Wooden Balance Bike company, LikeaBike has introduces an aluminum version of their popular pedal-less learning bicycle.

The Jumper has been made to the same high standard that steps LikeaBike aside from the crowd, this time using aluminum rather than wood. Just like its wooden counterparts the Jumper comes equipped with a unique steering limiter to prevent jack-knifing, the limiter can be easily removed for more advanced riders. The frame of the Jumper is made from light weight aluminum(only 7.5 lbs) and has a rear suspension. It is fitted with a comfortable saddle that is embroidered with the Kokua logo. Another great feature are the 12-inch lightweight alloy wheels fitted with Schwalbe Big Apple tires with puncture protection and a reflective trim.

$270 @likeabike.com

Moov has created a really cool do-it-yourself kit for kids 5-12 that allows them to build the bike of their choice.

Designed to be constructed without the use of tools, Moov brings an educational toy that challenges children at different levels.

It is is a safe toy with toy parts that are made of pure materials, such as wood and rubber.

Here are the 3 kit options:

• Starter kit: more than 125 components, including 2 wheels – creates 3 toys; bike, crane, scooter
• Advanced kit: more than 150 components, including 3 wheels – creates 7 toys; bike, crane, scooter, helicopter, snowscooter, chopper, dinobird
• Street kit: more than 175 components, including 4 wheels – creates 9 toys; bike, crane, scooter, helicopter, snowscooter, chopper, dinobird, carver and racer

Benefits:

• is a solid and robust outdoor toy. It can take quite a lot of rough play.
• is not a passive toy but an active toy.
• is a toy with a social aspect: it stimulates playing together.
• is healthy: it stimulates playing outdoors.
• promotes the fantasy, creativity and technical insight of your child.
• encourages independence, without tools or help from parents.
• is, just like the famous coloured building blocks, a toy with stable value.
• does not use batteries or re-chargers, but simply works on the fantasy of your child.

The coolest new trend for kids this year is the introduction of wooden ‘Balance bikes’ . While this is not a new concept, there are just more companies entering the market, giving parents more choice of style.

These tiny bikes, often referred to as run bikes or training bikes, which are pedal free and without training wheels, first and foremost help a child develop the most important skills necessary to later ride a 2 wheel bicycle with pedals: Balance and Motor Skills.

They are a great way to transition from ride on toys to a big boy/girl bike and all are made of 100% birch wood or eco-friendly materials.

Most have

• a height adjustable, padded seat
• 12″ rubber/foam tires
• Solid rubber/foam handgrips

1. PLIM Swiss Roadie Runner$50
2. Prince Lionheart Balance Bike $89
3. Like a Bike$160
4. Smart Gear Balance Bike
5. Skiphop Wishbone 3 in 1 Bike $250
6. Sevi Balance Bike$160