How to choose a children's bicycle?
Childhood without a bicycle - not childhood, so believemany. Indeed, riding a bicycle is one of the most favorite activities for children of different ages, from preschool to adolescents. But an incorrectly selected bike can be not only uncomfortable, but also dangerous. Therefore, it is important for parents to know, how to choose a children's bicycle.There are many criteria for choosing a suitable model of a children's bicycle, from the weight of the bicycle to its price. But first of all it is important to choose a children's bicycle, which Suitable for your child in terms of height and age. To determine if a bicycle is suitable forheight, ask the child to stand on a level surface so that the bike is between his legs in an upright position. The distance between the frame of the bicycle and the crotch of the child should be at least 10 cm - otherwise the child will not be able to jump off the bicycle in an emergency situation.
Also it is desirable to choose a children's bicycle with adjustable seat height. How to determine the optimal seat height? When a child is sitting on a bicycle, his foot should reach the pedal, which is in the lower position. In this case, the leg should be fully straightened and stand on the pedal in the middle of the foot. If the child's leg does not reach the pedal, or barely reaches for it with a toe, it is necessary to lower the seat. If you can not lower it - the bike suits you.
In addition to adjusting the height of the seat in the construction of a children's bicycle, height and tilt adjustment. If the child has to bend while riding a bicycle, it is necessary to raise the steering wheel higher. And if the child during the ride all the time kneels on the steering wheel, will help change the slope of the steering wheel.
Some parents decide to choose a childbike "to grow" to save money. But you can not do this. Models of bicycles for children of different ages differ significantly from one another in many ways - from the diameter of the wheels to the type of brake. If the bicycle is too big for a child, it will be difficult for him to keep his balance, which is fraught with falls and injuries.
To facilitate the choice, we offer you A table that will help you choose a children's bicycle, depending on the age and height of the child.
| Age of child | Child's height | Wheel diameter | Additional wheels | Brake Type | Number of speeds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-3 years | <98 cm | 12"" | there is | back foot | 1 |
| 3-5 years | <115 cm | 16"" | there is (removable) | back foot | 1 |
| 5-7 years | <130 cm | 20"" | no | rear foot and front manual (V-brake) | 1-6 |
| 7-9 years | <130 cm | 24 "" | no | manual V-brake | 1-18 |
| 9-12 years old | <135 cm | 24 "" | no | front and rear manual V-brake | 1-21 |
From this table it is clear that, for example, Children under 5-7 years old should not buy a bicycle with gears: a small child wants to have funfrom riding, but not to understand the correct gear shift. In general, this applies to virtually all bicycle "bloat." Why does a child need functions in which he does not want to understand and that he can not use?
Foot brake is a tribute to safety. It is fairly simple to use, reliable andis effective. Therefore, the first child's bicycle should only be equipped with a foot brake. To pass to a manual brake it is necessary only when the child grows up, and forces of his hands will suffice on that to stop a bicycle by means of a manual brake.
Bicycles for the youngest children (up to 5 years) should be light enough for the child tohimself to move the bicycle from its place. Such a bicycle should be equipped with a rudder limiter, and the chain must be completely covered with a special protection. The brake in such bicycles must be only a foot.
If you want to choose a children's bicycle that will last for a really long time, buy it at a specialized store to be sure of its quality. Remember: the quality of your chosen bike is the guarantee of your child's safety!
