When I look back at the summers of my childhood, there’s not many moments that don’t include my bike. Usually from the moment I woke up until right before dinner, I’d be exploring the neighborhood with friends while riding our bikes. We took them everywhere and when I think of those days, I just want to hop on a bike again and go riding!
With all the fond memories I have of riding my bike, you would think I would have start my son bike riding early. For some reason, Hayden is 7 years old and has yet to ride a bike. Part of it is that he hasn’t had a big interest and part of it has been we don’t have much space for him to ride a bike – no sidewalks and a semi-busy residential street.
But I’ve decided that is no excuse and it was time for Hayden to get his first bike! When we headed to Walmart for him to pick one out, there was no doubt that we would be going with a . Schwinn was established in 1895 and is America’s oldest bike brand and offers the best bikes under 200 for all types of riders and terrains. Plus, they offer a limited lifetime warranty for as long as you own the bike!
Schwinn bikes are available at all Walmart stores and on Walmart.com. We decided to go in-store so Hayden could see the bikes in person and test them out before we made the big purchase! They had a big variety of bikes to choose from, but I knew that Hayden would instantly go toward any Schwinn bike that was blue!
Hayden was so excited to get the bike home and start learning to pedal! Once we got home, we didn’t hit the road right away though. Whether you’re buying a brand new bike or getting yours out after being tucked away for a few months, a bike checkup is an important first step in getting ready for biking season.
Helmet – I let Hayden pick out a brand-new helmet to go with his bike. Safety is so important and while kids might not like to wear them, luckily there’s fun designs and bright colors to make it “cool”. We made sure to stress how important it is to wear a helmet at all times and how to properly wear it.
Tires – Even with a new bike, you always want to make sure your tires are properly inflated. There were quite a few tires on the bikes in-store that needed air in them. You can locate the correct pressure on the side of each tire.
Brakes – You’ll want to check your bike and your kid’s bike to make sure both the front and back brakes are in working order.
Seat – You might have to adjust your seat, especially if your child has grown over the winter months or if they have a new bike. Legs should be slightly bent when in the lowest pedal position. You can see that when Hayden tested out this 16″ bike that it was WAY too small for him by the way his legs are bent.
Safety – Safety is SO important while riding a bike. While you also want to make sure you have a helmet on, having reflectors on your bike and wearing sunscreen while you are out is just as important!
Breaks – Don’t get worn out! Bring along water to stay hydrated and a snack for some energy, especially if you are going on a long bike ride.
I am so excited for Hayden to have gotten his first bike! I’m itching to get me and my husband one so we can start going on family bike rides. There’s so many great bike trails throughout St. Louis! We are also headed to the beach in a few weeks and I think we will be bringing Hayden’s bike with us as the place we are staying in has adult bikes!
Make sure to check out the so you can get rolling into summer with your family!
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Lunchbox. All opinions are my own.
Danielle says
I’ve been wanting to get a bike for myself for the longest time now. We are also trying to teach our son to ride a bike with training wheels. Hopefully, my dreams come true sooner than later and we can do family bike rides.
Kristin says
I want a bike SO bad! And I want a Schwinn, one of the vintage looking ones. They’re amazing!
Dawn says
We’ve all been looking into getting new bikes, and Schwinn has been on our top list of contenders. They make spectacular bikes!
Amy Desrosiers says
Great choice of bikes! My kids could all use a new bike themselves.
Tammi @ My Organized Chaos says
I love these bikes and I’ve been looking at one last week, for my oldest. We are keeping her bike out t the campsite that we’ll be at on weekends but she loves to bike – so we need another to keep at the home.
susan says
I have been in the market for a new bike for my daughter. I am sure she would love a cool bike like this… And I love the safety features.
Mistee Dawn says
Oh I just love Schwinn bicycles. I miss the one I used to have as a kid. Maybe I should get one for my daughter.
Amber Edwards says
That’s a gorgeous bike! I just love Schwinn! I want a schwinn bike! They are so well built.
Lori Felix says
Schwinn bikes are good quality bikes. My husband likes to ride his every chance he gets.
Dee Mauser says
You know I haven’t owned a bicycle in over 30 years but Schwinn does make one awesome bike.
Marcie W. says
All three of my children have bikes and enjoy being outdoors. Oddly enough it has been my husband asking to purchase one so he and my brother in law can begin riding together.
Aubrey says
I think that’s a cool bike. My kids are all about the pegs though. They wouldn’t let me buy one unless it had them.
Sarah @ Must Have Mom says
Thisis a great checklist! Thanks for sharing!
Ann Bacciaglia says
This is an awesome bike for your little guy. My Dad has a Schwinn and he loves it. This is a great check list.
Vera Sweeney says
I had no idea that Walmart carried Schwinn bikes. That is a great deal and he looks so excited for his bike!
Autumn @Mamachallenge says
My kids love their bikes! Schwinn always has a great line of products!
Debi- Lifestyle Blogger says
The kids and I have been thinking about getting new bikes. Mine broke last year and the kids have out grown theirs.
Nancy @ Whispered Inspirations says
We are looking to get into family biking and looking for new bikes. These look great!
dawn says
Schwinn is the best brand. My aunt and uncle stands by them. My first bike was a Schwinn. I actually am looking into getting a new bike and I will be looking into this brand also.
Kelly Hutchinson says
Both of my kids need new bikes and we are never sure what size to buy them. What a great infographic to help in that process.
Wendy @ ABCs and Garden Peas says
Oh, that brings back such great memories of my first Schwinn! I can’t wait until it time for my son’s.
kristin says
Bikes are great. Good way for them to get around, while keep them active. Fun to do the family bike ride, just working on getting our oldest stronger to ride.
Laure says
I had a Schwinn when I was little! I want to get C one!