You never forget your first bike, do you? If you’re thinking of buying your favorite child a bike this year, make it an amazing keepsake.

The boring outdated trike of our childhood has been replaced with new trikes that are much safer and have cooler accessories. The old red trike from days gone by is still a favorite, but it has grown. Generally speaking, the trikes are substantially safer and have more bells and whistles, literally, than the bikes we had. If you’re planning to gift your child a trike this year, here are a few things to know when making your selection.

1. Anti-tip

The main criticism of some of the newer styles of trikes is how easily they tip over. While some bikes are built with rounded-bend handlebars, other trikes are built with a straight design. A child riding a bicycle for the first time may not realize the effort it takes to ride the bike. The child could inadvertently correct and turn too far the other way, thus tipping the bike to one side. Then, if the child loses confidence, he may lean too far and make contact with the ground.

Some bicycle designers are well aware of this simple fact when planning new models. Usually they will design the trike to have a lower center of gravity or have a wider wheelbase. A curved or longer handlebar is a workable solution. Modifications have made it easier for the bike to stay upright. Although counterintuitive, a bicycle is easier to control if it is in motion.

2. Cheap plastic or welded steel?

The bicycles of our childhood that are still around were most likely made of steel, not plastic. heavy steel. This durability created a bike that could withstand the rigors of years of use. Radio Flyer was one of the first companies to use hollow steel construction on mass-produced bikes, offering strength without adding a lot of extra weight. Throughout World War II, the use of plastics increased, and many children’s toys became plastic as well.

Bicycles and trikes were redesigned to a plastic version, but they couldn’t compete with the quality of a steel frame. The classic “Big Wheel” was an example of that. If you’ve been lucky enough to see a 20-year-old Big Wheel, chances are it doesn’t look like it survived the decades very well. Today’s steel bikes are strong and durable, while being light enough for a child to ride. The best choice in a bicycle or trike is steel construction, good quality rubber tires, and a comfortable seat.

3.Additional options

What tends to make a bike great are the amenities and accessories. Kids aren’t the only ones who really like accessories; we adults really like our fancy add-ons, even if it means shelling out a few extra bucks. The young are the same. They want fresh colors, rims, streamers, bells, and lighting. There’s hardly a manufacturer that doesn’t include things like wire mesh storage baskets and toy GPS devices for their bikes.

Speaking of GPS units, I’ve heard that some parents get a tracking unit that is permanently attached to the bike as an added safety benefit.

4. Helmets

When riding a bicycle, a youth should always wear an approved safety helmet. Numerous devastating brain injuries result from simple falls from a bicycle. Those of an older generation rode bikes all day without helmets! I am also in that group. That being said, our technology is much better now and while the chances of your child being seriously harmed are slim, it’s not worth the risk. It will give you great satisfaction to know that your child has the best protection you can provide.

Dream big and get that awesome new bike to put by the Christmas tree! Go to your local hobby store and buy the biggest red bow you can find. Strap it to the handlebars and watch the magic happen!