Bike Tricks for Kids

Once kids are old enough to master riding a bike without training wheels, they can experiment with a number of basic, easy-to-learn bike tricks. Tricks require more balance and courage and are riskier than simply riding a bike down the sidewalk, so kids should wear pads and helmets to prevent injury during potential accidents.

  1. Wheelie

    • A wheelie is accomplished by pulling the front wheel of the bike up above the ground while continuing to pedal and ride forward on the back wheel. If the bike has a freewheel cog, meaning the pedals do not have to be cranked for the wheels to turn, then it is also possible to turn this trick into a manual. The difference between wheelies and manuals is whether or not the person on the bike is pedaling while riding. Kids can twist their handlebars while performing these tricks, and the bike will continue to move forward without turning.

    Bunny Hop

    • Performing a bunny hop requires strength in addition to balance. The trick is accomplished when both wheels of the bike lift off the ground in one thrust. Kids cannot pedal while doing a bunny hop, because their feet cannot weigh down the bike by pushing down on the cranks (as they would do when performing a wheelie). While coasting, kids should yank up on the handlebars while bringing their feet off the pedals. If they pull hard and high enough, both wheels will come up. If both wheels land back on the ground and the kids can continue riding, they have successfully accomplished the bunny hop.

    Slide

    • The slide is not good for a bike's tires and may wear them down over time, but it is one of the easiest tricks a kid can accomplish on a bike, especially on wet or gravelly roads. It is performed by riding forward and suddenly turning the bike to its side, hence, forcing the wheels, which are perpendicular to the road, into a sudden stop. One foot should come off the pedal to press against the ground. Kids should lean their body and the bike back during the slide so as to not fall forward into the ground.