Safety Features to Look for in Kids Bikes

Parents know better what’s best for their kids. Even if a kid thinks that their favorite bicycle is the best for them, only parents have to decide whether that bicycle is really good for the kid or not. All the features matter because looks are not everything. Even if the theme of a bicycle is irresistible, what matters most is the safety features above all. So, parents have to make sure they choose these safety features when looking for pedal bikes for kids. 

Double Brakes 

There must be double brakes; one in the front wheel and the other in the rear wheel. Just like a traditional bicycle, a kids’ bicycle also needs to have double brakes. They give more stability and safety compared to those that have brakes on just one wheel. Parents or guardians know the risk involved in bicycling, especially in neighborhoods where the traffic is high. Kids who play in the parks and playgrounds also need to have double brakes to avoid colliding with other kids. The price might be a little higher, but the safety will also be higher. 

Non-Slip Pedals and Handle Grips 

The pedals must have a grip pattern on them to avoid slipping. Choose bicycles that have non-slip pedals because they will maintain grip with the feet. The footwear sole will maintain grip with the pedal against slipping. That will ensure the safety of kids because the pedaling will be safer after that. 

Also, the handles must have grip patterns to maintain a strong grip with the palms. If the hands have a high grip, there will be fewer chances of accidents. These patterns prevent slippage caused by sweat in the palms. Such patterns can maintain grip even with sweaty palms. 

Chain Guard 

Make sure the bicycle you choose for kids has a chain guard. There are lots of risks related to clothing getting stuck between the front chain and the sprocket. Also, there are risks of oil splashes on the feet if someone has recently oiled the chain. Since kids are not aware of these factors, you need to find bicycles that have chain guards. 

Are Chain Guards Mandatory? 

They are not mandatory, but you can enhance the safety level for kids. Some kids are not aware of keeping their pants’ openings slightly pulled up when riding bicycles, and the risk of accidents may occur. The pants’ openings can get stuck in the chain and sprocket, which can lead to a severe accident. Although it is rare, no parent wants their child to face it. 

Training Wheels (Optional) 

It is an optional safety feature that you can install. Some kids take time to learn how to balance a bicycle. They need training wheels in the beginning for that. Once they learn how to balance a bike, you can remove the training wheels. 

Which is Safer, Balance Bikes or Pedal Bikes with Training Wheels? 

Both are safe because they serve different age groups of kids. Kids who need balance bikes can’t ride training-wheel pedal bikes. Likewise, kids who ride training-wheel pedal bikes don’t need balance bikes at all. You will find a better answer below. 

Which Bike is Better for 3-, 4-, and 5-Year-Old Kids? 

Kids from 3 to 5 years of age need balance bikes. Balance bikes are a suitable choice for preschoolers since they have less competency in riding a bicycle. Besides, kids who are above 5 years old are qualified for bicycles with training wheels. Once a kid learns how to balance, you can remove those training wheels. 

Puncture-Proof EVA-Foam Tires (for Preschoolers)  

If you are choosing a bicycle for a preschooler, choose the one with EVA foam tires. Usually, balance bikes have EVA-foam tires. Even some pedal bikes have these tires, which means there is no risk of puncture. Kids around the age of 5 need bicycles that are free of puncture risk. However, if you are not too worried about your kid, a rubber pneumatic tire is also a good choice. 

Are EVA Tires Better Than Pneumatic Tires? 

EVA-foam tires are suitable for flat surfaces, especially indoors. They have less traction and lower shock absorbance compared to pneumatic tires. Since pneumatic tires have better performance in terms of traction and shock absorption, they are suitable for outdoor use. They can give a smooth ride on non-flat and rugged surfaces. However, pneumatic tires require maintenance in terms of air filling and puncture repairs. 

Side Mirrors 

Kids need side mirrors to keep an eye on incoming objects. Especially the ones who ride bicycles in high or medium traffic neighborhoods, they really need side mirrors. Having both side mirrors on the bicycle helps kids prevent possible accidents when an automobile approaches them. They will not take sudden turns or stop the bicycle when they know a car is right behind them. 

Additional Safety Measures 

Here is an additional safety measure that will further make it safer for kids. Parents or guardians who are about to choose kids’ bicycles need to know a little bit more. 

Helmet 

If you fear that your kid will speed up on the bicycle, it is better to make them wear a helmet. A good-quality helmet will protect their heads and will also allow air circulation from the sides. 

Protective Gear for Knees and Elbows 

It includes protective gear to keep the knees and elbows safe. Some terrains and even roads cause risk of accidents because of puddles and bumpy surfaces. It is better to make your kid wear protective gear before you send them to ride a bicycle on those tracks. 

Spoke Reflectors and Reflective Stickers  

It is for those whose kids ride bicycles at night. Well, all kids do that, and all of them need reflectors on their bicycles. Reflectors alert drivers that are coming towards the bicycles. These plastic reflectors and even reflective stickers can be applied to bicycles in every direction. They are versatile for the back of the seat, pedals, front frame, side frame, and even on the wheels. 

Red reflectors work well behind the seat. 

Orange reflectors work well on the wheels. 

White reflectors are best for the front frame. 

Bicycle Bell 

Lastly, install a bicycle bell or horn right next to the left handle. It will help kids to alert others, especially when riding a bike slightly faster. Also, commuters will get the sound of the bell in case a kid wants to overtake a slow vehicle. 

Conclusion 

By choosing all the mandatory features that make a kids’ bike safe, you can reduce the risk of accidents. It is the parental responsibility to ensure maximum safety for kids on a bicycle. From the handle to the wheels, all the primary and secondary features will contribute to safe riding on any track. That also includes safety gear because some neighborhoods have challenging roads.