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Cycling into spring

With spring just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get your children geared up to bike to school. Make sure your kiddos are equipped with all the biking essentials before Bike to School Day on May 4, 2016, and check out this cheat sheet of safe biking and walking tips.

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01, 04- Kids biking (credit David Budd)
photo: David M. Budd

Their very own set of wheels

Make sure your child’s bike fits properly and passes the ABC Quick Check. If the bike needs a tune-up or is too small, shop local first! Bike shop employees are trained to find bicycles to fit your child and your budget.

Many regions of Colorado are also blessed with bicycle co-ops. These organizations offer refurbished bikes at affordable prices. Check out these co-ops in the Denver metro area, and please comment if you know of more options across the state.

Use your head

It’s a no-brainer that your child needs a good helmet, but take heart—there’s no need to spend a fortune! All helmets must meet the same safety standards, whether they cost $20 or $150. Find a fun helmet that your child will be excited to wear.

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unicorn helmet

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Light up the night

More than 50% of bicycle crashes happen at night (or during low light). Make sure your child has front and back lights before riding to school. But why stop there? Lights provide limitless ways for your child to accessorize his or her bike. The brighter the better!

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Be safe, be seen

Bright and reflective clothing will help your child be seen by motorists, pedestrians and other bikers on the way to school.

Lock it up

Make sure your child knows how to use his or her bike lock. The lock should always pass through the large triangle of the frame.

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photo: David M. Budd
photo: David M. Budd

Bells and whistles

While not essential, bells and horns allow children to announce their approach and can help avoid a crash.

Just in case

Be sure to have tire levers, extra tubes, patch kits and a tire pump on hand for a quick fix in case of a flat tire.

Learning to ride

This equipment can keep your child pedaling all season, but if he or she is still learning to ride we can help with that too! Bicycle Colorado is excited to announce the launch of Bicycle Colorado Bike School. Starting in April, we will be offering youth and adult Learn to Ride classes. Spread the word and get ready to ride![/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Stephanie Leonard

About the Author: Stephanie Leonard

Stephanie oversees the expanding education department, which includes Safe Routes to School, Bike School and multi-modal transportation programs. As a Surly bike commuter, she enjoys seeing Coloradans get excited about bicycling for transportation. Steph can be found hiking, skiing or climbing across the state every chance that she gets.

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We’re thrilled to see so many people out enjoying (and often rediscovering the joy of) riding a bike right now, and we’re asking ALL bicyclists to do their part to prevent the spread of #covid19 by wearing a mask or other face covering when out for a ride. Doing so keeps you, your loved ones, those around you, and all Coloradans safer while helping reduce stress on our medical system. If you still need a mask, click the link in our bio to pre-order one now and support our advocacy work! Thanks so much to everyone who has already purchased, and to @primalwear for supporting our efforts over the years. Ride on.
  • #BicycleColorado volunteers and staff members spent time today helping @denverurbangardens and @denverfoodrescue deliver “Grow a Garden” food boxes to home-bound families in Denver—via bike! Supporting our community on two wheels makes for a great way to spend a sunny day. Many thanks to our friends @ddchen47, David M., and @juggernautcargo for your help! Head to denverfoodrescue.org or dug.org to learn more about these great local organizations. #rideyourbike
  • Tonight the #BicycleColorado team celebrated Stacey, our outgoing Development Director, with a virtual happy hour. Stacey has been an absolute rockstar for BC. We’re sad to see her leave, but thrilled for her as she heads out on a new adventure (hopefully in the #BikeAdvocacy space!) in North Carolina. Please join us in wishing her well!