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BASIC SAFETY
Riding a bike is fun! However, like any sport, bicycling involves risk of injury. By choosing
to ride a bicycle, or to put your child on a bicycle, you assume the responsibility for that
risk, so you need to know — and to practice — the rules of safe and responsible riding and
of proper use and maintenance. Proper use and maintenance of your bicycle reduces risk
of injury. We highly recommend adult supervision in the early stages of learning to ride,
especially in order to teach proper use and safety.
Because it is impossible to anticipate every situation or condition which can occur while
riding, this manual makes no representation about the safe use of the bicycle under all
conditions. There are risks associated with the use of any bicycle which cannot be predicted
or avoided, and which are the sole responsibility of the rider.
HELMETS.
Your child must wear a helmet while riding a bike. Make sure to get a helmet
that fits properly and meets the latest Snell, ANSI or CPSC standard for helmets.
• The helmet should fit snuggly and sit squarely on the head, sitting low (one or two
finger widths above the eyebrow), not tilted back.
• Straps should be securely fastened under the chin (see your helmet owners manual).
• Make sure your child understands that a bicycle helmet is only for riding bicycles.
A bicycle helmet should not be worn while playing, in play areas, on playground
equipment, while climbing trees, or at any time while not riding a bicycle.
CLOTHING.
Your child should wear appropriate clothing while riding a bike.
• Bright visible colors can help make your child more visible to drivers.
• Avoid loose fitting long pants/skirts that may get caught in moving components.
• Non-slip shoes are recommended and never ride barefoot.
• Safety padding should not impede mobility.
ROAD CONDITIONS
• Wet Weather: Impairs traction, visibility and braking. Ensure that your child understands
that the road can be slippery. Riding in wet weather, if necessary, should be done at
a slower speed and additional time should be allotted for braking. Apply the brakes
earlier and more gradually during these conditions.
• Nighttime: Reflectors as well as front and rear lights are necessary to make your child
