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(Taken from Live Ribble Valley Magazine Issue 132 – April 2022)We’re very lucky in our little corner of Lancashire that there are great opportunities to explore by bike, whatever your age, ability or interest.Whether you want to take in the views, take it easy, take the kids, or take a ride on the wild side – you can do it all, and it all starts in Dunsop Bridge. We’ve highlighted just a few routes here, with full details online.For familiesFirst things first – an ice cream at Puddleducks and a trip to the park! Practice with the children’s trailer or kid’s seats up Brennand Valley (look out for kingfishers) and then tootle over to the Wild Boar Park via Little Bowland for a scenic ride and fun-filled afternoon. Comeback via Chipping and grab a brew at Chipping Farm Shop, or an evening meal at the Inn at Whitewell.For foodiesIndulge in some of the best food in the North West, right on our doorstep. Set out over Jeffrey to Ribchester for breakfast at Stydd Garden, carry on to Hurst Green for a cycle around scenic Stonyhurst and lunch at The Shireburn, and then pedal up an appetite for the best steak you’ve had this year, at The Red Pump Inn. Head back over Hall Hill, and don’t worry, the electric drive will give you a boost when you need it after such a deliciously decadent day.For adventurersWhether you take your own bike, hire one from our Dunsop HQ and enjoy the ride through Slaidburn and past Stocks Reservoir, or arrange to have one of our e mountain bikes delivered to The Hub; Gisburn Forest is THE place to go for mountain biking and off-road trails.For explorersVersatility is key to this scenic route – you can build your own adventure, depending on how fit you’re feeling or how far you’re committed to going. From Dunsop Bridge to Slaidburn via Back Lane, there are a number of loops (of different distance) you can then choose to take across or around Easington Fell and return via Waddington Fell, Whitewell, or Chipping. Your efforts will be rewarded with great views at every turn.

When you first look at the price of a Woom kids’ bike, it’s easy to wonder: are these bikes really worth it? After all, you can pick up a kids’ bike for under £100 at a big-box retailer - so why would parents spend several hundred pounds on something their child might outgrow in a year or two? The truth is, Woom bikes aren’t trying to compete with budget kids’ bikes. They’re designed around one simple idea: make cycling easier, safer, and more enjoyable for children. Below, we’ll look at what makes Woom different, how they compare to other brands, and which model might be the right fit for your child. 🔑 Key Takeaways (Why Parents Choose Woom) Benefit Why It Matters Lightweight design 30–40% lighter than most kids’ bikes, so easier to handle and ride. Child-specific build Geometry, brakes, and parts designed for small hands and growing riders. Resale value Often resell for 60–80% of original price, making long-term cost lower. Faster learning Kids master balance and pedalling more quickly. Trusted brand Parent-recommended, stocked by specialists like Ribble Valley E-Bikes. Now that you know why parents love Woom, here’s everything this guide will cover: Jump to: What Makes Woom Different Are Woom Bikes Worth It? Brand Comparisons Which Woom Bike? Pros & Cons FAQs Final Verdict What Makes Woom Different from Other Kids’ Bikes? Most kids’ bikes on the market are essentially scaled-down adult frames: heavy steel tubing, oversized components, and parts that aren’t designed with children in mind. Woom takes the opposite approach. Every detail is built specifically for young riders. Lightweight aluminium frames – often 30–40% lighter than typical kids’ bikes, making it far easier for children to handle. Kid-specific geometry – low standover