Choosing the right bike and equipment for your child is important for their comfort and enjoyment while riding. With so many different options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what bike and equipment will be the best option for your child. Here are some tips to help you choose the right bike and equipment for your child.

1. Consider your child's age and size.

The first thing to consider when choosing a bike for your child is their age and size. It's essential to choose a bike on which your child can comfortably reach the pedals, handlebars, and brakes. When learning to ride, your child should be able to comfortably touch the floor when seated, particularly if using a balance-bike approach to learning how to cycle. If the bike is too big or too small, it will make riding difficult and uncomfortable. Seat posts will normally have “minimum insertion” lines, which you should not go beyond. If your child is growing, when purchasing a bike for them, consider one that allows you to raise the saddle height as they grow!

You can always seek the advice of a professional in a local bike shop to get help in choosing the right size of bike for your child.

2. Choose the right bike type.

There are different types of bikes available, each designed for different purposes. Very young beginner cyclists will often be best served by a balance bike, though if your child is older, you can always convert a standard cycle into a balance bike by removing the pedals and lowering the saddle height.

It's important to choose the right type of bike for your child's needs. For example, if your child is interested in mountain biking, a mountain bike will be the best option. If your child wants to ride for leisure or transportation, a hybrid-style city bike may be better. BMX bikes are designed for normally riding standing up: fun for when doing tricks or for the BMX pump track, but not ideal for most beginner cyclists! Bikes with drop handlebars, like what you’ll find on road bikes, are great for riding fast but are normally more difficult to learn to ride on.

Try to avoid bikes that have components that are not necessary. For example, you should avoid purchasing a bike with suspension if your child is not going to be using it; such extra components will simply weigh the bike down, making it harder for your child to cycle.

3. Consider bike weight.

The weight of the bike is another important factor to consider when choosing a bike for your child. A lightweight bike will be easier for your child to manoeuvre and control, making it easier and more enjoyable to ride. So ideally, avoid heavy bikes, as they can be difficult for your child to handle and will lead your child to get tired quickly.

4. Ensure the bike is in good working order.

Before purchasing a bike, particularly a second-hand bike, check the bike to ensure all the parts are in good working order. You should carry out an “M-check” to ensure that all the components are working well. YouTube has plenty of videos showing how to carry out this check. In particular, you should look out for cracks or damage to the frame, make sure the brakes work well, the tyres are not excessively worn, and the wheels spin straight. Make sure the bolts are tightly fastened and the steering is connected. Check that the gears are all working by lifting the rear wheel off the ground and pedalling with one foot while changing the gears one click at a time.

Avoid purchasing bikes that are rusty. Rusty brake cables, gear cables, and chains can make it very hard to ride and may be a sign that components are about to break. So if buying second-hand, check that the bike has been looked after and stored indoors or under cover.

5. Choose a helmet.

Helmets can help protect riders from head injuries in the event of a fall. If your child will be wearing one, it’s important to choose a helmet that fits them properly, is comfortable, and is designed for cycling. Look for helmets that are certified by relevant safety organisations. Remember that there is not much point in your child wearing a helmet if it is not fitted properly! We’ll explore this more in later episodes.

6. Select the right shoes.

The shoes your child wears for cycling should be comfortable and cover the top of the foot. Encourage your child to wear closed-toe shoes that have good grip to ensure their feet stay secure on the pedals. Avoid sandals and flip-flops!

How do I choose the right bike and cycling equipment for my child?

Unii's Learning to Cycle Journey shares how to find your child's perfect bike.