2 year old Riding a Pedal Bike | Cycling Journey (Ages 2 - 7)

No training wheels. From a Strider balance bike to a pedal bicycle, at 2 years and 4 months.
Getting a Woom 2 a few months later was a game changer: lightweight, with a freewheel (no coaster brake) and dual handbrakes. By the time he was 3, we could enjoy longer bike rides together. Finally, switching to Islabikes took his skills to the next level.
Each child progresses at their own pace, and it's more important to focus on building their confidence and enjoyment. The journey is far more important than the destination.
"Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory." -Dr Seuss
There is a vast world of riding experiences and techniques to explore beyond the initial learning phase.
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Teaching a Child to Ride a Bike
One of the best videos explaining how to teach a child to ride a bike:
It's an old video but straight to the point, with children that viewers can relate to, in a single class session.
• Bike New York's Learn ...
"The parents struggle, and a lot of them don't realize how simple it can really be."
In short, you have to remove the pedals from a regular bike and use it as a balance bike.
"This indescribable feeling, watching them 'get it' for the first time... It's like watching a bird take off."
Yes, the sensation of freedom when learning to ride a bike is exhilarating and empowering. They are now free to explore the world in a whole new way.
Children tend to learn faster and more effectively when working in groups.
For little toddlers (2-3 years old), a balance bike is all that's needed. Children as young as 1.5 year old (18 months) can start riding balance bikes.
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Time for Pedals: Tips & Advice
Once a child has mastered balancing and steering, it's time to introduce the pedals.
My personal tips :
1) Hold the handlebar firmly at first, allowing the child to focus completely on the pedaling motion.
2) Starting to pedal from a stop is generally the hardest part. Help the child by giving him/her a little push.
You can check my other video which provides guidelines for a smooth transition from Balance Bike to Pedal Bike :
• Strider Balance Bike t...
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Once They Learn How to Ride: What's Next ?
► Slow speed drills are terrific for teaching new riders about balance and movement on the bike.
► Learning how to ride a bike with no hands is useful to be more confident on the bike. Plus riding with no hands is fun !
► We tried pump tracks , skateparks , mountain biking (MTB), cyclocross (CX), road biking ... and kids triathlons.
► We particularly enjoy mountain biking because it clears the mind, allows you to experience nature, and provides an adrenaline rush.
It is also the ultimate teacher of biking skills:
pedal leveling (clearing obstacles)
weight shifting (body positioning)
braking techniques
cornering (riding through turns)
anticipating terrain (reading the trail)
climbing techniques (out of the saddle)
riding in loose conditions e.g. gravel, sand
You can still have a great time mountain biking without engaging in risky activities like drops and jumps. There are plenty of thrilling experiences to be had on trails.
► Regarding triathlon , kids need to show interest in at least one of the 3 sports (swim, bike, run) to begin with. They will learn to like/love the other discipline(s). It’s all about learning new skills. Build on your strengths, work on your weaknesses.
The shorter distances make it accessible for kids, and every finisher is already a winner. Triathlon offers kids a balanced, fun, and rewarding way to stay active, learn life skills, and gain confidence.
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WOOM 3 vs. Islabikes Cnoc 16
Why we chose the Islabikes Cnoc 16 over the Woom 3 after testing them both.
The main difference is the riding position, with the Woom 3 being more upright and considered better for hesitant riders, while the Cnoc 16 has a slightly more aggressive posture and is a more performance-oriented bike.
ISLABIKES geometry is truly spot-on.
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Choosing the Right Kids Bike
A good quality bike can make a significant difference in a child's riding experience, especially when it comes to speed, comfort, efficiency, and safety.
Ideally, a child's bike should be less than 35-40% of their weight.
High quality bikes like WOOM and Prevelo are not cheap, but they hold their value exceptionally well.
Nowadays there are many options to buy used kids bikes that have been outgrown by their current owners. Buying secondhand bikes is both an affordable and sustainable choice.
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Bikes Featured in the Video
Strider Sport
Specialized Hotrock 12"
Woom 2 ( 14 inch )
Woom 3 ( 16 inch )
Islabikes Cnoc 16
Islabikes Cnoc 20
Islabikes Beinn 20
Scott Speedster Jr 24
Cannondale Quick 24
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Thanks for watching. I hope this helps and provides some guidance for the next steps in your child's cycling journey.
#kidsbikes #striderbike #woom