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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Sima Fontanilla | Posted under   Recreation and Sports


8 Tips To Choosing A Bike For Your Child



The time has come where you are in the market for a bike for your child. This can be a real balancing act. You child will most likely drag you towards the latest and greatest bells and whistles offered on a child's bike. Meanwhile, your concern is more with safety and fit. Here are 8 tips to choosing a bike for your child that will keep them safe and happy

1. Buy a bike from a bike shopEven though the chain stores are full of bikes to choose from and their prices are sometime quite tempting, they may not be the best choice. These bikes are not always the best quality so if your child is going to be doing some distance riding with their mom and dad, then it would be best if you visited your local bike shop.

2. Check the handle bar heightHave your child stand with their legs straddling the bike. Then check to see that the top bar is at least 1-3 inches away from their body. This is a correct fit.

3. Check the seat heightHave your child sit on the seat. Your child should be able to comfortably place the balls of his or her feet on the ground without tilting the bike. In other words both feet at the same time should be able to touch the ground. Check the seat for adjustments. Make sure the seat isn't already at its maximum height or there will be no room for your child to grow.

4. Handle Bar reachHave your child sit on the seat of the bike in its natural position. Allow your child to bend forward in a natural position and reach for the handle bars. They should be able to extend their arms completely yet comfortably without bending at the waist.

5. Seat sizeHave your child sit on the bike seat. Make sure the seat comfortably fits your child and is not too wide for them. Make sure the angle is correct and does not tilt the body at an abnormal angle. Also check that the seat has ample padding to keep your child comfortable for long rides

6. ShocksThe type of riding your child is going to be doing will depend on whether you should look at a bike that has a shock system. If your family is going to be riding trails then you should make sure your child will be as comfortable as you are. A shock system will also provide your child with a more stable ride

7. Type of bikeAgain, the type of bike will depend on the type of riding your child will be doing. If your child is just going to be cruising around with their friends, a standard bike will do just fine. If you plan to do touring as a family then choose an appropriate touring style bike. If you are going to be riding trails then you'll need to look at a mountain bike. Choosing the correct style of bike for the type of riding is important for both your child's comfort and safety.

8. StyleLet your child have some say in his or her bike. Let them pick out five bikes that they really like and fits them correctly. By letting them choose the bike they will be more likely to be happy with the bike and use it.

Giving your child the opportunity to ride a bike at a young age can lead to a lifestyle choice that will keep them fit and healthy while enjoying the outdoors. Following these 8 simple tips will ensure your child's bike fits them correctly now and as they grow.



About The Author:
Sima Fontanilla is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - http://www.articleclick.com


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