm still not sure if it's two new balance bikes, or two new pedal bikes? Or both? 2 bikes, 4 bikes, who cares? Let's take a look.....

The Rookie 18 is particularly exciting if your child is that bit older or taller, and hasn’t yet mastered pedalling.

You can get them the Rookie 18 to gain their confidence balancing, and then add the pedals when they’re ready.

Or if you've got one child already riding, but aren't sure if a younger sibling will be pedalling by the same stage the Rookie 18 keeps your options open.

The Rookie 18 is designed for children aged between 4 and 8 years of age, weighs in at 5.5 kg and costs £250.

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These bikes are due in the UK mid October (in plenty of time for Christmas), but I’ve spoken to Kidvelo founder Karen Wood to find out more about how these bikes work.

How easy is it to switch between balance bike and pedal bike mode?

The Kidvelo Rookie Convertible Balance Bikes easily switch to lightweight pedal bikes, by installing the Easy-fit Pedal-kit. It only has two bolts, and no rebuild of the bike is needed.

How long does it take to switch between the two modes?

Only a couple of minutes! That’s to either add or remove the pedals, cranks and drivetrain (sometimes you may try your child with pedals, realise the time is not right and want to remove them again).

What other features should our readers know about these bikes?

The unique design uses kids-sized components such as adjustable handlebar brake levers controlling a rear and front calliper V-brake in either mode – so your child can start to learn to brake whilst still in balance bike mode.

We’ve fitted the bikes with kids-specific saddles and grips to complement the alloy frame, forks and riser handlebars.

Both seat height and handlebars reach and height can be adjusted.

With half term behind us and the clocks gone back, the school run looks a little different now. Darker mornings and early sunsets mean it’s a good time to make sure everyone feels confident and visible on their bikes for the weeks ahead.

If you’ve been meaning to try cycling to school, there’s still no pressure to do it every day. Even once a week is a great way to keep riding through the colder months and stop it from feeling like a big deal.

Good lights, front and rear, are now essential for many journeys, along with reflective details on bags and clothing. Warm layers, gloves and waterproofs make a big difference to how much everyone enjoys the ride, and it’s worth checking tyres and brakes as wet leaves and frosty mornings arrive. Allow a little extra time, and stick to routes you know well while everyone gets used to riding in the dark.

Whether it’s the ride to the school gates, a weekend spin through crunchy autumn leaves or a festive lights ride as Christmas approaches, every journey this winter is a chance to stay active, have fun and make cycling part of family life.

Explore our guides to bike lights, winter cycling kit and route planning, and get tips to help your family keep cycling to school with confidence all winter long.