Lifestyle / Spectrum: It can be quite easy to get children interested in cycling from an early age. We have put together some information about children and bikes and also a few tips on how to motivate the offspring to get on the saddle and stick with it.
Bicycle trailers and trailers
Even before children are able to ride a bike independently, there are ways to familiarize them with the subject. Child trailers are becoming more and more popular and enable a first contact between child and bike. The light models weigh around twelve kilograms, more stable variants also quickly scratch the 40kg mark, but can also transport two offspring without any problems. Some trailers can also be folded up to save space when not in use. Premium models can easily cost €800, but they also offer suspension, windows and clever ventilation systems, so that nothing stands in the way of a tour even in summer. These trailers can often also be used as a sporty stroller when jogging.
If the kids are a little older but not yet ready for their own bike - also depending on the terrain - so-called trailers are an interesting option. Essentially, these are half bikes that attach to the rear axle of an adult bike - the rear wheel of the train bike sort of replaces the front wheel of the kid's bike. Otherwise, trailers have a fully equipped drivetrain with crank and pedals and handlebars for the boys and girls to hold on to. Trail runners are mostly recommended for children aged four to nine and are of particular interest when the little ones still feel a bit uncomfortable on the terrain: One example are bumpy country lanes that still cause problems for the kids.
Children's bikes
From the age of around six years, children are in most cases ready for their first bicycle. This gives them a new sense of freedom and it's also a great way to get more exercise. But so that the little ones can really enjoy their first steps on the bike, it is important that they get the right pedestal. Model, size and also equipment play a crucial role in making the new experience more enjoyable and safer for the children.
What to look for in a children's bike
Weight plays an extremely important role. Lighter bikes are easier to handle and children usually have a lot more fun riding when they can control their bike better. The younger the rider, the more important the weight of the bike is. Unfortunately, many children's bikes are far too heavy and often weigh more than half the rider's weight. If you can and want to afford it, you should bite the bullet and also look at more expensive models. These usually weigh around six kilograms and are therefore ideal for the kids. If the money isn't that easy, the upper limit for a 20″ or 24″ bike should be 13kg – this is especially true if you want to go from paved paths into the forest. Apart from the weight, it is at least as important that the bike fits the child. The old wives' fairy tale, which is unfortunately still widespread, "He/she will grow into it" is nothing more than a fairy tale. Either a bike fits or it doesn't, the right size can go a long way in helping children enjoy riding, just as an ill-fitting bike can take all the fun out of it early in development.
So what size at what age? There's no one-size-fits-all answer that replaces going to a specialty store, but as a rough guide we've put some of the most important measurements in the table below. However, it is very important that before buying, the child should definitely test ride the bike and feel comfortable with it.
Age | stride | impeller size | Suggestions |
2-4 | 35-42 cm | 12 inch | Many models still have the controversial support wheels |
4-6 | 40-50 cm | 14 inches | Often difficult to get hold of - keep your eyes open! |
5-8 | 45-55 cm | 16 inches | Most models have coaster brakes and real tubed tires. Sometimes even with a brake on the front wheel. |
6-9 | 50-60 cm | 18 inches | Rather exotic size |
7-10 | 55-63 cm | 20 inches | There are already some variants with gears and independent brakes for the front and rear |
9+ | 60-72 cm | 24 inches | There is almost as much choice here as with adult bikes. |
Long seat posts and an adjustable stem are very helpful in order to accommodate the growth of the children: This way, the offspring does not outgrow the bike they have just bought too quickly. However, it is very important that the kids can reach the ground quickly and easily with their feet and that the handlebars are always within easy reach when seated. If the bike already has one or even two brake levers, these should be easily accessible and bring the bike to a standstill with little effort. With younger children or newcomers you should avoid too many gears. A helpful guide is the rule of thumb: One gear on the first wheel, three gears on the second wheel and only then a full-fledged shifting system.
security and accessories
Having a bell on the bike is at least as important for children in traffic as it is for adults. However, the younger ones first have to learn that the people around them always notice the ringing and immediately move out of the way. In general, StVZO-compliant lighting is also extremely important on children's bikes. Children also usually want it to be conspicuous and love accessories such as baskets, flags and other things - this may seem unnecessary at first glance, but it is very important, especially at the beginning, that the little ones like the coaster and that they enjoy using it - that's why you should give them one listen and then buy the pink bottle holder after all, even if he will never see a drinking bottle.
Falls are part of cycling, but in order to avoid injuries in the event of a fall, you should make sure that you have the appropriate protective equipment. A safe and well-fitting helmet is essential. If this is damaged after a fall, you should definitely replace it because it no longer offers the same protection as before. The helmet should fit snugly but not pinch. There should be about one index finger between the chin strap and the chin. In addition to a helmet, gloves are a very good idea, especially for younger children, to prevent abrasions on the inside. Long trousers serve the same purpose (instead of shorts or skirts) - this protects children's sensitive knees. Somewhat sturdy shoes not only minimize the risk of injury, but also make a significant contribution to better control of the bike - so better no sandals or the like on the bike.
Apart from the bike and equipment, you should also make sure that the selected routes are suitable for children, but still offer variety: one or the other off-road excursion is a nice change and helps to improve your cycling skills. The routes should also be adapted to the level of fitness of the little ones: nothing spoils the fun for the kids more than when they are overwhelmed and have to give up in frustration.
Last but not least, involve the children in bike maintenance. This starts with regular care, such as checking the tire pressure or regularly oiling the gears. When the children get older, you can also look at the brakes with them or, for example, readjust the gears. In this way, they not only learn how the bike works and may be able to carry out simple repairs themselves in the future, it also increases their appreciation of their own bike.
Jonas says
Hi everybody,
Thank you for this informative post. I bought my child (6 years) a children's bike and am checking it for safety. That's why I'm on the internet and research every possibility to make the bike as safe as possible. During my search, I came across the following site, which also deals with children's bikes: prometheus-bikes.de
Regards
Jonas