Small and unwieldy, children's bikes with training wheels are harder to ride than bikes without training wheels. The drag of the extra wheels on the ground slows the bike down and makes it difficult for children to maneuver the bike around corners and over rough terrain. If your child is ready to move to a bike without training wheels, follow a few simple strategies to help him ride down the road on two wheels instead of four.
Step 1
Remove the training wheels from your child's bike. Put the training wheels in a safe location in the event she feels so unsteady on her bike that she asks you to put the training wheels back on. If purchasing a new bike for your child, select a bike that fits her height now. According to the Family Education website, a bike that is too big for your child is hard for her to maneuver and control.
Step 2
Remove the pedals from the bike and put them to the side. Taking the pedals off makes it easy for your child to practice pushing and gliding without the pedals getting in the way. If you choose to leave the pedals on, the push and glide method still works. Explain to your child that after he is able to balance without pedaling, you will reinstall the pedals.
Step 3
Put a helmet on your child. Ask your child to sit on the bike and adjust the seat until her feet are flat on the ground. This enables her to keep her feet in close contact with the ground during the first phrase of bike instruction. On a flat surface, have her push her bike along with her feet, similar to riding a scooter. Walk along side her to help her slow down and stop.
Step 4
Explain to your child that he will now scoot forward with his feet for the count of 10, and then lift his feet up for a count of two. This push and glide experience helps him begin to feel his balance point. Gradually increase the distance he glides without his feet touching until you can visually see that he is balancing on his own.
Step 5
Put the pedals back on if you removed them. Have your child push off with both feet and then place her feet on the bike's pedals. Walk along side her as she begins pedaling the bike. She may put her feet down to stop himself. Tell her to use the bike's brakes to stop and then put her feet on the ground to balance the bike.
Step 6
Walk or run with your child until he is pedaling confidently. When he is riding, avoid holding onto the back of his bike seat or the handlebars. Holding on in these locations causes your child to rely on you for balance. Instead, hold onto his shoulders if he is unsteady. Once he is pedaling confidently in a straight line, teach him how to turn corners and use hand signals. Do not allow him to ride on the road until he is old enough to obey all the traffic signals.
Tips and Warnings
- Teach your child bicycle safety rules by reading books or watching a video. Let him ride on the grass when he is first learning. Tell him to put his feet down quickly if he loses his balance. After he learns the basics, encourage him to practice. Have a bike shop adjust her bike if needed.
- Always wear properly fitted helmets when riding bicycles.
Things You'll Need
- Bicycle
- Helmet
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