In recent years, electric bikes have become an increasingly popular choice for our customers both in-store and online. We see people of all ages investing in these kinds of bikes, as they combine all the traditional benefits with the power of an electric motor to help you ride further and faster.
If you’re thinking about buying an electric bike, there are definitely a few things you should consider before making your purchase. From the battery size you need, to safety concerns that you may have around an ebike, this guide will walk you through the key features you should look for when choosing an ebike.
There are many advantages to owning an electric bike over ordinary bikes, here are our top three:
Motor assistance
If you’re out for a long ride or need to cover some hilly terrain quickly and easily, an electric bike can help get you there with less effort.
For commuters, an ebike really does help to take the strain out of your commute. After a long day at work, the power of electricity means a lot less strain on your legs, making what would be a strenuous ride on a standard bike far easier for the journey to and from the office.
The Falcon Flo Folding Electric Bike is a great choice for commuting. With a quality 36V 7.8Ah battery that fits in the rear of the frame and can be easily removed for charging, but securely locks in place when out and about. This folding bike can achieve up to 60km per charge!
Environmentally friendly
Additionally, electric bikes are more environmentally friendly than other forms of motorised transportation since they don’t produce emissions.
The majority of journeys (71% in England) made are under five miles, but cycling only accounts for less than 2% of all journeys. Imagine the money you could save if those short drives to pick up a few items at the shops or dropping the kids off at school were on an ebike.
Check out the Elswick 26 Inch Wheel Electric Bike, based on a classic Dutch sit-up riding position and with a handy basket, it has a powerful 250W BAFANG rear hub motor, 3 levels of power assistance and a walk-assist mode which is handing for walking the kids to school and powering your way home!
But if you are concerned that e-cycling is cheating, it’s not! Many studies have shown that e-bikers get plenty of very beneficial aerobic exercise. The vast majority of e-bikes have power level settings on the handlebar controls that let you dial down the power if you want more exercise or turn it up if in need of more assistance.
Feel young again with an ebike!
This is something that Adrian at our Benfleet store knows very well,
“An electric bike can extend your cycling career considerably. We have one gentleman who used to cycle around Epping Forest as a child, and now being in his 60s, his electric bike has helped him re-live all those nostalgic routes again.”
That extra push an electric bike can provide really does make all the difference to a person’s ride.
The Lectro EM-300 range of stylish electric mountain bikes are very reliable, and great for any adventurous cyclist who wants to keep powering away on and off-road. Their lightweight alloy frame supports an external down tube battery, alloy suspension forks with adjustable lock out and high speed brushless 250-Watt motor!
Efficiency & Safety Concerns
There are several factors to consider around ebikes which may impact your safety. It’s essential that you take your time to carefully evaluate if the product you like has these as standard.
Is the bike built well?
An electric bike should be designed with quality components that will last longer and provide a smoother ride. This means not only looking into the battery size (more on this in a minute), but the gears, wheels, chainset, and digital display to use the electric functions, to name a few.
Doing this is sure to make your bike last that bit longer, as not researching properly could lead to disappointment in years to come.
Are the brakes good enough?
Good brakes will ensure that your bike stops quickly when necessary.
With their heavier frames due to the motor and battery integration, any e-bike worth its salt will have disc brakes to stop the combined weight of you and the bike. This should be something you keep on the lookout for, as reduced stopping power can lead to accidents.
Does it have good lighting?
Finally, make sure that your bike has sufficient lighting so that you can stay safe in low-light conditions or at night.
There are plenty of electric bikes which come with front and rear lights which are battery-powered, making them a perfect choice for commuters on winter nights
We find that people really enjoy using the Chill-e Low Step Folding Electric Bike for going to and from work. The power assist is a dream after a long day’s work and the lighting is superb for when the nights begin to pull in.
Battery Life & Charging
The battery life of an electric bike depends on the type of battery used, as well as how often it is used. Look for batteries that are designed to last for at least 1–2 years with proper care and maintenance; some models may even last up to 5 years with minimal wear and tear!
