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How to Learn to Ride a Bike in 15 Minutes
Join in the Fun with a New Bike
Now that your child is learning to ride a bicycle, it's a good time for you to make a return to the streets yourself. After all, a family bike ride in the fresh air is one of the great joys of parenthood. If the last bike you bought came with a banana seat, you should know that much has changed in the world of bicycle manufacturing. Here's a look at some of the newest products on the market.
Description: The Napa mixes comfort and performance with a suspension fork, suspension seat post, and easy-to-pedal gearing, while the Freeloader trailer gives older kids a chance to pedal along.
Best thing: The Napa is a great bike all on its own. The trailer adds a fun family option but is easily removed for riding the bike alone.
Price: Napa $399; Freeloader $179
Phone: 920-478-4686
Description: One of the most comfortable bicycles we've ever tried, with classic styling and such modern features as internal gears and suspension forks.
Best thing: The handlebars are raised and the saddle moved back so there's virtually no strain on the lower back.
Price: $720
Phone: 800-261-1644
Description: This tricycle on steroids makes you feel like you're cross-country skiing in the middle of summer. In fact, the motion is much the same: You lean into a turn, the Trikke 8 leans with you.
Best thing: Easy to hop on and go, or fold and put in the car's trunk when you're done.
Price: $210
Phone: 310-306-8882
Description: With wide tires, a padded saddle, and loads of easy adjustments, the Comfort 400 is good for the cyclist who's looking for a no-pain ride. The Burley trailer is loaded with safety measures and great design features.
Best thing: The Cannondale is handmade in the United States with a high level of craftsmanship. Burley trailers easily attach to most bicycles.
Price: Cannondale $529; Burley trailer $200
NOTE: Ride-in trailers are for kids old enough to sit up on their own and who can hold their heads up while wearing a helmet. Usually not for kids younger than 1 year old.
Cannondale Phone: 800-245-3872 Burley Trailer Phone: 866-248-5634
Description: Kind of a scooter for adults but a lot faster and a much more vigorous workout than the kid-size ones.
Best thing: If your knees can't handle cycling, the Kickbike will get you back on two wheels.
Price: $299
Phone: 888-542-5245
Originally published in Better Homes and Gardens magazine, April 2004.
Quiz: Is Your Child Ready for Team Sports?
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