Best Kids Bikes (Special Gift ): 2014-03-02

Saturday, March 8, 2014

tag along with existing kids bike?

Kilino9

I saw on the street a kids bike attached to an adult's bike with a sort of a tag along pipe kind of a thing. Does anybody know where to buy it or what it is called

Answer
There are two different types. One is called a Tag A Long that is made to attach to the seat post of an adult bike and the other is a boom type device that lifts the front wheel of the childs bike off the ground. The tag a long is a much better design.

Do a Google seach for.
Tag a Long
Wee Ride
Bike trailer

You can them about anywhere.

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Wee-Ride-Co-Pilot-Child-Trainer/9870514

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&q=tag+along+bike&revid=1634490093&ei=jbHtS563GoaBlAe-lsC0CA&sa=X&oi=revisions_narrow&resnum=4&ct=revision&ved=0CCwQ3gIwAw&fp=e64858094bfd2093

Edit;

Here is the tail gater tow bar.

http://www.trail-gator.com/

http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=trail+gator+bicycle+tow+bar&tag=yahhyd-20&index=aps&hvadid=31388808011&ref=pd_sl_1g7qe7nxdd_e

College kid looking for a bike?

chemkid212

I'm a girl moving to Austin next year to go to St. Edward's University. My parents can't really afford to let me take my car with me, and we're going to get me a bike to use around the city. Austin has quite a few hills, but it's a really, really bike-friendly town. There are bike lanes and bike racks everywhere.
I'm looking for something not too fancy or high-tech (I'm not a crazy athletic cycler or anything), something great for riding around town, and good for hills. My budget is about $300-400 max, and I'll need something that lasts. Any suggestions to help get the job done?

Answer
I would suggest a touring bike is more suitable for college minus the use of a car.
http://www.downtheroad.org/Equipment/Bikes/Touring_Bicycle.htm
Things have changed greatly since my days at the University, but we used to have to carry big books around that seemingly weighed a thousand pounds and cost a thousand dollars a pop. You may think I am exaggerating but college has built its endowments on students carrying books to class. As a college student you will need to carry other items beyond books. I can't think of a better device than a touring bike. Its not necessary that you have all of the brackets protruding with nothing to do, but having the capability to carry things is makes this choice a best buy. I would check at a bicycle store, Craigs list and bicycle news papers to purchase a used touring bike. You need a serviceable bicycle with gears, sturdy, something with a robust build to withstand the elements for years to come. A touring bike would best suit you.

I wish you well.

MINI BIKes 4 kids help!!!?

OKay so I REALLY WANT A MINI bike. because BOTH my friends have one and one of my friends has this really cool one: http://www.pepboys.com/parts_accessories/powersports/baja_motorsports_doodlebug_dirt_bike/

AND i really want one just like it but.....

1. be a diffrent color
2. a TAD bit bigger (not by that much)
3.cheap like this one. and can still go in the grass and on the streets

ABOUT ME:

Iam a girl
a bike around these ages 9/10 and up iam 12
can weigh over 155lbs
.
please leave a price and a website

Answer
Around here we pedal our bikes!

Who has bought a trampoline for their kids?

Q. We recently bought our kids aged 4,6,6, a trampoline for Christmas because they have used them before and love it! Lots of people say "death trap" or other not so nice things. I know they COULD be dangerous, but so can riding your bike. We wil surpervise them of course because they are young. We have an enclosure and it's 12 feet. what are your thoughts?

Answer
My 4 love theirs. Ages 10, 8, 3, 3.

Friday, March 7, 2014

Should I just wait and save up more money for a new bike?

Zora N.

I have been asking tonnes and tonnes of questions here about potential bikes to buy; it seems that any bike that I like (or is within my price range, for that matter) is complete and utter crap (nicely said by one of the users here). I really didn't want to spend more than $275. But I have picked up a few tips from what I've learned here. All in all, it **seems** to me that the best bike I can afford is at least $500.

If you're wondering my purpose, I need it to bike to school and work (basically use it 1-2x EVERY day). I would use it on pavement road... and would probably end up riding an average of 2 miles per day. I'm also female (as you may have already guessed) and 160cm.

I realise very much that I am ignorant on these things, so I do request that you have a tiny smidge of mercy on me and not be mean :P
Thank you so so much!
@intrepidfae - Oooh in all my rush to buy a new bike, I didn't even consider used bikes from Craigslist. Good option, thanks :D
_______________________________________________
IF this rant is too long, here is the summary:

I want a good bike to use everyday. Only have $275. Should I wait?

Answer
OMG Zora, You have indeed learned something. Congratulations. I am not kidding and don't take it as condescending or patronizing. It is just such a rare happening around here. Most of the time, people tend to do exactly the opposite of what they are advised and then wonder why things don't work.

