Riding bikes together is a growing experience and families that join into this activity as a unit can build a sense of comradeship. Learning to look out for one another and help one another if someone falls or experiences mechanical mishaps along the bike ride teaches family members teamwork and builds trust.

Check out your residential area to see where your family might bike together safely. Is there a park or a bike trail where a family could ride without traffic concerns?

Group Rides
A family must consider the ages of children and the length of the bike ride for the children involved. Planned group bike rides can be considered for families with teens. Still, these long rides (25 miles) require substantial training.

Prepare with short practice rides that build up to the big ride. Carry along the required extra clothes, tires, first aid supplies (including sunscreen), snacks and water. A friend or family member in a vehicle to aid the group during the ride may be a necessity. The group may have to pick up a bike or rider who is having problems and carry him home or to a check point to wait for the group.

Bike Ride in the Park
For younger children, an afternoon pedaling around a local park’s one mile bike trail may be a perfect family experience. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it.  Dress alike and add streamers to bike handles. Bike mounted flag poles with bright colored safety flags help family members keep track of each other and give visibility for extra safety.

Most important is the issue of keeping little ones out of harm’s way. Choose a dead end street or a traffic free route with kids. A large deserted parking lot may be a safe place if the stores are closed. School zones offer some added safety for family outings, as people usually drive slower and keep an eye out for children. Don’t assume drivers will see kids or stop for them.

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