Choosing the right bike and equipment for your children

Whether you’re looking to buy used or new, the experts at the ACL can help you choose the right bike for your child. We have also carefully selected five particularly safe children’s helmets.

Choosing the right size of bike is the key. If a bike is too small, it will discourage your child from riding it, as it will feel as though they are pedalling away furiously alongside you and not getting anywhere. On the other hand, if a bike is too big, your child may not feel safe.

When it comes to making sure you get the size of the bike just right, the ACL recommends measuring the child’s height and the height to their crotch (the length of the leg). Bike sizes range from 10 to 24 inches, depending on your child’s height.

A child’s bike is the right size when they can touch the ground with both feet. This is especially important if the child is very young or not yet comfortable on a bike. It’s also important to make sure that the child’s knees do not touch the handlebars when they’re pedalling. For children under 8 years of age, the saddle should be adjusted regularly as the child grows. Your child should be able to put both feet flat on the ground when sitting on the saddle to make it easier for them to stop.

In the case of older children, the saddle can be taken up a little higher to make it closer to an adult setting. Over the age of 8, children will usually have learned how to get up from the saddle to put their foot on the ground.

The right bike at the right size

The size of a child’s bike corresponds to the size of the wheels and is expressed in inches. If your child is…

IHowever, you should always try out a bike before making your decision, as it’s important that the child feel comfortable.

Also interesting: Five recommanded bike helmets

What are the standards that apply?

It is essential to check that the bike you choose for your child meets all of the necessary safety criteria. The European standard for children’s bikes is EN 14765. Children’s bikes must be equipped with an effective braking system, and it is essential to make sure that it has been fitted correctly. It’s always best to contact a specialist for this.

Source de l’image : ADAC