Additionally, make sure that your battery is easy to charge. Most batteries can be recharged via wall outlets or USB ports in just a few hours—so you don’t have to spend too much time waiting for it to charge up again before heading out on your next adventure!
One bike that we recommend for a high mileage is the Ampere X-Trail 29 Inch Mountain Bike. The choice of the 14Ah battery option boosts the range to a very impressive 55 miles on a full charge, and takes 6 hours to recharge from empty.
Riding Electric Bikes in the United Kingdom
When getting an electric bike, you must understand the legislation around their proper use before actually riding. There are certain laws regarding where and how you can use them; for example:
You must be 14+ to ride an ebike
Only those aged 14 or over may legally ride an e-bike on public roads or cycle paths (with speed limits set at 15mph). Children below this age should not be out in public on an electrically assisted peddle cycle (EAPC).
It must be registered, taxed, and insured
You won’t need to have a specific licence to ride an electric bike, but since it is classed as an electrically assisted vehicle, you’ll need all the official documentation for it to be road legal.
There are plenty of insurance providers who you can visit, such as Money Super Market where you can get a quote for the bike you’ve got your eye on buying.
Always wear a helmet
Helmets must be worn at all times regardless of age group or location. This is no different for a non-powered bike, but considering the speed an electric bike can travel, it’s essential that you protect yourself.
We always recommend wearing Hi-Viz clothing too. And if you’re riding in low light remember that reflective attachments will help you be seen and safe!
For more information on e-bike regulations in the UK, you can visit our resources page, as well as the information available on the gov.uk website.
If you’re looking for an efficient way to get around town without having to rely on public transport or drive a car, then an electric bike might be just what you need!
Whether it’s cruising around town leisurely or taking on tougher terrain quicker than ever before – check out Cycle King & Hawk Cycles’ full range of adult e-bikes available here, we’ve got something perfect for everyone!
With this guide under your belt – what are you waiting for?
If you’re a keen cyclist who loves to ride their bike in new places, a bike rack is most likely going to be a solid investment. Their purpose is to make your life easier when transporting your bike from A to B, so that you can enjoy new surroundings.
Whilst picking any bike rack is all well and good, actually knowing which kind to get is another thing.
In this article, we’ll go in to detail about our 3 different types of bike racks, which include roof-mounted, rear and tow bar mounted solutions. These all have their benefits and drawbacks, and our guide aims to help you make a decision based on which is most suitable for your needs.
You might think that this isn’t an important decision, but the placement on your car can actually have quite an impact on the way you travel with your bike.
Roof-mounted bike racks
Most roof-mounted bike racks attach directly to the roof bars of your car, which is an ideal solution providing your car already has roof bars fitted. It can be costly to get roof bars retro-fitted, so rear-mounted or towbar bike racks may be a more suitable option. Some brands, such as Seasucker, offer suction based racks which are suitable for two bikes, but require you to remove the front bike wheel.
Great for avid cyclists: Roof racks are definitely more of a permanent fitting on your car. These can be good for those who are really passionate about cycling here, there, and everywhere as installing this kind of fitting is often more long term.
Get a clear view from behind: With bikes on top, a clear rear view mirror is guaranteed. Other racks could obstruct your rear view and be an annoyance for the driver. Roof racks thankfully don’t come with this problem, and also do not require a lighting board as the bikes do not obstruct your back number plate.
You might have to be on the taller side: It’s true to say that roof racks are better suited to taller people. If you are vertically challenged, then this might not be the right rack for you. Keep in mind the height of your car and also the weight of the bike(s) that you plan to transport and ensure that you can lift them up properly before choosing a roof rack system for your bikes.
