How to fold a scooter - a guide for different models. Scooter for children: fun, vehicle or exercise machine? “I think I bought a defective three-wheeled scooter because...”

Which vehicle is the most versatile, has a different number of wheels, and is popular among boys and girls aged from one year to adulthood? The answer is simple - this is a scooter that requires basic control skills, is compact and quite fast. However, despite the apparent simplicity of the device, its choice requires knowledge of the characteristics and features of different models. A correctly selected scooter has sufficient stability, the required speed, and most importantly, it provides safety appropriate for the child’s age.

What is a scooter and its general characteristics

The simplest vehicle consists of a frame (frame), wheels, steering wheel and brakes. The frame includes a horizontal foot platform (deck) and a vertical stand. The axles of the rollers or wheels are attached to the platform. The steering wheel is fixed at the top of the rack.

Modern scooters, unlike old Soviet products of the last century, are distinguished by a variety of colors and appearance, materials, sizes and other properties. Designers in their developments use modern technologies, durable polymers and metals - aluminum, plastic, fiberglass. This allows us to make scooters with a margin of safety even for one-year-old children: they can usually withstand up to 20 kg. Options for children from 4 to 15 are designed for 50 kg, but there are also powerful designs with a permissible load of up to 100 kg.

Models for children have a low movement speed. Three-wheeled scooters for children and teenagers can reach speeds of up to 12-20 kilometers per hour, and even more when descending from inclined surfaces.

Does your child need a scooter?

Answering this question, it is necessary to formulate the main functions of the scooter - they are determined by the age of the child and the characteristics of the models.

Educational toy. With the help of a convenient and safe scooter, the youngest children learn to maintain balance and master the space of the apartment.
Training apparatus. If a child is 5 years old or older, his musculoskeletal system is developing. The scooter allows you to stimulate this process. It loads the arms and legs evenly, and riding it is not as dangerous as on roller skates or a bicycle.
Vehicle. Primary school students ride scooters to school (on the sidewalk) - this saves time and maintains physical fitness.
Sport equipment. Teenagers improve their riding technique, while developing physically and training endurance. Extreme sports enthusiasts make jumps on stunt models - this allows them to master their body to perfection.

So if a child asks for a scooter, do not unconditionally refuse him. At first, without skills, falls and bruises are possible. But any physical education or sports activities cannot do without this. The only caveat: while riding, different legs bear unequal load. It is worth consulting with an orthopedist to see if a scooter will be harmful to the child’s posture.

Scooter for children: at what age can it be used?

It is recommended to purchase a classic scooter on 3 wheels for children from 3 years of age - from this age they can control their body so much that they are able to stand on one leg. After a year, babies are usually put in walkers or wheelchairs with a seat are purchased for them. An alternative to these devices is the latest development of designers - a 3-in-1 scooter. The model for a one-year-old child has a removable seat and a special handle that is more comfortable to hold than a regular steering wheel. Such a scooter is bought for a child if he sits confidently without support.

Types and types of scooters: which one to choose?

Children's scooters are divided into varieties depending on the number, diameter and width of the wheels. The stability, speed, and maneuverability of the vehicle depend on this. Dimensions, weight of products, materials correspond to a certain age of the user.

Based on the number of wheels, scooters are divided into the following types:

with 4 wheels– characterized by increased stability; accelerated either by pushing off with the foot or by body movements - produced for children from 1.5 years old;
3 wheel– a traditional model for children 3-5 years old, but there are also options for teenagers, designed for a maximum weight of up to 50 kg;
2 wheel– less stable, but more maneuverable, reach higher speeds, and look similar to adult models; Intended for use from 5 years of age.

Teenage models have a slightly different classification - according to purpose.

Each type has its own technical capabilities and design features, and is used for traveling on a specific road surface or for sports activities.

