Pedalwise FAQ
We know booking a bike riding class can come with lots of questions, especially if your child is nervous, has struggled before, or is learning later than friends and siblings.
To make things as simple as possible, we’ve answered the most common questions below. In many cases, the answer you need is here immediately, without waiting for a reply from our team.
Start Here – Most Common Questions
My child cannot ride at all. Is this suitable?
Yes. Most children who attend Pedalwise classes cannot ride independently yet. Our sessions are specifically designed for beginners who need help with balance, confidence and learning to pedal.
Should stabilisers be removed before the lesson?
Yes. We strongly recommend removing stabilisers before attending. Stabilisers can actually slow down the learning process because children rely on them instead of developing balance naturally.
Should I remove the pedals from the bike?
If your child is already balancing and gliding confidently, pedals can normally stay on. If they are very nervous or very early in the learning process, removing the pedals temporarily can sometimes help them focus on balance first.
My child is nervous, shy or lacking confidence. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Many children attending our sessions are nervous or have struggled previously. Building confidence is a huge part of what we do.
My child has autism, ADHD, dyspraxia, sensory challenges or coordination difficulties. Can they still attend?
Usually yes. We regularly work with children who need additional reassurance, confidence building or coordination support. Group classes suit many children well, although some families may prefer 1-1 support depending on individual needs.
Do you offer private lessons?
Most Pedalwise sessions are small-group lessons, but we do offer 1-1 or small private sessions depending on location and availability.
What age is suitable?
We teach a wide range of ages, including older children and teenagers who may not have learned to ride yet.
Before Booking
How quickly do children usually learn?
Every child learns at a different pace. Some children ride independently very quickly, while others need multiple sessions to build confidence and coordination. Both are completely normal.
What if my child struggles during the session?
This is very common and nothing to worry about. Learning to ride is a major physical and confidence milestone for many children. Progress looks different for every child.
My child can ride a balance bike but is scared of pedals. Can you help?
Yes. This is one of the most common situations we see. Many children develop great balance skills on a balance bike but need support making the transition to pedals.
My child is older and still cannot ride. Is that unusual?
Not at all. We regularly help older children and teenagers learn to ride. Many simply need the right environment, encouragement and teaching approach.
Can parents stay and watch?
Yes. Parents normally remain nearby during sessions and are encouraged to so, watching your child learning to ride is fantastic.
How many children are normally in a class?
Class sizes vary depending on the location and session, the maximum is 6, typically classes are 3-4.
Bikes & Equipment
What type of bike should we bring?
Please bring a mechanically sound bike that is suitable for your child’s size.
How do I know if the bike is the correct size?
Your child should be able to comfortably touch the ground while seated. If the bike is too large, learning becomes much harder and confidence can drop quickly.
Can my child attend with stabilisers fitted?
We strongly recommend removing stabilisers before attending. Children generally progress faster once they begin learning balance naturally.
Do you provide bikes?
No, we do not supply bikes, its important your child has a suitable safe and correct size bike.
Does my child need a helmet?
Yes. A properly fitted helmet must be worn during all sessions.
What should my child wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity is best. Closed shoes/trainers are strongly recommended.
The Lesson
What actually happens during the lesson?
Sessions focus on confidence, balance, control and learning the core skills needed to ride independently. Each child progresses at their own pace.
Are lessons indoors or outdoors?
Most sessions take place outdoors in suitable safe spaces. Some winter classes will be indoors.
What happens in bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsafe or unsuitable, we will contact customers with updated arrangements where necessary.
Is this a full-day course?
No. Sessions are typically 2 hours.
Bookings & Confirmation Emails
I booked but have not received a confirmation email
Please check your junk/spam folder carefully first. In the vast majority of cases, confirmation emails have been filtered by email providers.
Your booking confirmation email contains:
- Your booking confirmation
- Session location details
- Arrival instructions
- What to bring
- Bike guidance
- Important session information
If you still cannot find the email after checking junk/spam folders, please contact us.
I cannot remember where the session is
Please check your booking confirmation email first, as this contains all location and arrival details.
What time should we arrive?
Please aim to arrive a few minutes early so your child is ready to begin on time.
Do you run lessons in my area?
Our locations vary throughout the year. Please check our current areas and booking pages for availability.
Do you offer waiting lists?
Yes. If classes are not currently available in your area, you may be able to join a waiting list for future sessions.
Can we book a follow-up session?
Yes. If your child does not achieve a level 2 pass on their first session, they can return for an additional session free of charge.
Still Need Help?
We always try to help where possible, but due to the high number of enquiries we receive, we kindly ask customers to read the FAQ carefully before contacting us.
Most questions about stabilisers, pedals, bike sizing, confidence, locations and session information are answered above and in your booking confirmation email.