A bicycle for a child is not just a toy, but the first means of transport that forms an attitude towards an active lifestyle. A properly selected bike will help the child develop physical skills and will bring pleasure from riding. Let’s figure out how to choose the perfect bicycle for a three-year-old.
What type of bicycle to choose
First of all, you need to decide on the type of bicycle. Here are the following options: three-wheeled, two-wheeled with additional wheels, a transformer or a balance bike. Let’s consider each of them.
The advantages of three-wheeled bikes include stability and safety. Three wheels provide stability, which is especially important for beginner cyclists. The lack of need to constantly maintain balance reduces the risk of falls. Many models are equipped with a handle for parents, which allows you to control the riding process.
But there are also disadvantages. At three years old, riding a tricycle may not be so interesting. It will not be possible to accelerate more or less quickly and perform maneuvers. A three-wheeled bike will not teach a child to maintain balance. And it is impossible to say for sure that such a purchase will be in demand as the child grows.
A two-wheeled bike will be a little more difficult to master, but riding it will open up new possibilities. For children of three years old with a height of about 100 cm, models with a wheel diameter of 14-16 inches are suitable. Safety side wheels will help to safely get acquainted with the new transport. When the child has mastered the basic riding skills, the wheels can be removed. Such a bike will last for several years and will grow with the child by changing the height of the steering wheel and saddle.
A balance bike can be an alternative to a two-wheeled bike. Many children at this age really like to ride it, since pushing off the ground is much easier than pedaling. A balance bike will help the child master the skills of balance and coordination of movements. Another option can be a transformer, which can be reassembled first into a balance bike, then into a two- or three-wheeled bicycle.
What to look for
When choosing a bike, pay attention to the following factors:
- Wheel diameter – a bike with 14 or 16 inch wheels may be suitable for a three-year-old child. The wheel size on children’s models is related to the frame size, so first of all, you should focus on the child’s height. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s recommended rider height for each model.
- Frame – pay attention to the material and weight of the frame. Aluminum frames are lighter than steel ones.
- Handlebars – models with height-adjustable handlebars allow you to choose the most comfortable position.
- Seat – should be soft and adjustable in height. Check if the child is comfortable sitting.
- Brakes – can be foot (braking by pedaling backwards) and hand (with levers on the handlebars). Take a closer look at combined models with a front hand brake and rear foot brake so that the child can choose a more convenient method.
- Pedals – should be wide and non-slip so that your feet don’t slip.
- Equipment – many models are equipped with additional accessories, such as a toy basket, parent handle, chain guard to prevent laces from getting caught, fenders. Be sure to use a protective helmet when riding.
And a few more tips. Choose bicycles from well-known and trusted manufacturers. Find out about the manufacturer’s warranty. Study the different models, compare their characteristics and prices. Read reviews from other parents about the chosen model.
In the store, you may notice that there are models for girls and for boys. As a rule, there are no design differences between them, only the design. Therefore, let your child choose the color he likes on his own. It is also advisable to sit on the bike in the store to make sure that his feet freely reach the ground and his hands reach the steering wheel.
