Children's bicycles: types, selection and operation

Children love to ride a bike. Every child should have such a vehicle. Nowadays, manufacturers produce a huge range of similar products. You can choose the best model for every taste, budget and age of the young user.

Parents who care about the health and development of their child try to buy a variety of educational toys, books and suitable modes of transport for him. The latter include a bicycle. Today, many modifications of these products can be found on sale. You can choose the optimal design for a child of any age.

For the most part, children love to ride a bike and get real pleasure from the process of conquering more and more new roads. Young riders like speed (albeit not very high), the feeling that they are in control of their "iron horse". The positive emotions you get from cycling are hard to replace with something else.

In addition to a lot of positive emotions, children's bicycles have extremely beneficial effect on the physical condition of the child. Thanks to trips on this type of transport, the level of endurance of the user also increases. Cycling has a positive effect on the work of the cardiovascular system, blood circulation. Thus, the vestibular apparatus develops well. That is why every child should choose a high-quality and most suitable bike.

Before buying a children's bike, you should familiarize yourself with all the features of its device. Knowing what the structure of this vehicle consists of, it will be easier to operate it.

One of the main components in the construction of a bicycle. It is to this part that all other elements are attached - wheels, pedals, steering wheel, seat. The frames are made from different materials. The most common structures are pipes or feathers that form a triangle.

When it comes to adult bikes, they go for stronger, more durable frames. This is due to the fact that such means of transport are subject to more impressive loads with a large mass. In children's copies, the frame is lighter and simpler, because it will not experience huge loads.

Children's bicycles are equipped with wheels ranging from 12 to 20 inches in diameter. These parameters are optimal for such devices. For the teenage group, bicycles are produced with wheels with a large diameter - 24-26 inches. Children's modifications are additionally equipped with removable side wheels. Such elements turn out to be very useful when toddlers use a bicycle who still do not know how to keep their balance properly.

Pedals in modern bicycles for children are usually located on the front wheel axle. When choosing a similar technique for a child, it is important to make sure that the elements in question can be used without problems. The feet of a young rider must reach the pedals. It should be convenient to twist them. The cyclist needs to rest freely on the pedal with his whole foot, not just his toe.

Most modern children's bicycles are equipped with the simplest and most understandable foot brakes. If the model is selected for an older child, then more improved copies can be found on sale, in which disc or rim braking systems are provided.

Disc brakes with a hydraulic drive are rightfully recognized as the best. In operation, they show themselves exclusively on the positive side. However, the cost of products with such systems is high. In bad weather conditions rim brakes behave worse than disc brakes.

There is a rigid fork in children's bicycles. In designs where wheels of a more serious diameter (20 inches) are provided, the forks can be either rigid or equipped with shock absorbers. The latter are responsible for softening impacts while driving. Vibrations are also "swallowed". It is convenient and comfortable to ride such transport on uneven roads. With additional shock absorption, the child's spine also takes on the smallest loads.

An integral part of the construction of a child's bike. This is one of the important components of the device, which is worth paying attention to when choosing the best model. Today, high-quality bicycles are on sale, equipped with the most comfortable seats, thanks to which the child normally reaches the pedals with his feet and can control transport. In most designs, the saddle can be adjusted in height.

Nowadays, in specialized and sports stores you can find a large number of bicycles of various modifications. Children's models are no exception. They are presented in a large assortment.

This is a very comfortable little tricycle with a handle. These products have a wide back that can be lowered during walks if the baby falls asleep. Models with a reclining back are considered the most comfortable and safe for the little ones. Cycling strollers often come with a roof - a visor that effectively protects the little rider from the sun.

Children are delighted with these products. They pedal on their own while operating the bike stroller. At the same time, the parents with the help of the handle control the ride of the little racer.

Many bicycle strollers are offered to consumers in the form of reliable transformers. This is very convenient: when the child grows up a little, the element with an awning (visor) can be removed from the structure together with the handle and 2 rear wheels can be connected together. This will create a full-fledged two-wheeled bicycle.

The tricycle is a safe transport for children aged 2 to 3 years. On such devices, little users learn to ride well. Here, the kids do not have to keep their balance - you can focus all your attention on the pedals and directly controlling the transport.

Three-wheeled variants are simple and straightforward. There are no too complicated and intricate details. Their main plus lies in sustainability. The most widely used tricycles have 1 front and 2 rear wheels.

Tricycles are good:

• high stability (there are 3 points of support);
• modest mass;
• an enviable strength reserve;
• bright and interesting colors that captivate kids;
• additional equipment - a basket, a music panel, a very convenient parental handle and other similar components;
• democratic price tag.

