Welcome to our comprehensive review of the Micro Deluxe balance bike for kids.
We are so glad to have you here.
If you have been here before, our format hasn’t changed. Our aim is to provide you with a clear, unbiased and super helpful read that allows you to clearly see if the Micro Deluxe may be a suitable bike for your little riding champion.
So, without further hesitation, let’s get into it!
Micro Deluxe Specifications
Product: Micro Deluxe Kids Balance Bike. Two color options, Bright Blue and Red.
Recommended for: Kids 2.5 to 5 years
The Best place to buy / Price: microscooters.com.au (AUS $199.95)
Frame and Tires: Light weight aluminum / Air tires
Wheel Size: 12″ (300mm)
Wheelbase: 620mm
Seat Height Range: 38 – 44cms (15″ – 17.3″)
Bike Weight: 4.1kgs
Features: Air tires, quick release adjustable seat, tool adjust handlebars, true head set, removable steering limiter, rear fork rubber suspension, soft padded seat, unique carry handle and overall high-quality Swiss design.
Warranty: 2 years
Overall Rating: 8.5 /10
Before diving deep into our review, we have a custom to provide our readers with a statement that helps set the scene and stimulate perspective for parents as you search for a suitable balance bike for your child.
“Every child is unique and not all balance bikes are created equal!”
Our goal and purpose for writing this post?
This is simple. We wish to provide you, our readers with all the information you need to decide whether the Micro Deluxe balance bike would be a suitable partner for your child when learning to ride a balance bike. And in doing so, making sure your child will have a blast while beginning what we hope to be a lifetime love affair with two wheels. 🙂
It’s time to grab your favorite means of hydration (we recommend an almond latte) and enjoy our comprehensive review of the Micro Deluxe Balance bike for kids.
Micro Deluxe Review Summary
What we really like about the Micro Deluxe
- Quality 12″ air tires
- Unique rear suspension
- True head set
- Excellent design and build quality
What didn’t we particularly like about the Micro Deluxe
- No handbrake
- Small seat height range
- Rear suspension positioned too far forward on the frame
Micro Deluxe Comprehensive Review
Now let’s take a closer look at the above-mentioned points and provide you with all the good stuff, that parent-essential information to help you better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the Micro Deluxe balance bike design.
Typically, balance bikes are your child’s first bike. This first status comes with a responsibility for parents to ensure we choose a bike that meets our child’s unique needs, not to mention provide a bucket load of fun on a bike.
We’ve conducted our own research and listened to expert testimonies to make sure we provide you with the best information available, so that you can confidently decide if the Micro Deluxe will make a great riding partner for your child.
We hope you enjoy!
What we liked about the Micro Deluxe and Why?
Quality 12″ Air Tires
The Micro Deluxe rolls on quality, luxury air tires that have a great tread pattern, excellent width (wider than most foam tires) and a color-coded side wall which adds a nice finish (see images).
If you have been here before, you will know our recommendation when it comes to tires.
Balance bikes have two tire options. Air tires (which require maintenance) and solid foam tires (which require no maintenance).
Hands down, air tires are the best of these two choices as they provide superior comfort, control and handling in any terrain and overall better suspension qualities compared to its solid foam rival.
Arguably the greatest benefit that almost intuitively follows is that riders are more confident when riding and therefore happier to continue learning to ride a bike.
Now that’s a great incentive to seriously look at purchasing a bike with air tires for your child. We know the benefits are absolutely worthwhile.
Therefore, if within your budget, purchasing a balance bike with air tires is highly recommended.
** Final note
As mentioned above, air tires are not maintenance free. At some stage these will require pumping up and quite possibly, a new tube. Just be sure to have the essentials handy (pump, spare tube and tire levers) so that you are ready to replace when necessary.
If this seems a bit tricky, some links you may find helpful are found at Strider Home School.
We also recommend that you ask your local bike shop to teach you how to change a tire tube. This doesn’t take long and is a wonderfully practical skill to learn. You will find your local bike shop mechanic very helpful and a super resource to help you support your child’s riding.
Unique Rear Suspension
The Micro Deluxe comes with a unique design that offers rear suspension. This makes it just one of few available with this feature. Other balance bikes with either rear, front or dual suspension include the Kokua, Berg Biky Cross and Balance Bike Plus.