For city trips. They are compact, easy to control and easy to move. The wheels are relatively small, identical in diameter, rubber-coated. Thanks to this, the product moves smoothly and absorbs on uneven roads, even in the absence of coverage.
Sports (stunt). Designed for jumping and driving on roads with high-quality surfaces (the narrower the wheel rim, the greater the speed). The wheels are made in the form of rubber or plastic rubberized rollers, without shock absorbers.
SUV. This large model is equipped with large diameter wheels (the front ones are the same as those of a bicycle). Pneumatic tires enhance shock absorption when traveling on sand or unpaved roads. An SUV usually has front and rear brakes and the frame is strong and reliable.
Inertial. The three-wheeled version with two movable platforms is driven by transferring the weight of the body from one leg to the other, as well as specific movements of the lower body. There is no need to push off all the time: thanks to the force of inertia, the scooter reaches high speed.
Electric scooter. It is equipped with a walk-behind tractor located under the platform. The battery is designed for an hour of continuous driving. Travel speed – up to 30 km/h.
Scooter on skis. The model is designed for children from 5 years old, the skis are made of frost-resistant plastic, and the lightweight frame is made of aluminum.

Important to remember! Almost all scooters are foldable; they can be easily placed in a small apartment or in the luggage compartment of a car; you can use them on public transport. But there is another type - full-fledged scooters. They do not fold and are equipped with headlights and disc brakes. In addition, gopeds have a seat - so you cannot ride them while standing.

How to choose the best scooter for your child

You can also buy a scooter online, but it’s better to first select a model in person so that the child can evaluate the comfort and ease of control. The following are criteria for selecting the optimal model.

Dimensions and weight. The height of a scooter is considered optimal if its handlebar reaches the chest of a child standing on it. Considering the growth rate of children, it is better to buy models with a height-adjustable steering wheel. The size of the deck is important: if it is too long, it is more difficult to accelerate. Its optimal length for a child is 30-40 cm. The width of the platform varies from 8.5 to 20 cm: the larger this parameter, the easier it is to maintain a vertical position. For a sports model, a narrow deck is preferable to make it easier to perform tricks and turns and accelerate faster.

A scooter that is too heavy will be clumsy and difficult to control, while a scooter that is too light may not support the weight of a child and sag under him - this applies to plastic models.

Wheels. Polyurethane is wear-resistant, it extends the service life of the scooter, but you need to pay attention to the diameter of the parts. It is 12.5-20 cm (the larger the parameter, the higher the speed). Hardness also matters (it is marked from 72A to 93A). It is more comfortable to ride on soft wheels, but they react to all the unevenness of the terrain and wear out faster. The optimal indicator is from 75A to 78A.

Plastic wheels are a common option for cheap children's models, they are not very durable and do not provide smooth movement. Product with rubber tires - average in cost and service life, provides good shock absorption

Brake. The manual brake system is easier for kids to handle. At the same time, braking with the rear wheel occurs more smoothly - pay attention to this nuance. Older children are able to use the foot brake.

Frame strength. It is especially important for stunt models and SUVs produced for teenagers. For children over 5 years old, it is better to purchase products with a metal frame. The folding mechanism weakens the frame; it is not used in stunt models. SUVs often have a double frame.

Steering wheel. If it is adjustable, you should check the security of the locking lock. It is desirable that the handles are covered with a soft material that is pleasant to the touch and non-slip.

Pros and cons of different types of scooters

Each type of product has its own advantages and disadvantages. Inexpensive models for kids are comfortable, easy to operate, have a wide deck, and are stable. They do not last long due to the cheapness of the plastic from which the frame and wheels are made. A three-wheeled children's model most often does not fold and takes up more space than a two-wheeled one.

More expensive scooters are compact, maneuver well, and develop high speed. The quality of materials and workmanship is an order of magnitude higher, allowing the product to be used for more than one year, provided it has an adjustable steering wheel. A relative disadvantage is less stability: this model is worth buying if the child already has experience driving a scooter.

What additional requirements do you need for a children's scooter?

Manufacturers produce a wide range of accessories for scooters: bags for carrying compact models, bright handbags and baskets for babies. For older children, it is worth purchasing a bell, a flashlight, a bottle holder, a hand pump for inflating the wheels and grease for the bearings.

It is worth taking care of the safety of little riders. If kids get behind the wheel of a scooter for the first time, they should purchase a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. They allow you to avoid serious injuries from falls, as they are made of durable plastic that is resistant to damage. When choosing a kit, pay attention to the reliability of the clamps, and the size must be appropriate. You should not skimp on the safety of your baby; it is better to buy more expensive products from a reliable company. For example, a Mondo kit (Italy) costs about 1,160 rubles.

