Cycling is very much a family activity. If you can’t wait to get your kids on a bike of their own, riding alongside you down country lanes, but your child has only just learnt how to walk, let alone ride a bike ,don’t be disheartened, there’s nothing stopping you from getting your child involved in this activity with you. New bike accessories and products are being released all the time, enabling families to take out their youngest members on bikes.
Here are a few of the options available to you.
Child trailers
Child trailers have a greater capacity than a child seat. They can hold up to two toddlers, with room for toys etc. Children from 9months to 6 years can use a trailer and with some there is the capacity to secure an infant’s car seat inside. Some trailers convert into strollers when unattached from bikes. Bike trailers are lightweight, warm and dry and are more comfortable to sit in, although they can also be bumpy and there is a slight risk of roll-over should the trailer hit a curb.
Cycling with children
Child seats
Cheaper than trailers, rear child seats are fitted behind the adult’s saddle. These are great for good weather, as your child can enjoy the sunshine. Some child seats have features such as, reclining seats and hand bars. Child seats are lighter than trailers, however as they are carried high there is a risk that the bike may topple over if you leave it unattended. Also, the child’s view will be restricted by your bum and there is only room for one child.
Tagalongs
A tagalong is half a bike, plus a towing arm. This is great for when your child is capable of riding a bike, but not for long distances or on busy routes. These are suited to children between the ages of 4 and 9 years old. This attaches to the adult bike via a seat post clamp. Tagalongs mean you can ride anywhere with your child from busy roads, bridleways and forest tracks.
Family cycling
Don’t forget the helmet!
Keep your child’s head protected, make sure your child’s helmet fits snug on their head.
Filed under: Bicycle Security, cycling, cycling Tagged: | bike, cycling
