Cycling is a great way to spend time as a family whilst keeping fit and healthy and discovering your local area. It can also be a good way to complete short journeys and save money on petrol and car parking.
Depending on the age of your children, you might want to stick to off road routes in parks, or cycle trails. Very young children can ride in seats fitted to your bike – speak to your local bike shop about finding and fitting a suitable seat, and consider if you’ll need one when buying a new bike, as not all bikes will be suitable.
Trailers, tag alongs and tandems are other options for younger children.
With older children, if you are cycling on roads make sure you start off teaching road skills on quiet roads to start with, and closely supervise by riding behind. There are lots of great off road cycle paths in Lincolnshire, if you would rather avoid roads altogether, and are able to transport your bikes.
Check if your child’s school offer Bikeability training to support your child’s road safety skills.
Useful Links
HSBC Ready Set Ride
Ready Set Ride offers lots of fun games and activities to help your child develop the skills needed for riding a bike. There’s also lots of useful advice such as choosing a bike, as well as fun games and activities.
Let’s Ride Local
British Cycling have created Let’s Ride Local to encourage safe and responsible cycling – the website includes a route finder to help you find cycle routes, as well as tips and advice.