Your car might be too high: A large, high car really stands out amongst the crowd, but one fatal flaw in your car’s height could be the restrictions often found on entry to car parks in natural beauty spots around the country. Designed to keep caravans and vans out, they also can be a problem when using a roof carrier for your bikes. Imagine, it’s a busy bank holiday weekend and you finally find the perfect parking space, only for the car park to have a height restriction. Whilst this might not always be the case, it’s important you understand this when making your bike rack decision.
Rear / Boot-Mounted Bike Racks
If you don’t fancy investing in a roof carrier, then maybe a rack that fits nicely on the back of your car would be better for you.
There are generally 2 types of racks that can fit the bill:
Rear/Boot mounted
This kind of rack is a great choice for a casual cyclist, or someone who is looking for a shot-term or less permanent solution…
Rear mounted racks attach on to the boot door, meaning that whilst you can carry all your bikes, your actual boot storage might be obstructed by it. We find that these kinds of racks make good buys for those looking to adventure out now and again, for their lower price point and ease of installation. Beware, a common downfall of rear-mounted racks is that bikes may rub together when tightly packed which potentially could cause some aesthetic damage. This might not be as big a deal if you are carrying your family bikes for a summer holiday, but can be more of a concern if you are carrying high value or performance bikes. You must also ensure that when bikes are mounted, your rear number plate and lights are not obstructed, making it illegal to drive.
Towbar / hitch mounted
Similar to the way a boot mounted rack works, a towbar/hitch mounted bike rack requires your vehicle to have a towbar or towball.
If you already have one installed, then this might be a good choice for you in your cycling needs as it’s quick to fit, removable, and can carry multiple bikes.
However, if you’re not up for installing a towbar (which can cost you £100’s), this might not be the option for you.
These back mounted racks come with some notable highlights:
Easy to fold away: You’ll find that when you’re not out on your cycling odysseys, these kinds of racks can be easily compacted down, meaning you won’t have to compromise on it taking up space in your home You don’t have to be a giant to use these racks
Ease of use, no matter your height: Since your bikes won’t be on the roof, you will be able to take your bike on and off of the rack with ease.
There are also some drawbacks:
Your vision will likely be obstructed: Probably the greatest flaw in this kind of rack. What is attached to the back of the car will make it harder to see what is behind you whilst driving. This is more of an inconvenience on the odd occasion, but for avid enthusiasts, it’s a bigger issue which might warrant an investment in roof racks.
You’ll likely need a lighting board: Finally, all those bikes that you’ll carry will of course obscure your number plate, meaning that you’ll most likely need another license plate, and maybe a lighting board (some racks do come with them, however).
Bike Rack compatibility
You’ll need to do your research into the product to see if the rack you are considering will actually fit your car. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to call in at one of our 23 stores where one our team can help you choose the right product. Although this might seem like an obvious point, don’t forget to come to the store in the car you want to use the rack on, as this will help our team to make recommendations.
Best Bike racks for E-bikes
If you’ve got an electric bike, then you’ll need to make sure that the rack you buy can be used to hold it.
Products like the Peruzzo Zephyr 3 Towbar E-Bike Car Rack are specially designed to carry e-bikes, with a total loading weight of 60kg, up to 3 electric bikes (or 4 standard bikes) can be safely placed onto this rack.
In addition, some E-bike racks also come with accessories to make loading easier. This rack comes equipped with a ramp, so that loading up your heavier bike is far easier, and doesn’t put a strain on your back when trying to lift.
Make sure your bike rack is road legal
When gearing up for a bike ride in a totally new place, you must set the excitement aside for a moment and think of the legalities. To stay road friendly, you must fulfil certain requirements:
If you bike/bikes obstruct your back number plate, then you absolutely must place a lighting board with your license plate on your rack. As mentioned previously, some models do come with one, but this will also be another cost if one is not already included.
Best Bike Racks for Cars 2022
As a well-established cycling retailor, we only stock bike racks that we know will work for you and your needs. In order to inspire your decision, we’ve collated some of our top picks for rear and roof mounted bike racks below.
