Bike Bakersfield has been providing Bike Rodeo fun for kids since 2005. These events provide hands-on training regarding the basics of bicycle handling, repair, navigating driveways, pedestrian and bicycle safety and proper helmet use. Bicycle rodeos are one of the most effective ways to teach students bicycle safety. Using Bike Bakersfield staff’s certified instructors, ex
perience teaching kids these skills, and passion for safety, the multi-stage obstacle courses engage the youth in a fun, interactive environment.
At these bike rodeo and maintenance events the youth will have their helmet fit to them correctly, instructions on how to wear it properly, and go over the ABC quick check of bicycle safety developed by the League of American Bicyclists:
- A – Air
- B – Brakes
- C – Cranks and chain
On bike maintenance days there will be tubes and repair equipment to fix participants bikes. On bike rodeo day, participants can use their own bike or borrow one of ours. Often they will head to the parking lot to learn drills, glide, play games and avoid hazards. Kids love avoiding the “hazards” which often are tennis balls and cones. Participants may also learn hand signals they can use when they ride.
“The kids that have participated had a blast while learning the rules of the road,” said Jack Becker, previous Bike Bakersfield executive director. “We are able to create a safe space where we can teach them bike safety that can be used when they are riding in their neighborhood, on city streets, and beyond. There are many benefits that come with more people on bikes such as lower collision rates for bicyclists, better air quality, less pollution, healthier people, and less traffic.”
Local police departments may be in attendance to speak, help and giveaway helmets. We primarily host rodeos at youth groups and schools.
Let us come to your school or youth group and teach participants the basics of biking and walking safety! Contact us at 661-321-9247 or email us for more information.
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