Hi guys. I know this is an old thread but I wanted to add in as we got DS a balance bike with added pedals (Hip kids) about a year ago. We put off the pedals for a bit as he needed to be taller for the pedals than just the bike. On Sunday he decided he wanted them on so we all went off to the park and away he went like a professional. It was pretty amazing actually. I was gobsmacked and kicked myself that I didn't think to bring the video camera. He is one week short of 4 years old. So I would definitely go the balance bike way again. I think its awesome.