My 13 year-old has been asking for a mountain bike so he can go cycling with his friends. According to him, "everyone has a bike" and they're all out cycling together at weekends and after school.
I don't really know how safe it is and whether I'm being overprotective or sensible.
I'd love to encourage some independence and outdoor activity rather than more screen time, but I'd also like to know the reality of what other parents are comfortable with.
Are there areas or routes you consider safe or unsafe? Is it realistic to expect them to mainly stick to cycle paths, parks and trails, or are they on roads as well? Do you insist on helmets, tracking apps, set routes, etc.?
Am I worrying unnecessarily, or would you have concerns too? 🤔