Older children also use protective gloves: they protect their palms from abrasions and calluses. If desired, you can also choose pads for shoes: if your baby rides every day, then the toes of his shoes will quickly wear off when pushing off. The attachments are attached with soft fabric clasps on the heel, allowing you to adjust the size. Thus, Big overlays are suitable for shoes sizes 21-28. They cost about 700 rubles.

Children's scooter: instructions for use

The product should be assembled according to the instructions, but the installation sequence is approximately the same: first, assemble the wheels, then install the steering clamp and the steering wheel itself, then attach the brakes, and finally the platform. Complete the assembly by inflating the wheels (if they are rubber). After each installation stage, check the tightness of the fasteners. Particular attention is paid to the brake system: the linings are placed strictly in the center of the rim at a distance of up to 2 mm, the cable tension is adjusted using a bolt.

During operation, perform the following techniques:

before starting to move, stand on the platform with one foot and grab the steering wheel with both hands;
to start, push off with the second leg from the ground, moving the lower part of the body to the right and left;
after reaching the desired speed, the pushing leg is placed on the platform;
turns the steering wheel smoothly (the higher the speed, the less force is applied to turn);
To brake, use the rear brake first, and then the front brake (if there is one).

Precautions when using a scooter for children

Do not ride on slippery or wet surfaces, otherwise the device will lose control. While moving, you should not brake sharply: this could cause you to fall.
Small children should not drive down the mountains: this will cause acceleration and the child will not be able to brake.
Be sure to wear protective equipment and lace up your shoes.
Steering is done with two hands only.
The scooter is not intended for driving on roads or at dusk.
Brake mounts and functionality should be checked regularly.
You cannot use a scooter that is not suitable in weight: the product loses stability and quickly fails.

Various brands of scooters for children

Mini Micro 3 in 1. The scooter on three wheels is intended for users from 1 to 4 years old. Height 68 cm, platform length – 54 cm. Permissible load – 20 kg, product weight – 1.85 kg. The wheels are made of polyurethane: the front ones have a diameter of 12 cm, the rear – 8.5 cm. The scooter is equipped with a regular T-shaped handle and an oval handle (with a soft coating) - it is intended for children from 1 to 2 years old, and is attached below the classic one. There is also a seat that turns the scooter into a walker. When the child turns 2 years old, the handle is replaced with a regular steering wheel and the seat is removed. Price of a universal model 4000 rub.
Maxi Micro. It is similar in appearance to the previous version, but is designed for ages from 5 to 14 years. The telescopic stand allows you to adjust the height of the steering wheel within 68-92 cm, there is a brake on the rear wheel. Deck length – 56 cm. Permissible load – 50 kg (Maxi can actually withstand up to 75 kg), product weight 2.5 kg. Price 5200 rub.
Explore Viva. Urban model, applicable for ages 5-7 years. Maximum load – 80 kg, stand level – 85 cm, adjustable steering wheel. Foot brake, polyurethane rollers have a diameter of 13 cm. The frame is made of aluminum. Scooter price – 2500 rub.
Scooter 35. The three-wheeled scooter is designed for children aged 4 years and older. Dimensions 55 x 27 x 66 cm; deck 29 x 11 cm. Product weight 2.5 kg. Polyurethane wheels, front diameter – 120 mm, rear – 70 mm. The height of the handle can be changed up to 1 m, the steering wheel does not rise. Turns are made by lowering the steering wheel. Aluminum frame, plastic deck. The model costs on average 2000 rub.
Big Roller. The 4-wheel scooter is designed for children from 1.5 years old. The frame is made of high-quality plastic, the platform has an anti-slip surface, the steering wheel is adjustable up to 50 cm. The handles do not slip and have a comfortable shape. Permissible load – 20 kg, product weight – 2.1 kg. Model price 2300 rub..

Important to remember! If a child aged 3-4 years is distinguished by mobility and a strong physique, you can purchase the Maxi Micro model: turns on it are made by transferring body weight when tilting the body. This will not be difficult for a large child. If you weigh less than 20 kg, it is better to purchase a Mini Micro scooter so that your child does not have to exert excessive effort to turn.

Scooter for children: reviews from parents

Elena Pavlova (Krasnodar). The Mini Micro kickboard served my daughter reliably for 3 years: from 3 to 6 years old. Excellent shock absorption, smooth ride and decent speed. The scooter was not only a toy, but also a means of transport: with its help we got to kindergarten much faster.

