Easy Steer or Not? Picking the Right Tricycle
Richard | 15th, Sep
Picture this: your little one has just mastered crawling, maybe wobbling between a few steps, and you’re already imagining the day they’ll be racing down the sidewalk with wind in their hair. But here’s the dilemma—at this stage, a full-on ride-on toy feels like too much responsibility for those tiny legs, while strollers feel a bit too babyish. That’s when many parents discover the magic of the push tricycle.
When choosing a tricycle with handle, you’ll find yourself considering a variety of features. But even when you think you’ve covered everything, there’s one important question many parents overlook: some tricycles with handles allow the parent to steer, while others do not. That single difference changes the riding experience for both you and your child.
So, how do you decide whether an Easy Steer tricycle or a non-steerable tricycle is the better match for your family? Let’s walk through the pros, cons, and two standout models that fit each category.
The Easy Steer Tricycle: Steering Made Simple
An Easy Steer tricycle allows parents to guide the front wheel directly from the push handle. Think of it as having a stroller-like steering function, layered into a trike.
Why parents love it:
Convenient control: No need to stoop down to adjust the handlebars. A gentle push at the handle, and you’re smoothly steering the front wheel.
Perfect for younger toddlers: At 18 months, many children lack balance and directional sense. With an Easy Steer tricycle, parents can step in and take control whenever needed.
Less chaos on family walks: If your child is more interested in looking at squirrels than pedaling straight, you’ll appreciate being able to keep things on course.
The flip side:
Mechanical complexity: These trikes rely on extra gears or rods to link the handle and front wheel. Over time, that can mean loose parts or the occasional creak.
Less “real” riding feel for kids: Imagine turning the handlebars only to realize Mom or Dad overruled you. It can dampen the sense of independence that’s such a thrill in early riding.
Potential safety quirks: If the steering linkage wears out, the trike may develop “slack” in the wheel, making it harder to predictably control.
Why this design exists:
Easy Steer tricycles were born out of necessity—toddlers want to ride, but parents want to keep things safe. By allowing adults to steer, the design bridges the gap between stroller-like supervision and true independent riding.
The Non-Steerable Tricycle: Keeping It Real
In contrast, a non-steerable push tricycle doesn’t let the parent handle control the front wheel. The push bar is just for propulsion. Direction? That’s entirely up to the rider.
Why parents (and kids) love it:
Simpler, sturdier build: No fancy mechanics, fewer things to break. These trikes are usually more durable in the long run.
Authentic riding experience: When your child turns the handlebars, the trike actually turns. It’s a real-deal bike feeling, which makes it more engaging.
Higher safety through consistency: There’s no “double control” system. Parents push, kids steer—roles are clear.
The challenges:
More effort for parents: If your child decides zigzags are the best way forward, pushing straight down the sidewalk can be a workout.
Better for slightly older kids: Typically more fun for children around 2.5 years and up, once they’ve developed enough directional sense to keep things (mostly) straight.
Why this design works:
Non-steerable trikes emphasize independence. They’re about giving kids the tools to learn balance, direction, and the joy of self-propelled movement—without too much parental interference.
Easy Steer Tricycle Recommendation:
KRIDDO EasyGuide Tricycle
If you’re leaning toward an Easy Steer trike, the KRIDDO EasyGuide is a standout choice. Designed for kids 18 months to 3 years old, it’s light enough (9.2 lbs) for everyday use but packed with features that make life easier for parents and more fun for kids.
Key advantages:
🌟Grows with your child: Adjustable seat height, removable pedals, and multiple riding modes mean this trike adapts as your toddler grows.
🌟Anti-tip design: A wide rear axle, smart triangular frame, and a limited turning radius reduce the risk of accidental tipping.
🌟Smooth rides: The oversized 12-inch rubber front wheel absorbs bumps and jolts, making it safer for outdoor terrain like sidewalks, parks, or even gravel paths.
🌟Comfort-first build: Ergonomic wide seat and slip-resistant grips keep little riders supported and happy.
🌟Parent steering safety: That limited-angle Easy Steer handle means you can guide your child without sharp, jerky turns.
This tricycle is basically the middle ground between stroller convenience and independent riding, making it ideal for families who want to keep little adventurers safe while giving them a taste of freedom.
Non-Steerable Tricycle Recommendation:
KRIDDO Navi-Go Kids Tricycle
For parents who prefer the straightforward, durability-first approach of a non-steerable trike, the KRIDDO Navi-Go is a winner. It’s slightly heavier at 12.3 lbs, but built for a longer lifespan—supporting children from 18 months all the way up to 5 years.
Key advantages:
🌟Two riding modes: Easily shifts from a push trike with handle to a kid-powered ride.
🌟High handlebar reach: With an adjustable push handle extending up to 40.31 inches, it’s one of the tallest on the market—great for taller parents who hate hunching.
🌟Smart storage: Comes with both front and rear baskets, perfect for snacks, toys, or that emergency water bottle.
🌟Compact practicality: Foldable pedals make it easy to switch between pushing and pedaling modes.
🌟Higher weight limit: With a maximum load of 110 lbs, this trike outlasts many competitors in terms of usability.
The Navi-Go is for families who want durability, realism, and a clear focus on the child’s control. Sure, it means you may wrestle with crooked steering now and then, but it also means your child gets an authentic riding experience from the start.
So, Which Trike Should You Choose?
Here’s the thing: neither option is inherently “better.” It’s about matching the tricycle to your child’s stage and your family’s lifestyle.
If your little one is under 2 or just starting their balance journey, an Easy Steer tricycle like the KRIDDO EasyGuide gives you peace of mind and smoother walks.
If your child is edging toward preschool age and eager to “do it themselves,” a non-steerable tricycle like the KRIDDO Navi-Go makes more sense for independence and skill-building.
At the end of the day, whether you pick Easy Steer or not, the goal is the same: give your child the freedom to explore, learn, and enjoy the pure joy of movement—while you tag along for the ride.
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