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Along with insisting that your kid wear head protection and picking a prime spot, it’s important to maintain your child’s bike to keep him safe, says Rich Conroy of Bike New York. The best way to do this, he says, is the ABC Quick Check: A is for air in the tires, B means brakes, and C is the chain (it needs oil every three to five months). Most bike shops will do an annual (or biannual) tune-up gratis for two to three years if you buy one of their models (a good reason to purchase a bike from a store near where you live). Keep the following in mind, too, for a smooth ride:
• The Yankees cap (or daisy headband) comes off and the helmet goes on. Don’t take no for an answer. Wearing a helmet is the law in New York State for all kids between one and 14 years whether biking, blading or skateboarding.
• Helmets should sit flat, covering the upper forehead, with two finger-widths of space above the eyebrows. Fasten the strap securely, so that only one finger can slip in between it and your son or daughter’s chin.
• Knee pads are a good idea for newbie bikers; long pants can also help prevent scraped knees.
• Choose sturdy shoes or sneakers (keep shoelaces tied) rather than sandals, flip-flops or bare feet; skip long, loose skirts and wide-legged pants.
• Kids under 14 are allowed to bike on city sidewalks, but with all the dogs, strollers and pedestrians, as well as store doors opening suddenly, these are often a tough place to navigate, warns Conroy. Park paths and waterfront greenways are ideal.
To learn more about bicycle safety, stop by the New York City Police Museum’s Bicycle Safety Day, on Saturday 17 from 11am to 2pm. Children who attend will receive a free helmet (while supplies last), and they can pedal through an outdoor obstacle course. 100 Old Slip between South and Water Sts (212-480-3100, nycpolicemuseum.org).