Of the minuses, it is worth highlighting:

• the presence of hard and noisy wheels;
• lack of a folding system, which is why bicycles take up a lot of space during storage.

For older children, for whom three-wheeled models are already "small", four-wheeled versions are ideal. These are small structures with 2 main and 2 safety wheels. In terms of external characteristics, they resemble standard adult bikes: there are also chain drive, soft rubber wheels... The side rollers can be removed when the toddler learns to balance while riding.

Four-wheel devices are different:

• a wide variety of models (all kinds of design, they can imitate police bikes, sports motorcycles, etc.);
• the ability to adjust the seat, steering wheel as you like;
• the presence of small side wheels that do not interfere with riding, but only help the child, insure him;
• the presence of a parental handle in the kit (it is removable, it comes in most models).

The disadvantages are as follows:

• when making sharp turns, the four-wheeled bicycle may fall on its side;
• the lugs of the safety rollers are often bent.

These are bicycles that are produced for schoolchildren who have already mastered independent riding on a similar type of transport. By their design, these models are almost indistinguishable from standard bikes for adults - they just have modest dimensions. Children's copies of stunt or mountain bicycles look especially original and interesting, although the largest percentage of products is occupied by walking models.

Two-wheeled examples are attractive:

• huge lineup;
• the presence of all "adult" options - right up to gearshift;
• the presence of a folding frame in many models;
• stylish, interesting design.

Otherwise, they are called bike races, bike scooters, ranbikes. These are two-wheeled bicycles that do not have pedals in the design. Such models can be bought for children from 3 years old. With such a device, the child can learn to keep balance, improve their own motor skills.

Children very quickly master this type of transport. It so happens that they do not need the help of adults here. On a balance bike, you can easily overcome puddles or curbs, it smoothly descends the stairs at the entrance.

When choosing a bike for a child, it is important to consider which models are available for a particular age group. There are the following:

• for babies from 3 to 4 years old with a height of 110 cm, bicycles with a wheel diameter of 12 inches are suitable;
• children from 4 to 7 years old with a height of 110 to 120 cm are suitable for models with wheels with a diameter of 16 inches;
• children from 7 to 9 years old with a height of 120 to 130 cm can buy models with 20-inch wheels;
• young riders, whose height is more than 130 cm, can safely buy bicycles with 24 inches wheels.

Certain models are suitable for children of different ages.

• 1 to 3 years old. Children of this age do not just want to sit in a stroller. The ideal solution would be a wheelchair (bicycle wheelchair) with a handle for mums and dads.
• From 4 years old. For children of this age, it is better to buy comfortable bicycles with soft seats and safety wheels.
• Up to 6 years old... Bicycles are produced for children under 6 years old, which have much in common with devices for users of 4 years old. The differences are hidden only in the diameter of the wheels and the presence of hand brakes on the steering part. It is necessary to select extremely comfortable and lightweight structures that will be as safe as possible, will not tip over when cornering.
• 6 to 9 years old. For this age group, you can pick up bicycles without safety wheels, with the ability to change gears. Devices with shock absorption, dual braking systems are suitable.
• 9 to 13 years old. Young users of this age group can choose bicycles that differ little from standard adult models. It is permissible to buy copies having from 1 to 24 speeds. It is allowed to buy a BMX instead of a regular bike.

Children's bicycles come in different colors. The following colors are considered the most popular and attractive:

• Red;
• yellow;
• blue;
• Orange;
• blue;
• turquoise;
• green;
• White;
• pink;
• purple.

Let's analyze a small rating of the best models of children's bicycles from different manufacturers. First, let's consider the most successful options for children from 2 to 4 years old.

• Puky 4128 ZL 12-1 Alu Capt'n Sharky. The top children's bicycles are opened by a model with an adjustable handlebar mechanism and a hand brake system. It is possible to install additional casters. Reflective surfaces, safety flag and bell are included.
• Scott Voltage JR 12. The bike is a famous and popular brand. The design has soft sticky pads on the steering part, transmission protection, foot and hand brakes. The seat and steering piece are adjustable.
• Giant Animator C / B 12. Ideal bike for riders from 1.5 to 3 years old. Saddle and handlebar adjustments are available, chain protectors, handlebar grips, single rims and a rigid fork.
• Novatrack UL 12. Robust model with steel frame, double rim, bell. The product is inexpensive, but does not have manual front brakes and shock absorption.

Consider the top of the best models for children from 3 to 5 years old.