height, upright position, and stable handling give kids confidence from the first ride. Small-hand components – narrower handlebars, lightweight cranks, and easy-to-pull hand brakes instead of coaster brakes. Attention to detail – from colour-coded brake levers (right = rear, left = front) to narrow pedals and shorter gear ratios, Woom makes learning less intimidating. In practice, this means kids learn to ride faster, enjoy cycling more, and spend less time frustrated with a bike that feels too heavy or hard to control. Lightweight aluminium frame designed for kids Small-hand friendly handlebars and controls Shorter cranks and narrow pedals for easy riding Are Woom Bikes Worth the Price? There’s no denying Woom bikes cost more than generic kids’ models. But here’s why many parents (and cycling coaches) argue they’re worth every penny: Faster learning, less stress – a child on a lightweight bike can master balance and pedalling in days, not months. Durability and build quality – aluminium frames and premium parts mean Woom bikes last, even if handed down through siblings. Resale value – Woom bikes hold their value exceptionally well. Parents often recover 60–80% of the purchase price when reselling. Safety – well-fitted brakes and geometry reduce crashes and boost confidence. So while the upfront cost looks steep, the “real” cost of ownership is often less than buying a cheaper bike that depreciates quickly and makes riding harder for kids. 👉 For example, a Woom 3 bought for around £350 often resells 18 months later for £300–£325. That means the “real” cost of ownership can be under £3 per month – far cheaper than replacing two heavy budget bikes that depreciate quickly. How Do Woom Bikes Compare to Other Brands? Parents shopping for kids’ bikes often compare Woom to other premium or entry-level brands. Here’s how they stack up: Early Rider vs Woom – Early Rider makes stunning wooden balance bikes and aluminium models. They’re beautiful but often heavier and more expensive. Woom tends to be the more practical long-term option. Frog vs Woom – Frog is another well-known lightweight kids’ brand. Both are good, but Woom bikes are usually lighter and have slightly more child-friendly ergonomics. Islabikes vs Woom – Islabikes built a great reputation in the UK before winding down production. Woom effectively fills that gap with global availability and a wide size range. Decathlon vs Woom – Decathlon’s Btwin kids’ bikes are fantastic for budget-conscious families, but they’re heavier, less refined, and don’t hold resale value the same way. Which Woom Bike is Right for Your Child? Here’s a quick guide based on the bikes currently available at Ribble Valley E-Bikes: Category Best For (Age / Skill) Models Available First Balance Bikes Toddlers (18m+) Woom 1 Balance Bike Woom 1 Plus Early Pedal Bikes 3–8 years, first pedalling Woom Original 2 Woom Original 3 & 3 Automagic Woom Original 4 Woom GO Range Flexible balance + pedal GO 1, GO 1 Plus, GO 2 GO 3 & Automagic GO 4 Adventure & Trail Family rides, mixed terrain Explore 4 Explore 5 Explore 6 Mountain Bikes 7–14 years, off-road riding OFF 4 OFF 5 OFF 6 OFF Air 4, OFF Air 5, OFF Air 6 Junior E-MTBs Older kids, long rides Woom UP 5 Woom UP 6 👉 Explore the full Woom kids' bike range at Ribble Valley E-Bikes Pros and Cons of Woom Bikes Before you decide if Woom is the right choice, it helps to weigh up the good and the not-so-good. Here’s a clear look at the main advantages and drawbacks parents usually mention. ✅ Pros Extremely lightweight and kid-friendly Safer, faster learning experience Hold resale value (sometimes close to purchase price) Wide size range from toddlers to teens ⚠️ Cons Higher upfront cost May not feel “worth it” if only used for a short time Availability can be limited at peak times (e.g. Christmas) Shop the Woom