What Age Can Children Ride a Bike on the Road?

Part of teaching your child to ride a bike is going over the rules of cycling. This includes knowing when to allow them to cycle on the road. It’s something parents should consider for their child’s safety and to stay within the law. Here’s what you need to know.

At What Age Can You Cycle on the Road (For Kids)

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Most parents start teaching their children to cycle on the road around age 9 to 10. By this point, kids usually have a few years of practice, so they tend to have better balance, control, and confidence when cycling. But then again, the level of experience can vary from child to child—depending on how often they’ve practised or when they first started learning.

It’s the parent’s responsibility to make sure their little ones understand the basic road safety rules and are prepared to ride their kid’s bike on the road, even on their own. Even so, it’s still a good idea to have them closely supervised by adult riders whenever possible.

When we say “on the road,” we’re talking about cycling on the public highway, not on the pavement or cycle paths. But what are the rules for when the children need to leave the road?

What Does the Law Say About Cycling on the Pavement?

In the UK, it’s illegal to cycle on the pavement next to the road unless it’s clearly marked as a cycle track. To be on the safe side, only let your child cycle on the road where there are such markings and when they’re ready for it.

Under Section 72 of the Highway Act 1835, it’s a criminal offence to “lead or drive” any vehicle on the footpath or causeway beside the road which is meant for pedestrians. In 1888, the Local Government Act also classified bicycles, tricycles, and similar vehicles as “carriages” under these rules. If caught, the maximum fine is £500, or the police can issue a £50 fixed penalty notice (FPN).

However, children under 10 years old aren’t considered legally responsible for crimes. Nevertheless, parents should still make sure to guide their kids in the right direction and help them familiarise themselves with the law and its consequences.

While the police are unlikely to intervene with a parent supervising their child cycling on the pavement, the safest bet is generally to dismount on pavements and resume riding when you reach a park or a path away from the roadside.

How to Know When a Child Is More Confident Cycling?

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A common sign is when your little one moves from a balance bike to a pedalled bike, or from a bike with stabilisers to one without. This shows they’ve outgrown their old two-wheels and are ready for larger ones.

Kids aged 9 to 10 are usually at this stage, but then again, think about when your child started learning. From there, you’ll have a better idea of when they’re ready to cycle on the road with more confidence or for a bigger bike.

Getting the hang of cycling takes time, even if you’re learning to ride a bike as an adult. Try to let your child take it at their own pace while offering support along the way. With time, practice, and experience, they’ll get to the point where they can pedal along the pavements and, eventually, cycle to school.

If your child’s just starting out, you’ll want to avoid using the pavements as a training spot, though. Have a look at this guide on ‘Where Is the Best Place for Kids to Learn to Cycle?’ for some ideas. And don’t forget to make sure they’re always wearing their kids bike helmets, whether they’re practising or out riding.