Kiwi Rider July Vol.2 2023 | Page 22

DIRT NEWS

E-BALANCE BIKES FOR BIG KIDS

E-balance bikes have been a revelation in helping to build skills for young , budding motorcyclists , and now they ’ re expanding to include bigger kids up to 12 years old . Joining the Husqvarna and KTM range of balance bikes are new 20-inch wheel models dubbed the SX-E 1.20 and the EE 1.20 joining the brands existing 12-inch and 16-inch balance bike ranges . While we ’ re pretty sure most kids closing in on their teenage years would love to jump on a bike with an internal combustion engine , that ’ s not always the best ( or easiest ) way to parents to help get them on two wheels . Apart from the larger wheels and frame designed to accommodate larger kids , the 1.20 models also feature a Manitou J-Unit Machete

front fork with 80mm travel . The rear remains a rigid part of the frame . Weighing in at just under 15kg with the battery included , 1.20 bikes are ideally suited for kids between the ages of 10 to 12 and up to 52kg . They ’ re equipped with three power modes available to best suit their skill levels . Top speed in the advanced mode is 32km / h , so even when fully uncorked , kids won ’ t be going too flat out as they come to grips with mastering balance and throttle control as they prepare to graduate to larger platforms .
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