The Perfect Bike

It’s spring and your child may be ready for their first bike. Here are a few tips on selecting the right bike.

• Check the recommended ages for each bike when you’re shopping. Getting the wrong size bike can make learning to ride a difficult experience. One rule of thumb for selecting the right size is to make sure your child can sit on the seat with their feet flat on the ground.
• Go to the bike store – many bike stores have specially trained sales people who can help you select the right size bike for your child.
• Every child is different and only you know when yours is ready to ride a two-wheeler. However, an average 6 year old should have the motor skills needed to balance and ride a bike.

If your child still isn’t ready for their own bike, try a tag-along. This is a small bicycle that attaches to your bike. Instead of a front wheel, it has a connector that attaches to the seat post of another bike. It looks like a tandem bicycle, but it is more portable, can easily fit on a bike rack and provides your child with the independence or pedaling, balancing and stopping.

Safety is the first rule of riding a bike. Make sure your child is wearing their helmet and other safety equipment. Adult supervision is important in making sure young riders stay safe.