How much should I pay for a used bicycle?

kids bicycle brakes image

Madelynn

I don't need anything fancy. I just need it to get around to nearby places like the library and the record store, since I'm only 14 and can't drive.

Again, nothing fancy.

How much should I pay for a used bicycle in decent condition?

Answer
This is a good question, but it is hard to answer. There are an incredible number of factors that will influence how much you will have to pay for a bike. I always found getting a bargain really is a matter of how much time and effort you are willing to put into the pursuit. If you need something right now, you usually will pay top dollar. If you have time and are willing to spend some effort looking around you can scout out all sort of deals.

Here is what I've noticed about bicycle prices. A 2 to 5 year old bike should never sell for more than half the price of a comparable new one. Older bikes can be easily had for $20-$50, but may need some work to get on the road. (Tires and brake pads often need to be replaced, but these are pretty cheap and easy to deal with.) The more someone simply wants to get a bike out of their house, the less it will cost. Nearly every one who has kids has a couple of old bikes collecting dust in the garage that they may want to get rid of.

Here are the places to find a decent used bike:

- bike store expect to pay top dollar
- used bike cooperative - lots of places have cooperatives that rebuild and sell bikes
- thrift store
- police and/or town sales of abandoned and stolen/recovered bikes
- craigslist.com
- neighbors - try sticking a note in all of your neighbors mailboxes or doors stating you are looking for a decent used bike. (You may get one for free.)

Good luck and happy hunting.

How can I learn to ride a bicycle?

Danielsan

I tried riding a bike as a kid but fell and was traumatized to the point that I never got back on a bike. Now I feel, as an adult ready to take on the challenges, but that little fear keeps encroaching back in. How can I make this a successful feat overcome, and finally learn how to ride a bike?

Answer
I had trouble learning to balance a bike and I know someone who thinks correct reach to the pedal is more important than reach to the ground and put my kids on bikes too big for them and they had nasty accidents that put them off for ages.

Here are some tips:

Get a trustworthy bike-shop or sensible and knowledgeable friend help you to work out a good frame size for you. Although most adult bikes are 26" (which is the height of the wheels) the length needs considering as well. But for now, as long as it doesn't seem too hard or too easy to reach the handlebars, that should do. When you are riding well and regularly for some distance, you'll work out what, if anything, is wrong. A call to a bike shop to tell them your height should be enough for them to tell you if you should be on a 26".

Make sure the front and rear brakes are working well and mainly rely on the rear brake for now. Preferably no back pedal brakes unless you feel that lacking in skill. If so, as soon as you feel ready, get onto a bike without because it will be easier to get fully competent.

To work out a good height for the saddle, sit on the bike and make sure that you can put both feet almost completely on the ground at the same time. Best not to be able to put both fully and completely on the ground because that will make pedaling very cramped and if you are too cramped, it will affect your balance. This is an excellent height for being able to stop yourself falling over in most situations or give you some control of the fall if you do lose your balance. This will help with confidence which is key to learning.

To learn to balance a bike, find a gentle slope with a safe ending, either going uphill or just levels off. Start at the top of the slope and sit on the bike saddle with your legs hanging out to the sides, not on the pedals. Let the bike roll and use your feet to lightly push you back towards centre if you start to go over. (If necessary, take the pedals off for this stage but children upwards of about 7 and adults probably don't need to.) Keep going back to the top of the slope and rolling down again; as you feel more confident about your balance, try putting your feet on the pedals (but don't worry about turning them yet). The slope doesn't need to be very long - the dead-end I learned on only had about 3 houses on each side. When you can balance the bike and get your feet on the pedals, start trying a bit of pedalling. Soon after this, you're ready for a longer slope or a piece of quiet straight road.

When you have mastered your balance and are starting to ride fairly confidently, start raising the seat a bit at a time, never going beyond what you feel safe doing, until your legs are just slightly bent as you sit on the seat and put your feet on the pedals.

It took me most of an afternoon to finally get my balance. My family had spent quite a bit of time helping me but I still hadn't got it. That afternoon of rolling down the slope was pretty much what finally got me going.

Also, stay away from bumps until you feel really confident and then just small ones until you work out what you can handle. And of course, *never* jump your bike up onto a kerb unless you have special wheels - they'll get damaged and go out of "true" and then the brakes won't work properly.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the most comfortable mountain bike seat for a woman with a big bottom?

kids bike gel seat image

Myra G

I just bought a seat that looks comfortable but is not. Any suggestions???
yes, it has been a while since I have used a bike.

Answer
Hi Myra,

First let's get some basic terms squared away. Bike seats are called "saddles"... For the most part "seats" are found in bleachers, office buildings and in cars.

I have been an active cyclist since 1985, currently logging 200-250 miles per week... Now it is true that I am not a woman, nor do I have a wide bottom, but I can help you out a bit. Saddles are now being made women-specific. Most of these are narrower models, but as someone else pointed out, women naturally have a wider pelvic region (the whole birthing thing), so they will be shaped differently from a male saddle. If you went to a decent bike shop, you would see saddles with sections that look like they are missing, cut out or perhaps the maker forgot to finish building it. That however is the way they are suppose to look. The cut out region is to alleviate pressure on your pelvic region - and to weight weenies (what they call people who count every gram of every part that goes on their bikes) it is cool because that saddle will weigh less than solid ones.

If you weren't completely sold on a mountain bike, I would recommend a recumbent for true comfort while riding.. Those are the bikes that you sit in a very wide chair-like "seat", with your legs extended out to the pedals in front of you. Riding a recumbent would work certain muscle groups harder than a regular bike would. Your gluts (butt muscles) would be worked (abused - LOL) hard along with your leg muscles of course. The saddle on a recumbent is light-years more comfortable than a standard bike.

