by Djibril
Cycling with your children is more than just an outdoor pastime. It’s an opportunity for adventure, bonding, and if you really get into it, reducing your daily impact on the environment.
In the UK, recent figures from the Department for Transport reveal that the average person in England clocks around 15 cycling trips and covers 57 miles a year. That’s a vanishingly small proportion of all our travel, leaving far too many miles to much more damaging forms of transport. When you consider how many car-miles could become bike-miles, it’s easy to see how embracing cycling as a family not only contributes to healthier lifestyles but can build towards sustainable travel for the future.
So how can you make cycling a bigger part of your life, and start out on family cycling adventures? This step-by-step guide starts right at the first decision: choosing the right bicycle.
For infrequent use like the occasional day out, most bikes can be convinced to do the job. But if you really want to make a change to your lifestyle and go on regular family cycling adventures, it’s crucial to tailor your bike setup to the size and shape of your family.
For your littlest ones, you might want to try practical options like child seats or those dedicated bike trailers that tow behind your adult bicycle. A good trailer not only keeps the kids cosy and secure but also shields them from our unpredictable British weather. It’s a lifesaver when you need to keep them safe and comfortable.
Now, if your older kids are itching to ride alongside you, a “follow-me” bike is a smart choice. One of these will allow you to clip your child’s bike to your own to create a temporary tandem. It gives them that extra bit of stability as they start finding their balance and confidence on two wheels.
But here’s the top tip: pre-empt the changing size of your family and consider investing in a family longtail bike. These beasts are significantly longer in the back, built to haul everything: up to three kids, loads of gear, and sometimes even a mini caravan if you fancy camping along the way.
The best longtail bikes feature modular addons that allow you to change out seat types and luggage to suit your family, making the underlying frame a great longterm prospect that’s insured against change.
The secret to a good longtail is its weight distribution. If a bicycle carries its weight low in the frame, it won’t want to tip over when you’re loading it up with kids, holiday luggage or even the weekly shop.
Make sure your chosen bike has a solid central motor from reliable brands like Bosch or Shimano, too, so even when it’s loaded up, it handles hills and long rides without breaking a sweat.
And don’t forget to check that the overall build quality is top-notch. Robust components and readily available spare parts are a must if you’re going to be on the road a lot.
Taking a bit of time to get your gear sorted will mean every family ride is safer, smoother, and a whole lot more enjoyable.
First off, make sure everyone wears a properly fitted helmet (it’s non-negotiable). Add a couple of bright lights and reflective gear, plus a trusty bell or horn so you’re visible and audible to everyone on the road. Don’t forget to equip your bikes with puncture-resistant tyres and adjust your pace according to the conditions.
For the youngest riders, it’s a good idea to use bikes sized just right for them. Options like tandem setups or rear-mounted seats can really boost both safety and comfort. If you’re riding a longtail bike to haul the little ones, consider extra safety features like a pivoting safety bar to secure them at the back.
Before you head out on a longer ride, take some time to get comfortable with your setup. If your kids are still learning the ropes on their own bikes, start them off in quiet parks or other low-traffic areas where they can practice braking, signalling, and controlling their speed without pressure.
As for you, mastering the feel of a fully loaded family bike — adjusting your riding style for different terrains — is key.
Stick to these simple, tried-and-true safety tips, and you’ll be set for many enjoyable and worry-free rides together.
Imagine setting off on a green expedition where every pedal stroke not only takes you through beautiful landscapes but also contributes to a cleaner future. It’s not too difficult to achieve!
Start by plotting your route with a trusted GPS or online planner. The UK is blessed with an extensive network of cycle paths — managed by organisations like Sustrans — that let you explore quiet country lanes and scenic routes far from the hustle of heavy traffic.
If you’re on an e-bike, make sure your itinerary also highlights key recharge points; these stops are essential for keeping your battery topped up during longer rides.
It is always good to incorporate regular breaks, not just for a snack or photo op, but to truly soak in the surroundings. Whether it’s a quaint village, a local landmark, or simply a peaceful spot by a lake, these pauses add a special touch to your journey and give everyone a chance to recharge both physically and mentally.
If your adventure involves mixing cycling with other forms of transport, double-check in advance that your bike fits the bill.
