The all-new Strider 14x Sport balance bike quickly converts to a pedal bike with an ingenious, one-bolt installation of their custom crankset. As a scoot bike (or balance bike or push bike, whatever you call it), the 14x uses Strider’s signature low slung shape to keep your kids feet easily on the ground or the foot pads. This helps them learn proper handling of the bike by making it easy to lean into turns. Then, when they’re ready to start pedaling, you simply sling the chain over the rear cog and bolt the entire bottom-bracket-and-crankset into place.
We saw this in person in late prototype stage, so the pics below show how incredibly quick and easy the transformation is…
Here’s what it looks like without pedals…
…and with them.
As a balance bike, it has a plastic cover over the rear cog to keep things safe.
To put the pedals on, simply remove the lower cover that holds the foot pads on…
…loop the chain over the cog…
…and bolt a new cover over the BB to lock the crankset assembly into place. No need to break the chain or frame open.
A full length chain cover can be installed to prevent greasy pants legs or stuck fingers while they’re still learning about the moving parts. The hub has a coaster brake built in, so just pedal backwards to stop. Or drag your shoes.
Cranks are super short for clearance, but this also means they’re sized for your toddler’s legs. The 14x is aimed at kids 1.5 to 5 3 to 7 years old.
Complete weight is about 12lb (5.5kg) in balance mode, and 15lb (6.9kg) with the pedals. The narrow design of the pedals allows the rider to still stride along with them installed, so they can transition at their own speed. That design also makes it easier to corner, even if their inside pedal is down, reducing the likelihood of them clipping a pedal on the ground and wiping out.
Other features include fully pneumatic tires, adjustable saddle and handlebar height so it grows with your kid, 14″ wheels, and kid sized polyvinyl grips. Retail is just $209.99 with free shipping inside the U.S., or get it at your local bike shop and keep that money circulating in your hometown.
