Safety First

As a parent, you always want your child to be safe and one of the best ways to ensure this when out on their bikes, is by providing them with the right cycling gear. 

At The Bike Academy, we take the safety of our young riders seriously, which is why we have put together this helpful guide on essential riders gear for kids.

Helmet

A good quality helmet is one of the most essential items for young cyclists. In the event of a fall or collision, a helmet will protect a child's head, reducing the risk of head injuries. For maximum protection, ensure the helmet fits properly and is adjusted correctly. It is important to ensure that the helmet fits snugly on the head and that the strap under the chin is fastened securely. When a helmet has been worn in a crash, even if there are no visible signs of damage, you should replace it with a new one.

Cycling gloves

Young riders can benefit from cycling gloves in several ways. They provide extra grip on the handlebars, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, gloves can absorb shock, reducing the impact of a fall on the hands. They can also protect against sunburn on sunny days and provide warmth on cold days. To prevent over-sweating, ensure the gloves fit your child well and allow for good ventilation.

Cycling shoes

Actual cycling shoes are not necesseraily essential for young riders, unless your child is a bit older and maybe competing.  But, a sturdy and comfortable pair of shoes can make a big difference to their comfort and safety.  Trainers are the go to for most, they are grippy preventing the foot from slipping, comfortable and enclosed.  Steer clear of open toed shoes to avoid unecessary scrapes.  Wellies are practical in wet conditions, however bear in mind they can restrict leg movement.

Reflective clothing

Visibility is essential when cycling, especially when riding in the dark or at dusk. Reflective clothing is a great way to increase visibility and to ensure that your child can be seen by other road users when out on their bikes. Reflective clothing includes vests, jackets, backpacks and even reflective bands that can be attached to clothing or bags. Your child will be more likely to wear reflective clothing if they feel comfortable wearing it and it is well-fitted.

Bike lights

Bike lights are a key safety feature for young cyclists, especially if children are cycling in low-light conditions. The lights help other road users see your child and reduce the risk of accidents. Ensure that the lights are bright and visible from all angles. There are lights designed to be attached to bikes, while others can be attached to clothing or backpacks.

Bike lock

Bike theft is at an ALL TIME HIGH!!  A bike lock is a must have for any cyclist, young or old.  Cycling to school, locking your bike at the park, meeting friends for lunch, all of these scenarios require your bike to be locked up.  A good quality lock will help to prevent theft and ensure that the bike is safe and secure when not in use. Make sure the lock is strong and sturdy, and that your child knows how to use it properly.  We highly recomend D-Locks as they are much tougher than cable locks.  If your child has the tendancy to loose things, such as keys, you can get locks with combinations rather than a key.

When it comes to cycling safely, it's always better to be over prepared than under prepared.  By providing your child with the right gear, you can help to reduce the risk of injury and ensure that they enjoy their cycling experience to the fullest.

If you would like further advice, please visit our shop Birdie Bikes in Hampton or head to our website.