Soon after reaching out to my cousin about getting her youngest son, 3-year-old Boden, on a KTM Stacyc 12eDrive electric balance bike, we discovered his strong desire for two-wheeled freedom. He has ridden other training bikes, but riding a battery-powered throttle-controlled bike was totally new to him. After delivery, we threw the battery on the charger, giving Boden time to test out how the bike differs in weight and size from the smaller ones he had ridden.
The Stacyc 12e, which sports KTM factory replica paint and graphics, boasts a robust aluminum TIG-welded frame, 12-inch composite wheels with pneumatic tires, and a BMX-style steel fork. Designed for children aged 3-5 who weigh less than 75 lb, the 12e offers an adjustable seat height that starts at only 13 inches. The bike with the battery installed weighs 17 lb.
The 12e features three speed levels: Training (5 mph max), Transitional (7 mph), and Advanced (9 mph). The industrial-grade, 20V lithium-ion battery provides 30 to 60 minutes of runtime, with a comparable charge time. Adjusting the speed mode is straightforward but requires a simple series of steps that prevents it from being accidentally changed by the rider.
With the battery charged and the speed mode set to Training, we got Boden back on the bike, and he immediately pinned the throttle all the way back. Though he was initially startled when the power engaged, that emotion quickly turned to excitement as he took off down the driveway.
Boden has made rapid progress with the bike over the past few weeks, quickly becoming confident and comfortable with its operation. The throttle is intuitive and easy to use, although the brake presented an initial challenge due to the reach required for small hands. Adjusting the brake tension resolved this issue. The bike’s ergonomic design is an excellent fit for Boden, with a comfortable seated position and handlebar height, allowing him to ride for extended periods, both with and without battery power.
As he gained experience, Boden began to explore various speed modes, opting for Transitional mode on pavement and Advanced mode on local dirt tracks. His favorite rides include cruising through the neighborhood, zipping around town, and exploring dirt tracks and mountain bike trails.
Boden’s riding style has evolved to reveal a thrill-seeker, eager to push the limits of the bike’s speed on paved roads with a gradual build in confidence when riding off-road trails. While the bike’s low center of gravity and weight have helped him recover from minor spills, his aggressive riding has resulted in a few mishaps (Mom makes sure he always wears his helmet). The bike, being very sturdy, has only suffered minor scratches, with no mechanical damage. Boden’s enthusiasm for speed is undeniable, and he’s thrilled to keep pace with his older siblings on their pedal bikes, affectionately referring to the Stacyc as his “motorcycle” or “fast bike.”
Safety on two wheels comes from experience, and this bike provides a great opportunity for young riders to develop their skills. Retailing for $829 (many dealers offer discounts), the KTM Stacyc 12eDrive is a durable, top-of-the-line electric balance bike for anyone looking to get their little ones familiar with the power and freedom of two wheels. Boden is continuing to hone his skills and is loving every minute of it.
Visit the KTM website for more information.
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