Three Steps to Revving

Introduction

There are many reasons why parents want to introduce their children to motorcycling at an early age. It will undoubtedly give them a fantastic opportunity to learn how to control a mechanically propelled vehicle long before they are old enough to qualify for a licence and first venture onto public roads. For some their first ride could lead to greater things. Multiple MotoGP Champion Valentino Rossi is reputed to have first ridden a motorcycle aged two years and American Moto-X superstar Ricky Carmichael started out at three. In the UK the stars of tomorrow can start racing in ‘schoolboy motocross’ events from 6 years upwards. Whether riding for sport or leisure, a good quality mini bike will provide years of entertainment and an opportunity for parents to spend quality time with their children in the fresh air. However, these are proper motor vehicles, not toys, and for many parents buying one will be an investment that requires serious thought. Over the years at Harglo Performance we have sold thousands of mini motorcycles to customers throughout the UK. We have used our experience to turn the decision-making process into 3 easy steps and to help you figure out when, where and what your child should ride.

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Step 1 – When to ride?

There is a wide choice of bikes from well-established manufacturers that are designed for children to ride from 4 years of age. However, as children develop at different rates, the following check list will help parents to decide whether their child is ready.

Step 2 - Where to ride?

In order to enjoy mini-biking all you need is access to some private land, such as a large garden, field or paddock. You don’t need to own the land, providing that the landowner has given you permission to use it. There are many motocross tracks around the UK, most of which have a separate practice circuit for novices. Since most junior machines are small and light, they are easy to transport in a family hatchback or estate car (remember to transport it upright, so fuel does not spill, and firmly secured, preferably with tie-down straps.

Step 3 - Which bike to buy?

Just because a motorcycle is small, it isn’t necessarily designed for children. There has recently been a massive influx into the UK of cut-price mini-motos and mini motocross style bikes.

The European Commission’s Consumer Affairs department has identified examples of these cheap imports with serious safety issues, such as unguarded drive chain and sprocket, which present a trapping and contact hazard to the user. Some have fuel systems that could leak and electrical circuits without a main fuse, either of which are potential fire hazards. Inadequate welding and low-grade nuts, bolts and screws were also evident. Although sometimes incorrectly marketed as 'toys' these vehicles have loud engines and can reach speeds of up to 60mph. None of which is ideal for a 4-year old!

Specialist manufacturers understand that novice riders need a machine in a soft state of tune with top speed restricted to a jogging pace, so that parents can keep up with the child as they learn to ride. Most learner machines have automatic transmission, so the inexperienced rider does not need to cope with gears or operating the clutch.

Although there is no legal requirement to wear any protective clothing when riding off road, all responsible manufacturers recommend that you wear a motorcycle helmet approved to the current safety standard ECE 22.05. Ensure that it is the correct size; otherwise it could easily come off in an accident.

Check List

1. When? Is your child old enough and big enough for their first motorcycle and will they be capable of controlling it.
2. Where? Make sure that you have access to suitable private land for riding the bike or a nearby practice track.
3. What? Is the machine you are considering designed for children by a reputable manufacturer? What about warranty, parts and technical support?

Any questions?

You can call Harglo on 01386 701162