If you are already sold on the mountain bike idea, or perhaps you have one and saddle discomfort has become the principal issue at hand, then first thing I would recommend is to look at Performancebike.com. Click on the SADDLES link on the left. Then select WOMEN'S SADDLES. You will see a very wide shaped saddle there for sale for $39.99 (12% off) called "The Seat" by Ergo. It probably doesn't look anything like any saddle you have ever seen (and yes it is ok to call this one a SEAT! It is advertised as:

"Extra wide for unbelievable support and comfort"

"Short length provides a non-restrictive pedal stroke"

"Integrated rear reflectors for added visibility"

"Gel padding dissipates road vibration while providing plenty of padding for comfort"

Keep in mind that "The Seat" is a saddle that supports your body the same way as when you sit in a chair.

Shoot that almost sounds good enough for me! If it could recline and give me a massage I would be set! LOL! Just kidding of course.

Another thing to keep in mind that if you are riding a department store bicycle, you really should get properly fit on your bike. It sounds like you have a passion that makes you want to ride, but the dang pain in the butt part (sorry) has discomforted you and irked you enough to have you post a question here. A reliable bike shop can help you "Saddle Up" properly. They can tell if your saddle is too high or too far back. They can help if your crank arms are too long, or if the distance to your handlebar is too far away, too low or too high. All of the stated issues above can contribute to a sore backside.

Also on the Performance website you can see the Forté EasyRider Saddle. For the Forte EasyRider follow this link:

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=14747&PID=1204522

It too is on sale $19.99 (50% off the regular price)

You can also check out another famous online cycling catalog @ NASHBAR.COM for the following saddles:

Selle San Marco Travel Delux Womenâs Saddle

Selle Royal Ergo GEL Mid Cruiser Saddle

A little more insight can be found at: about.com (See below)

http://bicycling.about.com/od/equipment/a/saddlechoice.htm

If I can help further in any aspect of the sport please don't hesitate to contact me... HOW? Just answer any of the questions that "I ask" with the answer "BIKE HELP NEEDED" and I will do my best to get you the answers you seek.

Best Regards,
~CJ Smith~
Cyclist - Triathlete
Suncoast Cycling Club Member
Palm Harbor, Florida

Are there different seats on bicycles for men and for women?

dunwerse

Just got back to cycling to work and have a bike with what looks like a regular sadle, but it really hurts my butt. Its longish and thin, is it a guys one? (and I never thought about this really but guys bums aren't THAT different are they? If I go buy a new one should I ask for a ladies sadle or will I get laughed at.

Answer
There are different men's and women's saddles. In general, men's pelvic structures are narrower than women's pelvic structures. (It has to do with birthing kids.) Thus, men's saddles are generally narrower than women's. A comfy saddle is the one that is right for your pelvis.

I particularly like Specialized saddles. They make saddles in a variety of widths for men and women. Along with their saddles, they also have a fitting system that uses a gel pad. You sit on the pad, then you measure the width of the depressions made by your pelvis. Then you buy the appropriate saddle.

I had a lot of trouble with pain and numbness prior to getting a Specialized saddle. When I did the measuring, I found I had a very narrow pelvic structure. (My kids have always said I was a tight a**, but I think we are talking about two different issues.)

Hope you find a saddle that fits you well.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Growing up in the 1960s, we kids had bikes with banana seats and sissy bars, but the handlebars were called..?

kids bike banana seat image

hopeful

I am pretty sure they had a particular name, like you would see on a chopper.

Answer
We called the monkey bars, which I think was just a derivative of ape hangers. Ape hangers is the motorcycle chopper term, as theirs are very high, with the hands above the head (impossible to ride like that for more then 10 minutes without the hands falling asleep). The popular term for stingrays in my neighborhood was "monkey bike" and the banana seat was called a "monkey seat" etc...

Baseball cards in the spokes...

Then there was making homemade choppers with by sawing the forks off another old bike and slip-fitting them onto the forks, and even surviving to tell the tale...

What was your favorite toy when you were a kid?

Q. I like the Easy Bake Oven and the Magna Doodle.

Answer
Barbie, etch a sketch, Puffalumps, Pound puppies, My little Pony, slinky, pogo ball, My buddy and Kid Sister dolls, Care bears, Cabbage patch kids, play-doh, Strawberry Shortcake, pick-up sticks, Legos, connect four, hoola hoop, Teddy Ruxpin, A realistic doll that I named Ashley, which was my favorite doll of all time- My brothers ended up shooting her with a bb gun, and her face shattered. It was such a violent end to such a loved doll. I also had lots of stuffed animals that my brothers would body slam when they were pretending to be Hulk Hogan or the Ultimate Warrior, and I used to love mad libs. They were always hilarious. Almost made me pee my pants a couple times. I also had a pink and white bike with a banana seat with a picture of a horse on the side that my dad had drawn. and my friend had a Kricket doll and a Barbie dream house with an elevator, and a Barbie Jeep, and a fake kitchen stocked with fake food and pots and pans and dishes, and also a tea set -- all of which I coveted.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

I want to get a bike to ride with my son?

trek kids bike seat image

blackwidow

I havent had a bike in about six yrs I want one for fun with my kids this summer and for short trips to the store/park etc. and to hit some trails.... I have a 1 1/2 yr old that I plan on getting a seat for either front seat or a trailer.... Any suggestions on the type of bike I should look at? Thanks

Answer
One word... Hybrid. Links below for examples from Raleigh. But really all major companies make these bikes. Trek, Giant, Jamis, Cannondale, Schwinn, etc. Just avoid discount & big box store bicycles. Cheap junk.

A pull behind trailer is MUCH safer for your child than a seat that mounts on a rear rack. What happens to your child if the bike should fall? They are strapped in with no escape route.

Do you get used to a bike seat?

Christy R

I have a trek and I went riding yesterday for the first time since I was a kid, and the seat made me real sore. I was wondering if you get used to it or do I need to go buy a new seat? If I have to go buy a new one its probally going to be hard to find for a trek no?

