Cycling with kids is a great activity for both kids and parents. It allows you to participate in your favorite activities while involving your favorite little people.
If done correctly, riding with children can be safe and enjoyable. To best prepare for biking with your kids, we've put together this guide with some quick tips for success.
When your child is about 12 months old, you can start exploring the world on a bicycle. Most child bike seats fit children ages 1-4 with a maximum weight of 50 pounds.Once your child reaches 4 or 5 years old, you can start teaching them to ride on a assist bike or an automatic kid's bike.
Before setting out, you must make sure you have the right gear, travel supplies for your child, and know the appropriate riding routes. In this article, we look at the options for cycling with kids. We also cover the gear you need, safety tips and how to keep your kids entertained on the road.
It’s important to have the right gear to ensure every ride is safe, fun and comfortable for you and your child.
Let’s take a look at the different gear and when you need it.
- Ebike
If you choose a children's bicycle trailer, it is very important to have an electric bicycle that is safe, stable and cost-effective. When choosing an electric bike for towing a child's bike trailer, it's important to consider factors such as the bike's weight, motor power, battery life, and overall stability.
Notably, the SAMEBIKE 20LVXD30-II 's versatility and ability to carry heavy loads is perfect for pulling a child's bike trailer. This compact electric cargo bike is so versatile that it can easily accommodate a child's bike trailer. It has a powerful motor, long battery life, and a folding feature for easy storage.
- Helmet
The most important piece of safety equipment for you and your child whenever you get on your bike, whether as a rider or passenger. It's helpful to get young children into the habit of wearing a helmet on their first ride, and it's the law in most states.
Visit a local bike shop with your child to test out their children's helmets. Choose a style that fits comfortably and is tight enough not to slip off. A loose, ill-fitting helmet will not protect your child's head properly.
- Mats and gloves
When your child starts riding alone, there's no doubt they'll fall repeatedly while learning balance and technique. This isn't a big deal if they're riding in the right places, but you can avoid a lot of bumps and scrapes with a good set of elbow and knee pads and some padded gloves.
- Clothes and sunscreen
Children are very sensitive to the elements, and riding on hot or cool days requires extra preparation.
From spring to fall, be sure to apply sunscreen before heading out for a bike ride, even on cloudy days. For kids who don't ride, give them an extra layer to wear, such as a long-sleeved shirt and a sun hat.
In the winter, make sure kids have enough layers to keep them warm. Anyone who rides a bike knows that cold drafts while riding can be very uncomfortable, and it's even worse if you're not generating any heat while riding.
What do you want before you leave?
Legal – Know your local bike and traffic laws, including basic gear like helmets and lights Bike inspection – Always check your bike and your child’s bike before setting off. Make sure ABC's (air, brakes, chain) are in good working order
Gear Check – Make sure your child’s helmet and safety gear fit correctly. For helmets, make sure the forehead is covered and the straps are snug but not too tight. Check you have your cycling essentials for emergencies and repairs.(Read: Electric Bike Inspection and Maintenance for Riding)
Route Map – Plan your route to avoid busy roads and heavy traffic periods. Additionally, utilize trails and multi-use paths whenever possible
Supplies – Pack enough snacks and water for you and your child, as well as some supplies to keep your child entertained if necessary.
How to make children happy?
Front-mounted child bike seats are perfect for entertaining your little passenger. With this type of seat, your child can sit in front and participate in the ride. They can hear everything you say and see everything happening ahead.
Kids bike trailers are another great way to take your kids on adventures. However, this model requires more preparation because the child is not involved in the ride and it is more difficult to talk to the child in the trailer.
For bike trailers for kids, we recommend bringing toys, snacks, sippy cups, or blankets to help keep them entertained. You can also point out different things along the way to keep them interested in the journey.
Cycling is one of the most rewarding things bicycling parents can do with their children. When your child starts joining you as a passenger, prepare the right gear and the best type of seat for you and your child.
Once they start learning how to ride, make sure they have a helmet, gloves and pads to protect them from inevitable falls, and always be patient and encouraging.