Spring's Almost Here—Get the Family's Bikes in Gear!

by Lori Hinton

Spring is almost here… are you and your crew ready to ride? Get your bikes in gear so you're all set when better weather arrives.

Follow these 3 Simple Steps to help you take stock now and get prepared. Your family will thank you when that first sunny, warmish weekend rolls around.

Step 1: Survey the Quiver. Mosey on out to the garage and inspect the collection—bikes and gear included. Does little Lucy still fit in her helmet? Did wee Wesley outgrow his 20-inch? Maybe daddy needs a new ride (not likely, he has 5 already but…it never hurts to daydream). Mommy finally sold her old 10-speed from college so, um yeah, she definitely needs some new wheels. But, which bike best fits the multitasking mom? Probably the one that does it all (more on that in a minute)!

Step 2: Make a "To Do" List (and actually do it). Dust off the cobwebs. For those bikes that still fit your family's needs, pump up the tires, check the wheels, shifters and brakes. Inspect for any loose parts, look for wear and tear, and see if anything needs to be replaced or repaired. Make sure saddles are set to the correct height and all components (shifters, brake levers and handlebars) are in the proper position. Wash bikes, if needed, and lube the chains. Too busy to DIY? Drop off your bikes at your local shop for a springtime tune-up. Once you know which bikes are good to go, note the holes in your lineup. Besides mom, one of the kids might be ready for a new ride? Sure, the youngest can get by with a hand-me-down for now, but the oldest could be ready for an upgrade. Decisions, decisions.

Step 3: Shop for a New Bike (or two, or three—whatever your family's magic number happens be). Consider what kind of riding you like to do as a family. Do you stick to the pavement or prefer the dirt? Do you dig the bike path or venture off the beaten path? Do you all want bikes designed for several uses? If you're only going to get one, versatility is key.

For the mama who wants a "go everywhere," comfortable, durable road alternative, the Haanjenn Comp is a shoo-in. From city streets and gravel paths to mountain roads, she can chase after her clan in confidence wherever they want to roam. The carbon fork soaks up the bumps, and smooth shifting and disk brakes make for better control in all weather conditions. This Ready Ride bike comes 99% built—a huge, time-saving bonus for busy moms. Dads, here's your version: the Haanjo Comp.

And for the kids who continue to grow like weeds, it's handy to have a multipurpose bike too. Because it's hard enough to keep up with growth spurts, let alone multiple bikes for each type of riding along the way!

The Haanjo Metro 24 is a multi-use, multi-gear bike with familiar flat handlebars. The kid counterpart to the adult Haanjo series, this bike is quick enough to keep up with bigger bikes on the paved path yet tough enough for light duty dirt and gravel riding. Disc brakes and wide dual-purpose tires keep everything under control, building their confidence one mile at a time.

Whether it's a mix of old and new, in racing red or bomber blue, whatever the rides your family decides, just enjoy the fresh air, wind in your hair and good times to share. This is the stuff that memories are made of. Go make some!

About the Author: Lori Hinton is a freelance writer and Diamondback contributor based in West Seattle, Washington.