Answer
Yes, you do get used to a bike seat, but it depends on how much time you have before the trek. You need to ride every day for several days to get toughened for riding. Of course, a good seat will help a great deal, and make the process easier. You might also want to invest in a pair of good riding shorts - they have thick padding covered with soft leather and they are wonderful.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How do I exercise while tending young children?

bikes for young children image

mommyem

This summer I will have 3 young children, ages 3 years, 18 months, and a newborn. Right now I'm having a hard time exercising, because my 2nd is so clingy and since it's winter all I can do is exercise videos. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what activities I can do while tending young kids?

Answer
Consider purchasing an elliptical machine, Treadmill, or exercise bike (or any combination there of). When the kids are asleep you can get a pretty good workout in, eitherin the morning before they wake or in the evening after they are asleep.

Best places to live in Sacramento area for family with young children?

Ella

We are relocating to Sacramento from the bay area. We have two young children, ages 2 and 4. We'd like to live in a nice, safe neighborhood with young families and in a great school district. We like the Land Park neighborhoods but heard it's near bad areas. We're open to looking in the greater Sacramento area. Any recommendations?

Answer
My wife's family grew up in Land Park. We bought a house there and have lived there comfortably for over 30 years.

I changed locations so I could teach at Crocker/Riverside Elementary, one of the highest scoring and best rated schools in Sacramento. Many of my students have their parents and grandparents growing up in Land Park. Every year, we have families camping out to sign their kindergarten-age children for the Fall term.

It's a neighborhood where people leave their windows open on warm evenings, and go for walks after dinner. There, they'll be greeted by neighbors walking their dogs or riding bikes with their children. The houses? No cookiecutter homes here. In fact, Thomas Kinkade used many of the homes there as inspirations for his paintings.

Would I like a larger yard, a bigger house, and such? Of course. But we find more families moving in, then moving out.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Park,_Sacramento,_California
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Land_Park,_Sacramento,_California
http://homebuying.about.com/od/marketfactstrends/ig/Land-Park-Homes/
http://www.sacramentorealestatevoice.com/2009/02/27/land-park-distinguished-neighborhood-in-sacramento/

If you have any other specific questions, please email me.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How can carry so much stuff in my pocket ?

kids bike jacket image

Astro

I am having tough time organizing stuff in my pocket, i usually carry Key Bunch (Car, house, bike mail key and 2 more) , Wallet, Ciggarate box, lighter, Iphone and office badge. It is like a huge stuff to carry in the pocket. What is the best way to carry around stuff that i regularly use

Answer
As a guy, there are only 3 times where you can pull off a satchel. First would be if your in college, then again, the backpack would cover that problem. Second would be if you were retired. Older folks get a break. Third would be walking around Disney with kids in tow. Have to have it. BUT... as an average guy doing my daily routine, I wouldn't be caught dead with it. Get a briefcase or sport a jacket that goes with the weather to take care of your problem.

How much would my expenses be if i bought a 2008 Kawasaki ninja 250?

MiChaeL

Hi, I'm 18 and really want to buy my first bike. I'm really interested in getting the 2008 ninja 250 as a starter, but i was wondering what are the other expenses that will come with having a bike.
like insurance? how much? (i live in Portland, OR)
Licensing?
Gas?
Maintenance?

please real honest answers, thanks.

Answer
Don't recommend an inline 4 to the kid as his first bike, for god's sakes. A 250 is fine for you to start on. True you will probably be hankering for something a bit quicker within 2 years, but the thing that most super sport or higher CC bikers DON'T know is HOW TO CORNER. Why don't they know? Because they're scared to hell and back of their bike. Where as you can wring the hell out of a 250 with a much larger margin for error.

I've seen dudes in 250/500s catch up to dudes in super sports on the track because these guys just can't god damn corner! They slow down to 10mph and turn their handle bars while being perfectly sat up on the bike. It's sad, really. All because they know their bike is a 0-60 is 3.5 seconds monster just waiting to be cut loose.

As for expenses. You can get everything, just a few things that fit you, or you can be some dude riding around with a t-shirt, shorts and flip flops, and assuming you won't work on the bike yourself. (Ie., need tool kits)

This is a list of things for your bike that many people get. (Not necessarily all of them. Just a list.)

Gear:
Gas: $10-14 per tank

Progressive Bike Insurance WITH Medical I pay $45/m. (You would be more, can't say how much...)

Maintenance: Not much to start on. Oil change every season. Tires. Etc. All covered on the 250 forums at the bottom.

Helmet ($80-200 depending on brand/features)
http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-helmets/motorcycle-helmets.htm

Gloves ($20-50)
www.ebay.com (for me anyway)

Mesh/Textile Jacket ($50-150)
www.ebay.com (again)

Kevlar Jeans ($80-110)
www.dragginjeans.com

and over the ankle high-tops/boots. ($30-100)
ebay/walmart anywhere in between

Bike cover ($15-30)

Frame sliders. (I would really recommend, since it's your first bike and it'll be NEW) ($105-155)
http://fatbikez.com/black-shogun-no-cut-frame-sliders-kawasaki-ninja-250r-2008.html


K&N Air filter ($40-60)
http://www.knfilters.com/

Wax ($4)
Local car/bike store

Micro fiber cloths ($5-10)
Local car/bike store

Corbin seat ($260)
www.corbin.com

And there's a community of 250 owners with even more info, I'm sure, at http://forums.ninja250.org/index.php

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What bike should I buy 6 year old boy for first bike?

kids bike no wheels image

Q. He's a little guy and kinda puny but I totally do not want to get him some "character" bike like spongebob or something. A grown-up big kids bike. Please be specific as possible. Thanks

Answer
I just got new bikes for my 5 year olds. We ended up getting a smaller size BMX style bike that has coaster brakes and hand brakes. That way they can start getting used to the hand brake but not have to rely on it. Once their hands get used to the hand brakes I'm going to switch out the coaster brake for a freewheel then the bike should last another couple years.

I would definitely get a 20" wheel (the standard size for bmx bikes) bike so they can grow with it for a few years. If you get anything smaller than that they will be grown out of it before the year is over and you'll be getting a new one for him to ride to school.