There are three key qualities that make bike suspension a ripping feature for the rider.
- Comfort: Suspension will absorb the shocks and vibrations rider’s experience, reducing the impact on the body while providing a smoother ride.
- Control: By keeping the wheel(s) in contact with the ground this helps to maintain better control, particularly at increased speed. This is especially important in wet and off-road conditions.
- Speed: Suspension reduces the amount of speed lost over bumps and vibrations and can allow the rider to maintain speed while reducing effort.
While suspension (nor speed) is not essential for our future riding champions, as their little bodies develop and begin to explore various terrains, this will absolutely contribute to a more effortless and enjoyable riding experience.
That being said, we believe the Micro Deluxe rear suspension design may prove problematic for some riders. But more on this later.
True Headset
The Micro Deluxe comes with a well-designed true headset.
Similar to tires, balance bike handlebar designs come in two options.
These will be either integrated handlebars, or true headset design.
An integrated handlebar has the handlebars slotting directly into the head tube. A true head set on the other hand has a separate head stem and supporting clamp that holds the handlebars more securely in place, which then connects to the bikes head stem (see images below).
Without a doubt, a true head set, such as that featured on the Micro Deluxe, is far superior and highly recommended on a kids balance bike. But why?
Try to imagine the forces directly impacting the steering mechanism while riding. First, all movement is directed by maintaining control of the front wheel and steering from the handlebars.
By looking at the integrated handlebar design, you can imagine that a little rider would not feel as secure with directing the bike’s steering from a clamp that is slotted straight into the head stem. Quite simply, this is a less secure set-up.
The Micro’s true head set, secures the handlebars first to the head stem, and is then secured to the frame via the head stem onto the down tube with a secure cap and bolt mechanism.
This allows the rider to confidently direct and control the bike’s steering, particularly at speed and over uneven, off-road terrain.
Excellent Design and Build Quality
When it comes to engineering and build quality, the Swiss do have a reputation for maintaining the highest caliber of workmanship. The Micro Deluxe, being Swiss designed and engineered is no exception.
In addition, the Micro complies with some of the highest safety standards in the world.
From the durability of the air tires, frame weld and finish, soft rubber seat and grips, flattened bolts throughout for added safety and detachable steering limiter, we cannot fault the Micro’s standard of workmanship.
Overall, this is a quality balance bike that is built to the highest of standards that little riders will undoubtedly appreciate.
What didn’t we particularly like about the Micro Deluxe and Why?
No Handbrake
We are big fans of handbrakes on balance bikes and our reasoning is twofold.
First, handbrakes provide a safer riding experience. As your little riding champion continues to grow like a mushroom (and in confidence), they will undoubtedly increase the speeds at which they ride and, explore hilly terrains or bike parks.
A handbrake will help your child to better control their speeds, whether over gentle slopes or undulating hills, their feet (and shoes for that matter) can only do so much to help maintain a safe speed once on a descent. A handbrake is the perfect answer for greater speed and overall bike control.
Second, kids will need to learn the fine motor skills intuitive to using a handbrake when they transition to a pedal bike. By learning to use a handbrake when first hopping onto a balance bike, they will be fast-tracking this important skill.
Better yet, this will ultimately provide an even smoother transition to a pedal bike when the time comes.
Small Seat Height Range
The Micro Deluxe’s seat height range, as stated earlier under Specifications at the beginning of our post, is just 15″ – 17.3″.
This is not a lot of room for your little rider to grow and ultimately enjoy this bike from a very young age. Most 12″ balance bikes (the most popular size balance bike on the market) will offer a greater seat height range.
Now this makes perfect sense, as the 12″ balance bike is catering for the most diverse age-range, usually from 18 months to 5 years.
For example, the Strider 12 Sport (11-19″), Cruzee (11-19″), Cillafish (11-14″), Banana GT (12.5-17.5″), Kriddo (11-17″), GOMO (12-17.5″ and Specialized Hotwalk (13.5-17″) to name just a few, all have greater seat height adjustability.
The Micro Deluxe, with only 2.3″ of adjustability, and in particular, the lowest seat height of 15″ will ultimately restrict younger toddlers from riding this bike.
