Things You'll Need:
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Step 1
Check out children's bikes with 20 inch wheels, most of which are set up like mountain bikes. Twenty inch bikes usually have six or seven speeds and hand brakes, which allow for practice with these components before moving on to a bigger bike with more gears.
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Step 2
Get a bike with aluminum rims instead of steel or alloy. In addition to being stronger and lighter, they're more abrasive. This allows the brake pads more gripping traction, which makes for less slipping and quicker stopping.
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Step 3
Watch the different sizes in the different brands of bikes; children's bikes measure only the wheel size and not the frame size. Your child needs to be able to stand over the top tube with their feet flat on the ground for balance.
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Step 4
Think about the color and style that would most suit your young cyclist - your choices are endless. There's also a lot of gear out there that kids can add to personalize their bike. Don't forget to buy a helmet while you're at it.
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Step 5
Be careful about buying the bike at larger stores; their assembly is not always the best. Sometimes it's better to check out local independent bike shops to ensure proper assembly.
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Step 6
Consider checking out used bike shops. Kids are always growing out of bikes and you might be able to find a bike for half the price you would pay new.
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Step 7
Keep in mind that the move from a bike without gears and backpedal brakes to one with more advanced components can take a little practice. A bike with 24 inch wheels and eighteen gears might be a little daunting.
Comments
Muchtonice said
on 10/9/2008 When is the best time to buy a little girl's bike? Is it cheaper to buy it now or closer to Christmas time?
Susang6 said
on 7/29/2008 while you are at the store purchasing the new bike, buy the the helmet. Accidents can happen any time, fo no reason. It just takes a fall of 2 feet to cause a head injury. Think Smart and get a Helmet! Everyone who rides a bike, adults included need to put safety first!
marie2008 said
on 6/22/2008 Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air and share time as a family. But before you and the kids rush out and start pedaling, there's an important factor that you need to consider — safety.
Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air and share time as a family. But before you and the kids rush out and start pedaling, there's an important factor that you need to consider — safety.
BUGABIKE by Sabamba, help to learning to ride a bike
www.bugabike.com. This pedal-less beginner bike enables children to gain confidence in balance and movement, which assists them in learning to ride a traditional bike.
http://www.parenthood.com/article-topics/article-topics.php?Article_ID=10698
Thank you Patrick McCormick for you fantastic work bike league.
marie2008 said
on 6/22/2008 Bike riding is a great way to get exercise and fresh air and share time as a family. But before you and the kids rush out and start pedaling, there's an important factor that you need to consider — safety.
BUGABIKE by Sabamba, help to learning to ride a bike
www.bugabike.com. This pedal-less beginner bike enables children to gain confidence in balance and movement, which assists them in learning to ride a traditional bike.
http://www.parenthood.com/article-topics/article-topics.php?Article_ID=10698
and thank you Patrick McCormick for your fantastic good work.
Anonymous said
on 8/8/2006 Hi,
You have lots of great tips on bicycling. For more tips on riding techniques, safety, training, gear, etc., go to http://www.bikeleague.org/educenter/factsheets.htm and feel free to borrow some of ours (but please credit the League of American Bicyclists--we are a nonprofit dedicated to promoting bicycling and working for a bicycle-friendly America).
Thanks,
Patrick McCormick
patrick@bikeleague.org