Children's electric bicycles: varieties, brands, choices, rules of use
It hardly needs anyone to explain how attractive a bicycle is to children. However, not all models are made in the traditional way, that is, with rotating pedals. There are many versions with an electric drive, which also need to be skillfully selected.
Peculiarities
Children's electric bicycles can be fully or partially driven by electrical energy. In the second case, you will still have to make some efforts to help the electric motor. Thanks to the latest engineering developments, it has become quite difficult to distinguish between mechanical and electrified versions. However, in technical terms, the difference is very large. It is associated with use in electrical models electric motor, controller and battery.
The advantages of electrified technology are:
- insignificant operating costs in relation to other modes of transport;
- the ability to drive quickly even for people with poor training;
- very high speeds;
- the possibility of using in the mode of a regular bicycle;
- comfort of travel.
However, there are drawbacks to this design:
- high price;
- increased weight;
- long battery charging.
Review of the main nuances and selection
It is quite obvious that e-bikes for children from 5 years old and teenagers are slightly different. However, both options must be judged primarily by weight. The heavier the bike, the harder it will be to move it without a motor or over obstacles. The lightest bicycles are equipped with motor wheels.
Models with detached motors will inevitably be heavier.
The brand of the electric bike also deserves attention. Many companies in China and Taiwan are willing to supply budget-class electric bikes. Recently, their quality has become much higher than before. Therefore, it is time to discard the old stereotypes.
But it should also be said about the products of leading companies, which are often based on the Canadian BION-X electric drives. Series POWER adapted for long-term use in almost extreme conditions.
The battery is attached to the frame tube so that the weight is distributed optimally. Therefore, maintaining balance while driving is greatly simplified. The control panel is used to adjust the ride parameters. The designers also took care of theft protection.
With a fully charged battery, you can drive up to 90 km. Curiously, the battery refills when the cyclist:
- descends from the mountain;
- rides at a constant speed;
- makes soft braking.
Also noteworthy are the Cube electric bikes. But an even better choice for many children and adolescents is becoming iBalance BS-2. The three-speed aluminum bike is protected from moisture in accordance with the IP64 standard.
The 12-inch wheels are comfortable to ride even off-road.
Significantly more expensive, but the model fully justifies the money invested Rich Bit TOP-730 250W 48V 8AH. Its unladen weight reaches 30 kg, and an important advantage over the previous version will be the presence of 7 speeds.
It is also worth taking a closer look at the models:
- iBalance BS-1;
- Galant Biq;
- Ganqstar;
- E-Bike K-7.
Selection and operation
First you need to make a choice in favor of two-wheeled or three-wheeled bicycles. Models on three wheels are more suitable for preschoolers or students in the first 3 grades. But teenagers from 10 years old will be satisfied with an electric bike with 16-20 inch propellers. You also need to decide in favor of mass-produced or made from conversion bicycles.
The first option is easier for beginners, while the second is more enjoyable for those who love technical creativity. Electric mountain bikes for children are the least common and very expensive. On-road models will last longer on a single charge, and the purpose of cargo-passenger models is clear from the name.
More selection criteria are:
- equipping with lanterns for driving in the dark;
- power reserve;
- price;
- using a gearbox or direct drive (the latter is better);
- composition of attachments;
- developed speed.
Even a properly selected bike must be operated in accordance with the instructions. To save battery power, it is advisable to adjust the driving speed by pedaling with your feet. In the same way, you need to act on especially difficult sections of the road. The ride height is adjusted so that the cyclist can easily reach the ground with his feet.
Inexperienced riders are better off avoiding sharp turns and difficult maneuvers.
It is highly undesirable to accelerate with sharp jerks. The danger is also posed by contact of the e-bike with water (especially immersion in it) or exposure to direct sunlight. The recommended charging time must be strictly observed.
Any interference with the design of an electric bike, as well as attempts to fix problems on your own, is completely unacceptable. Contacting branded service centers is much more profitable.
The following video provides a detailed overview of the e-bike for kids.