A family bike ride is a fantastic way to get the kids enjoying the great outdoors, particularly during weekends and school holidays. However, we all know that the great British weather can be very unpredictable, and contending with rain can always be a strong possibility.
While we don’t recommend heading out in overly windy or stormy weather, a bit of light rain needn’t dampen your spirits!
Keep reading as we cover the best tips and preparations to help you safely cycle in the rain with kids.
Check your bikes
Before you set off, it’s important to check that everyone’s bikes are up to scratch for cycling in wet weather, particularly if it’s been a while since your last bike ride. The key elements to check are:
Tyre pressure
Correctly inflated tyres will allow better traction in wet weather. You’ll need to use a tyre pressure gauge to check that the tyres are inflated sufficiently and use a bike pump to top it up if necessary.
Brakes
It’s essential to check that brakes are working correctly to ensure everyone can come safely to a stop.
Chain lubrication
Ensuring there’s sufficient lubrication on the chains will help reduce friction and potential slipping.
Gear shifting
If you’re cycling with older children who may have gears on their bikes, it’s important to check that the gears shift smoothly.
General condition
Give the bikes a general inspection to ensure there are no damaged parts or loose components.
You can do these checks yourself but, to make life easier, you could always book in for a free bike check at Halfords, where one of our experts will conduct essential checks and ensure the bike is safe to ride.
Dress for the weather
It’s essential to ensure everyone has waterproof clothing to stay dry during wet bike rides. Ideally, kids should be equipped with:
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Waterproof gloves
- Waterproof shoes
Being able to cycle in the rain whilst staying dry will encourage you and the kids to stay out for longer and still enjoy the outdoors.
Keep kids in sight
While kids can be very enthusiastic and may be keen to whizz away, it’s important to ensure they remain in sight at all times. Rainy conditions can often lead to low light conditions, so it can be helpful to fit kids’ bikes with bike lights and other reflective accessories.
Bike lights will ensure your child remains visible throughout the bike ride and can help prevent any potential accidents and keep them safe.
Don’t pedal too fast
It goes without saying that wet weather can lead to very slippery conditions. As a result, make sure your little ones don’t pedal too fast. Make sure you keep the ride gentle and light – the aim is to get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery around you.
Choose a safe cycle route
Wet weather can also lead to muddy conditions, so make sure to choose a simple, well maintained cycle route – preferably a paved path! It can also help if it’s a route that you’re familiar with so everyone knows where they’re going. Getting lost in the rain may become quite challenging!
We recommend choosing the local park as it will be a familiar setting for everyone. However, if you’re stuck for ideas, our family cycle routes blog may provide some inspiration.
Keep it fun
Above all, make sure to keep things fun! Packing snacks and drinks will ensure that everyone stays fuelled and can be a good incentive to help kids reach the next section of the ride.
Think of a few games or activities to play while you’re cycling such as a bingo game for who can spot particular items or scenery along the route. You could even do a little race if the route allows it!
When in doubt, choose a location with a nearby café! It’s a great place to take shelter and allow the kids to have a little treat after their ride.
That concludes our top tips for cycling in the rain with kids. With some preparation, a little light rain needn’t get in the way of your plans!
Shop our full range of kids’ bikes and accessories online to ensure you are fully equipped for your rainy cycling adventures!
