Retrospec Cub

79/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts

Gender
Release Year
Brand
Wheel Size
Gearing Type
Weight
7, 9, 9.3, 10 lb
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material

Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Retrospec Cub. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

14 reasons to buy

  • Parents report that the Cub is easy for kids to use and works well to train kids to ride a pedal bike.
  • Buyers are pleased by the affordable price-points of the Cub & Cub 2.
  • The original Cub has a low minimum seat height of 11.5”. An expert says both Cub models can be ridden by kids as young as 18 months.
  • Handlebar and seatpost heights are easily adjusted via quick-release levers.
  • Adjustable handlebars match the Cub’s fit to growing riders.
  • The Cub’s foam tires are airless and puncture-proof.
  • Parents have described the Cub as durable and reported up to 3 years of use.
  • Buyers say the Cub is quick and easy to assemble.
  • Parents are impressed by the “cute” Cub’s look and 8x bright color options.
  • Some owners feel the Cub is light. One tester weighs the Cub 2 at 7 lb.
  • A tester appreciates the Cub’s padded saddle for post-diaper riders.
  • Owners are pleased with the Cub’s “sturdy” steel frame.
  • A tester lauds the stability provided by the Cub 2’s extended wheelbase.
  • The Blippi-themed Cub excites young fans of this kids’ television show.

9 reasons not to buy

  • Concerned parents report the Cub’s handlebar and plastic headset cups disassembling and falling off.
  • An expert tester says the Cub 2’s quick-release handlebar clamp comes loose regularly. Users also found the seat and handlebars difficult to secure in place.
  • The original Cub’s footrest obstructs kids’ legs when striding, according to parents.
  • Frustrated buyers have described damage and quality issues from brand new.
  • Several parents express concern over the ~9 lb weight of the original Cub.
  • Parents deemed the plastic headset & wheels to be low-quality.
  • For smaller 2-year-olds, the Cub could be oversized, according to parents.
  • An expert says foam tires provide “no cushioning” and offer minimal traction.
  • Buyers remonstrated over difficult assembly and parts that did not fit without modification.

Bottom line

Both the updated Cub 2 and the original Cub use steel frames and feature an adjustable-height handlebar and seatpost. Both bikes are currently available from retailers. A tester like’s the Cub 2’s kid-friendly fit, ease-of-use and low minimum seat height. Consistent loosening of the handlebars was a reemerging issue. Reportedly, the original Cub weighs around 9 lb. One tester measures the Cub 2 at only 7 lb. Some owners expressed disappointment with the foam tires, saying they’re unsuited to outdoor use. Some quality-control issues were reported on new bikes (including paintwork and welds). The Cub 2 is an affordable option, the original Cub even moreso.

Expert Reviews

59/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews
80
Two Wheeling Tots

Retrospec Cub Balance Bike Review | Retrospec Cub 2 Balance Bike

Offering great styling, fit, and performance for a low price point, the Retrospec Cub should be on the list for any budget-minded parent. The old Cub model needed a few important changes… the new Cub 2 is a completely different beast in all the right ways … the Cub is better suited to young riders sticking to the pavement.

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56

The 4 Best Balance Bikes

The Retrospec Cub has a strikingly swift assembly time among the competition. It has the most significant footrest design. One isn’t better than the other; it’s a personal choice. We suspect most kids will get used to whatever option they own and won’t know the difference.

Quality rating: 3/10.

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40
Two Wheeling Tots

Retrospec Cub Balance Bike Review | Retrospec Cub Review

While certainly a great price, the Retrospec Cub balance bike has a poorly designed footrest that severely inhibits its performance.

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Trail Exploring in Seaside!! Retrospec Cub Balance Bike

I want to recommend this product…

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Katie Carnahan

Balance Bike Surprise for the Toddlers! | Retrospec Cub
Balance Bike Unboxing

You figured out that balance dude. Yeeeah, that’s a sweet bike.

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Rascal Rides

Retrospec Cub Balance Bike Review

The Retrospec Cub is adjustable and ready to grow with your child. It’s made to last and on the affordable end of the balance bike market.

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User Ratings

88/100 based on 118 ratings
  • 5 star
    75%
  • 4 star
    8%
  • 3 star
    4%
  • 2 star
    3%
  • 1 star
    9%

Rankings

Compared to other bikes
#37 Best Toddlers
Bottom 30%
#24 Best Balance
Bottom 30%
#5 Best Retrospec Bike
Bottom 50%
#586 Best of All Bikes
Bottom 20%

Bike Comparison

Retrospec Cub in comparison to averages

Forum Discussions

Discuss which bike to choose in the forum