Nowadays, many transport services are more bike-friendly: for example, Transport for London permits folded bikes on all services (though sometimes bus drivers have the final say), and non-folded bikes are welcome on select services during specific times.
If you’re travelling by train, make sure to book your bicycles’ places in advance as space is limited.
With a bit of thoughtful planning — choosing safe, scenic routes, scheduling strategic breaks, and ensuring smooth transitions between travel modes — you can create a relaxed and sustainable journey that suits every family member while also nurturing a greener future.
Instead of just setting off on a ride, plan an adventure where every stop is a mini celebration.
Get the little ones involved right from the start. Let them mark the map with spots they’d love to see, whether it’s a glistening lake, a fun playground, or a cozy spot for a picnic. Their input turns the journey into a series of exciting challenges that keep everyone motivated.
Think about picking out routes that are tailor-made for families, featuring quiet back roads or dedicated cycle trails that wind through magical woodlands, charming villages, or alongside meandering streams.
Build in plenty of breaks so you all can relax, grab a bite, and really soak up the surroundings. These pauses aren’t just about resting; they’re about adding extra layers of fun and making the day feel unhurried and full of wonder.
Why not spice things up with a little friendly competition? Organise a treasure hunt or challenge your kids to snap the best photo of a scenic view along the way. And if you schedule stops at local farms, heritage sites, or even an offbeat roadside attraction, you’ll transform an ordinary bike ride into a delightful day of discovery. Every outing becomes its own little holiday, creating memories that your family will cherish for a lifetime.
No family cycling adventure is completely free of challenges, whether it’s a flat tyre on a traditional bike or a hiccough with your electric bike’s motor.
To keep your journey rolling smoothly, always pack a repair kit stocked with spare innertubes, a pump, and essential tools.
For those riding electric bikes, pay extra attention to the heart of your ride: the motor and battery. Before setting off, ensure the battery is fully charged and securely connected, and check that all safety switches and sensors are clean and properly aligned.
If the motor ever fails to engage or unexpectedly cuts out, it might be due to overheating or loose connections; in such cases, allow it to cool down and inspect the links between the motor, controller, and battery. Notice any unusual clattering or persistent buzzing? These could be signs that professional servicing is required.
Remember, every bump in the road is a learning opportunity. Celebrate even the small fixes with your children. Each successful repair builds resilience and makes your adventure all the more memorable. Embracing these challenges together transforms setbacks into shared victories and ensures that your family ride remains a rewarding experience from start to finish.
Once your family adventure has come to an end, it’s time to give your bike the care it deserves. Rather than merely cleaning off the mud and grime from a long day on UK trails, think of post-ride maintenance as a way to safeguard your investment and ensure every future outing runs smoothly.
Start by thoroughly washing your bike to remove dirt and debris that can clog vents and interfere with components. If you’re riding an electric bike or longtail bike, pay close attention to the motor. Clear any dust or residue from its ventilation areas and check that all cables and fixings are secure. Regular lubrication of moving parts, such as the chain and derailleurs, is crucial to ward off premature wear and keep your bike running quietly.
For those in possession of an e-bike, proper battery care is essential. When you’re not riding for a while — especially during the damp, chilly winter months — store your bike in a dry, temperature-stable environment. If possible, remove the battery and keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent deterioration from fluctuating conditions or excessive discharge. Even if your bike remains outdoors, investing in a quality cover can shield it from rain, snow, and harmful UV rays.
Lastly, after every ride, take a moment to rest and recover yourself. Hydrate well and do a few gentle stretches to ward off any stiffness, ensuring both you and your bike are ready for the next family cycling escapade without any unwelcome surprises.
Cycling as a family in the UK is a chance to break away from the car, enjoy the great outdoors, and build memories that last a lifetime.
With the right equipment, a focus on safety, and a spirit of adventure, your family can explore new horizons sustainably and confidently.
So, dust off those bikes, plan your route, and get ready to pedal towards unforgettable moments — all while contributing to a healthier, greener future.
Urban and family cycling enthusiast
Djibril is passionate about urban and family cycling. He represents Bike 43, a longtail family bike brand, and has written extensively on the topic across various platforms.
