Children's bicycles: types, selection and operation

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

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

For the most part, children are very fond of cycling and enjoy the process of conquering more and more 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 riding a bike are hard to replace with something else.

In addition to the mass of positive emotions, children's bikes have extremely beneficial effect on the physical condition of the child. Thanks to trips on this type of transport, the user's endurance level also increases. Cycling positively affects 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 bicycle.

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

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. Frames are made of different materials. Most often, constructions of pipes or feathers forming a triangle are found.

When it comes to adult bicycles, more robust and wear-resistant frames are installed here. This is due to the fact that more impressive loads with a large mass are placed on such vehicles. In children's copies, the frame is lighter and simpler, because it will not experience huge loads.

Children's bicycles are equipped with wheels with a diameter of 12 to 20 inches. Such parameters are optimal for such devices. For the teenage group produce bicycles equipped 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 kids who still do not know how to keep their balance use the bicycle.

Pedals in modern bicycles for children are usually located on the axis of the front wheel. When choosing a similar technique for a child, it is important to make sure that he can use the elements in question without problems. The legs of a young rider must reach the pedals. Twisting them should be convenient. The cyclist needs to rest smoothly on the pedal with his whole foot, and 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 you can find on sale more advanced specimens in which disc or rim braking systems are provided.

The hydraulic disc brakes 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.

In children's bicycles there is a rigid fork. In designs where wheels of a larger diameter (20 inches) are provided, the forks can be either rigid or equipped with shock absorbers. The latter are responsible for softening bumps while riding. Vibrations are also “swallowed”. It’s convenient and comfortable to ride such vehicles on uneven roads. With additional cushioning, the child’s spine also takes on the smallest load.

An integral part of the design of a children's bike. This is one of the important component devices that you should pay attention to when choosing the best model. Today, quality bicycles equipped with the most comfortable seats are on sale, thanks to which the child normally takes his feet to the pedals and can drive vehicles. In most designs, the saddle can be adjusted in height.

In specialized and sports stores today 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 grip tricycle. These products have a wide back, which can be lowered during walks if the baby falls asleep. Models with a folding back are considered as the most comfortable and safe for crumbs. Often bicycle strollers come complete with a roof - a visor that effectively protects the small rider from the sun.

Children are truly delighted with these products. They pedal themselves, driving a bicycle stroller. At the same time, with the help of the handle, parents 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 is a little older, the element with an awning (peak) from the structure can be removed together with the handle and 2 rear wheels connected together. It will turn out a full-fledged two-wheeled bicycle.

Tricycle is a win-win transport for children aged 2 to 3 years. On such devices, small users are good at driving. Here, the kids do not have to keep their balance - you can focus all your attention on the pedals and directly control the transport.

Three-wheeled options are simple and clear structure. There are no too complicated and intricate details. Their main plus lies in stability. The most widespread tricycles having 1 front and 2 rear wheels.

Tricycles are good:

• high stability (there are 3 points of support);
• modest mass;
• an enviable strength margin;
• bright and interesting colors conquering kids;
• additional equipment - a basket, a musical panel, a very convenient parental grip and other similar components;
• affordable 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 the three-wheeled models are already “small”, four-wheeled options are ideal. These are small structures with 2 main and 2 safety wheels. In external characteristics, they resemble standard adult bikes: here, too, there chain drive, soft rubber wheels. Side rollers can be removed when the baby learns to maintain balance while riding.

Four-wheel devices differ:

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

The disadvantages are as follows:

• when making sharp turns, a four-wheeled bicycle may fall on its side;
• the paws of the safety rollers often bend.

These are bicycles that are produced for schoolchildren who have already managed to master independent riding in this type of transport. In their design, these models are almost no different from standard bikes for adults - they simply have modest dimensions. Children's copies of stunt or mountain bicycles look especially original and interesting, although it is walking models that occupy the largest percentage of production.

Two-wheeled units are attractive:

• huge model range;
• the presence of all "adult" options - right up to gear changes;
• the presence of a folding frame in many models;
• Stylish, interesting design.

Otherwise, they are called bike races, scooters, runbikes. These are two-wheeled bicycles without pedals. Similar models can be bought for children from 3 years. With such a device, a child can learn to maintain balance, improve their own motor skills.

Children very quickly master this type of transport. It happens that they do not need the help of adults here. On the runbike, you can easily overcome puddles or curbs; he descends without problems down the stairs in the entrance.

When choosing a bicycle for a child, it is important to consider which models are produced 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 models with wheels with a diameter of 16 inches;
• for children from 7 to 9 years old, growth from 120 to 130 cm, you can buy models with wheels of 20 inches;
• young riders, whose height is more than 130 cm, you can safely buy bicycles with wheels 24 inches.

Children of different ages are suitable for certain models.

