Fear of falling can also hold children back. Bumps and bruises are part of learning to ride a bike, and children should be told that it is normal to fall occasionally as they learn. The key is to get right back in the saddle and try again. Bicycles can fall into disrepair, particularly if a new rider falls a lot. Bikes can also malfunction during a ride, causing a spill or worse.
Cycling requires access to well-paved roads, sidewalks, or trails.
The risk of injury or death from falls and collisions is great, especially among youngsters whose small stature makes them difficult for motorists to see. Children who do not know or follow the rules of the road court disaster every time they push a bicycle pedal. Since schools do not generally teach bicycling, the responsibility falls on parents. If you and your spouse both work outside the home, it can be difficult or impossible to carve out enough time to teach your kids to ride a bike and supervise them until they become proficient. It is also a challenge to determine when your child is ready to ride a bike to destinations beyond your street or neighborhood.