A family bicycle ride is a real pleasure for young and old alike. But it can also quickly turn into a nightmare if you're not properly prepared. Trail selection, equipment... Here's a look at the essentials for organizing a family bike outing!
1# - Choose a short, passable course
Before any outing is considered, your child needs to have mastered the bike. In other words, he must be able to ride straight (even at slow speed) and brake without putting his feet down.That said, family outings are always fun. So there's no need to tire yourself out pedaling up and down trails with impressive gradients. Go for easy cycling routes!
To do this, choose a relatively flat path that doesn't require you to change gears. Yes, children aren't always comfortable with this notion. This will also save you a lot of extra effort.
In the spirit of going out for fun, keep your trips short. Your toddlers tire much more quickly than you do. If your trip is longer than 20 km, it's best to extend it over an entire day, or even several days. This way, you'll be able to take regular breaks. How about a picnic? Depending on the itinerary, you may also want to take the opportunity to visit the surrounding tourist attractions.
Finally, opt for the greenways, specially designed for gentle family walks. Quaysides are often a good option too. The important thing is to select a safe, car-free route to guarantee everyone's safety.
2# - Prepare every bike for a safe family outing
Family outing or not, it's essential to make a check-up before setting off. As we mentioned in an earlier previous articleThe whole family's two-wheelers must be equipped with :- Inflated tires for a smooth ride
- Front and rear brakes ready for stopping
- Rear (red), front (white) and side (orange) reflectors to indicate its presence
For babies under 5, a bicycle seat or bicycle trailer is mandatory. The latter may be more comfortable for longer rides.
The last point to check is the size of the saddle. To do this, sit on the saddle of your bike and put your foot on the pedal. When the pedal is at its lowest, your leg should be straight, not bent. If in doubt, ask a professional for advice!
For your information, some bikes grow with your child. A worthwhile investment for those who love to go for a ride.
Now that all the bikes are OK, consider installing a bike rack on your car, if the riding location is far from home.
3# - Get the right equipment and don't forget anything
Once the bikes are ready, it's time to get YOU ready. Don't forget to pack clothes suited to the weather! If there's a risk of showers, don't forget your K-Way. If the sun is shining brightly, opt for a t-shirt and don't forget your sun cream. For your information, it's compulsory to wear a certified retro-reflective vest outside built-up areas, at night and during the day when visibility is poor.For your children under the age of 12, whether drivers or passengers, wearing an approved helmet (CE standards), fitted to the head and fastened, is compulsory, according to French regulations. Daredevils can even wear one at an older age. You don't want a nasty injury to spoil your outing. Don't forget shin and elbow protectors, which, like helmets, help to avoid any untimely bumps.
In your bag, slip :
- A first-aid kit
- Water bottles for the whole family
- A snack for afternoon tea
- A repair kit for flat tires (scraper, patches, glue, spare inner tubes and tire lever)
- A bicycle pump
- An anti-theft device
- Road map, compass and GPS
- Your papers with money
4# - Final recommendations before the family bike outing
Before you set off, remember to check the weather forecast one last time. Not sure your little ones will enjoy pedaling in the slush (though 😜).Then teach your children all the safety rules:
- Ride on the right and in single file
- Move away from parked vehicles to avoid being hit by a suddenly opened door
- Stop at junctions
- Staying together
