5 Ways to Make Biking Fun for Tweens & Teens
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Because “Ugh, do we have to?” doesn’t have to be the vibe.
Let’s be real—getting tweens and teens excited about a family bike ride can feel like herding cats with attitude. But it is possible to make biking feel less like a chore and more like freedom on wheels (without bribing them with ice cream—though hey, no judgment).
Here’s how to turn your skeptical rider into a biking buddy.
🚴♀️ 1. Let Them Choose the Route
Give them a sense of control.
Use a simple bike-tracking app like Komoot or AllTrails and let them help pick the path. Whether it’s a trail with cool views or a ride to their favorite smoothie spot, letting them lead makes a big difference.
🎶 2. Make a “Ride Vibes” Playlist
Let them curate the tunes (within reason).
Pick up a safe, bike-friendly Bluetooth speaker that mounts to the handlebars so everyone can jam along—just keep the volume low enough to hear traffic.
📱 3. Add a Challenge or Game
Teens love goals—especially if they can track or share them. Try:
- Photo scavenger hunts (who can find the weirdest mailbox?)
- Mileage milestones with small rewards
- Use a bike computer or fitness tracker so they can log progress
🧢 4. Let Them Gear Up in Style
Boring helmets and awkward outfits = instant turn-off.
Give them a say in their own gear—think sleek multi-color helmets, sporty cycling gloves, or trendy bike baskets or bags to stash their stuff.
🍦 5. Build in a Reward (No, It’s Not Cheating)
End the ride at a park, smoothie stop, or picnic bench.
Make the ride the journey and the hangout the reward. Even better—let them invite a friend along. Peer presence often ups the fun factor tenfold.
💡 Pro Mom Tip:
Don’t oversell it. Frame rides as an escape from school stress, a chill way to explore, or even a social media moment (“new trail selfie!”). Sometimes, just being invited into your space—with no lectures—is the win.
