Spectrum: Wheels are the perfect introduction to the world of bicycles. If you consider a few points when choosing, it's great fun for children and parents. Maybe by Christmas?
For what age?
For many parents, this is probably the most important question – but also one of the most difficult. Balance bikes are usually recommended for children between the ages of 2 and 3 years at the earliest. But that doesn't mean that there are kids who can handle it at the age of 18 months, or that others still have problems at the age of 3. The motor development of the little ones is decisive - this is the decisive basis when it comes to getting along on the bike.
What's in it for my child?
Well, one thing above all: fun! But the children also benefit from the fact that their physical and motor skills are challenged and encouraged at an early age. Running bikes train body coordination and, in particular, the sense of balance (they are not called “balance bikes” for nothing). Children who can already get by on a balance bike will later learn to ride a bike much more easily - without training wheels!
What should be considered?
When buying an impeller, there are a few important points to consider. We have summarized them briefly and concisely in a bullet point list:
1. Customizability
Every parent knows how fast children grow. Therefore, the impeller should be able to grow with you for a while. Not only the saddle, but also the handlebar height should be adjustable.
2. Pneumatic tires
Many rather inexpensive wheels have solid rubber tires. These are heavy and dampen much less than pneumatic tires. The comfort with pneumatic tires increases, especially on somewhat uneven terrain.
3. Deep entry
The wheel should offer a low entry. This increases the child's subjective sense of security enormously, especially at the beginning.
disputes
Opinions differ on two points when buying a wheel: brakes and steering wheel limiters
1. Brake - yes or no?
Some wheels are already equipped with brakes. Especially at the beginning, the children will brake with their feet in particular. Often the hands are still too small to grasp the brake lever or there is not enough strength to pull it safely. If a brake is installed on the desired wheel, it is important to check whether the lever is easy to pull and whether it can be placed close enough to the handlebars that even small hands can grip it.
2. Steering wheel lock - safety plus or danger?
Many wheels are equipped with a so-called handlebar lock limiter. This should prevent the kids from tearing or twisting the handlebars too quickly and then falling. What sounds like a good idea can also become dangerous in the event of a fall: Due to the limited impact, the ends of the handlebars point upwards when the bike is on the ground and can become dangerous.
At the end there is only one thing left to say: Have fun – and don't forget your helmet!
The photos in the article are from a Specialized Hotwalk