Top tips for cycling as a family

Nothing beats exploring somewhere new and exciting as a family, and what better way to get around than on a cycle! At The Bikeability Trust, we don’t just teach children how to cycle – we want all ages to enjoy the freedom and fun that cycling brings.

If you’ve never cycled as a family before, don’t worry, we’ve put together some top tips to help you get the most out of your next family cycle adventure.

Choosing the right cycle

Choosing the right cycle is key to ensure your cycling trips are safe, fun and comfortable for everyone.

• Type of cycle: There are so many exciting types of cycle to choose from to suit a variety of different needs. Perhaps you want a road cycle for speed, or a mountain bike for off-road adventures. You could even choose a tandem cycle for parents and children to ride together. A cycle doesn’t have to have two wheels either – learn more about the different types of inclusive cycles available here.
• Size: Getting the right size cycle is really important, especially for younger children. A cycle that is too big or small will be harder to pedal and can even be dangerous. Children’s cycle sizes are determined by wheel diameter, which is then matched to the child’s age and height. Opt for smaller wheel sizes for less confident riders, or larger wheels to help the cycle last longer as your child grows.
• Safety: Whether you’re buying new or second hand, look for cycles with durable frames, reliable brakes, and stable designs, especially when carrying children.

Planning a route

The right route will depend on several factors, including your children’s age, how much time you have to spare, and how experienced you are cycling as a family. A good place to start is The National Cycle Network – a UK-wide network of signed paths and routes for walking, wheeling, and cycling.

If in doubt, start small, with manageable distances and flat routes on traffic-free trails or quiet, cycling-friendly roads. We recommend the Beeline app to help plan your journey – designed with cyclists in mind, it prioritises cycle lanes, quiet roads, and traffic-free paths.

Pack smart

In addition to essentials like helmets and any other regular cycling kit (hi-vis jackets, knee pads etc), we recommend the following to safely enjoy a family cycle:

• Sun protection e.g suncream, hats, sunglasses
• Weather appropriate layers or waterproofs
• A first aid kit
• A lightweight tyre pump in case of punctures
• Cycle lights and reflectors if you’ll be out when it’s dark or overcast
• Plenty of water
• Snacks!

Safety first

Always check your cycles before you ride, to keep you safe and prevent any bigger issues later on. Check tyres for any wear and tear or punctures and ensure they’re inflated to the right pressure. Inspect the brakes and make sure the levers are responsive and checks the gears to ensure they’re working smoothly.  You can find more top tips for maintaining your cycle in our handy guide here.

Ensure everyone is wearing a properly fitted helmet and add lights and reflective gear if you’ll be out after dark.

Include plenty of breaks

Build in plenty of little breaks to grab a snack, relax and soak up your surroundings. Younger children will probably need more time to rest but you can help them feel involved by choosing the route together and marking spots on a map for places they’d like to explore.

Need help getting started? Our family cycle training is designed to meet your needs and abilities, whether you need further training for your child, or support getting back in the saddle yourself! Find out more about our cycle training for families here and gear up for your next adventure.