Designed with saloon cars in mind, this kind of rack is prefect for weekend adventures and fits over most vehicles (except hatchbacks or flatbacks, of course).
You’ll be able to take up to 3 standard bikes anywhere, and like our other models, folds flat for easy storage.
If you’re not looking to take loads of bikes with you, then this product might be perfect for you.
This is a great rack solution, not only for standard bikes, but also e-bikes and fat bikes. The max capacity of 60kg is sure to be more than enough for your bikes and also packs away really nicely into a well compacted unit
This towbar rack features a solid construction, as well as anti-sway cradles to keep your bikes as secure as possible whilst on the move. In addition, the rack easily tilts back so that you won’t lose access to your boot.
These bars have wheel holders and locking levers between the actual bike and carrier which attach to your roof rack. This kind of rack is really well suited to racing bikes, but can also fit oval down tubes between 70mm to 90mm.
At the end of the day, a bike rack is only useful if it caters to your needs. Whilst we’ve given you some very strong and reliable suggestions, it will be up to you to do some extra research to determine which is most suitable for you.
If after digesting this guide you’re still in the dark, then do feel free to come down to one of our 23 stores across the midlands and south England. Our friendly expert colleagues are sure to help you determine which back rack would be the best fit for your car.
If you live in a built-up area, or fancy commuting to work by bike, a road bike could be the option for you. From their sleek design, to lighter frames, these kinds of bikes perform very well in urban environments, but which should you buy? Buying a bike can be a bit daunting, but thankfully, you’ve come to the right article. Learn about what you should be looking out for when in the market to buy a brand-new road bike, and some other very handy tips to know before your purchase.
Essential characteristics of a road bike
Every category of bike has something unique for what they’re trying to accomplish. Mountain bikes have a sturdy frame and wider tyres, for example – but what is desirable in a road bike is actually quite different in comparison.
Speed
These kinds of bikes are built with swiftness in mind. The larger wheel sizing and narrow tyres are great at cutting through the air, reducing drag and improving aerodynamics. Think of a road bike like wearing a pair of running shoes, designed with speed in mind, not so much for running over unstable terrain (we’ll talk about road bikes that can do this later on).
Lightweight
Since their performance is designed for riding on hard, smooth surfaces (like roads and paths), some durability can be sacrificed with a lighter frame. This doesn’t mean that your road bike will easily break, of course not, just that there’s less chance of going through rough patches that could put strain on the frame. Since you likely won’t be climbing mountains on a road bike, it means that your bike is a lot lighter. And as you know, less mass to pedal means the faster you can go.
Efficiency
The emphasis on speed and reducing the weight of the machine as much as possible means that your road bike is rather efficient. Every component is designed to make your ride as smooth as possible, from the wheels, to the frame encouraging you to sit in a forward-leaning position. You’ll lean into the wind, rather than your body causing more resistance sitting upright. These tiny details and adjustments culminate into one and result in a bike which is built to get you to and from in the quickest time in flat environments.
‘Perfect road bike’ checklist
1. Group sets
If you’re unfamiliar with what a group set is, it’s simply the name for both the brakes and gears.
Brakes
Like anything you buy, the more you spend the better quality you’ll get – and your group set is no different. Higher end models might come with disk brakes, which work better in wet conditions and are great when cycling on hills. However, this doesn’t mean to say that rim brakes don’t do a good job (many races have been won without using disk brakes, so they’re not an inferior product).
Gears
Better quality gears also mean that shifting up and down whilst riding is easier. You have more choice in gears and also larger cogs in the cassette, which are perfect for going up hills if you want to put less strain on your legs.
2. Wheels/tyre size
When purchasing a bike, it’s a good idea to learn as much as you can about the wheels it comes with. If you’re just starting out, you likely won’t be looking to get better ones until you’ve gotten into the sport more, meaning you’ll want to have the best standard tyres possible whilst your passion grows.