If you go to a real bike shop that sells trek, specialized or other name brand bikes they will have some you can look at and they really aren't that expensive when you look at kids size bikes.

I completely agree - avoid the cartoon bikes. They are silly and a waste of money.

How do you stop a bike chain from rusting?

Dyslexia o

All my kids have bikes. We have no room in the house for them and no garage or carport. THe chains have all gotten pretty rusty from the rain and stuff.
How can we get rid of the rust?
How can we prevent it from happening again?

Answer
First, if the bikes aren't covered or protected for example under a porch, or in your basement, or an unused room buy some heavy plastic sheets (8X8) at your local Ace Hardware and cover them. Second, buy some WD40 lubricant and spray this on the chain. Then while holding the rear wheel off the ground crank the pedals and wipe the oil and dirt off the chain using an old rag (repeat several times). Lastly lubricate the chain with a good light weight oil. Suggestions "3 & 1" oil, light machine oil, or SAE Grade 5W or 10W motor oil. You don't want a heavy coat. A good light coat should do it. Avoide lithium grease as it collects dirt.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the coolest thing for a girl to get into?

boys quad bikes image

Alena

Boys always have their toys. Quads, bikes, sport cars that they can brag about to either guys or girls. It doesn't seem that there really is anything for a girl to do, besides putting on nice clothes and looking good. Is there anything that a girl in her 20's could get into? I'm talking about something that is considered unusual and yet at the same time cool for a girl to do.
Any ideas?
No knitting, cleaning, or cooking please. No sexist stuff.

Answer
thats a good question i wonder now to

What size of quad bike helmet do I need?

Iain

I am a 16 y.o. boy, and my dad just bought a quad bike for use about the farm. We're looking for a helmet but i don't know what size i need or where the cheapest place to buy one is. Any help would be greatly appreciated, and UK sizes are preferable if they vary between countries.

Thanks in advance XD

Answer
Just so you know, it's either a quad or a bike: 2 wheels or 4.
If you've never worn a motorcycle helmet before, I suggest you go to a shop and get help with the fitting.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Has anyone yet designed an infant seat for bike trailers?

kids bike seat carrier image

Arwen

Years ago we sold our car to get a slower lifestyle in our suburban town, and for 10 years we lived by bike and bus. We used the bike for short trips and for going places the bus didn't go. At the time the bus service didn't run on Sundays or holidays, so if we wanted to go anywhere, we had to take the bikes.

At the time we had three children - age 7, 4.5 and a newborn. The 7 year old rode his own bike, the 4.5 year old rode behind his dad on a trail-a-bike, and we jury-rigged an old infant seat into a bike trailer for the infant. I also carried all our groceries in that trailer, and once, a door (without the baby!). Eventually they all rode their own bikes, but it started this way.

My brother's wife is about to have a kid, and I want to give them a bike trailer to go riding with their new baby.

Has anyone invented/marketed a better system for infants in bike trailers? If so, what bike trailer does it work with, and where can I get it?

Answer
@Old hippie, the infant car seat could be secured to the bike trailer and have it rear facing. In the car, it needs to be reclined no more than 45 degrees, but a parent could recline it more than this on a bike trailer to keep their newborns airway open and to prevent their child's head to their chest (especially going uphill)- more at 60 and 80 degrees from vertical on a bike. Remember that if the seat is installed in the car, it needs to be no more than 45 degrees.

This is because they aren't going to use the seat to withstand crash forces- just to secure the child for the ride.

Here is an article about the American Academy of Pediatric policy regarding bike trailers. They recommend that, "...adults should carry only children 12 months or older and weighing less than 40 pounds."

These are just recommendations and a parent can take what they want from what the AAP says. Because I don't agree with all policy decisions by the AAP.

Instead of having the child ride in the back with a jury-rigged infant car seat why not wear the baby with a wrap? There is the Moby Wrap or the Ergo carrier.

*Sigh* Many people haven't lived or visited Cambodia. You would never know how people ride on motorcyles and their bikes with their infants. That being said, I'm not sure if it is safe though. I just haven't heard about children dying in bike trailers.

Here is an article about why bike trailers may not be as dangerous as people think: http://www.mnn.com/family/protection-safety/blogs/bike-trailers-child-safety-and-the-medias-fear-
agenda

Whoops! Forgot to put the AAP article in: http://aapnews.aappublications.org/content/30/7/18.6.full

Why all the thumbs down? I haven't ever heard of many children getting killed being hit by a vehicle in a bike trailer. In contrast, I have heard plenty of children getting killed while in a crash being *in* the vehicle. Statistics just don't lie.

I'm all for safety, but I just don't understand by these trailers are just deemed as so dangerous. What magically happens when a child is 12 months old? If the car seat can be tightly tied down in the trailer, I just don't see how that would be any different.

Anyone have a bicycle seat for baby that you love?

RearFace@1

I would love to get one for my 13 month old for this summer. Have the breeze in our hair and great exercise and freshness...I want the best for a good price, no more than $60 give or take. I am not sure what to look for. Any ideas or advice? I don't mind shopping online either, but I am not sure where to go and Google is just killin me today.

Also, a baby helmet too...?

Answer
I have absolutely no advice about what brand to get, I'm sorry. If you have a large sporting goods store near you that may be worth looking at. Chances are they would have some.

Mostly I'm just wanting to answer saying that I love the idea of a bicycle seat rather than a trailer. Everyone says that if you fall baby falls too, which is going to happen with a seat or a trailer. With a seat the baby is strapped in and protected on three sides like with a car seat. I'm more paranoid with the trailers. They make the bike longer, which means that you have more of an opportunity for a car or another bike to hit the trailer if they aren't paying attention. Plus if you fall on the bike the trailer is going to tip too, and often kids aren't as secured in them as they would be in a seat.