• From 1 to 3 years. Children of the specified age just don't want to sit out in a stroller. An ideal solution would be a wheelchair (bicycle stroller) with a handle for moms and dads.
• From 4 years. For children of this age, it is better to buy comfortable bikes with soft seats and safety wheels.
• Up to 6 years. For children under 6 years of age, bicycles are produced that have much in common with devices for users of 4 years of age. 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 convenient and lightweight constructions that will be as safe as possible, will not overturn in corners.
• From 6 to 9 years. For this age group, you can pick up bicycles without safety wheels, with the ability to shift gears. Suitable devices with shock absorption, dual braking system.
• From 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 specimens having from 1 to 24 speeds. Instead of a regular bike, you are allowed to buy a BMX.

The colors of children's bicycles are different. 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, consider the most successful options for children from 2 to 4 years.

• Puky 4128 ZL 12-1 Alu Capt'n Sharky. A model with an adjustable steering mechanism and a manual brake system opens the top of children's bicycles. It is possible to install additional wheels. There are reflective surfaces, a safety flag and a bell.
• Scott Voltage JR 12. A bike of a famous and popular brand. The design has soft sticky linings on the steering parts, transmission protection, foot and hand brakes. The seat and steering part can be adjusted.
• Giant Animator C / B 12. An ideal bike for riders from 1.5 to 3 years. You can adjust the saddle and steering wheel, there is a protective component of the chain, pads on the handles of the steering part, single rims and a rigid fork.
• Novatrack UL 12. Reliable model with steel frame, double rim, bell. The product is inexpensive, but does not have manual front brakes and shock absorption.

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

• Jaguar MS-142 Alu. Bike Taiwanese company. It has pneumatic tires with a tread, reliable protection of the chain, wings made of plastic. Not equipped with 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. Side wheels are included. Front hand brakes are not provided.
• Stels Jet 14 Z010. One of the most convenient in its category. It has a double rim, a function for adjusting the saddle and steering wheel, front brakes and wheels for safety in the set. Inexpensive option.

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

• Puky ZLX 16 Alu. Ultralight instance. Available in black and orange. Can be used for children weighing up to 50 kg. German Puky bicycles are of unrivaled quality.
• Author Stylo 16. The model is suitable for both boys and girls. It features a universal design. The frame is made of aluminum, there are front brakes.
• Giant Adore F / W 16. Option for girls. It is presented in bright colors. The frame is made of aluminum alloy. The kit comes with side wheels.

Consider the best types of bicycles for riders from 6 to 9 years old.

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

We will analyze the points of how to choose the right quality bike for a young rider.

• The main thing you need to pay attention to is safety, comfort. Technique must be solid, strong, high-quality. If the design is unsafe, then the baby is not allowed to ride 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 here you need additional stability.
• Take a closer look at the saddle. It should be broad and soft under the standard. The child should be comfortable sitting on it.
• There should be protective pads on the steering wheel, chain.
• In constructions for very small, additional handles for parents should be available. So you can control the riding process.
• Pay attention to bike design. Choose the most suitable design color that your child will like.
• Check folding mechanism, if equipped. The design must be reliable, without creaks and backlashes.
• Buy only branded bicycles, even if they are expensive. Branded products are of higher quality, made safe and durable.

Let’s figure out how to teach your child to ride a bicycle.

• 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 transport. Set the saddle to its optimum height so that the child kicks the pedals.
• At the initial attempts, the child must be supported. You should stand behind the device and squeeze the wheel between the legs at the very beginning, and then hold the little racer with his hands by the armpits in motion.
• Slowly release the little rider, but stay ready to catch him. As soon as you run after the child, you can direct his body. So the baby will understand the direction of movement of the device, quickly learn how to turn, turn around.
• After the child begins to maintain balance, mastered the rotation of the pedals, let him start by himself. Place the pedal on the side of the stronger foot at the 2 o'clock position, let the baby place the foot on the pedal. Say that you must forcefully press on it, at the same time, lightly push the second foot off the road.
• We must learn to slow down. Let the child get off the bike and roll it next to him. Press the brakes, show what is happening. Explain that clicks should be smooth. After that, let the rider learn to brake himself.

Children's cycling can benefit:

• it contributes to good posture, spinal health;
• increased stamina;
• blood vessels and heart are strengthened;
• blood supply improves (especially when climbing uphill, "dancing on the pedals");
• lung function improves;
• metabolism is accelerated;
• ability to maintain balance increases;
• young users riding this mode of transport are less susceptible to various infectious diseases.

When riding a children's bike a young rider must comply with safety rules.

• Always wear a helmet. It must meet all standards, be comfortable to wear.
• It is advisable to wear protective glasses, as well as special clothing for cycling.
• You cannot listen to music with headphones while driving.. This will distract from the road, which can be extremely dangerous.
• Speed ​​should not be too high.
• It’s important to comply with traffic rules, Do not forget about other participants in the movement.
• Do not forget about the dimensional signals, calls, reflective stripes - cyclists are often invisible to car drivers.
• You can’t ride a bike together. Frames are not designed for such loads.
• Do not ride on a bad road. It is important to monitor the road and its condition.
• Do not remove your hands from the steering wheel while riding.
• Always keep a distance in relation to moving and motionless objects. The child should be ready at any time to stop his "iron horse".

For medical advice on choosing a children's bike, see below.