How to Buy Kids Bikes

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By GreenMomma
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Child's Bike

Buying bikes for kids is not a difficult decision to make but there are a few rules to follow when shopping for a kids bike.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Safety should come first. If your child is not able to ride a bike on his or her own yet, be sure that the bicycle has training wheels. This will help the child get use to the idea of how a bicycle works. As the child continues to ride the bike, you should be able to adjust the training wheels so that they are not touching the ground at all times but only assist with balance when the child needs the help.
Step 2

Bicycle height is important. You want to make sure that the kids bike is not too big or too small for the child. Do not make the mistake of buying a bigger bike so that the child gets more use out of it. This will not be safe for your child.

When measuring correct fit for a bicycle, have the child sit on the seat. The child should be able to reach the pedals comfortably and touch the ground flat footed without bending the knee. Remember, you may need to adjust the bicycle seat to get the proper fit.

Special note: This bike fitting information is not suitable for buying a kids BMX Bike or a kids dirt bike.
Step 3

The easiest break system for a child to learn is the reverse pedal break. Hand breaks can be dangerous for little ones since they may only lock the front wheel break and then flip over the handle bars.
Step 4

Don't forget the bike helmet! Helmets may save your child's life. Teach your child to wear a helmet early on and it will be a habit for the rest of their lives. Children also learn by example. Wear your helmet when biking with your children if you normally do not.

Tip: Buy your child a helmet they think is cool and they will be more likely to wear it without argument.

Comments

Wasatch said

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on 6/11/2009 Bike season just arrived and they have all outgrown last years bikes. Good article.

coachniquenya said

on 6/7/2009 This is great advice. I'm in the process of researching a new bike for my son as he has recently grown out of his toddler bike. 5*

tracysmith159 said

on 6/6/2009 Good artilce on picking the right bike for a child. The wrong size bike will be to hard for the child to ride and my become afraid of fallening even with traning wheels.