Here are two that I found on amazon. I think both look great, but for a younger toddler I would go with the one that has head support. The front mounted one looks like it would have better stability for the rest of the bike, but it looks a bit scary.
Good luck!
http://www.amazon.com/Bell-Cocoon-Mounted-Bicycle-Carrier/dp/B000F934W2/ref=sr_1_3/002-6601764-2326445?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1211849978&sr=1-3
http://www.amazon.com/iBert-Safe-T-Front-Mounted-Bicycle/dp/B000H4E7EO/ref=sr_1_1/002-6601764-2326445?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1211849978&sr=1-1

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Is this room plan design idea clumsy and unworkable?

kids 50cm bike image

Ms_S

My husband and I are currently designing the floor plan of our house. And he is driving me crazy with constantly changing his mind and switching aound rooms and saying, oh put this here, take out that, make that bigger etc. Because he is the fantasy I am the practical. For example he'll say, oh put all the bedrooms on one side, but when I tell him we have a 10m wall and 3 bedrooms and 4 walls eating into that 10m space totalling 90cm then the bedrooms are going to be like sausages.
Anyway, his new thought is that between two rooms both of about 4m deep we put a storage room, like a deep skinny storage closet. So this storage room would be a clean 1.5m by 4m with no windows and one acess door at the 1.5m side (his idea not mine). So I told him not only would you need a heck of a lot of lighting to see whats in there, but you could only put things along one wall, for about 1m so you could have about a 50cm skinny foot space to walk down the 4m of the room to see what you have and have access to it all. I personally think its unworkable and just odd.
What do you think...if it was say a clean 2m wide do you think that would work or the idea is just stupid?
The reason was, we as a family really need a storage room, which I had designed to be by the front door so you could straight away put in the prams (2 kids, one 2 one not born yet lol), then later on bikes and other stuff, coat hooks on the wall for hooks, suitcases and winter clothes/summer clothes, sports equipment you know all that. And at present by the front door, my storage room eats into our box shape living room making it into an L shape. I just liked the idea of it being by the front door mainly for coats, prams, and for future...bikes...idea

Lol, so if I haven't confused you, mainly what's your opinion on my husbands idea...the skinny deep sausage storage room?
Thanks for your help. Unfortunately the land is our problem, our house is built on a massive slope so we can only have one entrance on that one wall, the opposite end will be a drop. You see we are building 2 stories, our floor is top floor with the top road access, and the bottom floor is my brother-in-laws place with the lower road acess. So no back door for us. And unfortunately no rubber-maid stuff, because it would look unsightly at the front of the house and we live in Greece so they dont sell that stuff :( . But I'm glad for the second opinion backing me up on thinking that my husbands storage place idea is unworkable.
Hi, thanks again for the input! You gave me a great idea to make my bedroom bigger whilst still keeping the walls flush with the others...eat into the next room and put our ensuite and walk-in there! Brilliant! I am going to have to fiddle about but I think its all do-able, and I think I will make that front door storage space just big enough for say a pram, some stacked boxes and hanging coats, and allocate storage elsewhere say in my laundry and our walk-in.
Its funny, just when you get to the point when there is no more fiddling you could possibly do! lol

Answer
I agree that it would soon become very difficult to retrieve items, as others got tossed in on top of them, but I see the problem with an l-shaped living room, as well.

Is there any way the storage could actually go outside the front door, rather than inside it? Rubbermaid makes several pretty good weather tight storage minis that would fit along a back wall. Others are available, of course. Just search for outdoor storage.

Since this is a new construction and a house, arrange the space so that you routinely enter the back door rather than the front, and the front entry and living room stay nice for guests and for living in. We had a similar problem, and just coming in a different door helped us sort it all out. We had a "mud room" at the back door, and that's where sports gear and hats, coats, gloves, and so on were stowed in easy reach yet still out of sight.

ADDED AS AN EDIT AFTER THE "NO BACK DOOR" EXPLANATION: I see....yes, the outside storage is not going to work at all. I agree with you, though. The "hallway" space would have what-ever you used most recently at the front, and what-ever you needed to use next somewhere along the back. Unless you are positively obsessive about order, it wouldn't take long....

How about turning the hallway sideways - a wall devoted to storage with sliding or bifold doors so that you could get into the entire space by opening the right set of doors? (Prams behind one set, hats and coats behind a second, rain or bad weather gear behind a third) prefer bifold to sliding, because they fold open and out of the way, where sliding doors only allow access to half the space at any one time. A long line of slender panel doors might add some interest to an otherwise blank bland wall. This is how we "hid" our laundry in plain sight in a kitchen.

The solution avoids the L shaped rooms, and avoids the accessibility issues.

Second edit - the second poster mentioned a staircase. The space UNDER the stairs might be perfect for storage. with french close doors (both singing out from the middle, opening a wider space) or bifold doors.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Whats are some great meal and exercise plans for a 12 yr. old girl?

childrens balance bikes image

EvieeRAWRx

For the meal plan, could you guys name simple foods that are quick to make. Im actually foreign so the food is diff than american food but i do eat american food. But for dinner we eat this foreign food and im not sure if its healthy or not. I will say, I dont usually exercise.

Answer
Hi Eviee,

==================
Exercise
=================
For Ages 6-12
Encourage organized sports for kids between the ages of 6 and 12. A sport that the child enjoys and participates in will help lead them to long-term exercising and staying in shape. An exercise plan for this age group may include yoga, track, swimming, biking, skating and rock climbing. Interval training is encouraged, such as a brisk walk for 30 minutes, followed with a 30-minute bike ride. Most gyms offer aerobic and exercise classes for parents and kids.
More: http://www.ehow.com/way_5406054_exercise-plan-kids.html

Here's another website on
A Seven-Step Home Fitness Program for Kids
This home training program is great for any child up to 12 years old.
More: http://www.parentdish.com/2010/01/10/a-seven-step-home-fitness-program-for-kids/

==================
Meal
====================
Here's a page on
USDA Daily Meal Plans Requirements For A Balanced Healthy Eating
base on different ages and activity level.
Showing how many servings and sample meal plan and also vege meal plan if you want to.
http://www.nourishinteractive.com/healthy-living/family-nutrition-exercise-facts/serving-size-healthy-portions/printable-kids-healthy-menu-plans-daily-childrens-food-groups-balanced-meals

Here's another website with food chart base on children's age meal plan too
A Healthy Food Foundation - for Kids and Teens
http://www.hpb.gov.sg/HOPPortal/article?id=6086

and here's a page showing meal plans for kids (in general)
Healthy Meal Plans for Kids!
http://www.superhealthykids.com/healthy-meal-plans.php

Hope these helps =)

Do you have a child that raised an animal for the fair?

