How do I properly put a bike helmet on my kid?
Are your kids not into bike helmets or does the helmet sit all wonky sometimes? Here are some tips to keep the little ones safe.
Kids' Bike? But safe! Regulations for road-safe children's bikes
Does a kids' bike need lighting? Is a chain guard mandatory? And is there a helmet requirement for kids? We've got you and your kid covered.
What qualifies as a road-safe kids' bike mainly depends on your child's age. Based on this, it’s determined where the little one is allowed or even required to ride their bike. According to the road traffic regulations (StVO), kids up to eight years of age must use the sidewalk. The only exceptions are structurally separated bike paths. Even in bicycle streets, children up to eight must use the sidewalk. By the way, you're allowed to accompany your child in these cases. Between the ages of eight and ten, kids can choose whether they want to ride on the road or the sidewalk. From the age of ten, they are then required to ride on the road or other bike path options such as bike or protective lanes.
Overview: Standards for kid's Bikes
From these rules, the standard for children's bicycles is derived. Most kids under eight ride a bike with 20-inch wheels or smaller. However, these bikes are not considered as bicycles but specifically as children's bikes. Therefore, the international standard DIN EN ISO 4210 for bicycles does not apply here, but rather these bikes are tested according to the DIN EN ISO 8098 standard. This standard includes all bikes with a saddle height between 425 and 635 millimeters and not designed for “stunt riding” (e.g., BMX), so, roughly speaking, kids' bikes between 14 and 20 inches. The test criteria are adapted to child-specific stresses, and there is a special feature that a chain guard should be part of the equipment. Reason being: kids could easily pinch their fingers or clothes in the chain. Therefore, it might be worth considering opting for a kids' bike with a belt drive like our models from Early Rider. This way, clothes are better protected against pinching and dirt than with a conventional chain. However, this standard is only a recommendation and not a legal obligation like the road traffic licensing regulations (StVZO).
Battery-powered lighting only for larger bikes
Since your child, with a bike up to 20 inches, is usually only on the sidewalk, it does not fall under the scope of the lighting regulations of the StVZO. This means: It doesn't need lighting. However, we recommend that you equip your child's bike with lighting from an early age, so they learn how to handle it early and are visible on the sidewalk even in the dark. That's why there are also 20-inch bikes with permanently installed lighting systems. The lower weight and the option to remove the light in sunshine are the advantages of battery lighting. Fixed light, on the other hand, cannot be forgotten or stolen.
Battery-powered lighting needs a K-number
Your child can indeed use battery-powered lighting when older and if their bike falls under the scope of the StVZO. Since 2013, battery and battery-powered lighting is officially allowed in traffic. Thus, children's and young people's bikes no longer need a dynamo, which makes the bike heavier. However, it's important to regularly check the charge level of the battery lights. The battery-powered lighting itself should not be too heavy, but should offer high lighting intensity and simple operation. When buying StVZO-compliant lighting, make sure to look out for the K-number from the Federal Motor Transport Authority. Only these are allowed to be used in traffic.
Reflectors are mandatory
Also mandatory according to the StVZO are reflectors. Front and rear reflectors are part of the basic equipment and are already standard on many bikes or included in the delivery. There are also retrofit battery lights with integrated reflectors. Additionally, pedals with reflectors are required by law. You can easily retrofit them if the ones provided do not have reflectors. Reflectors in the spokes for lateral visibility are also legally required. Alternatively, it's also allowed to use a reflective tire, such as the Marathon Plus by Schwalbe. Kids especially love spoke clips. You just attach them to the spokes. They significantly increase visibility and are also approved. Even for smaller bikes, these additional safety features are recommended, even if not mandatory.
Two brakes are mandatory! But can your child reach the levers safely?
Two Brakes Are a Must!
A road-safe kids' bike needs two separate brakes, meaning one for the front and one for the rear wheel. Although the coaster brake was long considered the best for kids' bikes, two hand brakes have now become the standard. This way, kids learn how to handle and dose the brakes from an early age. Plus, hand brakes are significantly lighter than a coaster brake hub. But: You need to practice braking with your child a lot initially. Especially small children still have trouble, for instance, when they need to give hand signals. Coordinating hand signals, braking, and looking over the shoulder takes time and practice. Also, adjusting the brake levers is much more important for kids than for adults: The little ones don't have as much strength and, of course, much smaller hands - so please pay great attention to ensuring that the levers can be safely gripped and pulled.
Gears Are Not Mandatory
A gear system isn’t something that's required by the StVZO (German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations). Generally, most bikes under 20 inches come without gears, as a gear system could easily distract your kid from traffic and overwhelm them. However, if you often venture off-road with your kid, you might want to consider if a smaller bike with gears would be a good idea. It also depends on how comfortable your kid is with cycling and timing the various maneuvers.
Chain or belt, gears or singlespeed: everything is allowed!
Mudguards are useful, but not required
Mudguards, also known as fenders, are also not mandated by the StVZO. But, they can be quite useful if your child bikes to school all year round or enjoys mudding with their MTB. The advantage of detachable mudguards is that they can be easily attached and detached, and nowadays are mostly made from light, durable plastics and are also suited for small wheel sizes.
Rack helps on the way to school
A rack is not compulsory either, but it can be practical for the school route. Especially for first and second graders, heavy school backpacks can limit their movement on the bike and make it difficult to check over their shoulder, for instance. A solution could be a basket mounted on the rack where your child can place their school bag.
A Bell is mandatory
A bell, on the other hand, is mandatory on bicycles – including kids' bikes. It even makes more sense here, as it allows kids to draw attention to themselves on sidewalks if necessary. Normally, a bell is included with the purchase of kids' bikes. If not, you can retrofit one at a low cost.
Pennant ensures visibility
Not required, but useful in traffic is a pennant on a small flagpole. When parked cars block the view of the sidewalk and bike path, a high pennant increases the visibility of the little road users.
No Helmet Requirement, but wearing one is essential!
There's no helmet requirement for children in Germany. However, we believe a helmet is an essential part of the gear! It protects against severe head injuries in most cases and can save lives. Bicycle helmets with integrated lights are recommended, as they significantly increase visibility. Also, remember that some vacation regions like Austria or France have a helmet requirement for kids!
What you need to consider for the proper fit of a children's bike helmet, we explain in our article: How do I properly put a bike helmet on my kid?.
Clothing should reflect
Reflective clothing isn't mandated but recommended. This doesn’t necessarily mean your kid has to wear a safety vest. Stylish children's clothing with reflective elements is offered, for instance, by Vaude.
Lock protects against theft
Though not relevant for traffic safety, a suitable bike lock is essential for securing a kids' bike. Light locks that they can carry and use themselves are best suited for children.
More about this topic
The Kids Bike: Ideally lightweight and high-qua...
Lightweight children's bicycles increase the fun of riding. We offer a wide range of high-quality models for off-road and everyday use in various sizes.
Kids trailers for bicycles: mobile from the ver...
Are you on the hunt for a high-quality and safe bike trailer for your children? We'll show you what to look for when buying kids trailers.
Kids Bike Seats: Riding with kids from the start
A bike seat for kids is a great transport solution for everyday journeys. We'll show you what to look out for when making your choice.
Mountain Bike Protectors for Kids
Want to go mountain biking with your kids? We’ll tell you what to keep in mind when buying a helmet & MTB protectors for kids.
