Parental Information
Cycling is a great way to get around, but like everything, a little preparation and care goes a long way to ensuring that you’re safe and trouble free.
Your child’s safety is our primary concern. All our instructors are fully trained, DBS checked (formerly known as CRB) and trained in first aid. We check every bike before the training starts and we will carry out minor repairs and adjustments where possible, but if we cannot make the bike safe, we will not allow your child to take the course. Below we have listed some useful information about equipment, simple bike maintenance and safety measures that will help you get the most out of your bike.
Helmets
It is not compulsory to wear a helmet while cycling on the road in the UK, but the risk of serious injury in the event of an accident is dramatically reduced if you do, and at BeSpoke we definitely recommend it. It is however vitally important that you have the right product, so please check that your child’s helmet fits correctly by following these steps below:
— The helmet should be a snug fit, and positioned squarely on the head, sitting just above the eyebrows
— It should not be worn tipped forward, or tilted back
— Straps should be securely fastened and not twisted
— You should be able to put two fingers between the strap and your chin - any more and it is too loose
Bike Size & Maintenance
Kids grow, bikes don’t! It’s a shame, but it’s a fact. It’s also a fact that riding a bike that is too big or small is more difficult and ultimately dangerous. Most bikes can be adjusted to some extent, but for a guide on how to fit your bike to your child, click here.
A bicycle is a mechanical piece of equipment, just like your car, albeit with a few less parts. Nevertheless, faulty brakes on a bike can be just as dangerous as on any other vehicle. Keeping your bike in good working order will extend its life, and makes yours that little bit safer.