Yes, many parents can't wait to cycle with their little ones. After a few months behind the pram, it's time to make the world (for both of you 😉) a little bigger again. Discover the world together and make beautiful memories. Are you curious about how to cycle safely with your child? We'll give you the best tips. And we'll start at the beginning:
At what age can my child ride on a bicycle?
This is a question asked by many (newborn) parents. When can your child ride on the front of the bicycle in a child seat? In addition to a few general rules, this also depends on your child's development. There are two types of seats that can be attached to a bicycle: a front seat and a rear seat.
A front seat is suitable for:
- Children between 9 and 13 months old: when your child can sit upright independently for a long(er) period of time, your baby can ride in the front child seat. This is (usually) around 9 months.
- Up to a weight of 15 kg: the front seat can carry a weight of up to 15 kg. This means that children around the age of 3 (approximately) will need to move to a rear seat.
These are, of course, guidelines. Take a good look at what your child can do at the moment and what he or she can sustain. Is your child becoming too heavy to sit in the front after a few years? Then it's time to buy a rear seat. If in doubt, always visit a bicycle shop in your area for advice.
A family bike: the ideal bike for cycling safely with your baby
Now we know when your child can come along. But which bike is suitable for cycling with your baby? Most "regular" bikes can accommodate a child seat. However, you'll soon discover that not all bikes are equally comfortable and suitable for transporting children. So-called "family bikes" are specifically designed for transporting children. These bikes have all sorts of clever features for extra safe and easy cycling with children. We have updated and improved our family bike, the Batavus Mambo. This bike has the following advantages over a regular bike:
- Extra space between the handlebars and saddle: this ensures easy and safe mounting and dismounting. Ideal with a front seat.
- Two-legged stand: the two-legged stand keeps your bike stable when carrying extra weight. This makes loading and unloading children and luggage easy. Note: never walk away from your bike when your child(ren) are on it. Handlebar lock: The handlebar lock allows you to temporarily lock your handlebars. This provides extra stability when you place your child in the seat. The handlebars remain stable and straight.
- Extra weight: The Mambo is extra sturdy and therefore suitable for carrying extra weight.
- Extender: This extra-long luggage carrier allows you to carry a child seat and an extra pannier.
And don't forget the front basket for all your extra luggage. Cycling in all weather conditions? The anti-slip pedals allow you to cycle in rain and autumn without slipping off the pedals.
The Mambo is so modular that you can easily convert it back into a regular bike. Ideal for a fun evening out on the town. Or if your children no longer ride with you after a few years.
How to make cycling with your baby extra safe
Practice cycling beforehand
Are you nervous about cycling with your baby in front? Then practice without your child first. For example, place a bag of potatoes in the front of the seat. Your turning circle will be different with extra weight in front. This way, you can safely try cornering first.
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Put your baby's helmet on as early as possible.
Not mandatory yet, but it's safer. Cycling with a helmet. The smallest helmets start at a head circumference of 48 cm. -
Ensure good visibility
Make sure you're extra visible (in addition to standard lights). Consider, for example, an extra flag or reflectors.
Can't wait to get going?
Then a cargo bike might be right for you. The Batavus Fier cargo bike easily attaches with a Maxi-Cosi holder/car seat carrier. With both the car seat carrier and the baby seat, your baby can ride in the cargo bike from 3 months (when their neck is strong enough).
Want to know more about cycling safely with your child? Your local bike shop can tell you all about it.