Spokes/inner wheel support
So that you know you’re getting a strong set of wheels, it’s a good idea to observe how many spokes they have. Their strength is determined by the support inside the wheel, so knowing this will ensure your wheels can last for as long as possible.
Tyre width
To increase speed efficiency, you’ll want to look for a bike that comes with quite narrow tyres. To reduce air resistance and make your rides as smooth as possible, try to look for a bike which has a wheel tyre width between 25mm – 28mm.
Tyre frame clearance
Lastly, if you plan on going a bit more off-road with your road bike, then you’ll want to make an effort to find the tyre clearance of the frame. Opting for a frame that is a bit wider in this department can make swapping out your road wheels for something more adventurous easier.
3. Saddle
Unlike other kinds of bikes, the saddle equipped with a road bike is not cushioned. This means that if you’re riding into work without padded shorts, then you’ll most likely have to endure the working week with a sore bum.
Saddles are easily swappable, and you might find that doing some shopping around is needed to make your ride as comfortable as you like. You could easily replace the default one for a very well cushioned seat instead (hopefully you’re commute won’t be as painful if you do)
4. Pedals
This can be a bit of a surprise to first time buyers, but most road bikes actually don’t come with pedals.
Some lower end models are equipped with flat pedals, but we’d recommend for the mot efficient experience, you invest in clip-in pedals. These make it so much easier to pedal, as clipping in enables you to pull up on the pedals as you cycle along.
5. Suspension
It’s not an essential in road bikes, as you won’t likely be going over any huge dips.
Even if you invest in a gravel bike, you’ll find there isn’t really any suspension either. If you think this is a deal breaker, then perhaps a mountain bike is more your speed.
6. Frame material
If you’ve test ridden some road bikes before, you might have realised that ther material of the frame can actually make quite a difference in its performance.
The most common materials are aluminium, steel and carbon fibre.
Aluminium and Steel
Often found in the lower price point of road bikes, these frames have a high strength to weight ratio. Bikes from around the £250 – £1000 mark often use this for their frames.
Carbon Fibre
Anything from +£1000 is where you’ll begin to see this used in road bike frames. Carbon fibre is a more durable material than the others we’ve mentioned previously, but this does mean you’ll have to spend quite a bit more in comparison.
If you’re between the two, it might be a good compromise to go with an aluminium frame and have a carbon fibre fork, as it reduces the frames weight slightly and can also cause vibrations in the handle bars.
If you’re looking to get into road cycling or need a bike that is handy for commuting, then the Ammaco Pace Road model could be perfect for you.
This model comes equipped with a steel frame and double wall alloy rim wheels, so we’re sure that this bike will serve you for a long time. It is a very good starter and can of course be upgraded with better components as you progress.
A step up from our starter bikes, this Salcano model is a great model for those looking to improve their road cycling. Equipped with high quality Shimano gear sets, and doubled walled wheels, this new addition to your road cycling arsenal is sure to take you to the next level.
Can road bikes be used on other terrains?
Whilst ‘road’ is in their name, they can totally be used off road too. What you’ll want in a road bike which can off-road too is the ability to equip it with chunkier tyres, and also some larger gears.
Adjusting your road bike to better suit terrain that is a bit looser can really spice up your rides and commutes. Making the required change to a road bike, or buying one specially made for both road and gravel will mean you can go faster than a mountain bike on road, and go off road.
How much should I be willing to spend?
It can cost £450 and upwards to get a good road bike that could last you quite a while. You can also invest in better parts as time progresses too, meaning that your bike can develop with you on your road bike journey.
We have a wide variety to suit all budgets, and our dedicated staff in store can help you in making the right decision too.
Are woman’s road bikes much different?
Apart from the obvious size difference, there are a few alterations between a men’s and woman’s road bike. From the saddle being better equipped to seat a woman, to a narrower handlebar, these small adjustments can really make a difference in the quality of ride.
