Whether you want your kids to master their tricycles for elementary schools or e bikes for college, it’s essential to prepare them for the commute. Here are five tips for making sure the whole family is ready to ride!
1. Invest in the Right Bike
Fit and function are the most critical aspects of your child’s bike. For example, for the college freshman, find a bike that fits well and can handle local weather and terrain. Today’s bikes for school include e bikes for college students. These commuter, cruiser and hybrid machines can take on beach, city, path and trail landscapes, and various models feature easy-mount step-through frames, up to 21 speeds, racks for carrying gear, cool colors, and more.
2. Practice the Route
Whether your elementary school student will cycle two blocks or your high schooler will travel for miles, first practice the route with them on a low-traffic day or weekend. Then, accompany them on their first ride to school when the roads are busy. Ensure your child knows the route, road and trail names, turns, traffic lights, and significant landmarks. Mapping the route on paper or GPS can also help kids understand where they are and where they’re going.
3. Focus on Visibility
Being seen is critical to a safe riding experience for kids of all ages. Visibility is vital for kids on bikes and ebikes for short riders. Fluorescent colors are an excellent choice for a bike frame and clothing. Bike safety experts note that drivers recognize these hues faster, more consistently, and from greater distances than standard colors. At the least, buy your kid a fluorescent helmet or jacket as well as reflective accessories and front and rear lights.
4. Gear Up for Safety
A helmet should be at the top of your safety gear list no matter your child’s age. Then, consider adding other items such as riding gloves, chin guards, knee and elbow pads, and form-fitting clothing that won’t get caught in the bike’s spokes or chain. Full-coverage shoes such as sneakers are the best options for protecting feet and toes. Installing a bell on your kid’s bike helps them communicate their presence to other riders while on the road or path. Bike safety experts also recommend that young riders carry a whistle to alert others if lost or in danger.
5. Schedule a Bike-Riding Session
If your kids are young or learning how to ride a bike, think about scheduling a session with an expert. If your local school or community center offers this kind of opportunity, sign up for it. It takes the teaching pressure off you and provides a tried-and-tested learning environment. Youth organizations such as the YMCA may be another excellent resource for how-to sessions. Whether your kids are riding tricycles for elementary schools, 10-speeds for high schools, or ebikes for colleges, these five tips can help you prepare them well for their commute. Browse your local bike shop or online retailers for the bike, safety gear and accessories your child needs.
