7 Great Products That Will Make Riding With Your Kids Fun, Safe And Easy

by | Nov 9, 2023 | Buyer's Guide, Bike, Featured, Sports

Seven essential products that can enhance your cycling adventures with your children when it comes to their safety and enjoyment of riding their bike.

Cycling with your children is a wonderful way to bond with the little ones, all while promoting an active lifestyle, and creating lasting memories. However, to make the experience truly enjoyable and safe for both you and your child, there are a few products that can prove to be invaluable.

Cover Image Credit: Forza

Some of these are essentials and some are nice-to-haves. Prioritise items of safety and then unlock bigger adventures and smiles with the rest of these recommendations when the time is right!

Children’s Helmets

Price range: R400 – R1200

A well-fitting helmet is the most crucial piece of safety gear for any cyclist, especially children. A good helmet will protect your child’s head from serious injuries in case of a fall or accident. You’ll want to look out for a helmet that fits snugly and comfortably and ensure it complies with safety standards.

Most local bike shops will stock a good range of helmets suitable for children. Find a model that offers good coverage and fits well on your child’s head. Bonus points if it’s a fun colour or design that they’ll love!

Key features to look out for:

  • Adjustable straps for a secure fit
  • Lightweight and breathable design
  • A reputable brand/safety standards
  • Fun designs that appeal to your child’s interests!

Child Bike Seats

Price range: R1000 – R4000 South African Rands

Child bike seats provide a safe and comfortable way to carry your child while you cycle. They come in rear-mounted and front-mounted options. The front-mounted seats are ideal if you want to take the adventures off-road. The Mac Ride and Ride Shotgun are the two most popular models on the market of this design. Rear-mounted seats are typically bigger and more supportive. They are better for urban cruises and smooth trails. 

You’ll need to do some research to find a seat that is appropriate for your child’s age, weight, and size. Once you’ve ensured it is securely attached to your bike, there is going to be a lot of fun ahead for you and the kids!

Key features to look out for:

  • Secure attachment system
  • Padded seating and backrest for comfort (rear-mounted)
  • Footrests for support
  • Safety harnesses for protection
  • Some seats offer reclining options for naps

Bicycle Trailers

Price range: R9000 – R30 000

Bicycle trailers offer a spacious and stable option for transporting multiple children or younger ones in tow behind your bike. The major benefit is that they provide a sheltered environment with comfy seating, and some models even convert into strollers as a bonus.

There are limited models of these available in South Africa and the trusty Thule fleet is one of those few. They are naturally quite pricey but we would recommend a search of the second-hand market before you buy new, especially if budget is of concern.

Key features to look out for:

  • Weatherproof canopy for protection from the elements
  • Sturdy construction.
  • Multiple and comfortable seating options for up to two children
  • Some may have suspension for a smoother ride
  • Storage space for toys, etc

First Pedal Bike

Price range: R8000 – R9000

Best Cycling Gear For Riding With Your Kids Or Children
(c) Early Rider

When the time comes to get your child their own pedal bike, the options can be a bit overwhelming. How cheap is too cheap and how expensive is too expensive? Many of the supermarket bikes, or a well looked after second-hand model, will usually do a good job. If you’re looking for top class, Early Rider is a company dedicated to making great quality bikes for kids that suit their bodies and last the journey.

Their brake levers are appropriately sized for small hands and a few of their models feature a belt drive that is more simple and robust than a typical chain drive. If your kiddos aren’t up for pedal bikes yet, balance bikes are an excellent way to introduce them to riding solo, even from 1-2 years old. Let your kids develop those balance and coordination skills as soon as they are ready to go!

If you’re unsure of what size bike is suitable for your child, you can find a guide here on bike sizing for youngsters. There you will also find some buying advice from a certified dad to guide you through the process of finding the right bike for your child. Remember, regular maintenance saves you cash in the long run!

Key features to look out for:

  • Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre
  • Components that suit small hands and bodies
  • Low step-through frame for easy mounting and dismounting
  • Robust tires
  • Adjustable seat height

Bungee Cord

Price range: R500 – R1400

A bungee cord that loops around your waist and hooks onto the stem of your laaitie’s bike to tow them along on the steeper and longer climbs can unlock bigger and better adventures while still ensuring they have ample freedom to learn and explore on their own bike.

There are a few designs of this kind that you could find but the smart and affordable bungee system from Forza is one of our favourites. The cord is robust and the waistband is comfortable. When you’re done towing, the carabiner allows you to wrap the cord around yourself and clip the end to the waist belt to keep it out of the way. It also works for towing mates if you’re on an E-Bike and they’re struggling under their own power!

Key features to look out for:

  • Comfortable waistband
  • Sturdee cord
  • Easy attachment loop that can be easily thrown off
  • Easy storage mechanism for when not towing

Hydration Packs

Price range: 600 – 1500 South African Rands

Hydration packs provide a convenient and hands-free way to stay hydrated while cycling. When riding with your kids, it is wise to bring some extra liquids and snacks so that they aren’t needing to lug the weight around themselves. They come in various sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences.

If you’re on the hunt for children’s specific hydration packs so your kids can carry their own water and food, this one from Aonijie is a nice lightweight option that won’t get in their way when exploring the great outdoors.

Key features to look out for:

  • Bladder with a comfortable bite valve
  • Adjustable straps for a snug fit
  • Storage compartment for snacks and essentials
  • Reflective accents for visibility
  • Some packs offer insulation to keep drinks cool
  • Appropriate sizing for kids if need be

Children’s Cycling Bells or Horns

Price range: R50 – R200

These are a fun one but also something that can come in handy on those outrides. It is also good for the young ones to learn about riding etiquette and alerting others of their presence, especially when riding in crowded areas or on shared paths. You’ll likely be able to find some fun ones designed for kids at your local bike shop. They make a great gift for birthdays and holidays!

Key features to look out for:

  • Loud and clear sound
  • Easy-to-use activation mechanism
  • Durable and weather-resistant construction
  • Fun designs that the kids like are a bonus

Time spent together while out cycling will likely be some of your child’s fondest memories. Seeing new places and learning to explore the world around them is one of the best gifts that you can give. Safety is the top priority but after that, just go and have fun no matter the bike and the gear. If you can afford some of the luxuries then enjoy them but don’t let their absence hold you back from the adventures that await!

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