However, this doesn’t mean a woman must have a woman’s bike. Whatever is most comfortable is what you should go for, and there is always the ability to customise your bike for the best experience possible.
How can we help you today?
After reading our guide on road bikes, we hope now that you know what to look out for on the most important components on a road bike. With all this knowledge, you’ll now confidently know what you want out of a road bike, and just how much you’re willing to spend.
If you’d like some extra help in deciding what road bike would be best for you, then feel free to come down to one of our 23 stores throughout the midlands and south of England. Our staff will happily help you pick out a brand-new road bike, ready for you to start riding on straight away, or take a look at our selection of road bikes online.
We’re sure that you remember learning how to ride your bike for the first time, and now the time has come for you to be the teacher. Before showing them the ways of the bicycle, it’s vital that you ensure they’re safe on their cycling adventures.
In this blog, we’re focusing on 5 tips for keeping your child safe on their first bike. As well as making it safer for them, it’ll also make the process a little less stressful for you.
1. Bike Sizing
The first and most important step to ensuring your child’s safety is finding them the right bike. Don’t buy a bike expecting your child to ‘fit into it’. Ask for help from one of our in-store experts or check out our guide on ‘How to choose the right bike for your child’.
In short, a bicycle is suitable when your child can sit comfortably on the seat, their feet reach the ground, and the handlebars are no higher than their shoulders. You should also consider foot brakes as well as hand brakes to give your child even more protection. Read on to learn more about the correct options for you.
2. Bike options
Your child doesn’t have to go to a bike straight away – we have other bike models on offer that can help develop their confidence on two wheels.
Balance bikes are beneficial for toddlers in developing their coordination and confidence skills. These are very good starters, as it makes it a whole lot easier for your child to progress to a bike since they have developed their balance already.
Tricycle
Great for boosting children’s independence, and for people with disabilities. They are more stable than a standard bike, with the frame closer to the ground, making gathering momentum much easier.
Training wheels
We advise keeping stabilisers on for as long as it takes your child to feel comfortable when riding their bike. This will take time so be patient!
3. Brakes
One of the most important parts of learning to ride a bike is when and how to use the brakes. Our range of kids’ bikes come with brakes that are specially designed for their smaller hands. Here is a breakdown of the types of brakes we offer for children learning on their first bike:
Coaster brakes
Also known as back-pedal brakes or foot brakes, coaster brakes are on most kids’ bikes. They are simple in design and require zero maintenance. However, when they’re removed, they cannot be replaced.
Coaster brakes are most suitable when your child:
Is familiar with coaster brakes from previous bikes.
Has a disability that will make hand brakes difficult to use.
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Hand brakes
Much like what is on a standard adults’ bike, they’re useful when your child:
Has proven coordination skills, strength and confidence when riding a bike.
Have used hand brakes with a previous balance bike and are confident enough to use with their first pedal bike.
Is confident when pedalling and looking to progress.
Whatever the final verdict, make sure your child is comfortable with braking before they take to the road.
4. Rules of the road
Before any trip out, check your child knows the rules of the road and ensure your child is accompanied by a family member. This can bring many further benefits to help your child fall in love with the outdoors. Want to explore more? Click here for some great ideas for cycling with your kids.
You should also ensure all bikes are well-maintained before hitting the road to avoid any accidents or embarrassing calls to friends and family!
5. Equipment
Lastly, but certainly not least, consider the other equipment your child needs.
These are important in helping your child gain confidence before going onto 2 wheels. Plenty of our kids’ bikes come pre-equipped with these, but you can also buy them individually should your kid need a pair.
If they’re still a bit uneasy but are ready to progress from stabilisers, then a parent handle could be a good option. This gives you a bit more control of their cycling efforts without stabilisers supporting them constantly. Parent handles provide a good balance of support and independence that are sure to help your child develop their confidence.
