Each parent is faced with the choice of buying a bicycle for a child, since absolutely all children, from a year and older, love to ride them. Their very first bicycle transport stands on three wheels, gradually, as a child grows up, turning into a two-wheeled “friend”. Consider how to choose the very first bike 12 inches (wheels).
Classification of bicycles by age
First of all, choosing a bike, look at the age of the child. The younger it is, the simpler the bike is in terms of configuration and technical characteristics.
The classic classification of bicycles for children is as follows:
- For children from one to three years old - wheel diameter is 12 inches.
- For 4-6 years - a diameter of 16 inches.
- For 7-9 years - 20 inches.
- When your child's height reaches 130 cm or more, the wheel diameter will be 24 inches.
If you are thinking, a 12-inch bike is suitable for what age, then from this gradation it follows that you can transfer to such a transport from one year.
You should not buy a child’s bike for growth, as this is simply inconvenient. The selected model must necessarily be suitable for the growth and physical parameters of a small person. Since while riding, you must calmly reach for the pedal in the lower position.
Therefore, a 12-inch bike, which we will examine in more detail, is suitable for ages from one to three. This is just the first model of a two-wheeled bicycle, to which, if necessary, you can add a handle on the back and two additional wheels.
Why should a child buy a bike
A 12-inch children's bike is not only the first transport on two wheels, but also a great simulator that will allow your child to develop correctly.
Advantages of cycling:
- Helps to improve the balance of the child.
- Strengthens the physical condition, including the formation of proper posture.
- The child learns to perform several tasks at the same time (pedaling and assessing the situation around).
Plus, your child will spend more time outdoors, riding a bicycle, and not at a TV or computer at home.
How to choose a children's bike
When parents go to the store to buy a bicycle, they should know in advance what they are looking for in terms of technical characteristics. For example, so that no disputes arise in the store, and you do not waste your time, it is worth answering questions of this type in advance: “Is a 12-inch bicycle designed for what age?”
And also when choosing a bicycle there is a general number of criteria that you should rely on when buying:
- Consider the age group of the child. It’s not very early to transfer your baby from a tricycle to a two-wheeled bicycle, but you don’t need to tighten either. From a height of 95 cm it is already necessary to switch to a minimum of four-wheeled, and then to two-wheeled cycling.
- Focus on your child’s height. Ideally, it should be 2.5 times the diameter of the wheel. Otherwise, the operation of the bicycle will be inconvenient for the child (pedals are too high or low).
- Buy a bike with your child so that he can first sit on it and try the size ratio. So you get the perfect option.
- You should not buy in non-specialized places, as there will be no quality guarantee, which is important when using. You must be sure that the “two-wheeled friend” will not fail at the most crucial moment.
- Consider the opinion of the child, because this is for him, and not for you to ride a bike.
If you approach the purchase correctly, then even the first 12-inch children's bicycle can last longer.
Children's bike with a handle
A 12-inch children's bike with a handle has a couple of small wheels that can be mounted or removed if necessary. With them, the transport becomes four-wheeled and acquires good stability, which will ensure a smooth transition for the child to the three-wheeled version.
Thanks to the installation of a handle on the back, a 12-inch bike enables parents to control the child's movement, protecting him from unnecessary injuries. And also it will be needed if the child is tired, allowing you to continue moving without his participation.
You can buy such a bike from the age of three, but you must take into account the growth of the child. Ideally, it should be 2.5 times the diameter of the wheel. Thus, if the wheel is 12 inches, the bike needs a height of 77 cm.
Also, when buying, pay attention to the pen. Try whether it is convenient for you to use it (turn, slow down, and so on). Pay attention to the steering wheel, which must have an adjustment system, and pedals (preferably made of metal, as they are more durable).
When choosing any bike, carefully inspect the integrity and quality of the chain. And also the presence of a convenient brake for the baby.
Normal two-wheeled bicycle for children from three years
For an age group of 3 to 5-6 years, a 12-inch bike is perfect. Only before purchasing such a vehicle, pay attention to the design features:
- The frame must be durable and made of quality material.
- It is better to choose the model that comes with additional rear wheels. So it will be easier for your child to switch from a fully sustainable three-wheeled vehicle.
- The steering wheel should be height-adjustable, as children grow very quickly. This will extend the life of the product.
- Do not chase for cheap options. You can end up with a pig in a poke. For example, a chain will break after several days of riding. In such cases, you can go broke on spare parts.
If you carefully approach the choice of a transport such as a 12-inch children's bike, it will last a long time, it can even be inherited by the younger brothers and sisters of the child.
Tips for young parents
Do not be afraid to transfer your child to a 12-inch two-wheeled bicycle, as this is an additional simulator that develops his physical abilities.
When you teach your child to ride, do not forget about safety measures. The main thing in urban life is to choose the area where there is no traffic. The child is only learning and will not be able to immediately respond to danger. It is best to study in special places where there are bike paths, or in city parks.
Follow all the rules when choosing a model, and very soon your baby will delight with his first successes.