Clinton

My son raised a pig this year and he did very well..almost $1100. He didn't get grand champ but did recieve two first place ribbons...I was very proud and happy for him and told him many times. My question is this..I'm letting him spend about 300. on a new bike and some other things and place the remaining balance in his savings for college. Is this ok? What did you do with your childrens hard earned greenbacks?...thanks

Answer
I never have, but I think if he worked hard and earned the money, letting him spend a few hundred on things that he really wants is definately okay and he earned it. I think having him split it between things he wants and college is a good idea, or you could have him put the other half in a savings account and save it for a car or something when he is older.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What are some extras you take camping when you go so that you don't get bored, what can you bring for?

best kids bike 6 yr old image

~Ronyea Q

kids to do? I don't have kids but my friends who are going camping with us have an 8 yr old and a 14 yr old, I want them to have fun, what can we bring so they don't get bored in the mountains?

Answer
1.Art supplies...watercolors or colored pencils for easy set up and clean up.
2.Binoculars for day and night (star gazing)
3.Musical instruments: guitar, flute, harmonica, ocarina or just a song book for around the campfire...if you can have a fire...otherwise sit around a lantern and sing...lol!
4.We also always take horseshoes, frisbee and stuff to make bubbles...giant ones(use a wire coat hanger dipped in a pan of dawn detergent/water with a little gycerin...huge bubbles!
5.Bikes if you are in a place with a good path.
6. Don't forget your camera!!!
Have fun!!

What are some essentials you need when going away to College?

Q. Examples: how many sets of sheets? Laundry basket? Towels? My son will be going away next year and I want to start buying things that he can take with him. I also want him to use them...not go wasted because they are not what an 18 yr. old would want.

Answer
Many schools also have lists of what they suggest kids bring and not bring. Once you know which school he will be attending, you can contact the houseing department and they should be able to give you a list.
In the mean time, you can start pre-shopping to spread out the expenses. Most schools have extra long twin beds, standard twin sheets won't fit. If your local stores don't stock them, the national catalog vendors do--Lands End, Garnet Hill, etc.
Two sets of sheets, a light blanket or comforter, a pillow or two should be enough for the bed. Towels are bulky and storage is at a premium, 4-5 bath towels, 6-8 wash cloths, and 2-3 hand towels will get him through the week. Some kids will use a plastic laundry basket, some will prefer a drawstring duffle bag for laundry, that's a question for your son. (The advantage of the basket is that it is easier to toss dirty clothes into one place, the disadvantage is that it takes a lot of floor space and both hands carrying it to the laundry. The advantage of the duffle is that it's a little more discreet and can be carried with one hand. The disadvantage is that it is harder to use to toss dirty clothes at the end of each day.)
Many dorms now come equipped with a mini-fridge and microwave oven. Most do not allow other cooking in the room. Two each of the following will allow him to nuke simple meals and snacks: plastic plates, bowls, tumblers and mugs. (Anything more takes too much storage.)
A water pitcher with a filter with a cleanable water bottle will allow him to take water to class without the expense of buying bottle water. Some of the cleanable bottles you can buy have clips for back packs or belts.
Ask your son what he considers essential and you will get a more electronic answer: a computer, printer, and sound system,(plus power strips and surge protectors.) Some schools want incoming freshmen to have the same sort of computer, some want them to have laptops. You should wait until he is accepted to buy this equipment. (All the major computer suppliers will run sales in the fall for students.)
Most schools don't allow freshmen to have a car. If he is going to to a school with a large campus, you might consider a bicycle with a good lock. (Do NOT get an expensive bike with all the bells and whistles, it will be more likely to be targeted by thieves.)
Before he leaves, take photos of all the big ticket items he is taking and engrave them with some sort of identification--his initials and your home phone number. Your home town and the last few digits of his student ID number--something unique. Make a folder with all the receipts, model numbers, and warranty information so you will have it in one place. Check with your homeowner's insurance and see if his bike and computer will be covered with your policy. If not, you might consider adding a small insurance rider to cover them against theft, loss, etc.
Once you see his dorm room, you will be able to see what sort of extra storage he will need. Over the door hangers, and slender stacking shelves/drawers are available from many national suppliers. He and his roommate can coordinate who needs what and share some of the cost. The last thing he is likely to need for comfort's sake is a rug for the room. You can get inexpensive carpet remnants and have the store bind the edges or check the catalogs for options.
Once your son has been accepted, your mailbox should overflow with companies wanting to supply all these things. Good-luck to you both.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How can computers improve our daily life?

kids bike computer image

A Kid with

Tell me the advantages and the disadvantages of using computer in our daily lives. And how does it affect the society and how does it affect ourselves?

Answer
I don't think they do much improvement. Yes we have a world of knowledge at our fingertips, and can communicate with anyone in the world in a instant. But i feel it is more of a disadvantage, Some people end up living their whole life on the internet, and don't bother with real life. Some even have internet "sex". To me thats stupid. I think society was a lot better of when people talked face to face. Even computers like the playstation, and x box etc i feel affects society, kids don't go out anymore on bikes or skates, they live out their day on a computer, stealing cars or shooting people. So its a definate disadvantage in my eyes.

I know i sound like a hypocrite, but i have a life as well as my computer.

How do I go about getting Motorcycle license?

Daisy

Hi~
When I was a kid we rode dirt bikes and mini bikes.

That was a long time ago!

I would really like to re-learn how to ride a motorcycle and get a bike and get my license and every thing.

