Many people around the globe are becoming aware of the effect of pollution on the environment. As a result, they are becoming more conscious about their choices in everyday life. Switching from fuel-based vehicles to bicycles is a major decision that people are making nowadays. Using a bicycle for workouts, travelling, running errands, going to work, etc., is a great decision that affects the environment positively and makes you physically active and healthy.
If you are a parent and still want to switch to cycling for every task, then you have the benefit of making your bicycle more usable and comfortable even for your child. You can do it by adding child bike seats for your children.
You need to have the necessary information about the different types of child seats available in the market and then invest in the one that suits you the best:
The following points explain the ins and outs of child bike seats available in the market:
Choose the type of seat
If you are actually looking for a bike seat for your child, you must first determine certain factors like your child’s age and the positioning of the seat. There are three types of child seats: rear, front, and mid-mount. All three seats have different features.
Rear seat: the rear bike seat best suits children who are 12 months of age as it can take a load of 48lbs. They also have the feature of reclining, suspension, and safety straps.
Front seat: these bike seats are the smallest in size and most suitable for nine months to 2 years old children. These seats can be placed between the arms of the rider, which makes it even safer for the child.
Mid-mount seat: these bike seats, just like front seats, are positioned between the handlebars and the rider, but they are suitable for children 2 to 4 years of age. It is best for the riders who often want to take their child for mountain rides as it helps them maintain balance.
Compatibility
When you are planning to purchase a bike seat for your child, you must choose the type of seat according to your child’s age to ensure the child’s and your safety while riding. However, many types of bicycles are often not compatible with the type of seat you choose for your child. So, along with the type of child bike seats, you must examine the type of bicycle you have and which seat will best suit your child and your bicycle.
Safety features
When you have selected the type of seat for your child that suits your preferences, you must make sure that the seat has certain safety features to keep your child safe.
Harness: A bike seat can provide two basic types of harnesses; these are 3 point harnesses and 5 point harnesses. Both of these types are safe for the child, but you can choose the five-point harness if you want extra security.
Straps quality: you must make sure that the quality of the straps used in the harness is gentle on the delicate skin of your child but also firm enough to stay in place.
Bumpers: you must ensure that the edges of the seat are bulgy and soft so that the child doesn’t get injured. It must also have bumpers so that the arms and fingers of the child remain safe from rubbing against another vehicle, a wall or a pole, etc.
Test: You must test the seat by attaching it with your bicycle and not getting detached.