Welcome to our comprehensive review of Banana Balance Bike for kids.
Banana Balance Bike Specifications
Product: Banana Balance Bike – GT and LT Models
Recommended For: a great budget-friendly bike, GT for slightly older riders, LT for lighter, younger riders
Price / Best Place to Buy: $79.99 (USA) at Amazon.com / $372.40 (AUS) at Amazon.com.au
Age-Range: 2 – 5 years
Frame + Tires: Steel frame + black alloy wheels (GT) and steel frame + EVA foam plastic tires (LT)
Wheel Size: 12″
Wheelbase: 22″ (56cm) this is the distance between front and rear axles
Seat Height Range: 12.5″ – 17″ (32-44cm) GT / 12″ – 16.5″ (30.5- 42cm) LT
Handlebar Adjustment: Tool required adjustment of 1.5″ on LT model only
Bike Weight: 8.1lbs (3.5kg) GT / 7.3lbs (3.3kg) LT
Footrests: No
Brake: No
Steering Limiter: No
Warranty: 1-year full warranty
Overall Rating: GT 8.5/10 / LT 7/10
*** Note: The GT model is currently unavailable in AUS
Let us begin our banana balance bike review with a statement that is really important when considering which balance bike may best suit your child.
“Not all balance bikes are equal, and every child is unique”.
It is our goal in this article to provide you with all the information you will need to decide whether the banana balance bike is a suitable choice for your little rider.
As is our custom, we now invite you to get comfortable with your favorite means of hydration (we recommend a great brew of coffee of course) and enjoy our contemporary post dedicated to providing parents and carers with an in-depth review of the Banana Balance Bike for kids.
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Banana Balance Bike Review Summary
What We Really Liked About The Banana Bikes
- practical and user-friendly, low slung (banana shaped) step-through design
- GT model comes with air tires that offer great traction and smoother riding
- GT model has newly designed dual-thread headset.
- LT model allows for 1.5″ of handlebar adjustment
- both GT and LT models have quick release seat-post clamp with wide-range adjustment
- large bumpers on the grips
Note: LT models have maintenance free, EVA foam tires
What Didn’t We Particularly Like About The Banana Bikes
- LT model has limited ground clearance when seat is in the lowest position
- not as durable as higher-end balance bikes
- exposed axle bolts
Banana Balance Bike Comprehensive Review
It’s time for us to provide you with greater detail and helpful insights into the above features of the banana bike.
We have completed our own research to ensure you are getting the latest and most comprehensive information available, so that you can make a well-educated decision whether this little toy will be a great riding buddy for your future cycling champion.
Let’s get riding!
What We Liked About the Banana Bike and Why?
Practical User-Friendly Design
The banana bike has been named true to its unique design.
Banana Bike’s low-slung banana shaped frame!
The low-slung step-through frame, that is bent like a banana, provides easy mounting and dismounting for even the tiniest of riders. This also allows for the seat to get super-low, making it a great option for younger kids wanting to get riding at around 18 months of age.
In addition, the banana bike is pretty light. The GT and LT models are only 3.5kg and 3.3kg respectively.
It is important to keep in mind that the Banana Bike is a budget balance bike. When compared to other balance bikes in the budget-friendly market this weight is very competitive.
You may recall from previous articles (see our ultralight Cruzee Balance Bike Review for example) that the lighter weight helps the rider to successfully manoeuvre and control their little bike as they learn to ride without having to wrestle a heavy and unforgiving toy.
This is a huge tick for the banana bike’s unique and thoughtful design.
Air Tires on GT Models
Hands down, air tires are the go-to option that we recommend for balance bikes.
But why?
Great question. We have researched extensively into this topic and without question we know that air tires allow for a smoother, more stable ride on ALL surfaces.
Banana Bike GT comes with air tires!
Air tires provide greater comfort, control and traction, particularly as your child begins to explore different terrains and conditions as they get older and more adventurous.
That being said, the LT provides a point of difference for parents that may be looking for a maintenance free balance bike for their kids. The LT comes with EVA foam plastic tires that don’t require inflation, ever!
Banana Bike LT comes with EVA foam tires!
If your child is learning to ride at around the 18-month age bracket and will be riding mostly on hard surfaces and/or grass then these foam tires should do the trick perfectly fine.