Sergey Churkin (Moscow). For her fifth birthday, she gave her daughter a two-wheeled Explore 2 model. She was pleased with the durable aluminum frame, designed for a weight of up to 90 kg, hard polyurethane wheels, and soft handles. The scooter folds and a bag is included for carrying it. While I was teaching my daughter to ride, I tested the scooter for durability: rating 5+.

Svetlana Fomina (Ekaterinburg). I was choosing a scooter between Mini Micro and Maxi Micro: the first one is too light and less stable. A friend's daughter often falls while riding it. Maxi is a little heavy for my three year old son, but that's okay, kids grow fast. But my son learned to ride without falling within one day.

Ivan Sazhin (St. Petersburg). Our daughter is 1.3 years old, and we decided to give her a useful toy – a German Big Roller scooter. It is not only cute to look at, but very comfortable and durable. The main thing is that it’s lightweight, we carry it down the stairs every day: our daughter rides it both in the apartment and on the street.

Victor Eremeev (Yaroslavl). We recently bought a Scooter GB-145-3 for our 10-year-old son. The rubber wheels wear out quickly and the folding mechanism jams. If the scooter hits a small bump along the way, the platform hits the ankle with a sharp edge. The rear wheel is too heavy, so when you lift the front the scooter starts to “drive”. My advice: check the quality before purchasing so you don't regret wasting money.

Olga Evseeva (Moscow). For our two-year-old son we bought a three-wheeled Mondo made in China. It’s an inexpensive scooter, but quite solid: the plastic frame is durable and can withstand even my 60 kg. The bearings are reliable (ABEC-5). The wheels are made of PVC, but they are similar to rubber - they ride almost silently. Turns are made by swaying left and right, this is very convenient.

When choosing a scooter, consider the age and physical development of your child. A device on wheels allows your child to learn the basics of driving a vehicle - later he will quickly learn to drive a bicycle. When buying a sports model for a young extreme sports enthusiast, study its characteristics in advance and carefully check the scooter for strength, maneuverability and safety.

The scooter has a fairly simple design, which allows you to start using it right out of the box, unlike bicycles, which are often delivered disassembled. However, some users have a question about how to unfold or fold the scooter. The whole point is that Different manufacturers use different folding systems. This article will help you understand the main ones, in addition, the process will be discussed in detail using examples from some brands.

Main types of folding systems

When studying the question of how to fold a scooter, it is necessary, first of all, to become familiar with the main types of systems used. Knowing the principle of their operation, it will be much easier to understand one or another type that is used on a specific scooter model. So, the following types of systems are distinguished:

Now let's look at the folding process using the example of some popular manufacturing companies.

How to fold a micro scooter

Micro scooters are produced for both children and adults. Most models feature a folding system using a button and lever. To unfold the scooter you need to:

Folding is performed in the reverse order: first the lever is loosened, then the buttons are pressed and the steering wheel is moved.

How to fold a Xiaomi scooter

In addition, children's devices can be adjusted in height of the steering wheel, so that as the baby grows, you do not have to spend money again. Changing the size is simple and does not require special skills or tools.

A children's scooter is not only entertainment, but also a good exercise machine for a child. It has a positive effect on the development of the body, because when riding, joints and various muscle groups work. The scooter develops proper breathing and the vestibular system, the ability to maintain balance and the habit of physical activity, improves appetite and improves sleep.

At the same time, a scooter is less dangerous than a bicycle, roller skates and other children's vehicles. In case of danger, you can easily jump off the scooter. In addition, it does not allow you to accelerate quickly and strongly, like the same bicycle or skates. In this article we will look at how to choose the right children's scooter.

When can you buy a scooter for your child?

Experts recommend using a scooter for a child 2 years and older. Up to this age, your child can choose a scooter, which provides a three-wheeled design with a seat and steering wheel. This device is suitable for one-year-old children. And after two years, the child can switch to classic standing models.

At first, it is recommended to use protective equipment for the baby. This will secure the process, protect against abrasions and bruises, create a comfortable environment for the child, and help cope with the fear of falling. Protective equipment includes a head helmet, elbow pads and knee pads. Products must be made of safe materials that do not cause irritation to the skin.