Knowing the purpose of the bike helps a lot. Now I understand that you need a reliable, dependable bike for commuting but only for 2 miles a day average. That opens some doors or at least softens the demands on the bike a bit. For a 2 mile commute "almost" anything will do but not just any piece of junk. You still want it not to break constantly on the way to work and I don't think that you are interested on getting the tools out a lot. For me, getting grease under my nails is ok, I do that for fun... when I am not at Y!A.

Back to your question. I still think you need to buy from a real bike shop. You will need the warranty, the after sale adjustments and the free tune ups. As well as help with flats and other issues that happens a lot. You see, there a few well known, first tier brands like Trek, Giant, Specialized and a few more that make great bikes but even the basic models will be a bit over what you want to pay. Then there are the second tier that are just almost as good but don't have the name recognition even if some have been around for ages. Kona, Motobecane, Raleigh, Fuji, Diamondback, and many more. You find those in the Local Bike Shop, LBS, for a fairly good price although some are only available on line which is not a good option for you at the time.

And then is the used bike option. Out of the 20 or so bikes I ever owned, only 4 were new. If you go used, get a used bike from the LBS. Clist is not for you. You wouldn't know what to look for, what kind of components. How much wear and tear is there. Most Clist bikes are asking 3x what they are worth and you will have to spend some money in repairs in the first month, maybe even several hundreds. some people find real treasures in Clist, but those people know what to look for and may take months. If you buy from a bike shop, you can trade up later, especially if they know the bike condition.

Hey, I can rant too. Feel free to ask.

The first link show my wife's new bike, 7.6 intended for longer rides and 200 mile tours. Even the 7.1 in that FX series will be a nice bike.

The second link is to an online store. Do not buy from there as you will need to do some assembly, use it for reference. You want a hybrid bike (not step through) with 700 tires, double wall aluminum rims. Make sure it has a cassette and freehub and not the old technology freewheel which is weaker. That should be enough to get you going. I sincerely think that you will out grow that bike and maybe will need a road bike later on.

Even a Diamondback wouldn't be a bad choice. I have one since 1989 with over 10k miles.

What kind of bike should I get?

Mini Mi

And by bike, I mean bicycle. I haven't had a bike in years, and the last I had as a kid, was a 10 speed, I think. Maybe, maybe not. It was just a simple bike, straight handlebars, with front and back brakes. That's what I want now. The STRAIGHT across handlebar kind (not the ones that curve back), front and back brakes, and one that I can use for a nice ride in the park. I looked online, and I don't want a "cruiser bike", or whatever it is. To me, I think that would not take hills well. And I live in a hilly area!! My bike experience: I probably maybe only had a five gear bike, yet I never switched the gears. I never understood when to use them. So if I have that, I wouldn't care either way. I want a bike that has the strength to go up hills, and is just a fun, basic bike for rides in the park. OH!! And I don't want some pricey bike. Something under $200, maybe $100-$200. You know, a KMart bike! Anywho, what would you guys recommend?

Thanks!!
Jake B: Yup!! I think you're right. After looking around (I was lazy, that's why I asked this), I found out that a bike looked just like I had remembered! A mountain bike, is what it was. Thank you!

It's purple too, my fave color!! And under 100 bucks. ;)

Answer
ANY mountain bike ;P

(They fit absolutely all of your descriptions perfectly)

Thursday, March 6, 2014

what are some good child triathlon bikes?

Tim O

My son who is 8 wants to get into triathlons. What are some good bikes for his age?

Answer
I don't know that anyone makes a child's triathlon bikes, meaning one that has aero wheels and bars, etc. A child's road bike or even general purpose bike should be sufficient. Try attending a local tri that includes kids and see what the competition is using.

Have you brought your child a tri-cycle for xmas?

KashhBoss

My daughter is 2-years old & she has a tricycle for christmas . It's the one for ages 1Â½-3 , & I was just wondering how easy it it for kids to catch on with the pedal .

Answer
You can only give it to her and find out. It might help if she sees other children using tricycles or bikes.

If you where a 90s kid answer these question please?

Kristin

1. What was your favorite toys of the 90s?
2. What was your favorite tv show of the 90s?
3. What was your favorite movie of the 90s?
4. What do you miss the most about being a kid?
5. Do you miss being a kid?
here answer to my qustion.
1. furby, getcha pets, and the rebo dog
2. Barney when i was really little and rugrats when i got little bit older
3. All disney movies
4. I miss my parent doing evey thing for me
5. Yes cause life was easier and you had to worries. Life was fun.

Answer
1. My bike
2. A tie between Ren & Stimpy and WCW Monday Nitro. I also watched the f*ck out of Power Rangers... Green Ranger FTW.
3. As a kid, Dumb and Dumber... Now, The Big Lebowski
4. Society, actually. We in the US were much more laid back and everything was fine. This was, of course, before all that post-9/11 paranoia sank in and killed our culture.
5. Yes and no. I miss certain aspects, but I like being independent.