** An important note to consider here
A balance bike should last your child anywhere from 2-3 years, especially if they begin at around 18-months to 2 years of age.
Therefore, after riding and practicing for about 12-months, most riders will be starting to explore varied off-road surfaces, hills, and/or jumps and will have developed skills that involve stronger, more coordinated motor patterns.
These improvements over the first 12-months make the decision to initially purchase a balance bike with air tires a real winner, as this will allow the rider to progress more naturally and provide greater longevity for your initial investment.
Upgraded Dual-Thread Headset on GT Models
The upgrade to the Banana Bike’s headsets took place in 2019.
So what exactly do the upgraded headsets on the GT and LT models provide?
Banana bike claims that their headset improvements are the greatest positive change made when compared to previous models. The headsets, for example, on most pedal bikes are what are called true headsets.
GT Model Headset
The banana bike GT now has a lightweight, true headset design. These include a head disk, two full bearings, and a bolt that connects the handlebars to the frame at the forks. Quite simply, this allows for a robust, durable headset.
GT dual-thread, non-adjustable headset!
One that won’t require correction after a fall, and provides a secure, smooth steering mechanism with greater control.
This is particularly important as the GT handlebars are quite narrow at 15″ (the LT has 15.75″).
A narrower handlebar width is perfect for slightly more experienced riders, but can be problematic for timid, smaller kids just learning as the steering is easier to control with extra handlebar width.
Quite simply, the GT has a very secure, lower profile and aggressive handlebar + headset combination that is more suited to adventurous, energetic and experienced riders.
LT Model Headset
In comparison, the LT model comes with a threadless headset. This looks and performs quite differently to the GT.
LT model has a tool adjustable (1.5″) headset!
The LT headset, while having been improved, provides a lighter, threadless headset that has the advantage of being adjustable by 1.5″.
This room-to-grow adjustable headset is advantageous to riders that feel more comfortable in a slightly more upright position. Keep in mind this does require a tool to adjust.
Remember, the LT has an extra .75″ extra handlebar width too compared to the GT.
Essentially, the LT provides greater comfort and security for rider’s that are smaller and less adventurous.
We will discuss and compare handlebars in greater detail in our final section below, where we compare the Banana Bike with other bikes in its class.
Wide Range Quick Release Seat Adjustment
A user-friendly and practical feature that is present on both models, the GT and LT, is the seat-post quick-release clamps. Any balance bike with these quick-release clamps at the seat-post allows for quick, tool-free adjustments to be made.
We rate this feature very highly on any balance bike, due to its practical nature and ease of use for parents. In addition, the Banana Bike has huge seat-height adjustment capabilities. On both the GT and LT models there is 4.5″, this is virtually equal to any balance bike in the market with this range.
An important note is worth mentioning here. The GT has a slightly higher seat height range, 12.5″ – 17″. Whereas the LT’s range is 12″ – 16.5″.
This is just another subtle point of difference between the models, that adds further support to our recommendation of the LT for smaller, more petite, less adventurous riders and the GT for slightly older, more confident and energetic riders.
Large Handlebar Grip Bumpers
Another feature we really liked on the banana bike is the large bumpers on the upgraded handlebar grips.
These, like the headsets, were upgraded in 2019 and are softer, more grippy, have greater durability and a large safety bumper on the ends.
Grips can be problematic in the budget-friendly balance bike market. Banana bike have done well to improve this important safety feature to make these safer and more functional for the rider.
A great addition!
What Didn’t We Particularly Like About the Banana Bike and Why?
LT Model Has Minimal Ground Clearance in the Lowest Seat Position
We have already mentioned the excellent seat-height range available (4″) on both the GT and LT models.
While this is great for the advantages it provides, parents are to be aware of a possible problem this my cause on the LT model.
When the LT is in its lowest seat position (12″), there is only 2.5″ of ground clearance. That is, the distance between the seat post and the ground is minimal. This may be a problem if your little rider is exploring hilly, uneven surfaces as they may bottom-out and cause a fall.
This is worthwhile keeping in mind if your child is riding the LT in the lowest seat position.
