Family Riding Fun

It's time to go for a family bicycle ride! Riding as a family is a great way to spend "quality time" together while getting outside for some exercise. Whether your child is very young and needs to ride in a baby seat or trailer, or is already confidently riding her own bike, she's sure to enjoy the experience. Try out our suggestions for family pedaling fun:

• Plan rides together so everyone gets a chance to go where they'd like.
• Before setting out, make sure your child understands the rules of the road or trail.
• Tailor family rides to your children's ages. For example, choose more friendly terrain and/or shorter distances for younger riders, and longer distances and/or more challenging terrain for older ones.
• Try riding in a variety of settings, such as the woods, a boardwalk, the park, or for the intrepid family, mountain biking.
• Come up with an enjoyable destination for each ride, such as a playground, park or ice cream shop.
• Bring a water bottle for each rider.
• Pack snacks for on-the-go munching.
• Let little ones give a favorite stuffed animal or doll a ride in their bike basket or backpack.
• Take breaks as frequently as your children need to.
• Stop once in a while to fully appreciate wildlife and the beautiful view.
• If your child doesn't yet have the stamina or confidence to ride his own bike with the family, try out a tandem bike so you can pedal together. If you don't own one, locate a nearby bicycle shop or tour company; many rent tandem bicycles by the hour or day.
• Load everyone's bicycles on a bike rack and drive to a favorite riding spot.

As you ride together more and more as a family, you're sure to come up with plenty of ideas of your own, creating memories your children will always cherish. Have a great time on your next family bike ride, and keep pedaling!