Range Woom GO Range Woom Explore Range Woom OFF Range Woom UP Range Woom Bikes – Frequently Asked Questions Still got questions? You’re not alone. Here are the most common things parents ask about Woom bikes, from value and weight to where they’re made. Is Woom really worth it? For many parents, yes. While the upfront price is higher than budget kids’ bikes, Woom models are lighter, safer, and easier for children to learn on. They also hold resale value, which can make them cheaper in the long run. What is special about a Woom bike? Every detail is designed around children: lightweight aluminium frames, brakes for small hands, narrower cranks and bars, and age-appropriate gearing. They’re not just scaled-down adult bikes. Is Woom better than Guardian? Guardian Bikes are well-regarded in the US for their “SureStop” braking system. Woom, however, tends to be lighter and offers a wider range across Europe and the UK, making them easier to buy and resell locally. What’s the best bike brand for kids? It depends on budget and priorities. Premium brands like Woom, Frog, Early Rider, and Prevelo consistently rank highest for lightweight, safe kids’ bikes. For affordable entry-level options, Decathlon’s Btwin range is popular. Who owns Woom bikes? Woom was founded in 2013 in Vienna, Austria by Christian Bezdeka and Marcus Ihlenfeld, both cycling enthusiasts and fathers. It has since grown into one of the world’s leading kids’ bike brands. Why are Woom bikes so light? They use premium aluminium frames and carefully chosen components, often 30–40% lighter than chain-store bikes. A lighter bike makes riding less intimidating and helps children learn balance and control faster. Which Woom bike should I buy? It depends on your child’s age, height, and riding style. Balance bikes like the Woom 1 are ideal for toddlers, while the Woom GO range bridges balance-to-pedal riding. Older kids may prefer the Woom Explore or Woom OFF. Where are Woom bikes made? The design and development is done in Austria, but manufacturing is split between Europe and Asia, ensuring a balance of quality and scalability. What age is a Woom bike for? From as young as 18 months (on the Woom 1 balance bike) up to around 14 years old (on the Woom OFF 6 or UP 6 e-MTB). Do Woom bikes come assembled? They come mostly pre-assembled. Final steps like attaching the handlebars, pedals, and adjusting the brakes are simple and take around 15 minutes with the included tools. Do Woom bikes come with pedals? Yes – all pedal models include pedals. Balance bikes (Woom 1, GO 1) do not. Why do people like Woom bikes? Because they make cycling genuinely fun for kids. Lightweight frames, confidence-boosting design, and strong resale value give parents peace of mind. What’s the best bike for a 3-year-old? The Woom 2 or Woom GO 2 are excellent choices – lightweight, easy to control, and designed for that first pedal stage. How heavy are Woom bikes? Weight varies by model, but they’re typically 30–40% lighter than similar-sized kids’ bikes. For example, the Woom 2 weighs just 5kg – light enough for a child to pick up themselves. 💬 What Parents Say About Woom (and Ribble Valley E-Bikes) “My daughters love their Woom bikes which we got from Ribble Valley E-Bikes. The shop has some great looking bikes and the service is fantastic.” – Ed Mcgurty ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “So happy! Speedy and great service. Daughter will be chuffed with her Christmas present, especially as it is purple!” – Maria Victoria ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Final Verdict – Are Woom Bikes Good? Yes – if your priority is giving your child a bike that’s safe, fun, and easy to ride, Woom bikes are among the very best you can buy. … Ready to see for yourself? Visit Ribble Valley E-Bikes for test rides and expert advice.

