Frequently Asked Questions

Why training wheels are the slowest way to learn balance? | back to top

Riding a bike may take years when learning with training wheels because it doesn't teach kids the most fundamental thing about riding a bike -- balance. Kids are incorrectly trained to rely on the auxiliary wheels, which distort the riding experience. When a bike leans, or tips to one side, the young rider’s balance is challenged. To regain balance control, the wheel needs to be turned into the lean. Training wheels do not allow the bike to lean hence kids aren’t thought to turn the wheel in the right direction to restore balance.

Why training wheels can be dangerous? | back to top

Training wheels may give a false impression of safety. In fact they could be dangerous when the speed of the bike exceeds a normal walking pace. On a bike equipped with training wheels, the child sits higher. The base width of the training wheels is fairly narrow thereby decreasing the oblique angle between the two auxiliary wheels and the bicycle. This may cause the child to topple over when negotiating a turn. The painful memory of a bad fall is likely to inhibit future attempts. Also the braking power of the rear wheel is greatly reduced when turning even slightly, because weight is shifted from the rear wheel to the outside training wheel.

What are the advantages of having a removable pedal system? | back to top

It allows for a 2 in 1 bicycle. A child can use the Hobby-Bike as a push-along in its initial configuration. Without the pedal system it is lighter and easier for a child to maintain balance and steer. Pedals can make it very difficult for the child to learn how to balance. Often the child won’t get their feet off the pedals and on the ground fast enough resulting in a fall. By removing the pedal system, feet can swing freely to push along and be ready to stop a fall eliminating injuries from spinning crank and pedal assembly. Later, when the child masters his motor skills, the Hobby-Bike can be converted into a child’s bike by simply fitting the pedal system.

Is the horse mascot come with the Hobby-Bike? | back to top

Yes. The horse plush toy represents the concept of “Hobby Horse”. It will fast become a very good companion for the child! The plush toy also serves as the handlebars protective padding to protect the child from direct impact with the handlebar. The fitted handlebar protective padding must be adjusted as needed.

Are there any advantages to metal vs wooden balance bikes? | back to top

Yes. Metal bikes are much more durable, practical, and may be more likely to be passed on from one child to the next. Wooden bike require more maintenace as they are less weather resistant, have tendency to wrap and will show signs of wear from usage. Many of the cheaper wooden bikes have been reported to splinter, which can be extremely harmful to the child.

What colors do you offer? | back to top

One of our blue, pink, red or yellow Hobby-Bikes is sure to suit any child’s dream.

Does the Hobby-Bike have turning limiters feature? | back to top

YES, and for safety reason we decided to include that feature on our product. It prevents the front wheel from making sharp turns and in the event of a fall prevents the handlebar from injuring a child’s face, neck or chest. It also prevents the break cable from becoming twisted. The Hobby-Bike is the best « training » bike.

Does the Hobby-Bike come with brakes? | back to top

The Hobby-Bike comes standard with a front handbrake system suitable for children so that young riders can become accustomed with the braking concept and stop using both feet for balance. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, many young children generally do not have the hand strength or dexterity to use hand brakes. So the primary method for stopping or slowing down, on any balance trainer including the Hobby-Bike is the child's feet. Once you fixed the pedal system, you gain a coaster brake.

What is a coaster brake? | back to top

It is a special rear hub for a bicycle, which allows the bicycle to move forward without using the pedals to turn. It is also a brake when back-pedalling. It is weather resistant and compare to other types of brakes it requires minimal maintenance because it has no cables.

Does the Hobby-Bike offer adjustments? | back to top

The Hobby-Bike is designed to grow with your child. To do so, it offers the widest range of motion steering in the industry. The child will get years of enjoyment thanks to the Hobby-Bike height adjustable seat and handlebar. Its frame with its a trial slot drop-end feature allows height change to custom fit a child between 2 ½-5 years old.

How high up is the seat? | back to top

The saddle height at its lowest setting, with the rear end lowered (in push-along model), is 37 cm (14.5 inch). The saddle height at its highest setting, with the rear-end upered (in bicycle model), is 55 cm (20.5 inch).

When will my child will be able to use the Hobby-Bike? | back to top

When the appropriate riding inseam is reached. To measure the inseam, your child must stand up straight with the legs slightly apart. Using measuring tape, measure from the crotch to the floor. Take note of the length: this is referred to as the riding inseam. If at least 21/2 years of age with a leg length of at least 40 cm (15.75 inches) the child can use the Hobby-Bike as a push-along in its initial configuration. A child with a shorter inside leg measurement must not use the Hobby-Bike. The riding inseam requirement of 40 cm (15.75 inches) is to ensure the child will have stability with feet touching the ground.

How long will it take for the child to learn to balance on the Hobby-Bike? | back to top

Learning curves are different for each child. For some children it may as little as an hour, while for others may take 1-2 weeks. . Either way the child will have fun getting there.

Would you recommend Hobby-Bike for children over 5 years? | back to top

Typically no, because children older than 5 years are often too tall for a 12” bicycle. A simple inseam measurement will tell you.

Is there an assembly required? | back to top

The Hobby-Bike comes fully assembled except for the handlebars and front wheel, which are easy to attach. Instructions and needed tools are provided.

What will I find in the package? | back to top

1 Hobby-Bike (partly assembled), 1 Hobby-Horse Plush Toy (handlebars protective padding), 1 Multi-Function Tool, 2 Allen Key, 1 Pedal System with Fastening Screws, 1 Chain Guard, 1 Chain, 2 Pedals, 1 Owner’s Manual.

Does the Hobby-Bike require much maintenance? | back to top

No. The Hobby-Bike requires only lite ongoing maintenance. Before riding the bike verify bolts for tightness; test the responsiveness of the front and rear wheel brakes (only when the pedal system is attached); make sure the saddle, handlebars, stem and wheels are securely in place. Also check the tires condition and air pressure. A damp cloth or sponge is all you will need to maintain the Hobby-Bike looking anew.

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