• Jaguar MS-142 Alu. The bike is from a Taiwanese company. It has pneumatic tires with a tread, reliable chain protection, plastic fenders. Not equipped with a front hand brake.
• Stark Tanuki 14 Girl. Lightweight and inexpensive bicycle of Russian design and Taiwanese production, with a soft saddle. Both the steering wheel and the seat are adjustable. Includes side castors. Front hand brakes are not provided.
• Stels Jet 14 Z010. One of the most convenient in its category. It has a double rim, a saddle and handlebar adjustment function, front brakes and safety wheels in a set. An inexpensive option.

From 4 to 6 years old, such models are recognized as the most successful.

• Puky ZLX 16 Alu. Ultralight instance. Available in black and orange. Can be used by children weighing up to 50 kg. German Puky two-wheelers are of unrivaled quality.
• Author Stylo 16. The model will suit both boys and girls. It is distinguished by its versatile design. The frame is made of aluminum, there are front brakes.
• Giant Adore F / W 16. Option for girls. Available in vibrant colors. The frame is made of aluminum alloy. The set includes side wheels.

Consider the best bike types for riders 6-9 years old.

• Merida Dino J20. Model for teenage boys. Urban type, ideal for walking trips on asphalt. The frame is aluminum, there is a manual front brake.
• Trek Mystic 20. A copy for adolescent girls. Has a standard design and calm, neutral colors. There is a chain protection system, seat and steering mechanisms are adjustable, the frame is made of lightweight and durable aluminum.

Let's take a look at how to choose the right quality bike for a young rider.

• The main thing that you need to pay attention to is safety, comfort... The technique must be of good quality, strong, and of high quality. If the structure is unsafe, then the baby is prohibited from riding it.
• The material of the frame is important. It is better to choose aluminum options than steel ones - they are lighter, and the strength is about the same. Steel is more suitable for the smallest, because it needs additional stability.
• Take a closer look at the saddle. It should be broad and soft within the standard. The child should be comfortable to sit on it.
• There must be protective pads on the steering wheel, chains.
• Designs for very small children should have additional handles for parents. This way you can keep the riding process under control.
• Pay attention to the design of the bike. Choose the most appropriate color for the design that your child will like.
• Check the folding mechanism, if any.... The design must be reliable, without squeaks and backlashes.
• Buy only branded bikes, even if they are expensive. Branded products are of higher quality, made safe and durable.

Let's figure out how to teach a child to ride a bike.

• Choose a good site. You don't need to learn on the grass. Find a flat, preferably rubberized surface. Ideal if the space is large.
• Set up your transport. Set the saddle height to the optimum so that your child can reach the pedals with their feet.
• The child must be supported during the initial attempts. You should stand behind the device and squeeze the wheel between your legs at the very beginning, and then hold the little rider with your hands by the armpits in motion.
• Let go of the little rider quietly, but stay ready to catch him. As soon as you run after the child, you can guide his body. So the kid will understand the direction of movement of the device, quickly master how to turn, turn around.
• After the child begins to maintain balance, will master the pedaling, let it move on its own. Place the pedal on the side of the stronger leg at the 2 o'clock position, let the baby place the leg on the pedal. Say that you need to push hard on her, while at the same time slightly push with the other foot from the road.
• We must learn to slow down. Have the child get off the bike and roll it alongside him. Hit the brakes, show what's going on. Explain that the clicks should be smooth. Then let the rider learn how to brake himself.

Riding a child's bike can benefit:

• it promotes good posture, spine health;
• the level of endurance increases;
• blood vessels and heart are strengthened;
• improves blood circulation (especially when going uphill, "dancing on the pedals");
• lung function improves;
• metabolism accelerates;
• the ability to maintain balance increases;
• young users riding this type of transport are less susceptible to various infectious diseases.

When riding a child's bike the young rider must follow the safety rules.

• You should always wear a helmet. He must meet all standards, be comfortable to wear.
• It is advisable to wear protective goggles, as well as special clothing for cycling.
• You cannot listen to music with headphones while driving.... This will distract you from the road, which can be extremely dangerous.
• The travel speed should not be too high.
• It is important to comply with traffic rules, do not forget about other road users.
• Do not forget about the marker signals, calls, reflective stripes - cyclists are often invisible to car drivers.
• You cannot ride a bike together. The frames are not designed for such loads.
• You should not ride on a bad road. It is important to keep track of the road and its condition.
• Do not take your hands off the steering wheel while driving.
• You must always keep your distance in relation to moving and stationary objects. A child must be ready to stop his "iron horse" at any moment.

See below for medical advice on choosing a kids bike.