Tesla may be known for its electric vehicles, but its first bicycle is fully unplugged. Elon Musk’s car company released the functionally named “Balance Bike For Kids” this week.
The bike quickly sold out in the U.S. while Tesla’s Canada site lists pre-orders as opening July 31. There’s no word yet on how the stock market reacted to this latest announcement.
Balance Bike For Kids (that last part should probably be redundant, but it’s nice that they specify) isn’t exactly emblematic of his “If things aren’t failing, you’re not innovating enough” approach, though it is a little different. It uses a lightweight magnesium frame (with a “futuristic design”) and adjustable seat. The latter moves back as it goes up, effectively adjusting reach not just seat height, probably. The most distinctive feature beyond the solid frame is probably the bi-spoke wheels.
It’s listed as suitable for children 2-5 years old.
At $310 in Canada it’s surprisingly inexpensive. At least for a one-off product from a company that doesn’t otherwise make bikes. Compared to halo bikes like, say, Specialized’s USD 999 Hotwalk Carbon, it is downright affordable.
The release is a bit out of left field. Tesla devotees have been vocal in the past about their interest in an electric bike. Or at least an electric motor bike. Instead they’re getting a run bike that seems to take its design cues from the Cybertruck.
The release of a balance bike has nothing to do with the fact that around eight of his approximately 11 children are were born since 2020. He’s definitely not looking for a family discount.