Do you help your kids with their school work and do you like it?

Smithers

I noticed a lot of parents do not help their kids with their school work and if they do help them, they hate it. Is it because of stress from work or just being arrogant? What do you guys do?

I personally like helping kids with their school work. It's easy to understand that parents forget how to do the lower levels of math, but its kind of like riding a bike, once you read the practice question or explation, then you can help and teach ur kids how to solve it.

Answer
I like helping kids with their homework, school work and any other thing they may want me for. I don't see it as a chore. In fact, I see it as an opportunity to connect with them and also to relive my own younger days.

See, when I was little, I pretty much self-taught myself. It was hard and I realize how tough it can be for kids when they look out for support and don't find any. I also have a sister and I used to help with her studies and exams when our mother was away doing double shifts at work.

As far as learning goes, I've been a part of kids' lives right from the early days -- right from teaching them to read and write to helping them become independent learners. It develops morale and character.

what is better for my 9 year old overweight child-a treadmill or an exercise bike?

rubin

Answer
Neither, kids don't need to or want to do repetitive exercise like adults can force themselves to do. If you are smart you will try and find a real sport your child can enjoy so that they can interact with other children while also getting good exercise and learning to follow coach instructions and be competitive. There are lots of great sports out there (soccer, football, baseball, lacrosse, basketball, swimming, dance) so hopefully something will interest your child. As for the overweight part, if he/she is only a bit overweight its no concern as they are still growing. However, if quite a bit heavy then you should encourage better eating habits. Cut out the juice's/soda's/chips/fried foods and replace with natural choices like fruit, whole grains, veggies, skim milk and water.

Is the Acadia National Park good for biking - especially with kids 9 -10 years old?

Alice Lock

Answer
Yes, but be sure to pick a path that isn't too hard for the kids, or you.PS be sure to pack a camera and some water.pp

bikes????????????

zach

k so i had a bmx bike as first bike... then i got mountain bike 5 years ago... and like i love to make dirt ramps with my friends.. i need to get a new bike but i want to still do jumps but i also like mountain biking.... and my bike right now doesnt jump good... see video on myspace... "zach falling...dumbass" that why i say it no good at jumps.... it too heavy ... thanks for help....
i like haros but the brakes arent that good... what else is good??
the video is not there sry... my friend taped it with his phone and said he put it there but it not sry

Answer
i've rode bmx for 7 years, and i never really like mountain bikes until i rode a santa cruz chameleon. i bought mine almost as soon as i rode it! it's a mountain bike that rides just like a bmx bike for bunny hopping, hitting jumps, whatever you would want to do on a bmx.(except grind, of course) but they're expensive to build up, and probably $700-$1000 at least, to find a good used one.

if you're not working with a bunch of money, i'd definitely look into a specialized p2... they ride very similar to the chameleon, but they're heavy! i think they're around $700 brand new. an '07 or '06 model would be an even better deal. if you can find an '06 specialized p3 get it!!! it's just as sweet as the chameleon, super light, and probably just as much as a brand new p2. i also see a lot of kids riding the giant stp. i don't know anything about those though...

good luck in your bike search!!!

Motorcycle is a deal breaker for me. Is that wrong?

cathoratio

meant to say his other buddies now WANT to get bikes too.
I have always known that I do not want to be married to a motorcycle enthusiast. I dated one and had fun on few rides, but decided that would never be my lifestyle and I would be too anxious thinking the worst if he was late getting home etc....I just don't like the feeling.

I have witnessed two motorcycle accidents. One where i noticed the guy pass me on the right (distincitive bike) and a few minutes later saw him get clipped by an SUV and fly over the center divide where he was hit by two cars and killed. I watched the bike skid out across three lanes of traffic halting traffic in both directions.

In addition I had a close high school friend die and a neighbor's son die in motorcycle accidents. I pass idiots in cars swerving in lanes texting and on cell phones every day. I just think risk of serious injury is high.

Anyway, I married a sports car enthusiast and we have one convertible sports car and were planning to buy another sports sedan shortly to replace our commuter car.

Now one of his friends buys a sport bike and my hubby starts watching motorcycle races, buying motorbike magazine, watching motorcycles on you tube, and enrolled in motorcycle class.

Maybe in my 20's I might have come around and tried to change my mind and embrace this new hobby, but I am 39, we have a one year old son. I want to be here for every moment of my son's life if at all possible. I'm athletic, I play tennis, I snowboard, I ride my bicycle. We already have lots of hobbies. Snowboarding is not risk free either, but still less likely to die when hit by skiier on their cell phone.

