Buying your Kid's first Bicycle

Well, it's that time of year again and Guess what is going to be the Top of your Kids' Christmas List? A shiny new Bicycle. We all remember our first Bike, it's the one we remember the most.

Let's start off with the most important factor SAFETY , now is a good time to program your Child's mind to always wear a Helmet before even climbing onto the Bike, the exact same way you programed yourself to fasten your Seat Belt before driving off in your Car. Broken Bones and Skin Rash will heal, Head Trauma is a different story.

Helmets are very affordable and as long as they're ANSI approved you'll be OK, look for the Label inside the Helmet.

Fitting a Helmet: The Helmet should be a nice comfortable fit, not too loose and not too tight. Always make sure the Helmet is fastened correctly and always secure the Chin Strap. As a rule of Thumb, you should adjust the Strap with just enough room to fit an Adult forefinger between the Strap and the Childs' Chin - this is true for Adults too - it's always good to put their Helmet on before mounting the Bike because Head trauma can be cause by falling off a stationary Bike before they even take off.

Footwear: Laces are a definite no-no, they can get caught in the Cranks or Chainring, if this happens, your Child will come to a halt, panic and fall over because they won't be able to put their right foot down. Tennis Shoes with Velcro Straps or slip-on Shoes are the way to go.

No Scarves, they can get caught in the rear Wheel. This time of year is the best for learning to ride because you can dress them in a thick Jacket and protective Gloves which means added protection.

Selecting the right Bicycle

I would highly recommend going to your LBS (Local Bike Shop) because there is more than buying a Bicycle than meets the Eye. Fit is the most important aspect in any Bicycle purchase and your LBS will be able to help you with that. They always assemble Bikes better too, most major Stores have Kids assembling Bikes at something like $5 per unit, they want to make as much money as possible in the shortest amount of time. You don't want the Handle Bars or Wheels falling off the Bike during a ride!!

If you decide to buy from a major store be mechanically adept and have the right Tools to check the tightness of all the Nuts and Bolts, and you should re-check everything periodically to make sure nothing is coming lose, most LBS offer free minor service and adjustments for the time you own the Bike.

Support your LBS and save money in the long run! Shop early for Christmas while the Stores still have a good selection and Don't forget the Helmet.