A child should never be without head protection when riding a bike. Ensure that the helmet selected fits their head correctly, as one which is loose or in the wrong position won’t provide all the benefits a helmet gives.
Hi-vis vests are a good idea to equip your child with, especially if your child is beginning to ride on the main road. Make sure they’re visible to all road users, as this will help in preventing any accidents which could potentially occur.
In case they need to make themselves aware of to other road users, like on a busy road, then investing in a bell and horn could be a good idea. We have quite a range, some being more practical and others more playful, but nonetheless do a good job.
You can always trust our in-store team to offer you advice or alternatively, take a look at Cycling UK for a complete list of bike riding essentials. You can also search through our vast array of equipment across our website and in-store.
Hopefully you’re now feeling confident to take the leap on your child’s new adventure with a brand new boys’ or girls’ bike. Our team are more than happy to provide additional advice to meet your needs. Let their cycling journey begin!
This year, Cycle King & Hawk Cycles launched our first ever TV advert, which was featured on SkyTV. It’s all about getting out on a cycling adventure with your “mini me” or family member this summer. Watch below:
Is your child your ‘mini me’ ?
Do you think of your kids like a little version of you? Do they copy your every move? Dress the same and constantly look up to you? Take a look at our recent ad for #minime inspiration.
We would love to see what you and your #minime get up to this summer, so be sure to tag @cyclekinguk in your Facebook and Instagram posts and use the hashtag #minime.
Take a look at some of our matching kids and adult bikes to get Mini-me ready:
This bike comes in a variety of sizes (from 16 inch to 23-inch frames) which makes it a great mini me bike. In the ad, our cool mountain biking Grandad and Granddaughter were having all the fun in the world, covered in mud, and so could your family. For a similar kid’s bike,
This fabulous Mum and daughter duo were riding this bike with style. A Classique bike is perfect for a leisurely ride through the park and has a convenient front basket, perfect for putting a picnic in if you fancy it. Available in an 16″ or 19″ frame, suitable for teenagers and adults.
Summer Cycling Adventures
Summer is officially here, and we’re all for going outdoors with the family. Whether you’ve managed to get lots of plans booked in or still doing your ‘fun activities to do during the summer holidays’ research, we’ve got you covered. At Cycle King & Hawk Cycles, we’ve got a few points to cover on why you should enjoy a summer adventure – so let’s delve straight into it.
Children love the outdoors
Cast your mind back to when you were little; all the fun times you had on your bike. Whilst children of this generation have a lot more screen time, they still love to cycle around and breathe fresh air. Especially since lockdown, we’ve come to appreciate the freedom of going out, and so have the kids. Instead of another summer of being cooped up, a fantastic change of pace may consist of taking the family on a bike ride adventure this summer.
Benefits of a family bike ride
With the lovely weather we are fortunate to have had recently, it’s always worth stepping outdoors to enjoy it. Taking the family out on an epic bike adventure is sure to be a day to remember (and maybe even a highlight of the kids’ summer holiday). Not only is it really fun, but a big family bike ride is also great for a whole host of health reasons.
Go somewhere new and experience something different
A switch of scenery from what your children are used to can be highly beneficial to understand the world around them. And for adults, it’s also nice to go out and experience something out of the ordinary.
Quality time spent together
Whilst cycling through muddy paths or picturesque countryside, the time you all spend having fun is sure to make you grow stronger bonds. Having a bit more quality time is sure to put a smile on the children’s’ faces and ultimately give them some good times to remember.
Build up your child’s confidence
Finally, whether they’ve just come off training wheels or are getting the hang of it, taking your kids out on a ride is a definite way of improving their abilities. The more time spent riding the better, as their experiences of cycling will help them evolve into well-traversed cyclists.
If you and your kids are daredevils, then perhaps some time at the skatepark is more your thing. If you’re anything like our Grandma and Grandson on their BMXs, then you’ll need some extra protection. These helmets and pads are a great way of reducing the chances of bumps and bruises.
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