Calling bicycle experts- advice.

[jojo28]

Hi recently bought a bike for son's 4th birthday. Prior to this he had had a Likeabike which he adored and was a deamon on. He has had no problems riding the new bike without stabilisers but is frustrated by the bikes lack of 'momentum'. He has to peddle all the time to keep moving - can't really coast. I know nothing about bikes but have noticed that his doesn't make that whirring noise that other bikes make when you simply spin the wheel (not sure this is making any sense!) Am I right in thinking it has something to do with ball bearings? In the description of his bike it says it has 'Hi-Ten cranks with 28 tooth steel chainring and a ball bearing bottom bracket.' I have no idea what any of this means but was wondering if he is missing a full set of ball bearings? If you simply spin his wheel round hard the wheel might carry on on its own for a further couple of revolutions and that's it. Does anyone know what I am talking about and could they tell me what I need to look out for in a bike with a bit more go.

I no this is not a hot topic.... but please, someone!

Ok. I don't think this is likely to be down to ball-bearings. I suspect his brakes may be rubbing? Is there a rubbing noise when you try to spin the wheel? If you give it a hard spin, does it still only go for a few turns?

The whirring noise is from the gears staying still while the wheel goes. Some bikes make more noise than others. This isn't necessarily a problem.

I find kids generally can't coast that much, but it does sound like there may be something here - do you have a local bike shop you trust?

Oh thanks for the response, his bike doesn't have gears so that makes sense! I will check out the breaks and maybe take it in to the local bike shop.