Biking with kids is a fun adventure and a great way of having quality family time. It’s also a great way to get outside, discover new places, and stay in shape. Best of all it’s a fun activity for children, and also very useful because it contributes to their physical development. Biking is popular among children because it combines recreation and adventure in nature.
However, with the amount of gear required and safety concerns, the idea of biking as a family can be intimidating and overwhelming. Here are some fantastic tips on how to start, what to pack, what gear to bring, and what to expect. For more additional information for beginner cyclists check out epicbicycles.com.
Choosing a Right Bike
We live in an age of innovation and as a consequence of that, we have so many different types of bikes. The most important question to ask yourself is why you want the bike in the first place. And there is a question: do you need a regular bike (cruisers, road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid) or an electric bicycle.
Many factors should be considered when deciding between a regular bike and an electric bike. If you intend to use it for long-distance travel with your family, electric bikes may be beneficial. Keep in mind that the best electric bicycle for you and the members of your family will be determined by your riding needs, budget, and riding style.
Safety
Putting on a helmet is the first step in each bike trip. But it’s just as crucial to get a good fit so your helmet can protect your head. Most important is to wear correctly sized helmets. Everyone — adults and children – should wear a bicycle helmet on every bike ride, regardless of the distance you plan to travel.
Don’t forget to inspect your bikes before heading out for a ride, or you risk having a flat tire or a rusted chain ruin your day. To set them up for success, make sure their tires and drivetrain are in good shape. Maybe even involve them in the process, such as counting PSIs or hosing down a dirt bike after a day on the trail.
Time and place
Like in most things, starting small and working your way up is the ideal approach. Begin by riding for 10 to 15 minutes, then reassess to determine whether the youngster is becoming fatigued or nervous. It’s best to find a familiar route, rest frequently, and explore the area. Before going on to a more dynamic location, such as a park, where the youngster may become distracted or overwhelmed. An empty parking lot is a perfect place to start.
Then research a nearby park, with a suitable bike path, or a local trail. You can begin by taking kids to a large park with wide asphalt trails near your home. And in no time they will be capable of riding for several miles without becoming bored.
Snacks, water, and comfort
Snacks are essential for riders, and the same is true for youngsters. Snacks can be a source of nutrition, a reward for a job well done, or an antidote to grumpiness. Sometimes snacks are the ride’s destination (coffee shop, ice cream, etc.), and sometimes snacks are the only way to live till we get there. Having a water bottle and/or hydration pack for each family member is always a good idea.
Make sure everyone is dressed warmly at the start of the ride, but that they can easily remove layers as they warm up from biking. Bring a bike bag to store everything that isn’t being worn or utilized.
Fits of rage
Parents should be aware of their child’s physical condition. If the youngster begins to whine or become emotional, it may be time to change activities or return home. Ask your young kid to describe how they are feeling, as well as any pain or discomfort they may be experiencing in their body.
When things don’t go well the first time, take some time to relax before trying again. You can resume the training a few days later by first talking about what happened the previous time, what worked and what didn’t, and preparing for the round. Your child, like you, will have to grow acclimated to spending time on the bike.
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