A large number of synonyms are used for this type of children's transport. It is called a scooter, a scooter and many other similar words. But they mean one thing - it's a bike without pedals. This intricate form of children's transport has gained immense popularity around the world. The runbike is quite simple to manage and has a positive effect on the physical development of the child. About all its advantages and rules of choice can be found in this article.
What is a runbike?
They came up with it in 1817 and was called a “running machine,” but it gained popularity only in the 21st century. This was facilitated by the German designer Rolf Mertens, who made a run for his two-year-old son. Then he founded a company with his brother and began to actively sell the product. In 2010, a children's bike without pedals won over consumers in the USA and Europe, after which it reached Russia. Today, the runbike is included in the list of compulsory purchases that contribute to the physical development of the child.
In its design, it looks more like a regular bike, but without pedals. And on mechanical control - on a scooter, because you need to move on it with the help of repulsion from the ground. This type of transport is the first step to mastering a bicycle. On it, the child will learn to set the driving direction with the help of the steering wheel and maintain balance.
Benefit or harm run?
Due to the lack of pedals, movement in this transport is possible only with the help of repulsive movements from the surface. Such riding does not cause fear, unlike cycling. The child is always in contact with the road, so keeping balance is easy. And the presence of seating evenly distributes the load on the spine. Thus, the runbike contributes to the development of the vestibular apparatus and improves coordination of movement, strengthens the muscles and gives positive emotions to the child.
Also, a scooter will be useful for the parents of the baby. It weighs much less than a regular bicycle, which allows it to be carried in hands if necessary. Its weight is from 3 to 5 kg, depending on the design. Also, buying a runbike can save a good family budget. She will be pleased for several years, if you choose a model with adjustable steering wheel and seat height. A child who is keen on riding will be less likely to ask for his hands.
How to choose a runbike?
When buying children's vehicles, you need to focus on two main criteria: step size and age of the child. Such parameters will help to choose the right runbike.
Step size - to determine it, you need to measure the inside of the leg from the inguinal to the floor. When riding a runbike, the child's legs should be in a bent position. To do this, subtract 2-3 cm from the length of the step size. If the selected model has an adjustable seat, then you should focus on the minimum height.
Runbikes, depending on the age of the child, are divided:
- For 1 year - the lightest model, its maximum weight is up to 3 kg. This runner has three or four wheels.
- From 2 to 2.5 years - the most optimal age for the development of this type of transport. This model weighs up to 4 kg.
- 3 years and older - the weight of such a product is up to 5 kg.
Which wheels are better?
There are 2 types of cameras for cycling: air, like a bicycle, or foam concrete, which do not need to be inflated. Each species has its advantages and disadvantages.
Airless - such wheels do not need to be pumped up, they do not pierce and have a long service life. These tires are quite light in weight and are suitable for off-road driving. But when the tire wears, it will be necessary to put a new wheel.
Air - this type of wheel is able to smooth a rough road, which provides a comfortable and soft ride. But they can pierce or tear during the trip. Also, the air wheels are quite heavy compared to airless ones.
DIY wooden runner
In Europe and Japan, the popularity of products made from environmental materials has increased. Therefore, plastic and wooden runbikes for children are most in demand there. With us they are no less popular. A distinctive feature of wooden runbikes is their unique, original design. Although around this product there are many rumors about their fragility. But this is not a reality. Runbikes are constructed from many layers of Baltic birch glued together, which gives the product strength. Compared to a solid tree, which may crack due to changes in temperature or humidity
Due to its popularity, the price of a bike without pedals has increased significantly. Therefore, many parents learned to craft it themselves. The runbike is easy to make from improvised means, products from plywood are especially relevant. You can make a two- or three-wheeled wooden runbike.
They make it, as a rule, from birch, which is known for its strength and lightness. Such a product weighs from 4.1 to 5.4 kg. For the manufacture of a wooden runbike, you need to use 10-12 layers of plywood from Baltic birch and a good sealant that will protect it from the effects of water. But you should not use such vehicles in the rain.
Materials that are needed to make a runbike:
· Sheet of polished plywood 12 mm.
· A set of bolts.
· A piece of stud or rod.
· A piece of plywood 4-5 mm for the manufacture of seats.
· Foam rubber 50 mm.
· A piece of leather or fabric for the seat.
· Wheels.
After that, the runbike is assembled according to the given drawing. After the product is done, you can decorate it.
A wooden runbike can be made independently, and you can use the described recommendations and buy it. In any case, the presence of such a transport in a child will only positively affect his physical development. Judging by the reviews, wooden runbikes are gaining popularity every day.