How do I get this process started?

Thank you!
I live in Ohio.
I live in Ohio.

Answer
I can not give a truly accurate answer without knowing where you live. Local laws on this can vary widely.

However I can give a generic answer.

In most places your motorcycle license is just an endorsement that is added to your regular driver's license. Therefore, you must first get your regular driver's license.

Next, you must get a motorcycle license learner's permit. The procedure for this can vary. But usually all you do is go to the DMV. Pay a fee. Pass a test on a computer.

Your learner's permit is a restricted license. Usually you will be required to have a licensed motorcycle rider riding with you. No passengers. Daylight hours only. Helmet even if riding without a helmet is allowed in your location.

Now would be a very good time to get enrolled in an accredited motorcycle safety course. In some places this is mandatory. Many times you do not need to own a motorcycle yet as the course can provide a bike for you to use. Keep an open mind and pay attention. You just may lear something that could save your life.

Practice, practice, practice...

When you are ready you can take your motorcycle license road test. If you pass you get your motorcycle endorsement on your regular driver's license.

In some locations your first motorcycle license will be restricted. You may be restricted to a certain engine size or horsepower. However, other locations like where I live you can ride any size bike you want the day you get your motorcycle license.

Some advice for your first bike. Forget about the sexy and fast Sport Bike for your first bike. These are not for a complete novice like you. Use some common sense and get a bike that appropriately matches your skill level. Also, don't get a new bike. Look for a nice used bike for your first bike. This is because if you get a bike that matches your skill level, you may want to move up to a larger bike in a year or so as your skill level increases. If you take care of your starter bike and don't beat the crap out of it you won't lose much money when it comes time to sell it. You can put this money towards your next bike.

You need to contact your local DMV for more information. If you live in the US, the link below may be helpful.

Ride safe. Have Fun

Always remember this. On a motorcycle stupid hurts

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Old Fashioned Fourth of July Fun....?

kids bicycle obstacle course ideas image

happygirl

I would like some suggestions for a community-wide Old Fashioned Fourth of July. Our celebration already has free bbq, free cake and homemade ice cream, a snowcone stand, free games (tug of war, gunney sack races, etc.) Lots of decorations, and all finished off with a fantastic display of glorious fireworks! What else can we do???

Answer
I remember one several years ago where they had a greased pole climging contest; the kids had a catch the pig contest. another had a carnival - with various rides and games. Another idea was a bicycle rodeo, where a course was set up where different obstacles and skills were tested.

How do you handle a child with minimal common sense?

Mudd

Not everyone has common sense. You're either born with it, or not. How can you help your child develop more common sense, besides the normal the flame is hot, don't touch it?
Talking and setting an example go without saying for me - but perhaps not for other parents, so good suggestions.

My child is with me just about 24/7 and is home schooled, so we do plenty of talking, and plenty of explaining, etc. I also do roll reversal, or put yourself in that situation, so she can better understand what I'm trying to explain to her in a situation.

I also believe common sense can't be taught. A lack of common sense is one of my pet peeves with a person - especially females. A person can be plenty book smart, and still be stupid in many cases, without common sense.

Answer
Educate him in critical thinking skills. When you watch a movie together, comment on what's going on. For instance, ask him, "Do you think it was a good idea for the child to leave the house without telling his parents?", and then later, point out "if he had told his parents where he was going, then they would have known where to go look for him."

Do activities that require him to put the story in order, or predict what is going to happen next.

Put him in Boy Scouts or summer camp or other activities where he learns the habits of thinking about what might happen, and thinking of ways to prepare for that, and where he has to figure out how to solve a problem, like on a challenge (obstacle) course.

Encourage him to read. Reading about what happens to other kids, and what got them into their situations, and what got them out, will help him to gain far more experience, far less painfully, than learning those lessons firsthand.

Get him into activities that help him learn about how to do routine things safely. For instance, send him to a cooking class, swimming class, bicycle safety training, self defense, etc., where he can get some practice while being supervised, and learn practical safety rules for the activities that he is engaging in.

Encourage him to watch TV shows that demonstrate what can happen, like America's funniest videos, where you get to see what really happens when you try to jump off the roof into the swimming pool, or jump your bike on a homemade ramp.

And, of course, a child with minimal common sense must be supervised more closely. He won't be able to stay at home alone as young as a more responsible child. You'll have to be more vigilant and you'll have to do more snooping to find out what he's not telling you that could lead to serious trouble. You'll need to be more choosy about who his friends are, because he is going to need some friends with common sense to help keep him out of trouble.
.
A lack of something is usually balanced by a gift in some other area. Find that gift and help him to develop it. It will help build his self-confidence. At least part of common sense is having the confidence to do the right thing, when you think you know what that is.

Best of luck.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How old or large does a child have to be to ride in one of those child seats on the back of a bicycle?

kids bike seat trailer image

zilmag

I'm really looking forward to taking my kid on my bike. But, is it unsafe? What is the best kind of seat?

Answer
I can't see it being unsafe as long as the kid is properly supported. The ones on the back of the bike is OK, but I'd be sure about supporting the kids head. If he is a larger child, I'd make sure his feet don't get tangled up in the spokes. And what if you fall? I've seen little trailers that go on the back of bikes with infants in them on up to 3 & 4 year olds. Sounds safer to me. Just my 2 cents worth, I'm not any type of professional or anything, but I am an avid bike rider. I've been riding for decades and there are always something unseen that can cause you to fall.

How can I decide which is safer...a front or rear mounted child seat on my bike?

San Jose M

My hubby says putting a child seat on the front of my beach cruiser is wrong. But from what I've been reading, the front is safer than the rear. Plus I would rather see my son.

Is there a site I can go to that would give me a definite answer?
What do you do?

Thanks!

Answer
Front-mounted seats are very popular and have been used in Asia and Europe for decades. They are less common in North America. Many people swear by these because it is easier to keep an eye on the child and have a conversation with them, and get the child in and out with greater ease. The fore-aft position of the child affects stability. More mass over the front wheel is more stable than mass over the rear wheel. Therefore, a front child seat will be more stable than a rear child seat.

