Grab those bike helmets and start making some plans because warmer Spring weather is on the way and the outdoors are calling! You don’t even need to spend a lot of money on an expensive bike since so many are available to rent (which is a great way to get started if you’re not sure biking is for you).
Disclosure: this is a collaborative post to help get you in 'gear' for Spring! See what I did there? Also, this post contains affiliate links to Amazon. I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Biking isn't just good for your health, it can be a fun family activity too! Even if your little ones are too small for their own bikes, you can install special baby seats and even toddler trailers, ensuring that everyone benefits from fresh air and exercise.
Sure, biking can be dangerous sometimes, but as long as you're careful and follow some basic safety tips, you'll be on the 'road' to fun!
Sure, biking can be dangerous sometimes, but as long as you're careful and follow some basic safety tips, you'll be on the 'road' to fun!
Tip #1: Wear A Helmet
The state law in New Jersey is that anyone under 17 years of age that rides a bicycle or is a passenger on a bicycle, or is towed as a passenger by a bicycle must wear a safety helmet (and on August 1, 1998 this helmet law was extended to include roller and inline skates and skateboards). If you're unsure of how the helmet should fit, local bike shops are a great resource and are usually more than willing to help with helmet fittings. Helmets come in so many fun, unique styles for kids, too! I love the helmets by Crayola or any of the microshell helmets from Schwinn.
If you plan on riding your bike near vehicles or traffic, be very cautious. So many drivers are distracted these days, and accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists and cars are on the rise. Don't be afraid to seek out the help of a personal injury attorney if you feel that someone caused you harm or injury while bike riding.
Tip #2: Prepare Your Bike
Perform a 'family maintenance check' before heading out with your bikes. Check the brakes, make sure the seat is in the right position, and check the tires for air. It's no fun to get to your biking location and find that your bike has a flat tire! Also, be aware that if your kids leave their bicycles outside, the weather can affect them. Store bikes in secure places (and avoid the risk of them being stolen, too).
Tip #3: Wear Bright Clothing
Be sure to wear clothing so other cyclists, pedestrians and motorists will see you. Brighter colors are best, or even reflective clothing. Reflective safety vests can be purchased online. There are even fun and colorful lights that kids can put on the wheel spokes of their bikes so that others can see them better.
Tip #4: Choose Your Path: Where to Bike in NJ
There are so many fun parks, biking paths and neighborhoods in New Jersey to enjoy safe bike riding. Check out this list of bike trails or take a look at this amazing list of New Jersey state parks for the best bike paths. And here are my personal favorite picks for biking in New Jersey:
Tip #5: Stay Hydrated
Don't forget to bring along a bottle of water for any bike trip. Even if the weather is cool, it is easy to get dehydrated (and cranky!) without proper hydration. One of my favorite travel water bottles is the Camelbak Eddy BPA Free, but there are tons on the market to choose from.
Most of all, don't forget to have fun! It's such a great feeling to be able to get on a bicycle and move. Bikes can take you anywhere!
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