I am also the bread winner. I pay the mortgage, the insurance, the cable, the power. I bought our cars. 100% of my income goes to the necessities/travel/entertainment. My hubby is supposed to put 100% of his salary into our savings.

I just think it is selfish for him to suddenly want to buy an expensive toy that will be used by him alone and that worries me so much.

Even though I make six figure salary, I don't touch our savings. I don't buy Gucci purses or designer clothes. I buy drugstore cosmetics and get our food at costco. I am focused on bettering our son's future and saving funds for family trips (going to Australia in 2010) and I think he should be too.

He said just trust him that he will be safe. But I don't trust others on the road. And I don't want my son to want to "be like daddy" and want to get a motorcycle too. I know I can't stop it if he is 18 and does want to go that route, but I don't want to encourage that AT ALL.

He is my only child and will be my only child. And I don't want to end up a single my mother in her early 40's.

I am seriously thinking of seperating. Not threatening, just ending it. I don't want to love a motorcycle rider. (Two of his other buddies are also not wanting to get bikes so they can all "ride together").
I am not THREATING divorce. I am not going to stop him from getting his motorcycle. He can buy it and insure it and ride it to his heart's content. I am just not comfortable being with anymore. But I won't STOP him. If he loved me he would appreciate my fears and be satisfied with the sports car that i BOUGHT for him. I have loved him enough to financial support him for eight years and for him to want MORE from me all the time. I think snowboarding, kayaking, sports cars, scuba diving etc.... should be enough of a thrill for anyone. He can't do this one thing for me? Please.
I did not give thumbs down. The fact that I am 39 with a one-year old is exactly why I am having issues with motorbike. I know I'm old!

Answer
I just lost a friend on a bike, he left two kids and a wife to go it alone. the kids are 6mo and 3 years old. I tried to talk him out of the bike but he just laugh at me. A woman hit him in a parking lot at low speed. Still killed him. There are no fender benders on bikes. I have two friends who both lost a leg. and a gale in my office has a husband in a chair, hit on his bike. Tell him that. when the kid is groan he can get the bike. Don't leave him, help him understand he is needed in one peace. I sold three bikes when I got married .

PS Your not old, your smart and responsible thinking of others instead of your self. I think you rock. :)

jp

what good mountain bike could I buy with $300?

Elder Orti

I'm looking for a hard tail mountain bike $300 or under the best one possible. Not a kids bike.

Answer
how hard are you riding this bike...if you ride hard don't even think about trek 820 or the 3500 they are very weak bike, the reason for this is the freewheel (the part in the back with all the cogs), the freewheel as it is know is VERY prone to the axles bending which can cause even more damage by bending the drop outs and that is not over under the warranty, you need a bike that has what is know as a freehub (or sometimes called a cassette hub) instead, it is much stronger. i'm not sure how much you want to spend but double wall rim are also much stronger the single wall on a lot of lower end shop bikes, I know the bikes are just a little over what your budget but it is well worth it for the freehub for the axle bending freewheel for the amount you are spending.

here are some good chooses for tail riding

diamond back
lux 2010 -350MSRP
http://www.diamondback.com/bikes/mtn-hardtail/lux-10/

specialized both are 390MSRP
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=45786&eid=4340&menuItemId=9253

http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=45755&eid=4340&menuItemId=9253

Giant - 500
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/bikes/model/rincon.black/3873/36247/

Raleigh talus 4.0 or better - 450
http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes/mountain/talus-4/

Trek nothing under the 3900 460MSRP
http://www.trekbikes.com/int/en/bikes/mountain_hardtail/3_series/3900/

Triace: even this is a great bike with all the same componests as the trek 3900 (but it only has one size) 289
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Triace-26-Mountain-Bike/14089733

BIKES TO STAY AWAY FROM if you plan on doing moderate to advaced trail riding
Raleigh talus - 2.0 and 3.0
Trek - 820, 3500, 3700
Diamond back - Lustre 1 or 2
Giant - boulder or boulder se

or any other bike that use the rear gear part "Shimano TZ31"
about freewheel vs freehubs
http://blog.centurycycles.com/2009/07/techtalk-freewheels-vs-freehubs.html
good luck shopping let me know if you need more sugguestions

How to make money.. for kids?

Q. I am a 13 year old boy and need to make 2000 for a dirt bike i need to make in by summer 2010, any advice so i can rack up the cash?

Answer
walk dogs
pet sit
house sit
type papers
shovel snow in winter
rake
garage sale
have a bake sale
collect cans and return them at a store
teach seniors how to use cell phones or computers
mow lawns
online surveys - kiddzeyes.com or teenseyes.com get permission first
baby sit
bake cookies and have your parents take it to work and sell it
teach swim lessons to little kids
did i already say tutor younger kids?
car wash
weed flowers
clean out garages
clean houses
paper route
some places will pay u to work at a barbershop or something to clean up
go to the dollar store buy candy and sell it in the neighborhood for 2x the price of what you bought them for
buy old bikes, fix em, sell em
run errands for seniors
u might b able to work at mcdonalds (ive heard of kids who were 14 working there)
try to help out at mom or dads work and see if u can do something there for 5 bucks an hour
if u have an old psp or game system that u dont play any more take it to gamestop they will sell it used 4 u

GOOD LUCK!!!!

