As much as I would like it to be, the top selling toy or gift item is not likely to be kid’s bikes. For many years in a row, electronics and video games (like Nintendo Wii) have been the top selling gift items for Christmas. Too much of anything is not always good and TV games like Wii are no exception to that rule. I’m not saying it isn’t right to buy your children video games, but in my mind I think that parents should also make sure the kids get some outdoor exercise and there is no better way than riding a bike. Here are some more of my thoughts. Kid’s bicycles should be a must for every child. There is an increasing rate of childhood obesity; and we should be concerned about the health status of our children. With a kid’s bike, parents can help their child satisfy that great thirst for adventure and the outdoors. Any child will certainly enjoy riding a bike. They will have lots of fun with it! And by being more active they will be healthier! Sometimes, children are very hard to please, even at very young ages! However in choosing a bike, there are enough choices that every child can find a really nice bike that they really like. To get the correct size for your child my recommendation is to take them to a Bicycle Store where they are sure to be fitted properly on the right sized bike. Overall height is only one part of a proper fit. Many of the charts that have been published are not totally correct and can be misleading. Also, by purchasing the new bike from a professional bicycle retailer instead of a mass merchant or “discount” store, you’ll receive numerous advantages that ensure cycling enjoyment for you child. Comfort and git that I have already talked about, is important because kids come in different sizes. Then there is selection. Bike shops typically have a wide selection of sizes, styles, and colors. The bike purchased at the Bike Shop will be assembled by a professional, and will be fine tuned. It will come with a warranty as well. So where you buy the bike can have a huge impact on your kid’s safety, comfort, and how much fun they’ll have on their new bike.
What safety features should we be looking for when buying kid’s bikes? Every “bike shop bike” is equipped with reliable brake systems, training wheels for beginners, padded handlebars for firm gripping, and comfortable seating to ensure the safety of the rider. For additional protection, I always recommend a helmet. So, what are you waiting for? A kid’s bike is the perfect gift for every young child. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good bike!