PRODUCT EVALUATIONS

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 twowheeled 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 industrialgrade , 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

Left : With Crocs in “ sport mode ,” Boden prepares himself for the bike ’ s Advanced speed . Below : Boden ripping around a local bike track , getting ready for the Dakar Rally .

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- ofthe- 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 .

— CHAD COCHRAN

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54 / DECEMBER 2024 / RIDERMAGAZINE . COM