Leap — Orange & Black

The Leap is the odd one out and we are fond of it for exactly that reason. There is no drivetrain at all: the rider sits low, pumps the two handles back and forth, and four caster wheels convert that motion into forward speed and — much more to the point — into a controlled slide through a corner.

It is the only machine we build that rewards sliding rather than punishing it. For a six-year-old who has mastered a balance bike and found a scooter insufficiently dramatic, that is a genuinely new thing to learn, and it takes a few sessions to get right. The upper-body motion also gives it a different flavour of effort from everything else here, which is why it keeps getting ridden on days when the bikes stay in the garage.

Firmly a smooth-surface toy. It needs a driveway, a path or a flat court, and it does nothing at all on grass.

Who it suits

Four to nine years, on smooth tarmac or concrete, with a helmet on.

One thing to know

Caster wheels and loose gravel are a bad combination. Sweep the drive first and the session lasts twice as long.

From the maker’s spec

• Fun For Kids: Self-propelled roller racing riding toy designed for children ages 4 to 9 years with an adjustable frame of 5.5in (140mm) and a max weight of 165lbs (75kg) to accommodate growth.
• Ergonomic design: Handles ensure the rider's comfort and safety, while the soft padded seat and backrest provide extra cushioning for long rides and two riding positions of kneeling and sitting for added fun and variety.
• Easy Rolling: Equipped with 3.1in (80mm) castor wheels and bearings, the riding toy offers smooth and effortless gliding, and the rear drift castor allows for exciting and controlled drifting action.
• Easy To Learn: The balance stabilizing castors make it easy for young children to start riding, while the single rear drift wheel allows older children with greater speed and agility to make rapid drifting turns.
• Stay Active: With its durable construction and fun features, the self-propelled roller racing riding toy is an ideal outdoor toy that promotes physical activity, balance, and coordination skills.