Ribble Valley E-Bikes specialises in (you guessed it) …ebikes. But currently ebikes are only for ages 14 and up, so we also stock the absolute best ‘conventional’ bikes for kids. We did a huge amount of research before choosing which brands to offer. Ribble Valley E-Bikes is one of only a handful of specialist stockists of Woom bikes. These are available online or from our Dunsop Bridge HQ. What’s so special about Woom? There are zero compromises with a Woom bike; 90% of parts and components have been specially designed for children and exclusively produced for Woom. Woom bikes are 40% lighter than most kids bikes – and research shows that children learn to ride up to three times faster on a Woom bike – compared to conventional children’s bikes. What makes a good bike? Kids’ version Woom bikes are bright, fun, fast, and comfy to ride. They’re not too big and hard to get on and off, and they are very light, so they’re easy to manage. They have colourful matching helmets and really loud bells. Plus, they’re super cool to look at. Why choose a Woom bike? Parents’ version We did a huge amount of research before deciding which bikes we wanted to stock here at Ribble Valley E-Bikes, and Woom kids bikes were at the very top of the list. Designed in Vienna, each one has been created to perfectly consider the age and ability of the rider. The various models in our range mean there are safe and stable (yet lightweight) bikes to see children right through their formative years. The lightest kids bikes you’ve ever seen? The lightweight aluminium frame of each of these bikes has been designed with a low centre of gravity to minimise wobbling and toppling. A Woom 2 pedal bike (for ages 3 – 5 ish) weighs just 5.2kg. This means that it’s easy for kids to manage, but also – very importantly – it’s easy for you to carry when your child inevitably gets distracted and insists on paddling / collecting sticks / twirling around / having a piggy-back ride. The importance of geometry The ergonomics are slightly different for each bike. It’s not simply a difference in size, but a more in-depth response to what children need at different ages. Woom Co-Founder Christian Bezdeka explains “Not all of the sizes have the same features since beginner riders need a different geometry compared to intermediate or more advanced riders.” For the smaller bikes this translates, in part, to having a long wheelbase and positioning the seat lower ‘into’ the bike, means that stability is at its greatest – and yet, little riders are able to enjoy a confidence-building upright sitting position thanks to a flat seat angle, without feeling they are perched precariously on top of the bike. Attention to detail The ‘main reason’ we chose to stock both Woom bikes at Ribble Valley E-Bikes was actually a lot of little reasons. The attention to detail that goes into these bikes is second-to-none and is evident in a myriad of ways. Chain guards prevent clothes (and ankles) getting stained and scraped, and the steering limiter on the smaller bikes prevents overturning and falling. Different coloured brakes offer at-a-glance recognition and tiltable handlebars can even shorten or lengthen the reach to suit different torso and arm lengths, effectively creating a bike that is bespoke sized to your child. Top tips for choosing kids bikes: If you want to chat about your requirements, feel free to pop in and see us – or get in touch – for an honest, no-obligation chat about which bikes might best suit you and your family. – Consider what will encourage them to use it Good quality kids bikes might cost a bit more than cheap models, so you want to be sure they’ll get a lot of use out of it. Kids can be fickle, so take into account their favourite colour, and if a pickup rack is required for school bags, snacks or other important items… – Consider what type of cycling they’ll be doing If you live on a farm and go to Gisburn Forest at the weekend, chances are you’re going to want a mountain bike. If you’re more likely to be in town, or on smooth-surfaced roads and lanes, you’re not going to want big knobbly off-road tyres. Think about the area around your house, and where you may go cycling as a family. – Think about their height and agility Some bikes are lower than others for children with shorter legs, and have lower frames for stepping over. If your child isn’t the best at balancing – you’re going to want a bike with a low centre of gravity to build their confidence. Nobody enjoys feeling unsafe and teetering about! – Don’t succumb to wishful thinking However much you might like to think your child’s new bike will be ridden carefully and stored perfectly, you know that it is occasionally going to be dropped, scraped and temporarily abandoned at the gates of the park. Choose a robust model that can withstand knocks and bumps. Look for longevity via kickstands and durable materials on the sides of the seat for when it is leant or dropped against a wall. – Read the reviews What may at first seem like a significant spend, suddenly seems much more sensible when you read reviews like “fine-tuned and perfected, woom bikes are the gold medal standard in kids’ bikes” and ‘After enjoying a balance bike, Wilf’s Christmas present was a beautiful, lightweight yellow Woom pedal bike from Ribble Valley e-Bikes – and he was riding it without help by Boxing Day!’ Don’t take the retailer’s word for it – not even ours. Read what other genuine customers have to say. Adventure is out there! Cycling is a fantastic, healthy hobby to start young and continue through the years. Squish bikes and Woom bikes are the perfect models to build confidence and encourage a life-long love of getting out on your bike.

