A stunt scooter for a 10-year-old
A Stunt Scooter for a 10-Year-Old
So when is the best time for your child to start a stunt scooter adventure? It really all depends on your child - their overall fitness and mental readiness. There are some 5-year-olds who can handle a skate park very well, but there may be times when a 10-year-old isn't really ready. So what do parents need to do to make sure that first ride on a stunt scooter isn't their last? Choosing the right equipment is crucial.
A stunt scooter vs. a city scooter
Conventional scooters are not made for skate parks. Even attempting stunts on a conventional scooter can be dangerous for the rider and will certainly damage the device. Don't try even the simplest tricks on a city scooter! Why? Regular scooters have a completely different chassis as they are designed for different purposes - they are meant for riding around the city, not for jumps and elaborate tricks. Stunt scooters can withstand more; they feature a one-piece handlebar, a reinforced aluminum deck and small wheels. Unlike city scooters, stunt scooters do not fold and do not absorb shocks.
Scooter Decks Right for Beginners
Any stunt scooter should be lightweight. Skip the more robust street scooters and choose one that is suitable for riding in a skate park. The smaller the deck, the lighter the scooter. A ten-year-old can cope well with a deck of 48 x 10 cm. Only for city scooters does a larger deck mean a more comfortable ride. For stunt riders, this rule does not apply. However, it is important that the deck is made entirely of aluminum. Cheaper scooters may have some steel components such as cross-connectors. It is better to stay away from such solutions.
Small wheels mean more action!
Scooters with smaller wheels are always better for beginners. The most universal size is 100 mm. Smaller wheels are easier to maneuver, which makes learning stunts easier. Your child's first scooter will not ruin your finances if you choose a scooter with wheels with a cheaper plastic core. Remember that the plastic-core wheels can always be replaced later for a pair with an aluminum core. Of course, only if you deem it necessary.
The right height
Remember that stunt scooters have handlebars that cannot be adjusted. So, when you buy a stunt scooter for your child, make sure it is just right for the child. As a rule of thumb, your child's handlebars should rest somewhere between the hips and mid-thighs. Don't buy a stunt scooter that isn't right for your child right now, but that you think will serve them longer. Handlebars that are too high will make the scooter harder to maneuver and consequently make it much harder to learn the stunts. And that could cause your child to give up. You can read all about scooter handlebars here.
The right design
The right fit and size aren't enough! The look, colors and design are all equally important! If the scooter is to be a gift, remember to take the little rider's preferences into account. You don't want to be disappointed and you definitely don't want your child to feel like they aren't.
