Kaplan 14" Get Movin' Trike

The steering is smooth enough that my 8-year-old can zip around the cul-de-sac without fighting the handlebars, and the seat sits low enough for her to feel secure. We've had it about a month and the wheels still roll true over sidewalk cracks. It's sturdy without being heavy, which is exactly what

My 6-year-old took to this trike immediately — the seat height seems perfect for that 4-to-8 range. After a week of daily rides around the block, the frame still feels rock solid and the pedals haven't loosened a bit.

My son is 6 and the adjustable seat means he can actually ride this for years, not just one season. The tires handle our gravel driveway without any wobbling, which surprised me.