Woom 1 vs Woom 2 – Which Bike Is Best for Your Child’s First Ride?

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.