Before using the device, show with your own example how to properly push off with your foot and how to skate. Be attentive and careful, do not expect the baby to move right away. Let's take a closer look at how to choose a scooter for a child. And find out what types of scooters exist.

Types of scooters

For the little ones, they choose sitting and standing scooters with four wheels. A scooter with a seat is a simple design where the baby can sit. The device has a long handle, by which parents can carry the child and control the process. This is the safest type, suitable even for children 2-3 years old.

The four-wheeled model is a suitable scooter for a 3-year-old child at the beginning of mastering riding and control techniques. This design is characterized by a plastic body and light weight, four massive wheels. The child can steer and turn the scooter independently. Sometimes models such as pushchairs with a seat are equipped with a rear handle for parental support.

Three-wheeled scooters are stable and safe products that are suitable for children 2-4 years old. Moreover, it is better if two wheels should be located in front, and the third one in the back. Such models are easy to control, reliable and stable on the road. Three-wheeled scooters help maintain balance and protect against falling. It is advisable to choose plastic products, as they are light in weight. Therefore, such a scooter is easy to control and, if necessary, can be lifted without any problems even by the smallest child.

Classic scooters on two wheels are made of durable iron and aluminum housing. They are suitable for children over five years of age. Such models provide the ability to adjust the steering wheel and expand the functionality of the application. However, if the baby quickly mastered the three-wheeled model and copes well with the technology without any problems, you can transfer the child to a two-wheeled scooter from the age of 3.

Today, manufacturers offer universal models with a removable seat. A scooter with a seat can be used for a 1-2 year old child. As you get older, you can easily remove the seat and use the device as a regular stand-up scooter. Separately, we note devices on large inflatable wheels. They provide a soft ride and are suitable for any roads, including outside the city. Such devices are convenient to use in the country and while traveling. How to organize your first trip with a child, see.

How to choose the right scooter

First of all, pay attention to the age, skills and physical abilities of the baby. From this you can determine which scooter and which model is suitable for the child;
For walking and driving in urban conditions, choose medium-sized rubber or rubber wheels. Two-wheeled structures are chosen on polyurethane wheels measuring 120-210 mm;
Pay special attention to the rigidity of the wheels. Soft structures will make the scooter ride soft and smooth, but they will last less. Rigid wheels are characterized by high strength, stability and long service life. But the unevenness of the roads with them will be very noticeable;
The bearings on the product are responsible for the speed of the wheel and vary in the range of 3-9. For a comfortable ride, choose bearings numbered 7 and 9;
The height of the steering wheel is chosen according to the height and individual preferences of the child. Choose a steering wheel that can be adjusted both in height and width. Removable handles are safer, easier to use and store;
Choose steering wheel handles with high-quality non-slip rubber coating with side stops. For older children, you can choose handles without restrictions;
A folding scooter is more convenient to store and transport. However, after some time, when using this product, creaks and gradual loosening of the fastening mechanisms are observed, which ultimately leads to breakdown. To avoid this, choose a folding steering type rather than a steering wheel and front wheel;
For your first trips, it is better to choose a model with both a hand and foot brake. Since not every child will be able to immediately master the foot brake, he will be able to use the manual method of stopping the scooter, which is located on the handlebar. When the child masters this skill, you can use the device only with a foot brake;
It is important to choose a high-quality, reliable and durable case made from safe materials. Plastic is less durable, while metal weighs a lot, but lasts a long time. It is better to choose the first scooters from light and comfortable plastic, then you can move on to combined models made of plastic and metal. And for children over 5 years old, completely metal structures are already suitable;
Pay attention to the quality of welding at the junction of the steering wheel and footrest. Scooters without welding would be a suitable option, as they are durable and safe, but are quite expensive;
The baby should like the color and design of the product. In this case, let him independently choose to flourish;
Before purchasing, read the instructions for the scooter, which indicate restrictions on the age, weight, and sometimes height of the child. Follow the recommendations!;
Be sure to try out the scooter before purchasing. Let the baby try to drive, steer, and brake.

How to choose a scooter by age

Up to three years

For children under two years old, only four-wheeled scooters are chosen. In the third year, you can switch to three-wheeled designs with two wheels in the front and one in the back. Pay special attention to the width of the platform. It should be large enough to accommodate both of the child's legs. But don’t choose a platform that is too bulky, otherwise the scooter will be more difficult to control.