What age do kids normally learn to ride a bike without training wheels?

Jazmyn

My daughter is almost 7 and doesn't know how and is scared she will fall. I'm just trying to figure out if she is behind other kids.

Answer
It is just fine that kids are learning at 4 or 5, but 7 is not too old either. There are so many factors, most of which are exposure and opportunity, that come into play. The avid rider's kids may ride much more often than someone else's so that one kid has 40 hours on a bike by age 4 when it takes another child to age 7 to get 40 hours. My main point is not to be concerned with being behind; many kids learn up to age 9, with the average age being around 6.
If her fear is really preventing her from trying, suit her up with helmet, elbow and knee pads. Tap the pads while on her so that she can know what it feels like. Be silly about tapping the pads, like it hurt your finger or something.

I want to get started ridding bikes with my son.?

robert r

My son want to start riding a bike with me ( great information about kids first bike on the Forum). He all set up in the bike department now. I want to get off the couch and join him. I don't know to much about bikes. Last time,I was on one was 25 yrs ago. I want simple. I never got the hang of shifting gears and the suspension on this bikes. I'm 6' 3", I would any suggestions.

Answer
Head to your local bike shop and pick up a cruiser-style bike. They're quite popular among casual cyclists of all ages, they're more comfortable than a race bike, and you don't have to worry about shifting gears, as most of them are singlespeed. And even the expensive models aren't all that pricey. Riding with a small child, you probably don't need a lot of high-speed gear ratios anyway.
The seating position allows you to plant your feet firmly on the ground, so you can help your son out without dismounting, and the comfortable upright position will also enable you to keep a close eye on the little guy.
Your local bike shop will be able to answer any questions, and help you with choosing a suitable bike for your needs, size, and budget.
Remember to get well-fitting helmets for both of you, too.

By the way, a cruiser comes in handy for running to the store to pick up "beverages."

4 &2 year old dirt bike racing?

Jacke

I'd like to get my 4&2 year old sons into dirt bike racing.... any info on how to get started, the best bike to get and the best/cheapest place to get the bikes would help, thankes if it helps I'm from Ohio
Thanks, if you happen to see John R send him my way jackegolden@yahoo.com
French, I figured 2 years was too young but I was told by a few people that they need to start training at 2, thanks so much!

Answer
There is no sections for racing for 2 year olds as they are just too young. In most places the lowest age grouping is 4 years to 6 years and they race stock pee wee junior class up to 51cc. The best bikes to start on would be a little crf50 or a Yamaha Pee Wee 50. Being a honda or Yamaha parts are easily obtained and they are pretty much bomb proof.
Just look up classifieds in your area if you are not buying new and see if you can take someone who knows bikes with you to view them.
You would be best to contact your local track about racing and ask them firstly when they have practise days as no one should race before having time to practise. Take your 4 year old to those and then you can ask about racing. You need to be friendly to others at the track with kids your children's age as among them will no doubt be some dads who race themselves and they will be able to help you with the basics. A warning though once you start down this path it can lead to a very low bank balance if you children decide they want to race for the next 15 years or more.

What size bike for 4 year old?

Mom to Mat

My son is going to turn 4 in 2 weeks. We decided we wanted to get him his first real bike for his b-day. We went last night to get one and we were talking to a salesmen about what size we should get for him. They had 12in and 16in. He told us that age 4 is kind of in the middle of the 2 sizes so it was more difficult so we decided since we didn't want him to grow out of it too fast we would get the 16in. I just wanted to make sure it's not going to be TOO big for him. Some reviews online said it would be good for ages 4-7 but others said 6-8. We got him the Disney Cars bike (that they sell at Walmart, Target & Toys R Us) it does have an adjustable seat and handlebars. Like I said he is almost 4 and is about 41-42in tall. What do you all think?

Answer
just bring the child to the bike have him sit on it and if he can sit on the seat and tip toe the ground and stand over the bar and not rack himself on it, it is the right size, or ask a friend whos kid is the same size to try it out or ask other parents of kids the same height as we are on here what size bike their kid uses

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Bicycle for College?

Dave

I will be moving to a new area down at the beach for college and will need a way of getting around to classes.

I have always been interested in cycling and have in the past considered a racing bike.

But this is college and my bike might be possibly stolen. What type of bike will be best for this situation and could someone point me towards some brands?

