What is the best method for teaching my child to ride a bike?

John Doe · 01-06-2008, 12:23 PM

My child is 4 and still can't ride a bike without training wheels. It's quite obvious that training wheels don't really work (atleast for him). Are there any good recommendations out there?

webby293 · 01-06-2008, 12:23 PM

When i lost my training wheels 10 yrs ago my dad took me to the park, pushed me along and said keep pedaling then he let go and i didn't even know it till he said keep pedaling then i stopped pedaling and fell, i got back on and did it over and over again till i got the hang of it

Jacurutu S · 01-06-2008, 12:23 PM

I was 8 when I finally had the muscle control to control a bicycle without training wheels. I'd leave them on his bike till he's comfortable with them on there. Then use the standard push along style.

If he's not able to work with the training wheels then perhaps you could get him on an exercise bike so he could at least get used to the motion of pedaling.

McG · 01-06-2008, 12:24 PM

I would like further comment from you, please, on why the training wheels don't work for him. Meaning - do you have them both touching the ground now? Are they both elevated a couple inches off the ground?

Depending on the type of bicycle your 4 yr old is learning to ride, the training wheels may have to be on the ground all the time for a while. (stature of your child and size of the bike) He may need time to learn the pedaling and stopping. Once he knows and has confidence in controlling the bike -- then is the time to either raise the training wheels ( not preferred) or removing them.

The best method is spending a lot of time with your child.

☆ANGEL☆ · 01-06-2008, 12:24 PM

Just buy a helmet and some knee and elbow pads. Put your child on the bike and then let him ride (and pedal) while holding on to the bike. eventually, when you think it is time let go and watch him pedal for a few seconds and then he will fall. This is how I was taught, and it is how I have taught my own. He will be upset the first time, and may not want to get back on right away, but he will get back on soon enough...Good Luck

~Angel

Tyler B · 01-06-2008, 12:24 PM

just let him ride and fall down lol. he will figure it out eventually. thats how i learned

reaper0159 · 01-06-2008, 12:24 PM

i learnt my little bro to ride a bike, the best way is a little hill but make sure there is grass on both sides of the path in case he falls get him a little steady push him along a little while he is peddling, then tell he to peddel faster and let go. It might work for you like it worked when i done it. good luck.