Family Biking Tip: Practice on Your Own First

Want to start biking with your kids? That’s great! More and more parents are recognizing how easy and enjoyable it is to bike as a family.

If you’re already biking on your own on a regular basis, you might just need our Family Biking Guide to get you and your family rolling together. If you’re feeling a little nervous about city riding, gain confidence first by practicing on your own. The SF Bicycle Coalition teaches hundreds of free adult urban biking classes every year. Sign up for a class and learn the rules of the road and tips for urban biking.

Summer is a great time to practice riding alone and with your kids,whether it’s in a park or when streets are closed for a special event. JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park is closed to cars every Sunday. Sunday Streets is also a great place for practice biking for every age before taking it to the lanes. Stop by the the SF Bicycle Coalition information tent and take a look at family/cargo bikes while experts take your young learner to the next level with Freedom From Training Wheels. Learn more about when and where Sunday Streets are happening!

Once you feel more confident, try out any street route on your own before bringing your child along.  Remember, as a parent it’s even more important be a “roll model,” so bike predictably and safely and follow all the rules of the road.

Visit the SF Bicycle Coalition website to learn about  more Intro to Urban Cycling and Traffic Skills 101 workshops. For more family biking tips, download our Family Biking Guide.

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