Answer
As I did for myself, kids, and nieces over the years, go garage sailing or garbage picking. Find something in reasonable working order, all the better if if it doesn't look like much. Flashy is bad if you don't want to attract the eye of the local ne'er-do-wells. Put some time (clean running gear, repack bearings) and a few bucks into parts (new tires, tubes, maybe a chain) to make sure its going to be reliable.

Speed is irrelevant for getting around campus. An MTB, or something heavy duty is better. Knobby tires don't flat as easily as your lighter weight touring and racing tires.

Should I bring a bicycle to college?

Hey There

I know kids who bring their bike to college. They bike to classes and around campus for exercise.

Answer
Having a bike is generally a good thing, but agreed it depends on the bike-friendliness of the campus and your accommodations. Some campuses and cities are far more bike-friendly than others. Worth a visit to your college before bringing a bike - if you can see yourself biking around town and having a convenient place to lock it up when not using it, by all means bring one.

Also worth considering is bike theft. I'd bring something functional but cheap. No sense losing a $3K bike on your first week.

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Good BMX bike, light strong free agent?

Q. I just got into bmx racing and im sticking with it. I am already passing kids my age who have been doing it for a lot longer, but im borrowing a bike, a free agent team to be specific. I really like the bike, its light, fast, and tough. So should i save up for one of those(dang i gotta sell my ipod), or what are some other good bikes?Im looking for an expert size. Should I go light, or strong? Thanks! ( oh and by the way theres an ipod for sale now)
The only reason im not fully sure on buying the free agent is 1, the price, im not the person who gets bought whatever i want, so it might be awhile, and 2 i was just wondering if there were any other bikes that might be lighter but cheap

Answer
well if u like it and its light then yes save up for it. why not? its not what others think of the bike, its the way u feel about it.

Why a 250 bike for beginner?

Chris

So I know that a 250 is the ideal bike for a beginner, but I don't know why a 650 would be difficult for a beginner. Can you list me some cons for buying a 650cc if you're a beginner?

Answer
When I was a kid, there were a lot of bikes around in the under-250cc range. Most of us, our first bike was a 90 or a 125, or a big hairy-chested freeway-legal 150! 8^) Elvis Presley made a film called Roustabout, about a motorcycle bum who joins a carnival, and he rode around on a big, menacing-looking Honda 305! The biggest bike Honda made in those days was a 350!

In those days, they used to say there was no reason a motorcycle needed to be bigger than 250cc! People routinely crossed the continent on them. But that was in the day when US highways were 45-50 mph. A 250 is all the motorcycle you will ever need if you never need to go faster than 50 mph.

Today a 250cc bike is about the smallest you can get (except for a scooter or a moped or something). We get the 'first bike' question here a lot and a lot of people insist you should learn on a 250 because it's small and light and easy to manage. Which is true.

BUT these days most people are going to want to cruise on the highway, and a 250 is just inadequate. A Honda Rebel 250 or Kawasaki Ninja 250 will go 70 mph (on a good day with the wind behind you) but the suspension isn't designed for that speed so the bike is all over the road, not comfortable and not safe. A good gust of wind can put you over one lane, and if there's a car there, you're toast. Plus the throttle is wide open, you have no power in reserve.

It really depends on how you see yourself riding. If you're just riding to school and back, to work and back, and perhaps the occasional weekend ride on back roads, a 250 would be fine. But if you ever want to go more than 2 or 3 miles on an Interstate, you need at least 500cc and 650cc is better.

A 500 or 650 is bigger/heavier than a 250, but I don't think it's that much more. A normal 18 year old could handle it. So long as you can sit on the bike with both feet flat on the ground.

People talk about 'too much power'. But in my mind that's not a problem. The bike is not going to just take off with you like a wild horse. If you're mature enough to ride a bike in the first place, you use only as much power as you need. A little extra, in reserve, is a good thing, when you want to pass someone on the freeway. If you aren't mature enough, you can get your fool neck broke just as easily on a 250.

Anyway that's what I think.

What kind of Triathlon Bike should I get?

Ron B

I am 15 looking to participate in my first sprint Triathlon. I want a bike to use because mine is an old kids mountain bike. Also i'm not looking to spend a fortune on a bike like $300 or less. Everyone I can find is like thousands of dollars. Can you help me find a good triathlon bike that won't leave me broke.

Answer
Ron

Most tri riders use road bikes. Some will bolt on a pair of aero bars to make them a little more tri friendly. So, you my friend, are looking for a used road bike on Craig's list, classifieds, or at a local bike shop.

Can't you borrow a road bike from a friend for the day?

Soccerref

Good quality flat bar road bike?

eaton4c

I'm looking for a good quality flat bar road bike to use in a triathlon and to ride around with my kids. I have my eye on a Specialized Vita or Sirrus, or a Giant Dart. Are these decent bikes for what I need to do? Any other suggestions? Thank you!