That being said, this problem is not exclusive to the banana bike. For example, other popular brands such as the Strider 12 Sport (AUS) or (USA) has only 2.25″ of ground clearance in the lowest seat position. The Cruzee (AUS) 2.75″ yet the Banana Bike GT (USA) has a more generous 3.25″.
As always, we recommend that parents provide the right learning environment for the unique needs of their child as they learn to ride.
This is just another feature of the unique tiny balance bike market that parents should be aware of as your child gets out there to learn and explore balance bike riding.
Lacking Durability
A balance bike in the budget-friendly price range, such as the banana bike will not have the high-end features or components that more expensive balance bikes provide.
For example, the added durability of these more expensive bikes may deliver,
- lighter, rust and chip-proof frames and components such as that on the Cruzee.
- footrests, such as those on the Strider 12 Sport (USA or AUS)
- brakes, such as those on the smarTrike, and
- steering limiters, such as those on the FirstBIKE Cross (USA or AUS)
Follow the links above to see an example of balance bikes with these features.
It is important to keep in mind that the banana bike won’t have the same durability as these more expensive models, as it’s purposefully designed that way.
That being said, like all bikes, if the bike is well maintained and stored away out of the elements, your child can potentially have a lot of fun for 2-3 years on the banana bike.
Exposed Axle Bolts
Quite simply, any exposed bolts on a bike may cause potential injury to the rider.
More expensive balance bikes, such as the Cruzee or FirstBike balance bikes, have hidden, flat bolts that eliminate this risk and are a welcome design feature (see images below).
Image of the Cruzee with flat axle bolts!
Image of the FirstBIKE flat axle bolts!
The banana bike has exposed bolts at the axles (see image below). Again, this is a safety feature worth considering when making a decision as to which balance bike to purchase for your child.
Banana bike’s exposed axle bolts!
How Does the Banana Bike Compare To Other Balance Bikes in its Class?
The banana bike, as mentioned throughout is priced in the budget-friendly balance bike market.
So, let’s take a quick look at how the banana bike compares to other balance bikes in the same class. We have provided a breakdown of the key features in the table below to give you an easy overview, with a small summary beneath.
| Balance Bike | Seat HeightRange | Weight | FrameMaterial | Brake | SteeringLimiter | QuickRelease Seat post | Adjustable Handlebars | AirTires | List PriceUSA |
| Banana Bike LTUSA or AUS | 12” – 16.5” | 7.3 lbs | Steel | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | $79.99 |
| Banana Bike GTUSA or AUS (n.a) | 12.5” – 17” | 8.1 lbs | Steel | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | $79.99 |
| GOMOUSA or AUS | 11”-17” | 8.5 lbs | Steel | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | $69 |
| Radio Flyer | 14.5”-18” | 6.8 lbs | Steel | No | No | Yes | No | No | currently out of stock at amazon.com |
| Retrospec Cub USA | 12”-16.5” | 9.2 lbs | Steel | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | $65 |
| Schwinn, Coen & Elm USA or AUS | 14.5”-
16.75” |
8.5 lbs | Steel | No | No | Yes | No | No | $83.45 |
| Strider 12Sport | 11” – 16” | 6.4 lbs | Steel | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | $119.99 |
Comparison Summary – The Bottom Line
This little bike is a great budget option for less adventurous riders that will be sticking mostly to hard surfaces. The bike is light, practical and durable.
In the budget-balance bike market, this is hard to beat. With a slightly more aggressive (smaller and lower) handlebar set that has the upgraded true headset plus air tires, this is a great buy for families on a budget yet wanting the best bang for your buck.
Your kids will love this bike!
With the exception of EVA foam tires, this is a ripper bike loaded with features that your kids will love and well worth a special mention here.
The GOMO may be your best balance bike option depending on the unique needs of your little child.
Overall ilovetoridemybike.com Conclusion
The banana bikes really are a great budget option for parents wanting to introduce their little riders to their first bike.
The LT model is recommended for younger, lighter and less adventurous riders, while the GT is highly recommended for slightly older, heavier and energetic riding champions.
Both offer great features and overall, a very practical and capable bike at this price point. We do believe that between these two models, Banana Bike does have your child well covered for a great riding experience.
If you have any questions or comments, please leave these below as we are more than happy to help, and love to hear about your riding adventures with your kids.
Happy riding!