Rear Suspension Position
As mentioned earlier, rear, front or dual suspension on a bike is a welcome feature.
While not essential, if within your budget, we would certainly recommend exploring the few balance bikes available that rock ‘n’ roll this feature.
The Micro Deluxe however, has designed their rear suspension to be positioned well forward on the bikes frame. Essentially, when standing over the bike and looking directly down, you can see the suspension frame protruding out from under the seat.
This protruding section of the frame is right in the area we call the running zone. Your child’s little legs will be walking, jogging and running in this area and some rider’s may find their legs and feet making contact with this section of the frame.
For an example of a better frame design with rear suspension, check out the Balance Bike Plus.
How does the Micro Deluxe compare to similar balance bikes?
We think it’s useful for you to make a direct comparison of exactly what other balance bikes are out there with similar features to the Micro. Ultimately, our list is not extensive, as the number of balance bikes that include suspension are relatively few.
Let’s take a quick peek at other balance bikes on the market using suspension as our common feature.
Micro Deluxe (AUS $199.95 at microscooters.com.au)
Feature Summary
Light weight aluminum frame, rear suspension, weight 4.1kgs, age range 2.5 – 5 years,12″ (300mm) extra wide air tires, quick release adjustable seat (range 15″ to 17.3″), true headset, removable steering limiter, frame integrated carry handle, soft padded seat and grips, no handbrake and overall excellent quality design.
Recommended for an all-round rider who likes both on and off-road adventures. This bike will take a beating due to its durable design. With no hand brake, this is not recommended for hilly terrains, nor for smaller toddlers as the lowest seat height is quite high at 15″.
Kokua LIKEABIKE Jumper 12 (USD $239 at kokuabikesusa.com)
Feature Summary
Light weight 7005 aluminum frame with low stand over height, rear suspension (elastomer behind the seat post), weight 3.4kg (7.5 lbs), age range 18 months to 5 years, 12″ Schwalbe “big apple” air tires, quick release adjustable seat (range 340-440mm or 13″ – 17.5″), true head set (A head design), removable steering limiter (damper), sealed bearings in aluminum hubs and rims, sturdy vinyl cushioned seat, optional add-on brakes available, overall superb quality design and build finish.
Recommended for the adventurous all-rounder, particularly with the added brake capability. This bike can be taken on any terrain due to its superb features such as suspension and quality air tires. It has a very good seat height range and is one of the lightest balance bikes available on the market with air tires.
Bottom line, this is an excellent product your child will love riding.
** Note: Kokua also has a LIKEABIKE Jumper 14 recommended for kids 3 to 8 years.
Berg Biky Cross with Handbrake (AUS $299 at bergaustralia.com.au)
Feature Summary
Light weight Dutch designed and engineered magnesium frame, bike weight 4.5kgs, big oversized down tube increases riding comfort and stability, suited for kids 90cm to 120cms tall, age range 3 to 5 years, 12″ air tires, tool adjustable seat height, unique robust headset design, steering angle limiter is adjustable, handbrake or no handbrake options, in built anti-slip footrests, soft padded seat and overall excellent quality build.
Recommended for the rider who likes to explore hard surface or off-road riding over hilly or undulating terrain. The added handbrake, subtle footrests, oversized down tube, steering limiter and quality tires and wheels make for a very comfortable ride. This bike is getting a little on the heavy side and may be problematic for petite, younger toddlers to learn how to ride due to its heavier construction.
However, overall, we really liked this design and have no doubt it will leave your little rider smiling from ear to ear.
## Important note: At the time of publishing, we are still awaiting confirmation as to whether the bike offers front suspension.
Balance Bike Plus with Suspension (AUS $109 at www.10001.com.au)
Feature Summary
Light weight aluminum frame, rear suspension, bike weight 4kgs, low step through frame, age range 2 to 5 years, seat height range 36 to 41.5cm (14″ to 16.5″), quick release seat clamp, 12″ air tires, robust true head set, removable steering limiter, no handbrake, super gel soft padded seat, and removable footrests.
Recommended for rider’s who like to explore both on and off-road surfaces. Not recommended over hilly terrain or bike parks with jumps and ramps. Balance Bike Plus’s simple design does a nice job with some notable features such as true head set, removable steering limiter and air tires making this bike suitable for most rider’s needs.