Answer
eaton

If you are really going to get into tri's, then you will kick yourself in the butt for not getting a drop bar bike. So, unless you can afford another bike... or are not going to do the tr'is... choose wisely.

Soccerref

Monday, March 3, 2014

What kind of bike would be good for me?

Max Morgan

Hi, I would like a bmx bike, to do street riding and just casual biking. I'm about 6'0 foot and around 200 pounds. I need a bike that would be best for me in size and in price. an u help me? Thank u fr ur time.

Answer
BMX is for kids. I would say you want a mountain bike or a 'hybrid'. Street/hybrid/mountain bikes are sized by the seatpost, from the center of the crank to the top of the seatpost. For a 6' person, you want around 20 in. or 50 cm. Plus you want to be able to stand astride the bike with 3" clearance between your crotch and the bar.

Good brands are Cannondale, Trek, Marin, Gary Fisher, etc. Schwinn makes good bicycle-shop bikes and also cheap department-store bikes. The typical hybrid today has 18 or 21 or 24 gears, which are more than you will ever use.

I would say if you are doing just street riding, or even the occasional gravel path, you don't need suspension. Front suspension robs you of momentum when you start out or accelerate (it flexes and absorbs some energy). Rear suspension is only for serious mountain biking.

Also for street riding, the narrower the wheels/tires the better, within limits. Big fat knobby tires are for off-road. Narrower tires means less rolling resistance.

Look on Craigslist. There are lots of lightly-used bikes for about half price.

getting back into biking, whats best leather or man made fibre clothing?

David

25 years off the road due to usual reasons, wife,kids etc

Answer
Gear has made a bunch of leaps in the recent years. Leather still offers the most protection when it comes to any sort of abrasion. I'm not endorsing Harley gear, but they've been putting out leather gear that has retro-reflective seams on it, and brighter colored leather to be more visible. In a nut shell, leather is still very good option.

That being said, textiles have come a long way. And while they don't offer as much protection from abrasion, since most accidents are at slower speeds, you're probably not going to find yourself sliding down the road for a 100 ft. (it can happen, but I'd say it's much less likely).

I prefer the textiles because they seem to be much easier to adjust to the current conditions. And even though leather can be weatherproof, I personally seem to be more comfortable in the textiles when it's pouring than I am in leather.

I would say that if you can find some gear that fits you well, makes you visible, and allows you to adjust your comfort levels, and has internal armoring, I think you'll be as protected as you can be. GL and be safe.

Why do many kids bicycles' pedals not rotate freely in reverse direction?

Nash R

I have to buy a kids bicycle (20"). I noticed that pedals in many of these bicycles do not rotate freely in reverse direction. Is that a feature or a bug? It's useful to have them rotate freely so that you can easily bring to them to starting position when you're just starting your ride.

Answer
As others have noted that style of brake is known as a 'coaster' brake and is very common with bicycles designed for younger kids. It operates much like a drum brake in that when operated by pedalling backwards small internal plates are pressed against the internal shell of the rear hub. Kids bicycles have coaster brakes because smaller children for the most part do not have enough hand strength or have not developed enough coordination to operate a hand brake that you would see on most adult or larger kids bikes. Yet they do need to be able to stop, hence the coaster brake. On larger kids bikes -- with 20" wheels or BMX style frames -- you will often see a combination of a front hand brake with a coaster brake. This is sort of an inbetween bike, if you will, designed to allow the developement of the hand strength and coordination necessary to operate a normal hand brake.

Bicycle Helmets.....?

RaLoh

We have 5 active children and they live in their bike helmets.... the rule in our house is "if it has wheels you had better be wearing a helmet". Bicycle helmets are required by Law here in NYS and it amazes me how many children come to my house without them. If they are at our home without a helmet they are not allowed on their bikes.

Is there a place I can contact for free bike helmets?? I would love nothing more than to make sure every kid in my town has one.... and wears it. Even though it is a law, it is not enforced, which kills me.

Thank you in advance for any information.

Answer
Contact some of your local bicycle clubs; I've seen some run fundraisers to donate helmets to kids.

But, sounds like these aren't "poor kids" but jsut that their parents don't enforce a helmet rule like you do. Why not just talk to Mom n Dad?

Or, you could go to any big discount store and find plenty of helmets under $20 each.

Going to get a new bike for my 4 yr old son's birthday today?

