Children's tricycles: model rating and selection rules
The tricycle is the first child transport that brings a lot of joy to the child. Parents, on the other hand, feel a sense of pride when they see their baby begin to ride on its own. The main criterion for choosing a three-wheeled vehicle should be safety, therefore, before buying such a gift, the baby should familiarize himself with the selection rules and recommendations of specialists.
How old can you ride?
Children's tricycle is not only a toy or fun. He gives so many positive emotions to children that it can rightfully be considered not just a thing. The right bike - this is a great device for the physical development of the baby... Riding on it promotes the development of muscles, the musculoskeletal system, improves coordination of movements, trains willpower and endurance. Considering that kids ride mostly outdoors in the fresh air, this is also an excellent way to increase children's immunity.
During a ride, a large amount of endorphins hormones are produced in the child's body, thanks to which the baby's mood rises, he feels a surge of energy. Children who often ride a bike are less likely to suffer from decreased appetite and sleep disturbances, and they recover better from possible stress. During skiing, breathing becomes more frequent, which helps to improve blood circulation, reduce the risk of chronic respiratory ailments in childhood.
A bicycle for the little ones is a big contribution to the future. This is how the man's love for an active and healthy lifestyle, and sometimes for sports, begins to form.
At what age to buy a 3-wheeled bike for a child, parents decide. If in doubt, you should consult your pediatrician. There is an important rule - everything must be on time. Children begin to walk when their muscles, joints and bone tissue are completely ready for this. If you start to put your child on his feet too early, you can do great harm to his health. Likewise, you should approach the determination of the right time to buy a children's bike.
For children from 1 year old, if they have already started walking on their own, only a bicycle with a handle, carried by a parent, is suitable. From 2 years old, it is permissible to use a balance bike. Buying a tricycle too early can harm a child's spine, as these bikes do not provide adequate shock absorption.
Therefore, experts recommend buying the first tricycle for a child by about 2 years old. At this age, the baby already has a fairly strong spinal column, his muscles do an excellent job of walking and running. The younger the child, the simpler the design of the bike should be. From the age of 4-5 years, the child, with the appropriate confident skills, can switch to two-wheeled bicycles adapted for children.
Description of species
The children's tricycle is a transport for those for whom stability is most important. There are several types of such children's transport, each of which has certain characteristics.
With a handle
This species can be the very first in a child's life. The long handle will help parents push the vehicle forward while walking, but the kid will be able to turn the steering wheel on his own. Usually these bicycles are designed for children from 1 to 3 years old. The length of the handle allows adults to push the vehicle in front of them without significant effort, without bending down. But the device is convenient not only for the mother, but also for the baby - models of bicycles with a handle are equipped with a folding back, often there is a visor in the design that protects the baby from the scorching sun.
As long as the baby pedals diligently, the parent can fully control the movement of the vehicle, which minimizes the risk of falling and getting injured. When the child is tired and stops pedaling, the parent takes over completely the control of transport.
Models of the middle and high price range are foldable - the handle is equipped with a telescopic folding mechanism. When choosing such a model, you need to pay attention to the frame - it is better to choose lightweight aluminum options. Steel frames, which are installed on budget bikes with a handle, can withstand more significant loads, but also weigh about twice as much.
For reliability, the seat is equipped with metal handrails, the kid will be able to hold on to them when he gets tired of holding on to the steering wheel. In more expensive models, the seat is additionally equipped with seat belts and a backrest adjuster. Very popular models with swivel seat - the saddle in them can make a full revolution in a circle. It is sometimes important to turn the baby to face you or to the road - depending on the situation.
The wheels of these bicycles are usually made of solid plastic rims and have rubber tires. note that on the steering wheel, a thick foam rubber pad is desirable - it is needed as protection in case the baby hits his face or head on the steering wheel.
Developing classic bike
Such models are designed for crumbs from 2 years. From this age, active knowledge of the world begins, and a bicycle will help with this. He will teach you how to move independently and observe the surrounding objects in motion. Today, more than two hundred types of bikes are available to customers for children of this age group. If the tricycle model is budgetary, then the seat usually does not have a backrest.
On more expensive models, the seat also has a backrest, and is most often equipped with seat belts.... There is a footrest.Often the set includes a protective awning and a small backpack for personal belongings and toys that the kid can take with him on the "trip".
Sometimes these bicycles have a play panel - with sorters, lights, music. Carrying capacity is usually limited to 20 kg, but more is not required at this age. The music panel requires regular battery replacement
Manufacturers often offer bicycles with stickers decorated with cartoon characters. There are models with inflatable wheels, metal chain structure.
Transformer
Convertible bike - long-term option. If you choose it correctly, then as the baby grows, it will be possible to remove and upgrade the seat, raise and lower it, remove or fix the basket from the back or front, install or remove the footrest and awning.
These bikes are suitable for children. from 3 to 5 years. There are transformers for younger kids - they turn from a stroller into a three-wheeled vehicle. Transformers are a suitable option for those who want to save money on their purchase, because if used correctly, these lightweight and ergonomic devices will last quite a long time.