From 3 to 5 years

Scooters with three and two wheels are suitable for ages 3-5 years. In this case, it is important to adequately and correctly assess the baby’s capabilities. If he still has poor balance, do not rush to transfer the baby to a two-wheeled model. It is recommended to carry out such a transition no earlier than four years. At the same time, the device should be light, practical and easy to operate, and not too fast.

5-10 years

At this age, it is already safe to use standard heavy two-wheeled metal scooters. Choose models made from durable aluminum that feature reliable folding and braking mechanisms. They are safe for children, easy to use and store. It is important that the steering wheel is adjustable.

Over 10 years old

For children over ten years old, you can already buy an adult scooter. Here you can choose a classic model on two wheels for riding on asphalt and in urban areas, a product with inflatable wheels for off-road riding, and even a stunt scooter with professional brakes for performing various tricks. Choose a design with a durable frame and high resistance to mechanical stress. Take scooters with polyurethane wheels with a hardness of at least 76A.

How to choose a scooter by height

To choose the right handlebar, you need to choose a scooter according to the child’s height. To do this, take the necessary measurements. Measure the height of your arms from the floor to your elbows, with your arms bent at the elbows at right angles. In this case, purchase a model with a margin of 5-10 centimeters from the obtained result. In the future, you will have to periodically adjust and adjust the steering wheel according to the baby’s height, since children grow very quickly.

To adjust the steering wheel, select the correct position of your baby's arms and body. Hands should not rise above chest level, and the child should rest against the steering wheel, and not reach for it with effort. The appropriate position of the hands is when they are located at the level of the solar plexus and bent at a right angle. A lower steering wheel position within reasonable limits is acceptable.

The steering wheel should not be too big, otherwise it will be difficult for the child to control the scooter uncomfortably. When driving, the child should not bend over or tilt his body backwards. Your back should be straight and level while riding. Follow each selection rule, then you will find the right model. The selected children's scooter will be comfortable to use and will last a long time.

Read product reviews before purchasing. Buy products only in specialized children's stores and be sure to check the quality certificate! And to make your choice, we offer a rating that has collected the best scooters.

The best children's scooters

Firm	Characteristic	Who is it suitable for?	Price
Y Bike Glide Seat	Transformable scooter on three wheels with a removable seat, durable and powerful device, easy removal and reliable seat fastening	For children 1-5 years old, weighing up to 50 kg	2700 rubles
Micro Mini	Lightweight, stable and maneuverable three-wheeled scooter, high-quality coating of handles and easy assembly, but the handlebar is not height adjustable		4200 rubles
EXPLORE TREDIA	Folding three-wheeled scooter, durable and strong mechanism, rotating but not adjustable steering wheel and quite heavy ride		1200 rubles
TROLO MINI	A bright three-wheeled model with light weight and reliable assembly, luminous wheels and high-quality plastic, but the steering wheel is not adjustable	For children 2-3 years old, weighing up to 20 kg, height 90-98 cm	2500 rubles
DISNEY Cars	A bright four-wheeled scooter for beginners, stable and reliable, adjustable steering wheel and foot platform, unusual design	For boys 2-3 years old, weighing up to 20 kg	1600 rubles
MaxCity MC Flex	Three-wheeled comfortable and lightweight scooter, luminous wheels and adjustable steering wheel	For children 2-3 years old, weighing up to 50 kg, height 90-98 cm	2500 rubles
NAVIGATOR	The model has inflatable wheels for all roads, is equipped with a bicycle rack, provides a soft ride, but is heavy	For children 4-6 years old, weighing up to 50 kg, height 104 – 116 cm	2000 rubles
HELLO WOOD HW-145 (children)	A good classic metal two-wheel scooter, durable and durable, adjustable handle and handlebar, folding design and comfortable extended platform, but heavy in weight	For children from 4-5 years old, weighing up to 80 kg	2600 rubles

A scooter is a convenient vehicle for children aged two years and older. It’s not difficult to learn how to ride it, the main thing is that the child can already maintain balance while standing on one leg. A scooter is lighter and more compact than other vehicles; it can be stored without problems even in a small apartment.

Riding a scooter develops a child physically, trains coordination of movements, and strengthens the muscles of the arms and legs.

Riding it is potentially less dangerous than riding a bicycle or roller skates, because it occurs at a lower speed, and the child’s feet are closer to the ground, which allows him to brake faster. The main thing is to ensure that the child periodically alternates the pushing and supporting legs for uniform development of the musculoskeletal system.

Children's scooter device

The simplest scooter consists of:

frames with a horizontal platform for feet (deck);
steering wheel on a vertical stand;
wheels (two, three or even four);
brake.

Foot platforms vary in length and width - the shorter it is, the easier the scooter is to maneuver, and the wider it is, the more comfortable it is to stand on it. However, the too wide platform causes your feet to catch when pushing.

It is not necessary that the child can put both feet on the deck at the same time. It is enough for only one leg to stand steadily on it, and there is a little space left to place the second leg half-sided.

The top covering of the deck must be made non-slip, covered either with anti-slip stickers or rubberized protrusions. Pay attention to the height of the deck - the higher it is from the ground, the more effort the child will have to make when pushing off, because he will have to squat.

But specimens with a very low deck position cause inconvenience when driving on uneven surfaces, clinging to ledges and potholes.
The frame is made of aluminum, steel or their alloy, which provide the necessary reliability of the entire structure.

Steering wheel tips (grips) are made of foam or foam rubber (bright, pleasant to the touch, but quickly get dirty and difficult to clean), or from rubber pads. Plastic grips are undesirable for use in children's scooters, because they begin to slide easily when they get wet, and can slip out of a child's hands and lead to a fall.

If the steering wheel of the selected model is height-adjustable, this will allow a growing child to ride it comfortably for more than one season. The height of the handlebar is changed either using a screw that can be unscrewed or a push-out latch.

Scooter wheels are made of plastic, polyurethane or rubber. Plastic wheels are installed on inexpensive models; their disadvantages include noise and increased wear.

Polyurethane wheels are most often installed on scooters; they wear out slower than plastic ones, soften road irregularities better, but are a little more expensive.

Such wheels vary in degree of rigidity, and the diameter varies from 100 to 210 mm. Rubber wheels are softer and more comfortable when driving on hard and uneven surfaces, and have increased shock absorption, however, they are vulnerable to punctures.

The design of the scooter is complemented by a foot or hand brake. The foot brake is made in the form of a pad above the rear wheel. Having accelerated, the child presses it with his foot, the pad is pressed against the wheel and gradually stops it.

It is worth remembering that sharp braking at high speed can overturn the vehicle, and young athletes should be explained that they need to brake smoothly. Not all children master the foot brake the first time, since pressing it while moving with one foot requires high coordination of movements.

However, it is worth fully mastering it in order to be able to stop or brake when skating from inclined surfaces.

The handbrake is an additional handle on the steering wheel that, when pressed, locks the front or rear wheel. This type of brake acts sharper, but is easier for children to master.

Most scooters are equipped with a folding mechanism for compact storage and transportation. They can be folded in two ways, differing in the type of mounting of the steering column:

on the screw;
on the latch.

In the first option, when folding, the fastening screw is unscrewed and the steering column is bent to the foot platform. There are copies with an automatic mechanism, in which you just need to press a button, and the scooter itself folds in half.

In the second option, the steering wheel and support are pulled out entirely after pressing the latch. The first option is more convenient for storage, because... the scooter remains a single whole and there is no chance of losing one of the parts, but if folded frequently, the mount between the handlebar and the platform may become loose and produce unpleasant squeaks.

Some models also have grips that are pulled out and then attached parallel to the steering column for a compact fold.

Types of children's scooters

Children's scooters differ in the number of wheels, which determine stability, controllability and the age of the rider.

Four-wheeled vehicles are intended for the youngest children from 1.5 years old. Such models use variants of wheel arrangement - either pairs of wheels at the front and rear are located at the same distance from each other, or one of the pairs (usually the rear) is located close to each other - such a scooter is very similar in appearance and handling to a three-wheeled one.

Three-wheeled scooters are chosen for children from the age of 2-2.5 years.

Such models attract with their bright design with images of your favorite cartoon characters, hanging baskets, and animal-shaped bells.

Three-wheeled modifications are available with different combinations of wheel arrangements:

two in front and one in back;
one in front and two in back.

