Few skills stir up a sense of childhood adventure and accomplishment like learning to ride a bicycle. Practicing wheelies, feeling the wide-open road, cruising downhill at high speeds all scream the word “freedom!”
Though the initial learning process is usually filled with anticipation and anxiety, after a few wobbles or mishaps, the personal triumph of balance opens a whole new world. It also nurtures physical fitness, builds dexterity, boosts confidence and can bring families and friends together on shared adventures.
Here are a few helpful tips about the process that may serve parents thinking about this crucial step for their own children.
The right equipment
To begin, a well fitted bike is the foundation of every positive biking experience. For beginners, a lightweight, appropriately sized bicycle is ideal. Both feet should comfortably touch the ground when sitting on the seat, offering a sense of stability and control. Many bike shops offer fittings to ensure the right frame size and seat height.
Safety is paramount. Insist on a bike helmet that fits snugly and covers the forehead. Closed-toe shoes with good grip are a must, as are comfortable clothes that won’t catch in the bike chain. Consider additional protective gear like knee and elbow pads, especially for young learners or for times spent on uneven surfaces. Bright or reflective clothing is a good idea and enhances visibility, while gloves protect hands from scrapes.
Where to go
Being a very bike-friendly city, Bend has no shortage of places to ride, but before taking the kids to Phil’s Trailhead, select a wide, flat and traffic-free area for the initial lessons. Think quiet parking lots, an empty playground or a smooth, grassy field. Grass offers a softer landing for falls, while pavement makes pedaling easier once balance is achieved. The chosen space should be free of obstacles to minimize distractions and hazards. One suggestion is to take the kids to the COCC track, which checks all the boxes.
Technique
Striding and gliding are terms experts use to describe the fundamental skills of balancing a bike. Remove the pedals and lowe the seat so the rider can sit comfortably with both feet flat on the ground. This transforms the bike into a balance bike, allowing the learner to focus solely on balancing. Encouraged to push off with their feet and glide, the rider practices rolling in a straight line, steering and stopping using just their feet. This stage can last minutes, days or even weeks depending on the individual.
While gliding, the rider should practice gentle turns and controlled stops. They will get familiar with the brakes – pedal brakes for younger children or hand brakes for older ones. Understanding how to slow down and stop safely builds control and confidence.
Once balancing becomes natural, reattach the pedals and raise the seat so only the balls of the feet touch the ground. Give the rider a push off as they position one foot on a pedal, the other on the ground for a strong first launch. Tell them to pedal immediately after setting off, keeping their gaze ahead rather than down at the wheels. If necessary, provide support by holding the seat while gently guiding the rider as they find their balance.
Practice, practice, practice
It may feel counterintuitive, but a little speed makes balancing much easier. Encourage the rider to pedal with steady, even strokes. Remind them to keep their elbows relaxed, shoulders loose and to look in the direction of where they want to go. Practice gentle turns, slowing and stopping, gradually introducing more complex moves as their comfort level grows.
Remember, repetition is at the heart of all learning. Confidence and smoothness will come with time and practice. The fear of falling is real (even at my age). Most falls at slow speeds are harmless and not a sign of failure. Each attempt builds resilience and brings the rider closer to their goal.
As a teacher, your primary job is to be patient and provide encouragement. Applaud every step of progress, whether it’s a few seconds of balance or a first full ride. Keep lessons playful with laughter and smiles, while modeling proper biking technique and safety practices.
On their way!
Once the learner can start, ride, steer and stop with confidence, it’s time to explore beyond the practice area. Begin with quiet, low-traffic streets or paved bike paths. Always obey traffic rules, teach the proper hand signals for turns and such and stay aware of cars, pedestrians and other cyclists. With experience, the sense of adventure grows, and with it comes more responsibility. You’ll enjoy seeing your young cyclist ready to take on the world!
You’ve probably heard the adage, “It’s like riding a bike, you never forget.” Riding a bike is a lifelong and very worthwhile skill to have as a child. With practice, riders can build endurance, tackle longer distances or try new forms of cycling like mountain biking, touring or even racing. Cycling is an enjoyable form of exercise, a family bonding activity or an adventurous hobby.
The journey of learning how to ride a bike is filled with ups and downs, literally. With patience, support and curiosity, the first wobbling ride quickly becomes a confident glide. Before they know it, riders will be exploring the endless trails of Central Oregon and beyond.
Looking for family friendly bike routes to get some practice? Check out the following link: hutchsbicycles.com/articles/family-friendly-bike-routes-pg211.htm
This article appears in BendNest Fall 2025.
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