Follow these basics to help you and your child stay safe when cycling.
Make sure your child's bike is the right size for them, avoid the temptation to buy a bike they will grow into. A bike is the right size if a child can:
- reach the handle bars without stretching
- sit in a position where they are not leaning too far forward
- reach and easily use the brakes
- touch the ground with the toes of both feet while seated on the saddle
Make sure that all your bikes are roadworthy.
When cycling on the road with children, take up a position behind them. If there are 2 adults in your group, it's a good idea to have one at the back and one in front of the children.
We strongly recommend wearing a cycle helmet, the helmet should fasten securely and conform to the current regulations
Be safe, be seen, wear bright clothing preferably something fluorescent and reflective, to help other road users to see you more easily
Always use lights and reflectors in the dark and in poor visibility. When riding at night always use a working white front light and red back light, plus a red rear reflector - it's the law
Set a good example, follow the Highway Code and teach children road safety and awareness. The new interactive Tales of the Road - a highway code for the young road usecontains new and updated tips to stay safe whilst cycling.