Early Rider Big Foot 12 Balance Bike on Test

The Early Rider Big Foot 12 balance bike combines smart component choices, a cool MTB look, and chunky tires. But can this all-rounder kickstart a mini mountain bike career?

This individual review is part of a group test of ten balance bikes. Head this way for our
buyer’s guide and an overview of the test field.

The Early Rider Big Foot 12 features a shiny silver main frame and burly black offroad tires. — **Early Rider** Big Foot 12 | **Weight:** 3,76 kg | **Price:** € 229
**Recommended inseam length:** 31,5–40 cm | Manufacturer’s Website

Early Rider Big Foot 12 on Test

Trails, paths, moss, and mud: the Early Rider Big Foot 12 is out to conquer it all. The trick? This balance bike combines a sleek diamond frame with high-quality, child-specific components – and then adds chunky MTB tires into the mix. Getting on can take a bit of practice due to the raised top tube, but once in the saddle, the lightweight TEKTRO V-brake with adjustable lever reach brings little riders to a stop with ease.

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The steering limiter on the Early Rider Big Foot 12 is made from black rubber and connects the downtube with the fork. — Greatly stabilizes small balance bikes at higher speeds: the steering limiter.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Early Rider Big Foot 12 DOWNTOWN WEB 4 600x400 — Lightweight, low-maintenance, and with enough bite – V-brakes are perfect for balance bikes.

The Ritchey stem and handlebar make a strong statement of quality, perfectly matching the well-crafted aluminium frame – a package that ensures solid resale value. One drawback: while the grips are well-made and have rounded safety ends, they’re relatively thick for small hands.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Early Rider Big Foot 12 DOWNTOWN WEB 2 600x400 — A tiny grub screw lets you position the brake lever nice and close to the grip.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Early Rider Big Foot 12 DOWNTOWN WEB 6 600x400 — Chunky, high-quality tires make off-road riding seriously fun.

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All in all, the Early Rider Big Foot 12 is a successful and versatile balance bike – one that rolls on proper knobby tires. The grippy and shock-absorbing VEE Tires add an extra dose of off-road capability. Sure, the MTB treads mean a bit more rolling resistance and extra weight, putting the Big Foot 12 at 3.75 kg – slightly above average. Still, the concept works and fits kids who are ready to venture beyond the pavement.

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Conclusion

From asphalt to moss to that first splash through the mud – the Early Rider Big Foot 12 delivers. This sleek balance bike is a true all-rounder with quality, child-friendly features and solid resale value. Apart from the relatively thick grips, the frame, components, and brake impress with thoughtful ergonomics and build quality. The knobby tires add some weight and rolling resistance, but the Big Foot 12 still manages to strike a solid balance between neighbourhood cruising and off-road exploration.