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| Dave Glowacz, also known as Mr. Bike, joined Judy Hsu for some expert tips on |
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print story|email storylast updated: 7/21/2003
Bike and scooter safetyJuly 18, 2003 ¡ª Riding a bike and cruising on a scooter are some of the most popular activities for kids in the summer time. But how do you know if your child is ready for a scooter or if they're riding their bikes safely?
Dave Glowacz, also known as Mr. Bike, joined Judy Hsu for some expert tips on safety and handling of bikes and scooters. Following are some his guidelines.
Mr. Bike's Tips For Kids
Making sure a bike fits your child
While on seat, feet comfortably touch ground
While standing, 1-2" crotch clearance
Knees don't hit handlebars
Arms & torso not too stretched
Helmets: proper fit & wear
Snug fit all the way around
Level: kid can see front ("eyes" test)
Straps: V under ears ("ears" test)
Chin buckle: doesn't't slide loose; open mouth causes helmet to press down
When putting bike away, hang helmet on handlebars as a reminder
What to teach your kids about biking
Helmets alone won't protect your kids
Sidewalk riders: before leaving curb, check for cars (look for drivers' eyes)
Street riders: never ride against traffic
Scooters: same practices apply
Bicycling with your children
At what age can they ride a two-wheeler? (Can throw and catch a ball)
Child seats: Minimum age: can hold head up; Max size: 40 lbs.
Younger kids: trailers; Older kids: trail-a-bikes
Child seats should height higher than child's head
Riding with kids on their own bikes: they ride ahead
Scooters: Chicago Municipal Code does not address non-motorized scooters. The Code does not allow operation of motorized scooters by persons of age less than 16. With regard to equipment, scooters themselves pose a danger greater than that of bicycles because they generally have only one brake and in head-on collision they have less material between the struck object and the rider. With regard to handling, the same safety practices apply for operating a scooter as for a bike. Dangers to children generally come from leaving the curb at a speed faster than that of pedestrians, causing the kids to surprise motorists. Kids generally can start riding a scooter at the same age they can ride a bike, 4 to 7 years old--the age at which they learn to balance.
For more information, visit: www.askmrbike.com.
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