Serenity

QUICK ten points. Trek Jet 12" or Schwinn Tiger AL 12". There aren't many reviews on kids bikes. We are leaning toward Trek because that's what me and hubby have. We're going in a couple hours time right now 1:06 PST
We went to the cycle shop and ended up with the Trek jet 16" green and black. It's a sturdy bike came w/training wheels and he's already off and riding! Thanx to all for ur advice

Answer
At this age, you want to get him a good size (not too big and not too small) so that they can learn to ride properly. The problem is that they grow out of it quickly. I purchased a used bike for my son. when he was 4. He is 5 now and I am planing to purchase another used one.
I will probably consider getting a new one when he is 7 of 8 knowing that he will ride it for a few years.
I don't think the brand matters much at this age. Make sure you get him a nice looking cake with a lot of colors and some interesting toys like transformers
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/602-5591327-9377418?ASIN=B000LDU2TK&AFID=Froogle&LNM=B000LDU2TK|Hasbro_Transformers_Cyber_Stompin_Bumblebee&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=B000LDU2TK&ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001
or advanced Thomas the train tracks http://woodentoys.meskotech.com
or what ever he is interested in.
Have fun

What should a a 12 year old do over Christmas holidays?

MCpasta

I got 2 weeks break, but I have nothing to do so what do you guys do for fun?

Answer
If your a boy then: How about playing video games? My little brothers are honestly always playing video games and are always getting the latest games. They don't go outside much only when their leaving with the family but other then that, that's it really. I mean at 12 your considerably too young to be going out by yourself like to the movies. If you live next to a park you could go to the park and chill by yourself but with adults around you not like your parents or anything..just make it's a safe park with crossing guards and such around..because I know some kids don't like hanging with their parents. You can also go riding your bike, skateboard, scooter or rollerblading outside. I know it's winter time and I don't know where you live you could go out depending on the snow level.

You can even play some internet games that are suitable for your age. I mean if nothing else helps you here you could sleeping over friend's house and kick it with them. OR their is youtube and you can watch game reviews or something appropriate. You could also play games and stuff on disney channel... http://home.disney.go.com/tv/..You could play sports. You can also draw or listen to music or make your own song or lyrics.

If your a girl: You could do all the same things a boy would do like I mentioned above. I know if your a girl and if you still like barbies you can play on www.barbie.com, www.pollypocket.com, or even play http://home.disney.go.com/. You could play sports with friends, family or by yourself. You could draw anything you wanted to draw...or possibly make jewelry with plastics beads and such.

Well, that's all I got for now..I tried thinking about what a 12 year old should be doing..

:)

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Where can I find a toddler bike perfect for an autistic child?

Q. I am looking for a toddler bike for my 4 y/o autistic child. I am hoping to find a bike that has two important things to make teaching him easier. One that there be straps on his pedals and two that the pedals will be "fixed" so that they move while the bike is in motion. We bought him a walmart bike and he sits on it but he doesn't grasp the concept that if you push the pedals the bike will move and not just mommy and daddy doing the pushing. ;) thanks in advance.

Answer
I know that toys r us has toys for special needs kids. I dont' know if they have this particular item, but you can check with them.
Also, check out

http://www.flaghouse.com/search.asp?skw=bike&x=19&y=2

Has anyone tried one of those Strider toddler bikes - without pedals?

Rose Arizo

Wondering if it's a fad, or really is easier for toddlers to get the hang of.

Answer
We are planning on getting one for our 2 yr old...my brother in law is a bike mechanic and says that it teaches balance and most kids can even skip the training wheels.

Good starter bike?

Kory M

I want a dirt bike that is fast but i dont want to make and high jumps with it either, but some jumps if i get good.. under $1000
age:15
5'6"
first time rider

Answer
"i would go with a 90 honda, not a 125, to tall for you and power"

you're kidding right? i'm 5'4'' and ride a 200cc, i could even go up more, and this was my first bike... and it's by far not too poweful for me nor too fast... (i'd like more of both actually)

at 5'6'' if you got on a 90 or 125 cc bike, (unless it's two stroke, which you don't want becuase you just aid you don't want too much power or speed) you're gonna look like a fucking circus act... a full grown person riding a midget bike....(aside from chinese pit bikes... those have suspension built for bigger people, not kids.. so of course they're seat height is at about your height limit)

at 5'6'' you can ride any bike with a seat height around 34''-37''... although most likely at 37'' you'll be tiptoing on one foot and flat footing the other (not entirely a bad thing... it's reccomended you can flat foot on both sides, but that's just a general example, it doesn't apply to everyone... that's just what generally people find easier)

start with looking at the seight height range i gave, and go sit on the bikes....

btw, just off the top of my head... yamaha ttr-225, honda crf230f, honda xr200, xr250, yamaha yz250f... all great starter bikes that should fit you perfectly. plenty of speed and power when you need/want it... not enough to kill you. lol.

pocket bike starter?

isaacsyed

I have a pull starter on my pocket bike and i would like to upgrade to an electric start can somebody please refer me to a site which will have the electric starter for sale.

Answer
You have to be kidding...

Pull the damned cord.

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