Bike safety tips for kids

Nobody said that cycling is 100% safe. This activity involves a certain risk, but if you observe some basic safety rules, the risk can be avoided. It is important to explain this to your child so that he realizes and understands why it is necessary to follow these rules.

Regardless of where the child is riding, in the courtyard, in the park, in the competition, he must wear protective gear. The helmet is obligatory, but knee pads, elbow pads and gloves are a must. Wearing special equipment will provide less traumatic falls and fewer scratches on the skin. The gear must be rigid outside to perform a protective function, and soft inside to soften the bumps.

The bike needs to be adjusted to the height of the child. The seat and bars should be at such a height that the young cyclist could touch the ground with his feet in a sitting position. The child should be able to easily step over the frame as he climbs the bike. Protective gear and other parts of the bike should not cause inconvenience.

 The child should understand when to accelerate, and when to brake. He should be ready for the fact that, climbing into the hill, you have to pedal faster. And when you leave the mountain, on the contrary, hold the brake. Even during a speed competition, the child will have to brake before the turns. And when he has to turn 180 degrees, most likely he will have to slow down as much as possible.

Your child should respect other children on bikes. This rule applies to normal bike rides but also to competitions. A respectful attitude towards other participants, keeping distance and providing assistance if needed are more important than a leading place in the competition.

The last but not the least, you must be beside your child when he is riding a bicycle. No matter how far away from the child you are, he must be sure that if he may lose balance or fall, you will support him. Your task is to provide timely support and to convince the child that he should go on practicing. 

When you are convinced that your child acts by these rules, he can participate in serious children's competitions. One of these competitions is Kids Criterium, due on May 12, in the Great National Assembly Square. The event will begin at 9:00, and the start will be given at 11:00. You can register HERE.