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From , April 9, 2024, 10:08 a.m
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Image: ÖAMTC
The ÖAMTC and its partners subjected 14 bicycles for children to extensive testing. Overall, the experts were satisfied with the result, but they see a need for improvement here or there.
“This time we have concentrated on 16-inch bikes, which we recommend from the age of around three years and which are often children’s first own bikes. So that the joy of getting around on two wheels is as great as possible right from the start “, parents should pay particular attention to the quality here,” says ÖAMTC technician Steffan Kerbl.
This was the most important criterion in the study Driving behaviorbut the general ones were also checked Suitability for children, handling, safety and durability as well as the Contaminant content. Overall, Kerbl is satisfied with the results: “Although there was no ‘very good’, at least 8 of the 14 test candidates were rated ‘good’ and four achieved a ‘satisfactory’ rating.” One model did not get beyond a “sufficient” rating, and one failed with “not enough” due to safety deficiencies.
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Image: ÖAMTC
Price alone is not a quality feature
“Basically, all the bikes that we rated as ‘good’ are recommended and have few weaknesses,” summarizes Kerbl. “But this has the best overall impression Woom Original 3 – both with the adults and the little testers who tried the bikes in practice.” The model impressed with its low weight (just under six kilograms), the brake lever and saddle can be adjusted without tools, and the brakes operate smoothly . Like all other bikes that achieve a ‘good’ rating, the Woom is also in the upper price segment. If you want it cheaper and still don’t want to forego quality, you can S’Cool niXe EVO 16-1S SW grab something that can be had for significantly less money.
The fact that the price alone does not represent a quality feature is shown by the bottom of the current test: This Pyro Sixteen is one of the most expensive models, but still fails with “not enough”. The reason: “The distance between the pedals and the ground is far too small and allows an inclination of a maximum of 18 degrees – according to the current standard it has to be at least 23 degrees. It was hardly possible for the children to complete the curved course without hitting the ground with their pedals It’s obvious that this can lead to dangerous situations.”
Harmful substances in saddles and handles
The manufacturers of the bicycles examined in the test all placed great value on the riding characteristics and safety of their products. Elsewhere, however, some people didn’t take it so seriously: With two exceptions (the models from B’Twin and Royal Baby), all models were contaminated with pollutants. Plasticizers or PAHs were found (Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, note.). Neither of these are prohibited, but they are considered harmful to health and the environment.
Not only did the two models mentioned above show that things could be done differently – the picture is also different when it comes to bicycles for adults: such pollutants are hardly found there anymore, says Kerbl. While the saddles were mostly loaded, the saddles were MX 16 2023 from Orbea the handles, which are constantly in direct contact with the skin. The result: a downgrade from “good” to “satisfactory”.
Further suggestions for improvement from the ÖAMTC expert include the reflectors used sparingly on some models, the often missing chain guard, handles that are too easy to remove, weak brakes or the extension length of the saddle is too short. “You should also pay attention to the accessories before buying, for example not every bike comes with a side stand as standard,” Kerbl clarifies.
Tips for parents
- If there is uncertainty about harmful substances in the handles, it is usually possible to exchange them for harmless material at specialist retailers.
- It is recommended that young bike beginners try it out before purchasing. The saddle height, handlebar position and brake lever can also be optimally adjusted.
- The first practice rides with children should ideally take place on a cordoned-off area. Support wheels should be avoided.
- A fall can always happen. Wearing a helmet must therefore be a given from the start. And at least fingerless gloves should always be worn to better protect yourself in the event of a fall.
