Since Big Red has learned to ride a bike without training wheels it is time we go on a family bike ride! We will need to check that each person has a bike and that the bike trailer’s tires are still holding air which Lil’ Red will ride in. Since that means we have 5 bicycles to check it could take all week long to get everything prepared. We also buy our bike tires and tubes online since it’s cheaper so we have to factor in some additional time for shipping.
Even if it’s too hot or too rainy for a family bike ride this week we will prepare for a family bike ride by doing the following things:
Check Bike Size for Each Person
One tip that we have learned is straddling your bike and being sure that your feet touch the ground. This ensures that your bike isn’t too tall and will allow your feet to help catch you from crashing if your brakes were to fall. If you have a child that hasn’t mastered bike riding then a ride behind bike or a bike trailer may be used to allow your younger family members the chance to enjoy a bike ride as well.
Check That Helmets Fit Everyone
Helmets are very important to us even if the neighborhood kids don’t wear them. We try to stress the importance and safety aspect even when visiting grandma’s house and only riding in the yard or field. Head injuries that can be prevented are nothing to make light of. Make sure that you encourage all family members to wear helmets on your family bike ride.
Pack Sling Bags for Each Family Member
We gave each child a simple sling bag for Christmas which is large enough for the tablets and kindle but not too big. They can keep a small first aid kit, sunglasses, and small bike pump in their bags. Eldest keeps his Type 1 Diabetes supplies in his along with snacks in case of a low blood glucose level. The packs that we bought are adjustable small enough for Big Red and even Lil’ Red to wear. Having each person “carry” their own “gear” will help alleviate all the weight for the parents!
Inspect Bike Accessories BEFORE Your Family Bike Ride
Make sure that your bike accessories are in good working order and that your bike lights are charged. If you have a small portable bike pump be sure that it still works and isn’t missing any pieces. If you have USB charging bike lights like us then you will want to keep them charged before heading out on a bike ride. If you use a bike basket or bike bag be sure that the straps are still secure and that you don’t have anything living in it. My kids freak at spiders and we get quite a few living on anything left on our front porch for more than a week!
Do you have tips for preparing for a family bike ride? Have you gone on a family bike ride and something went wrong?
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