Popular models rating
Which tricycle is the best is difficult to answer unequivocally. The choice is very large - there are decent models both among domestic and foreign bicycles. We have compiled our rating based on the feedback from parents who bought, tested and described the advantages and disadvantages of a particular model.
BabyHit Kids Tour
Universal classic model, which can suit both a one and a half year old child and a five year old toddler. Transport on inflatable wheels is distinguished by its stylish design and convenient construction. For babies, you can use a holder with which parents can control the position of the child in space. Older children will be able to ride on their own.
The pedals are non-slip and the feet are firmly positioned on them. The visor can be folded down if necessary. There is a protective bumper, which can also be removed if necessary. The model is equipped with seat belts, the cover from the saddle and backrest can be removed and washed. There is a music panel and a headlight that really shines.
With all the advantages, the model has disadvantages. For example, it is quite heavy, and the manufacturers did not provide bearings on the front wheel.
Mars Mini Trike LT-950
The model is optimal if there is a child in the house from 1 to 5 years... At the very beginning, the bike will be a good option for a stroller, but gradually parents can transform the transport and get a full-fledged tricycle. The wheels are large and not rigid, the shock absorption is good, the seat is equipped with a backrest, there is a removable visor, a backpack and a basket for things.
Parents include the disadvantages inconvenience of adjusting the visor - it is not always correct in height. The construction of the bike is quite heavy. But with all this, the model serves for a long time and has proven itself well, even though its cost is quite budgetary.
Puky CAT S6 Ceety
This is a more expensive model, which belongs to the premium tricycle segment. Suitable for ages 2 and up... The bike is made in Germany from high-quality German-made spare parts. Manufacturers paid special attention to safety.
Transport is very comfortable, convenient, its design is thought out to the smallest detail. To the delight of mom or grandmother the set comes with a large removable basket, with which you can perfectly combine a walk with a child and a visit to the store.
The body is metal. For babies, a telescopic holder is provided, adjustable in height. The steering wheel can be locked if required.
The disadvantages include the inability to control the steering wheel from the parental holder and the price - it is quite high.
Jetem Lexus Trike Next Generation
This model will delight the little ones and their parents. It can be presented to a child from 1 year old. The price is adequate, the quality is beyond doubt. The bike is equipped with a soft seat, the position of which can be adjusted, seat belts, comfortable leg holders. The set includes a convenient backpack and a basket. The visor is foldable, when it is not needed, it can be removed.
The disadvantages of parents include plastic mounts, which are prone to breakage, non-inflatable wheels, as well as not the most understandable instructions for assembling children's transport. But the price is small, which gives the manufacturer the right to some shortcomings.
Rich Toys Lexus Trike VIP
Let it be a toy, but still "Lexus", and therefore there is no doubt about its durability and cross-country ability. The tricycle perfectly overcomes small obstacles and road bumps, bumps and bumps, while the shock absorption of the model is excellent. This is achieved using inflatable wheels and bearings. The seat can be adjusted in three positions. The disadvantages of parents include not the most convenient design of the visor and the tendency of the footrests to fold at their will and desire.
Smart Trike Zoo-Collection
A bright and interesting model for the smallest cyclists. The model is made in a stylish design and has several musical toys. The bike is equipped with a special pocket in which mom can securely place a bottle of water or juice for a longer walk in the fresh air.
The design of the model is light, the handle for the mom is comfortable and height-adjustable... The pedals are not slippery and the footrests fold easily when not needed. Among the shortcomings, parents call a rather noisy move, sometimes babies have difficulties with cranking the pedals. But considering that the model belongs to the budget category, these shortcomings are quite forgivable.
Little tikes
The model is loved by mums and dads. This is a transforming bike, which at first will be a lightweight stroller, and then will become an independent means of transportation for the child. Manufacturers have tried to pay special attention to the safety of babies, so the bike is rich in straps and belts, restraints, holders. The wheels are made of plastic, and this is considered by most parents to be a significant drawback, since the bike rattles when moving.
Jetem chopper
The vehicle is ideal for toddlers who have already started to walk. The parts and body are metal, but lightweight, and this excludes minor breakages. The model has reliable seat belts, a trunk that is quite acceptable in terms of volume, it is possible to adjust the distance between the frame and the seat.
The disadvantages of the light model include a relatively high noise level during movement, tight cranking of the pedals. The parental holder is not adjustable in height, there is no pedal lock function.
Smart Trike Recliner Stroller
This model is also ideal for babies from 1 year old. Manufacturers have tried to provide gentle support for the back and head, which is very important for children of this age. A big plus is the variety of colors. Parents will definitely appreciate both the convenient holder and the saddle adjustment mechanism in the horizontal plane. The set includes a backpack and a removable basket.
Most parents consider annoying plastic rattling when driving, insufficient shock absorption, short seat belts to be a drawback.
