Tips for Mountain Bike Safety with Kids
Jay
Getting your kids into mountain biking is a great way to spend time outdoors and have fun. But before you hit the trails, it's important to make sure they know the basics and that their bikes are safe.
Pick the right trail
Make sure you are familiar with the trail. Nothing worse than showing up with your kid and seeing a double diamond sign on the trail you will be riding. Make sure your first few rides are on smooth trails. The last thing you want to do is discourage them. Gauge their progression and increase the trail difficulty as you deem fit.
Pick the right bike
When I was a kid I would ride around in my dad’s old ten speed. Because I was to short to reach the pedals, my body would be between the front triangle. You’ll have to imagine it as I do not have a picture. Making sure your child has the appropriate size bike will make the ride that much more enjoyable.
Components …
When it comes to components, try not to dwell to much. You want them to have some knobby tires and good brakes. Depending on their age, a rear detailer for shifting gears would be an added bonus. Ex-nay the front and rear shock. The point of the experience is to have them learn the basics of riding.
Skills skills skills
Did I mention skills? The first time I took my kid out for a ride I made sure to practice balancing as she went down a ramp, foot wedge technique and the low and ready position. When she finally went out riding she was able to see why it was necessary to learn these skills in order to be a better rider. Two weeks later she was ready to huck a 5 foot drop. Ok maybe not that. But she was able to soak up some of the vibrations that the trail had to offer.
Pre-Ride Check
Air - Check tire pressure
Brakes - Make sure they work
Chain - Lube it up
By teaching your kids these skills and always checking their bikes, you can help them have a safe and fun time mountain biking.