Over three years old a trailer for sure. Most kids get too tall before too heavy for seats.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What size mountain bike should I buy for my 11yo son? And how much might I have to pay for it?

kids bicycle ebay image

Yul

He's reasonably tall. I thought I might try to get a good 2nd-hand one on eBay. Any thoughts on that?

Answer
The best way is to get measured up at a bike shop, alternatively you can take a measurement yourself:

http://www.bicycledoctor.co.uk/faq_framesize.html

The measurements don't have to be exact but there should be "crotch clearance" when he stands over the frame of the bike. When you have bought a bicycle spend some time setting up the seat and handlebars to the best position, it makes the difference between a comfortable bike and an uncomfortable bike.

Ebay is not the best place to buy bicycles unless you can see the bike up-close before you commit to buy; I wouldn't say it's a bad way to buy a bike, because there are some bargains on Ebay, but the cheapest and best bikes are more often sold through the free-ads and classifieds - you can also try MTB forums.

Be warned real MTB's are NOT cheap! You'll see a lot of mountain bikes sold brand new for under $100 that look very pretty but fall apart a week later - avoid them like the plague. Real mountain bikes start in the four-figure price range.

Look for secondhand hard-tail MTB's (front suspension but no rear suspension), kids grow fast so there are lots of them for sale going cheap.
Prices vary a lot but you could buy a good one anywhere between $50 and $500 - I swear some people throw bikes away for want of a new inner-tube so keep your eyes open!

What is something that every parent buys their child in the Spring?

xphillipjr

I sell winter clothes for children on eBay. Every parent makes sure their children have a winter coat for the cold season. My winter clothing sales stop in February once it starts to get warm. What is an item that parents buy for their children during the warm months? When it starts getting cold parents go "Oh oh, better get a coat for the kids". What do they buy in the spring? I am looking for items that cost about as much as a winter coat ($20 and up). I can not make money selling a bunch of shorts, t-shirts or swimming trunks! Thank you Yahoo! Answers!
I'd like recommendations for items that can be easily shipped. It's not an easy thing to ship a bike!

Answer
Summer clothes (including swimwear), footwear (particularly sandals) and things for outdoors recreation (such as bicycles).

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How good is Trek 800 bike for adult just to ride around for recreation?

kids bike wheel size image

zig

I have the one from 1995 or 1996, and my girl friend keep telling me to "get rid of it" and "buy a new one". Then she flashes off her new Trek bike she just bought last year.

I do not see why I should get rid of my bike and buy a new one when I still enjoy my bike. It looks quite new as I have not ridden that much. She say its for kid's bike size 26" tire....

Should I listen to her ?

Answer
Your girlfriend doesn't know what she's talking about. Back in '96 that bike sold for $294.99. Not exactly cheap for 14 years ago. If you like it - ride it - enjoy it. Kid's bike tires run in the 12" 16" & 24" sizes. Once into 26" wheels, bikes are measured by frame size & will fit anyone from 5' tall to 6' 6" tall.

I am looking for dirt bike riding gear for a 4 year old, where are some good places to shop?

jami3847

My son has been been riding a pedal bike without training wheels since he was three. He has a Honda PW50. We have a helmet and riding pants although the riding pants are getting small as well as elbow pads and shin guards. At this point he is not out riding on trails mostly around the dirt and gravel parking lot or fields. He wore down the rubber on a pair of boots this last weekend they were not riding boots.

Answer
most sites that sell online have gear for small kids. Btosports.com has a range and also a sizing chart that would be helpful.

Make sure you spend the money on a pair of proper mx boots as I have seen some very nasty burns from kids not wearing the right gear. They only have to drop the bike and be pinned under it.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the best bicycles for a young family?

kids bicycle prices image

Amber A

My husband and I want to buy bicycles along with a bicycles trailer for our young son. Is there a good (reasonably priced) bicycle out there that is able to pull a bicycle trailer?

Answer
Visit the local bike shops and look at the comfort bikes. They have a more upright riding position and can be ridden on the road as well as bike paths. They are geared low enough to be able to pull a trailer easily. Check out the Forge Devon comfort mountain bike for you ( 2 sizes ) and the Saranac for your husband depending on his size or the Serjour or Vero. Great bikes for the money. It you have a AAA membership you can get 10% off. For the trailer check the local eBay or Craig's list for a used one they don't get used very much before the kid outgrows them.

http://www.forgebikes.com/comfort.asp

How much should I pay for a used bicycle?

Madelynn

I don't need anything fancy. I just need it to get around to nearby places like the library and the record store, since I'm only 14 and can't drive.

Again, nothing fancy.

How much should I pay for a used bicycle in decent condition?

Answer
This is a good question, but it is hard to answer. There are an incredible number of factors that will influence how much you will have to pay for a bike. I always found getting a bargain really is a matter of how much time and effort you are willing to put into the pursuit. If you need something right now, you usually will pay top dollar. If you have time and are willing to spend some effort looking around you can scout out all sort of deals.

Here is what I've noticed about bicycle prices. A 2 to 5 year old bike should never sell for more than half the price of a comparable new one. Older bikes can be easily had for $20-$50, but may need some work to get on the road. (Tires and brake pads often need to be replaced, but these are pretty cheap and easy to deal with.) The more someone simply wants to get a bike out of their house, the less it will cost. Nearly every one who has kids has a couple of old bikes collecting dust in the garage that they may want to get rid of.

Here are the places to find a decent used bike:

- bike store expect to pay top dollar
- used bike cooperative - lots of places have cooperatives that rebuild and sell bikes
- thrift store
- police and/or town sales of abandoned and stolen/recovered bikes
- craigslist.com
- neighbors - try sticking a note in all of your neighbors mailboxes or doors stating you are looking for a decent used bike. (You may get one for free.)

Good luck and happy hunting.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers