fbpx
Image for Stephanie Leonard

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.

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

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.

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”no”]

IMG_2188-e1456427609959 (1)

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”yes”]

unicorn helmet

[/fusion_builder_column]

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!

[fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”no”]

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ last=”yes”]

[/fusion_builder_column]

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.

[fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

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.

Leave A COMMENT

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Bicycle Colorado
@BicycleColo

Our twitter feed is unavailable right now. Follow us on Twitter

  • Share and tag your bicycle images
  • Bicycle Colorado has been proud to offer a variety of bike clinics this season to give riders new skills and confidence. Thanks to Nicole from the Amy D. Foundation for leading the Women’s Gravel Clinic.
  • After multiple attempts since 2018, on the final day of the session, the Colorado Legislature passed SB24-065, also known as the distracted driving bill.
  • Mark your calendars … @VeloSwap is back! #VeloSwap Tickets and booth space are now available for the November 2nd event. Link in bio. #BikeExpo #Denver