Tip of the Month:  How to get your child to ride without training wheels in 5 easy steps!

1.  Choose a safe relatively flat area that is free of obstacles.  Of course, pick a spot where street traffic isn't a concern.

2.  Lower your child's bike seat so that they can comfortably put their feet flat on the ground.

3.  With a properly fitted bicycle helmet, have your child sit on the bike with their hands on the handlebar.

4.  Have your child "walk" with the bike while still sitting on the seat.  They can either go one leg at a time or use a "frog type" of push, where both feet push together (at the same time).

5.  As the bike goes forward, encourage your child to coast a little bit by picking their feet up from the ground.  If they feel like they are going to fall, they can quickly put their feet down and avoid injuring themselves.  Once they feel comfortable doing this, try repeating on a slight downgrade.

We've taught many children and even a few adults how to ride using this method.  Since the rider can quickly put their foot down if they feel that they are going to fall, they are firmly in control of the learning process, unlike the "old school" method of mom or dad running alongside the new rider with their hand on the seat and then letting go.

For more information on this topic, call or stop by The Bicycle Wheel today.  We are your first and last stop for all of your cycling needs!