The overall quality is not to the same standard (as you would expect for the price) of the higher-end balance bikes available on the market. That being said, this is a very good budget-friendly option that really does have some wonderful features normally limited to the more expensive bikes on the market.
The above represents a brief summary of other bike options that provide similar features to those seen on the Micro Deluxe. We hope you find this helpful.
## Important note for parents
As a parent, you have the best understanding of your child’s unique physical attributes and personality. In addition, you are now gaining a better understanding of the world of balance bikes for kids.
When shopping for a balance bike, we recommend that you use this knowledge to find the perfect match for your little rider, tailored to their specific needs. By doing so, you can provide your child with a wonderful introduction to cycling, one we hope will become a lifelong passion.
To assist you in your search, we recommend that you head over to our post, Balance Bike Buyers Guide. It provides extra guidance, tips, and all the necessary information you may require before making a purchase.
Additionally, our post, Balance Bike Set-up Guide, offers step-by-step assistance on correctly fitting the bike to your little rider.
We are confident that you will find both of these resources extremely helpful!
Overall ilovetoridemybike.com Conclusion
In sum, the Micro Deluxe has some great features that make this bike a neat option for slightly older rider’s wanting to get riding on either hard surface or off-road terrain.
The Micro is solid and will take a beating by the most energetic of toddlers. The air tires and rear suspension add a wonderful cushioning effect that little rider’s will enjoy. With no handbrake it is best to avoid hilly terrain and we also recommend for slightly older toddlers due to the lowest seat height being quite high.
If you would like more information about the Micro Deluxe head over to their website microscooters.com.au. Or, if you would like to see more of our balance bike reviews, head on over to our home page, we are sure you will find these helpful.
We hope you have enjoyed our Micro Deluxe balance bike review (and your coffee). If you have any questions or comments, please leave these below. Also, feel free to tell us how your child’s riding is going.
We hope it’s going super.
Happy riding!
I really enjoyed reading your review of the Micro Balance Bike Deluxe – as a parent who is always on the lookout for quality toys and activities for my little ones, it’s great to have access to detailed and honest reviews like yours. I appreciated the level of detail you provided in your analysis of the bike’s features, durability, and overall performance, as well as your personal experience using it with your child. Your review has given me a better understanding of what the Micro Balance Bike Deluxe has to offer, and I feel much more confident in making an informed decision when it comes to selecting a balance bike for my own child. Thanks for sharing your insights and keep up the great work!
Hi Dave, thanks for taking the time to send through your comments.
We are so glad you found this post helpful.
Yes, we pride ourselves on providing our readers with all the information you will need to not only make the right purchase of balance bike for your child, but also support you in teaching your child how to ride, with ideas, tips and helpful insights along the way.
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions and share our website to others you feel may benefit from our site.
Happy riding!
The only thing that puts me off of this bike is the fact that it has no handbrake. To me these types of bikes shouid always have some sort of brake, as little children will feel more confident to go at a speed that they can learn to balance if they know they can stop if they have to without putting their feet on the ground.
Other than that, this looks like a solid bike that any child will love.
Hi Michel, it’s nice to hear from you again. We hope you are doing great.
Yes, it is quite amazing to see, even at such a young age, the speeds young toddlers can reach and the importance of being able to control this speed while out riding.
If children are riding on any undulations, or hills, speed is accumulated quickly, and their feet can only control so much of this safely.
We agree with you, brakes are highly recommended, even on the smallest of bikes and for the smallest of riders when first learning to ride a bike.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts with us. Happy riding!
Quite an entertaining topic. I love the detail you go into when talking about the right applications when it comes to pickig this particular style of balance bike to your child and giving recommendations on who this bike is actually designed for.
There are plenty of comparison points in the article to other bikes on the market. Price ranges are available for the competition so the buyer can see what’s exactly in their price range and budget. Links to other models are also in the article which makes it a thorough review of the product with pictures to match. Well done!
Hi, thanks for sharing your thoughts and comments, we appreciate hearing from you.
Also, we are so glad you found our post informative, interesting and hopefully helpful. If you have any questions feel free to ask, we are here to help. Feel free to share our website with others that you think might be interested and benefit from our information on kids balance bikes.
Happy riding!