"Chizhik"
A three-wheeled miracle of domestic production, very simple and uncomplicated. There is nothing superfluous in it, but at the same time, the model is quite functional. The price is low, the design is light, there is a basket for transporting toys. The disadvantage of mom and dad is frame material - it is plastic.
How to choose?
Often, parents or other relatives of a baby make the mistake of choosing a tricycle for a boy or girl for the price or country of origin - imported or domestic. In fact, the process of choosing a safe means of transportation for your baby is a more difficult task, but if you approach her with knowledge of the matter, then you can buy a very good option that will delight the child and will serve him for more than one year.
Frame
The frame is the main part of the structure; technical characteristics and safety measures largely depend on it. The easiest is plastic frame, but in this case there is no need to dream of a long service life of the tricycle, the frame material is not strong and durable.
The steel frame can withstand heavy loads, but the bike is very heavy with it. Think about it, especially if Mom has to take him up to the upper floors after a walk.
Carbon frame quite expensive, but overall it is lightweight and durable. If a bike with a carbon frame is too expensive for you, you should pay attention to aluminum frames - they are much lighter than steel ones, but slightly heavier than carbon ones, but they are cheaper than the latter. That's why it is aluminum frames that are considered the optimal solution for a children's tricycle.
Examine the frame carefully. The quality of the seams on it must be high, all parts must be securely fastened. Check with the manufacturer what kind of guarantee is provided for the purchase - the fact is that often manufacturers give a guarantee exclusively for the frame, and therefore the correct choice of it is already half the battle.
Seat
Many moms and dads think that wide, almost square seats are exactly what will help their child feel confident and comfortable. In practice, this is not at all the case. For toddlers, both from the point of view of orthopedists and from the point of view of the developers of children's transport, a triangular saddle is safer and more comfortable. On it, the baby will be able to spin freely as he likes, change the center of gravity, bend forward. A square saddle won't do that.
Seats for children's tricycles are plastic. And this is the most inexpensive, but the most inconvenient option. On the one hand, these saddles wash well, but on the other hand, the child can periodically slide off the plastic saddle. To rule it out, it is better to choose plastic saddles with rubberized splashes - points that prevent free sliding.
Don't be too fooled by the presence of textile covers on the saddle. Practice shows that after 2-3 uses, such covers, at the behest of the parents, leave their rightful place on the saddle and move to the closet. It is more difficult to seat a child on a textile cover. If you do intend to ride with a cover, try to choose dark, non-staining shades, as this part of the bike gets dirty very quickly.
Pedals and footrests
Pedaling, and this is well known to all experienced parents, is difficult for novice cyclists. To prevent children's feet from slipping, you need to choose models with an elongated pedal shape. Pay particular attention to the shape of the footrest. If the child is less than 2 years old, extended footrests are more suitable. If the baby is more than 2 years old, it is better to choose even and straight supports.
Immediately evaluate how convenient the stands are to fold, whether they tend to unfold spontaneously after that, whether they will interfere with the baby's pedaling.
Wheels
Most children ride not only on the smooth surface of the corridor in the apartment or on the smooth asphalt near the house. And therefore it is important to choose a bike that can easily overcome distances on grass, bumps, small stones. Rubber wheels do the best for this, not plastic wheels.
Rubber wheels help the vehicle to move quieter, vibration and noise are partially damped. Plastic wheels always rattle and do not always cope even with small obstacles on the road. Inflatable wheels provide the highest comfort, however, these tricycles are also more expensive. In addition, do not forget about the possible damage to them. It is better to purchase a repair kit for inflatable wheels in advance.
The wider the wheels of your chosen kids bike, the more stable the tricycle will be.
Safety devices
Make sure that the bike is equipped with a stopper that will prevent the baby from falling out on the go. If you have seat belts, you need to make sure that they are at least five-point.
A pen
If you are planning to purchase a bicycle with a handle, be sure to pay attention to this part as well. The handle must be firmly attached, not dangling. The most comfortable handles, in the opinion of parents and specialists, end with a rounded hole, into which the hand of an adult can easily enter.
Many people think that spear pens are much more modern, but this is not entirely true. If you drive a tricycle with a rounded handle, your mother will have to spend much less effort to maneuver.
Accessories
Parents who are faced with a choice often wonder whether they and their child need the accessories that come with some models. A trunk for toys and a loud horn or bell is a must. Practice shows that it is these devices that the child will use most often.
The presence of music panels and sorters is at your discretion. With all their attractiveness, they will be of interest to the child for the first few days, then all this variety of bulbs and sounds will simply bother the baby.
The bags and backpacks that come with some models are very useful, but not for the child, but for his mother, who will be able to look into the store for the necessary purchases on the way home from a walk.
But the awning is considered by many parents to be useless and unnecessary. In the overwhelming majority of cases, it does not really protect either from the sun or rain, and also limits the view - because of the protective awning, the mother cannot control what the baby is doing at one time or another.
For tips on choosing a tricycle, see the following video.