The first option is more convenient for small children, because... when pushing, the foot does not cling to the widely spaced rear wheels. But in this version, to turn to the side, the steering wheel is tilted to the side rather than turned - and this type of control is more difficult for some children to master than the traditional one.

However, such control is safer, since it eliminates sharp turning of the steering wheel to the side, as a result of which the front wheel can sharply turn at a large angle, and the vehicle can overturn.

There is also a modified second option, when the rear wheels of the scooter are located close to each other, which reduces the risk of getting caught on them. However, such models are less stable than traditional three-wheeled ones with two wheels widely spaced, and therefore are suitable for children aged 4 years and older, who already have confidence in their balance, but cannot yet stand on two wheels.

Some models of three-wheeled scooters are equipped with a removable seat that fits onto the handlebar post.

This option is convenient for small children 1.5-2.5 years old, who still find it difficult to maintain balance on one leg, and it is easier for them to push off while sitting. As the child grows, the seat is removed.

There are universal models of the scooter-running bike type, which are transformed either into a scooter or into a balance bike - a pedalless two-wheeled bicycle. In this case, the platform either stands at the bottom or rises up, forming a seat.

Another type of three-wheeled models is with two platforms for legs, which are called inertial scooters. The technique of riding them is somewhat different from the traditional one. Here, both legs simultaneously stand on the platforms, and make pushing movements, similar to those of skating on ice, reminiscent of the cutting movements of scissor blades.

Such models are suitable for riding by children from 9 years old and are intended for walking only on flat surfaces.

Two-wheeled scooters are suitable for children from the age of 5 who already have good control of their body and have mastered maintaining balance. Such specimens develop greater speed than their three-wheeled counterparts. The smaller the diameter of the wheels and the shorter the deck, the faster the child can accelerate.

For active teenagers, special stunt scooters are suitable, with high-speed wheels of small diameter and a reliable, rigid, awkward frame. It is best to ride such models in specially equipped skate parks.

Unusual modifications

Manufacturers are trying in every way to modify their models and add new functions to them. There are scooters with a device for striking sparks - in the form of a special metal bar, which you need to press with your foot after acceleration, the bar scrapes along the asphalt and, depending on the speed gained, single lights or even whole sheaves of sparks appear.

Other models are equipped with a chalk holder, and the child draws ornate patterns on the go, repeating the trajectory of his movement.

Scooters are produced with an inertial mechanism in the form of an additional pedal on the back of the deck, which is pressed with the foot several times after acceleration, and the child rides longer without pushing off the ground.

Children's electric scooters

An interesting variety is the electric scooter - a scooter equipped with an electric motor. The motor in such models is mounted under the foot platform and allows a speed of 15-25 km/h. The driving time when the battery is fully charged is about an hour.

To start the motor, you must first push off the ground with your foot, as on a traditional scooter, after which the motor starts, and the child rides with both feet on the platform. The weight of such models is significant - from 10 kg to 20 kg.

When purchasing such a model, be sure to pay attention to the protective motor cover - it must be securely covered from small debris and drops of water.

Such models are suitable for children over 10 years old, who can already adequately assess the speed of movement and road conditions.

Accessories

For scooters, as for bicycles, additional accessories are sold. If a child is able to actively accelerate or already performs tricks while skating, then it would be a good idea to purchase him a protective kit - a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads and gloves. They will help protect the young athlete from unnecessary injuries and abrasions.

The range of accessories includes drinking water bottle holders, storage baskets, handbags and bells.

They produce special covers that will protect your vehicle from unnecessary contamination during storage and will help others to travel safely with a scooter on public transport.

How to use

It is better to ride a scooter on a flat surface, without holes or bumps. Suitable places for skating are specially equipped areas, roller rinks with an even surface and smooth slides. Children are not allowed to ride along roads and highways.

You should not ride through puddles (although children love to do this), because water getting into the wheels will wash the grease out of the bearings, and the metal parts of the frame may rust.

Therefore, after a walk in wet weather, you should thoroughly wipe the vehicle with a clean, dry, absorbent cloth and leave to dry in a warm place.

Malfunctions

The most prone spot on a scooter is where the steering column is attached to the platform. If there is a welding seam in this place, then over time it may fail and begin to delaminate. So when choosing a model, you must pay close attention to this place.