In today's market place there is a large range of children's bicycles to choose from.  Remember when selecting a bike for your child, safety should be the number one priority. The best way to have a safe bike is to have a bike that fits your child properly and is well maintained. Buying a bike at a department or toy store is not always a good option.

 

While most of these bikes may be inexpensive, they are not always good quality and need to be assembled by you. Most children put a lot of pressure on their bikes and better quality bikes will most likely last longer and you will be able to get spare parts and have them repaired.  A bicycle retailer will be able to provide you with advice on size and features of the bike , help you choose the correct size and will assemble the bike for you.  The child should be able to sit on the seat, with hands on the handlebars and place the balls of both feet on the ground.

 

Oversized bicycles are dangerous, as younger children will not have the skills or coordination needed to handle a bike which is too big.

When is your child ready to ride a bicycle?

Just as babies must learn to crawl before they can walk, tricycles are perfect for preschool children to test their new found motor skills before they graduate to a two wheeler.  A new invention is the FirstBIKE, which enables younger children to learn to balance without having to worry about pedalling at the same time. FirstBIKE is the perfect training bike for developing your child's sense of balance and motor skills. It is the ideal companion for walks and discovery journeys, because already young children can keep up with their parents walking speed without any trouble.
                                                           
For more information about the FirstBIKE and a video clip click here

5 and 6 years of age
Depending on your child's development they will be ready to tackle a two wheeler with pedals. A child's first two-wheeler should be a one-speed bicycle with back pedal brakes. The Australian Standard requires two brakes. For young children the back pedal break is the main one. Most children are not ready for hand brakes or gears until they 9 or 10 year old, when their hands are larger and stronger. Most kids at this age will need a 16" size bike with 40 cm or 50cm wheels.

7  to 10 years of age
Depending on your child's skills and development they will be ready for a larger bicycle with hand brakes and will be able to venture further on their bicycles.  Remember to teach your children safe riding skills and frequently ride with them to improve their skills and confidence. Most kids at this age will need a 24" size bike with 50 cm wheels.

10 to 13 years of age
Depending on your child's size and development they will be ready for a larger bicycle with hand brakes and gears. They can start riding independently on quiet streets and bicycle paths. Remember to ride with your child the routes they are allowed to ride first and check if they are confident in dealing with traffic safely.  Children up to 12 years of age are allowed to ride on footpaths but have to give way to pedestrians. Most kids at this age will need a 26" size bike with 60cm wheels.

For more information click here to download a fact sheet on Child Safety and Bike Riding.