Choosing your child’s first bike can feel confusing - especially when both the Woom 1 and Woom 2 seem perfect for beginners. Both are incredibly lightweight, beautifully designed, and built to help kids learn at their own pace. But the right choice depends on your child’s age, height, and confidence level. New from Woom: For the youngest riders, there’s now the Woom WOW - a compact balance bike designed for ages 9–18 months. It’s perfect for introducing balance and coordination even earlier, before moving up to the Woom 1 or Woom 1 Plus. This guide is for parents choosing their child’s very first bike – whether that means starting on a balance bike or taking the next step to pedals. As one of the UK’s leading Woom retailers, Ribble Valley E-Bikes helps families find the perfect fit, right down to the smallest details like frame size, brake reach, and colour choice. Let’s break down how they compare, when to make the switch, and which one is the best fit for your little rider. 🔑 Key Takeaways Woom 1: Best for toddlers learning balance and coordination (18 months–3.5 years). Woom 2: Best for preschoolers ready to start pedalling – or use as a balance bike with pedals removed (3–4.5 years). Both are ultra-light, confidence-boosting, and designed to make learning to ride easier and more fun. Woom 1 – the perfect first balance bike for toddlers Woom 2 – confidence for those first pedal strokes 🧭 Jump to: Woom 1 Woom 2 Comparison FAQs The Woom 1 – The Ultimate First Balance Bike If your child is starting to balance independently, the Woom 1 is the perfect next step after the Woom WOW - ideal for toddlers aged 18 months to 3.5 years who are ready to glide and steer confidently. For slightly taller toddlers, the Woom 1 Plus offers the same lightweight feel in a slightly larger 14-inch frame - ideal if your child is starting a little later or has already mastered the basics of balance. The low step-through frame makes it easy to climb on and off, while the small handbrake teaches early control without the need for pedals. It helps children develop coordination and steering skills safely - long before they’re ready to pedal. The Woom 1 Plus bridges the gap perfectly for taller toddlers or older beginners who’ve outgrown the standard Woom 1 but aren’t quite ready for pedals. Parents love how quickly toddlers progress once they have a Woom 1 under them. Within a few weeks, many are gliding with their feet up and huge smiles on their faces. Lightweight and low to the ground – perfect for early confidence building The Woom 2 – The First Pedal Bike (and a Clever Transition Option) When your child is ready for pedals, the Woom 2 is the natural next step. Suitable for ages 3 to 4.5 years, it’s incredibly light at 5kg, with 14-inch wheels and the same child-specific geometry that makes Woom bikes so easy to handle. Built from high-grade aluminium with child-specific geometry, it’s designed to be easy to lift, steer, and stop – giving children the same sense of control they enjoyed on the Woom 1. What makes the Woom 2 clever is its flexibility – you can remove the pedals and use it like a balance bike at first. Once your child is gliding confidently, simply refit the pedals and they’ll transition to pedalling almost instantly. With two responsive handbrakes, a full chain guard and a comfortable upright riding position, it’s designed to make those first independent rides feel effortless. Pair it with a Woom Kickstand or Woom Bell to make everyday riding even easier. Removable pedals make the Woom 2 a smart transition bike Dual hand brakes for smooth, child-friendly control Upright geometry helps kids feel stable and safe Woom 1 vs Woom 2 – At a Glance If you’re short on time, here’s a quick side-by-side look at how the two bikes compare. Both share Woom’s ultra-light design and confidence-boosting geometry, but each suits a different stage in your child’s riding journey. Feature Woom 1 Woom 2 Type Balance bike First pedal bike Age range 18 months–3.5 years 3–4.5 years Wheel size 12" 14" Weight 3kg 5kg Pedals None Removable Brakes Rear hand brake Dual hand brakes Learning focus Balance & coordination Pedalling & control Best for First-time riders Confident balance riders From first balance to first pedal – the Woom journey grows with your child You can explore both bikes side by side on our Woom Kids’ Bikes page. When Should You Move From Woom 1 to Woom 2? If your child can glide for several seconds with their feet off the ground, they’re ready to progress. Height is also a good indicator – once they reach around 95cm or the seat on the Woom 1 is at its maximum height, it’s time to look at the