Giant Pre rCarbon Balance Bike on Test

Looking for the world’s fastest balance bike? The Giant Pre rCarbon promises race-level agility and efficiency thanks to a frame, cockpit, and wheels made from largely recycled carbon. As such, it’s not just all about speed, but sustainability too. So how does this lightweight asphalt racer stack up on the test?

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.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Giant Pre rCarbon DOWNTOWN WEB 1 — **GIANT** Pre rCarbon | **Weight:** 2,3 kg | **Price:** € 599
**Recommended inseam length:** 31–42,5 cm | Manufacturer’s Website

Giant Pre rCarbon Balance Bike on Test

This balance bike looks like it means business. The ultra-minimalist, matte black Giant Pre rCarbon skips the extras like a stripped-down racing steed. The frame, wheels, and stem-bar unit are made from mostly recycled carbon. According to Giant, the material causes significantly less CO₂ to produce than virgin carbon. While the jury is out on that, weighing in at just 2.3 kg, it certainly makes this the lightest balance bike on test.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 0148

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Giant Pre rCarbon DOWNTOWN WEB 5 600x400 — Solid rubber at the grip ends offers good hand protection.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Giant Pre rCarbon DOWNTOWN WEB 8 600x400 — Every gram counts: Even the rims and spokes are made of carbon.

The skinny, fast-rolling 12″ tires deliver in terms of speed on paved playgrounds, but they’re out of their element when heading off-road. If you’ve always wanted to enter your kid in a balance bike race, this is the bike for you. That’s if you can handle the eye-watering € 599 price tag.

Its sleek design minimises the risk of injury, including rounded bar ends and a padded stem for extra protection. Plus, the low-slung frame makes getting on easy. Unfortunately, the paint chips easily when the bike inevitably takes a tumble. The long seatpost also sticks out underneath the bike when adjusted to fit small riders, which can catch on obstacles. However, if you cut it shorter, you risk losing saddle height as your child grows.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Giant Pre rCarbon DOWNTOWN WEB 2 600x400 — The delicate paintwork inevitably gets scratched.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Giant Pre rCarbon DOWNTOWN WEB 7 600x400 — The stem is effectively covered by this rubber pad.

laufrad test quick guide kids bikes Intro DOWNTOWN WEB 8775

Conclusion

The Giant Pre rCarbon is a high-performance, ultra-light balance bike built for speed. Its minimalist design, recycled carbon frame, and clever safety features make it a standout choice for kids with a need for speed. But there are trade-offs: the frame’s paint chips easily with everyday tumbles, and the long seatpost can be tricky for smaller riders. It’s also one of the most expensive bikes on test. Still, if you’re looking for speed and style on smooth terrain, this could be the one.