This weekend marks the 15th annual Test of Metal 67km cross-country mountain bike race and while our littlest bikers are no match for the course, we've rounded up some of our favourite bikes so they can start training early.
Run bikes let your child use and develop balance, speed up the learning curve to transition to a two-wheeler and are a great alternative to training-wheels. The Norco '10 Run Bike ($120) is geared towards 2-5 year olds and is a cross between a bike and a scooter. Made from strong, light-weight aluminum, it features foam wheels, an adjustable quick-release saddle, adjustable handlebars and soft grips for little hands. And it comes in pink, too. Norco's Alloy Run Bike ($139) has all of the above but is made with rubber tires for extra grip. Find them at Corsa Cycles, 830-1200 Hunter Place, Squamish.
The Adams Run Bike ($89) is a great affordable first bike. It features a strong and lightweight steel frame, ball bearing headsets and wheel bearings, a long saddle for multiple sitting positions, and an adjustable saddle height to fit children from 2.5-5 years of age. The durable foam wheels don't wear and the handle bars are easily adjustable. Available in pink and blue. Find it at Tantalus Bike Shop, 40194 Glenalder Place, Squamish.
Our eco-friendly pick is the very attractive Skuut ($145) wooden balance bike weighing 10lbs with an adjustable seat range from just over 13.5"-16.5" to fit most 2-5 year olds. It won't be the best on the trails, but the wood is protected by a lacquer veneer coating (just don't leave it outside for too long as with it being made of wood it is susceptible to warping from too much exposure to the elements). Find it at Rain City Bikes, 2518 Manitoba Street, Vancouver.
And finally, what little biker wouldn't be happy with his or her very own mod scooter? The Kiddimoto Brit Pop scooter is made from 100% renewable birch wood with a foam seat cushion and hand grips built for your 3-6 year old (they make superbikes, choppers and scramblers too). Sadly, this does not come in our size. From $160. Find it at Simon's Bike Shop, 608 Robson Street, Vancouver.
Test of Metal pre-race fun starts tonight at 6pm. Kid-friendly activities will include a bouncy castle, mini-obstacle course and a mini-trials area for your little bikers. Vroom, vroom!
Top to bottom:
Kiddimoto Brit Pop
Skuut
Adams Run Bike - Girls
Norco 10' Run Bike - Boys
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