Woom 2. Many parents describe the transition as seamless. Because both bikes share the same geometry and light feel, kids instantly recognise the handling – just with the added excitement of pedals. For a size-by-size breakdown, see our Kids’ Bikes 3–5 Years Range. Can You Skip the Woom 1 and Go Straight to the Woom 2? This is a common question. The short answer is: yes, sometimes. If your child is already confident balancing on another bike or scooter, the Woom 2 (with the pedals temporarily removed) can act as a balance bike until they’re ready to pedal. It’s a smart move for slightly older or taller beginners. We often hear from parents who say, “My child can balance but isn’t pedalling yet” – that’s exactly where the Woom 2 shines. It bridges the gap beautifully without overwhelming them. However, for toddlers under 3 or those still developing coordination, the smaller, lighter Woom 1 remains the better choice. It’s easier to control and far less intimidating for smaller riders. Resale Value and Longevity One of the underrated benefits of buying a Woom bike is how well they hold their value. Because they’re so well-made and sought-after, used models often sell for close to their original price – especially when bought from an authorised retailer. That means you can confidently upgrade through the range without losing much money along the way. It’s a genuine long-term investment in your child’s cycling confidence. When upgrading, it’s also worth checking your child’s helmet fit and adding essentials like gloves or a bell – small touches that make those first rides safer and more enjoyable. Our Recommendation For toddlers just starting out: Woom 1 For preschoolers who can already balance: Woom 2 Whichever you choose, both make learning to ride a joyful, low-stress experience. And with their super-light frames and thoughtful design, Woom bikes help children progress faster – with fewer falls and more fun along the way. FAQs – Woom 1 vs Woom 2 Still deciding which bike to choose? You’re not alone. Parents often have the same questions about ages, sizing, and when to make the switch from balance to pedals. Here are the most common queries we hear in-store and online – answered by our Woom specialists. What age is the Woom 1 for? The Woom 1 suits children aged roughly 18 months to 3.5 years or with an inside-leg measurement of 24–40 cm. It’s perfect for toddlers learning balance and steering before pedals ever come into play. What age is the Woom 2 for? The Woom 2 is designed for riders aged 3 to 4.5 years, with an inside-leg measurement of 36–45 cm. It’s the first true pedal bike in the Woom range – light, low, and easy to control. Can the Woom 2 be used as a balance bike? Yes. You can simply remove the pedals and let your child use the Woom 2 as a balance bike until they’re ready to pedal. It’s a great option for children who are slightly older but still gaining confidence. Is the Woom 2 worth it? Absolutely. The Woom 2 bridges the gap between balancing and pedalling better than almost any other kids’ bike. Its ultra-light frame, responsive brakes, and child-specific components make learning smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Should I start with the Woom 1 or go straight to the Woom 2? If your child is under 3 or new to balancing, start with the Woom 1. If they’re already gliding confidently or a little taller for their age, the Woom 2 (with pedals off at first) is often the smarter long-term choice. Why are Woom bikes so light? Every Woom bike is built from high-grade aluminium with components scaled for children’s strength and reach. The lighter weight helps kids start, stop, and steer with confidence – and reduces tumbles when learning. Do Woom bikes hold their value? Yes. Because of their quality and demand, Woom bikes typically resell for a high percentage of their original price. Many parents upgrade through the range with with minimal loss, making them a solid investment. Ready to See the Difference in Person? Here’s how you can try both bikes before you decide. Visit Ribble Valley E-Bikes Whether you’re planning gentle family rides through the Forest of Bowland or just cycling around the garden, both bikes are perfect companions for little riders growing up in and around the Ribble Valley. If you’d like to see both models side by side, you can visit us at our Dunsop Bridge showroom. We’re proud to be one of the UK’s leading Woom retailers, offering expert advice, fittings, and accessories to make every ride safe and enjoyable. You can also explore our full range of Woom Kids Bikes, Balance Bikes, and Kids’ Helmets online – all with nationwide delivery.