All children love bikes and getting one of their own can be a rather memorable moment for them. This is particularly true if it is their first bike. Riding a bike is not just entertaining for the kids but it also helps in developing motor skills that can last them throughout their lives.
With so many options available, it can get confusing to pick the right bike for your child. It is as easy as going down to a store and picking one bike. There are several factors you need to consider to ensure you buy the ideal bike.
To make the buying process easier for you, we have come up with 10 useful tips to help you pick a bike for your child. Let’s get started.
Selecting the Right Bike Measurements
Whether you are searching for bikes for toddlers, school-aged child or teenagers, you need to find the one that has the appropriate measurements. The right bike measurements would make it easier for the children to ride it. Here are the bike measurements depending on the age of the kids:
- 14″ bike: 3 to 4-year-olds (36-40 inches tall)
- 16″ bike: 4 to 7-year-olds, (38-48 inches tall)
- 18″ bike: 5 to 9-year-olds, (42-52 inches tall)
- 20″ bike: 7 to 13-year-olds, (48-60 inches tall)
- 24″ bike: 10 to 15-year-olds, (56-66 inches tall)
Training wheels are typically included in bikes for kids aged 3 to 4-year-old, but they can be kept on longer if your child needs more help.
Consider The Weight of the Bike
You can’t expect your child to ride a bike that is more than their own weight? It would get hard for them to propel the bike and even to maneuver around. Therefore, invest in a lightweight bike to help your child learn faster and ride with ease.
Brakes
Bike usually come with two types of brakes:
- Hand Brake: This brake is lever-operated and are usually present is almost all bikes. They are even included in some balance bikes and other smaller bikes for kids. If you are looking for a bike for a toddler, having a hand brake, along with a coaster brake, is a plus as it allows them to form a habit of using lever-operated brakes that would be included in the bike they get once they outgrow this one.
- Coaster: This brake is activated when your child pedals backward. This type of brake is usually found on bikes for younger kids as it might get difficult for them to operate a hand brake due to a lack of hand and arm strength. As your child outgrows the smaller bike, they will have to get used to lever-operated brakes that are operated using hands, both rear and front.
Grips
Most bikes for kids include flat bars, which is why the grips can impact the way your child can control and handle the bike. It is important to ensure that the grips aren’t too big for your child’s small hands and that they can easily grab them.
Lookout for grips that include larger bulges at the outer side to offer additional protection in case of falls or the handlebars being scrapped against bushes or walls.
Steering Of the Bike
The headset of the bike that includes ball bearings would allow the handlebar to freely and easily turn as compared to a plain bearing. Some balance bikes for kids come with a steering stop or damper to avoid jack-knifing. Be sure to check the steering to ensure that it won’t create a hassle during the ride.
Price Range
Of course, you also have to make sure the bike comes within your budget. Shop around a few places to get an estimate of the price range to set a budget and then shortlist the bikes based on the important factors. Keep in mind that a good quality bike can last for a longer time and would be safer for your child to ride around.
Warranty Available
Just like with any other purchase, you must check the warranty of the bike. Find out how long the warranty is for, what it covers, and how you can replace it when needed. The majority of bikes usually offer a lifetime warranty on the frame and part but you must check before you buy the bike.
A warranty is particularly important if you are planning on using this bike as a hand-me-down bike. A good bike can provide years of fun for many children.
Don’t Forget Helmet and Protective Gear for Safety
You can’t purchase a bike for your child, and even for yourself, without a helmet. It is one of the most crucial pieces for safe riding. Helmets help in preventing severe head injuries, as well as bruises and cuts. Ensure your child tries on the helmet before you buy it to make sure it fits their head properly. An adjustable helmet is a wise choice as it can be adjusted as they continue to grow.
Aside from the helmet, you also need to buy elbow and knee pads as they can help protect your child against scrapes and bumps as they learn to ride their bike. Moreover, gloves are another important protective gear that offers additional cushioning for their hands. It reduces vibrations to provide your child with a more comfortable ride.
Other Accessories
There are numerous accessories for kids’ bike accessories. The possibilities are endless, including tassels, baskets, bells, water bottles, reflectors, lights and more. Some bikes come with a few of these accessories, but for others, you might have to add them on.
Ultimately, the right bike is the one your child falls in love with. Riding a bike provides children with a sense of independence as they get to ride around on their own. It gives them freedom and joy. This can be the first step they take toward their independence and an experience with plenty of memorable and pleasant moments.
Do shortlist a few bikes based on the tips highlighted in this article and ask your child to try them out and see which one they like the best. Remember to teach them how to ride safely and ensure they wear their protective gear before they get on their bikes.
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