Why Woom Bicycles Are the Perfect Choice for Your Kids – Our advice to you.

Posted on 25 September 2024
By Dexter @ 360 Cycles
Posted in kids bikes, learning to cycle, woom bikes
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If you're a parent and have a little one itching to start cycling, let’s talk about a brand that’s not only transforming the way kids experience cycling, but is also turning heads for all the right reasons: Woom bikes.

We’re not just here to sell bikes. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your child, and trust us—Woom is a brand we absolutely love. Many of our staff have kids of their own, and have taught their little ones to take their first pedals. We love the whole WOOM philosophy, build quality and much more.

Why Bike Weight Matters for Kids (It’s More Important Than You Think!)

Have you ever thought about how much your child’s bike weighs? It may have never crossed your mind, but let’s put it in perspective. The average 11 year old weighs about 33.5 kg, riding a 16 kg bike is like a 75 kg adult riding a 36 kg bike. That’s heavy! Imagine trying to pedal something twice as heavy as most adult bikes—it’d be a workout just to get down the street, never mind going up a hill!

This is where Woom shines. The Woom 5—perfect for kids in that 7 to 11 age range—weighs just 9 kg. Proportionally, that’s like an adult riding a 20 kg bike. Now that’s manageable! Lighter bikes are easier to handle, more fun to ride, and less likely to leave your child feeling frustrated after a 10-minute spin.

Skip the Stabilisers – Woom’s Approach to Learning

Here’s a little Woom secret we think all parents should know: Woom don’t sell stabilisers. Why? Because they don’t believe stabilisers are the best way for kids to learn how to ride. (We wrote about this in 2021!) Instead, Woom encourages kids to start off with a balance bike—like the Woom 1—and skip stabilisers altogether.

One of Woom’s co-founders, Christian Bezdeka, once said, "Our goal was to design a bike that is tailored to the needs of children—not just a miniature version of an adult bike." And he’s right. Stabilisers can be counterproductive—they teach kids to rely on them rather than helping them develop balance and coordination from the get-go. Of course not every child is the same, but from our experience skipping this step can really help.

With a balance bike, kids quickly learn how to balance on two wheels without the crutch of stabilisers. That means fewer falls, more confidence, and a smoother transition to a pedal bike. We often hear from parents who were sceptical at first, but after watching their kids thrive on balance bikes, they’re true believers!

Build Quality That Lasts – Designed in Vienna

Let’s talk build quality. Woom bikes aren’t just light—they’re incredibly well-made. Designed in Vienna, these bikes use some pretty smart engineering to keep the weight low but the durability high.

Tube Tapering: What’s That?

Woom uses a process called tube tapering, which means the diameter of the frame tubes gets smaller as it moves along the bike. This reduces weight while still keeping the bike sturdy and strong. No chunky, overbuilt frames here—just sleek, lightweight designs that make cycling feel like a breeze.

High-Quality Sealed Bearings

One feature that really sets Woom apart is the use of sealed industrial-grade bearings. Unlike standard bearings that can let in dust, dirt, and moisture, Woom's sealed bearings are designed to block out all the grime. This means the wheels keep spinning smoothly for longer, with minimal maintenance needed. It’s the kind of detail that might go unnoticed at first but makes a world of difference in the long run—ensuring that your child’s bike stays in top shape, ride after ride, no matter what the Irish weather throws at it!

Extra Features to Keep Your Kid Safe (and You Happy!)

Woom doesn’t stop at the frame. Every part of their bikes is designed with kids in mind, and that includes some pretty nifty safety features.

Woom Ergogrips: These aren’t your average bike grips. Woom’s Ergogrips are screwed tightly onto the handlebars, so they won’t slip or twist around while your child is riding. That’s a small feature that makes a big difference in safety and comfort.
Durable Paint and Stainless Steel Spokes: Woom bikes are built to last, even in Irish weather. The frame gets multiple coats of paint for extra protection, and the wheels come with tough stainless steel spokes that keep the bike rolling smoothly for years to come.

The Smart Investment: High Resale Value on Woom Bikes

Now, let’s talk about value. Woom bikes aren’t the cheapest on the market, but you’re not just paying for the initial ride—you’re investing in a bike that holds its value. Take the Woom 1 Balance Bike, for example. Brand new, it costs around €280. That might seem a bit pricey, but the resale market for Woom bikes is strong. We regularly see second-hand Woom 1 bikes sell for around €200 on our second hand marketplace. That’s over 70% of the original value!

So, when you buy a Woom bike, you're not only giving your child a top-tier cycling experience but also making a smart financial decision for the future.

So, are Woom Bikes Worth It?

At the end of the day, we honestly believe that Woom bikes are one of the best investments you can make for your child. They’re lightweight, easy to handle, and built to last—making cycling not just a skill, but a joy for young riders.

So, if you're ready to skip the stabilisers, reduce the weight, and give your kid a bike that they’ll truly enjoy riding, check out our WOOM range or get in touch. You can always bring your future cyclist down to our shop for a test ride!

FAQs About Woom Bikes

What makes Woom bikes different from other kids' bikes?
Woom bikes are designed specifically for children, with lightweight frames, child-friendly components, and a focus on helping kids learn to ride quickly and confidently. They skip unnecessary features (like stabilisers) to make learning easier.
Why don’t Woom bikes come with stabilisers?
Woom believes that stabilisers teach kids the wrong thing—how to pedal without balance. Instead, they encourage starting with a balance bike, which helps children learn balance and coordination from the start.
Are Woom bikes worth the price?
Yes! Woom bikes are built with premium materials, and they retain a high resale value. You can often resell a Woom bike for up to 70% of the original price, making it a smart investment.
What age range do Woom bikes cater to?
Woom bikes are designed for children aged 18 months to 14 years, with different models to fit various stages of your child’s cycling journey.
Where can I find second-hand Woom bikes in Ireland?
Check out sites like Adverts.ie and DoneDeal.ie for second-hand Woom bikes. We sometimes advertise them on our second hand section. You’ll often find bikes that hold up well after years of use due to their high-quality build.