I like to take the Scouts in my troop cycling. However, they sure don't learn anything about cycling in school, so there has to be a educational process. But once they learn how to cycle correctly, there's a lot of interesting rides in So Cal they can go on.

Maybe some of you Scout, Church, or other youth group leaders also take your crew on bike rides. Let's hear about it! Maybe some of you would like to try, but aren't really confident enough yet. Maybe the responses to this thread will put you over the "tipping point".

Most youth organizations have rules for adults that take the youth on outings. Be sure you conform to these requirements.

Many posts to this forum complain that the kids aren't being taught to cycle correctly. So...here's your chance to step up and make a difference!

The following is the basic sequence I go through for Scouts wanting to earn Cycling Merit Badge.

The first step is to bring all the bikes to a meeting for Tech Inspection, flat tires and all. It's amazing the condition some of these bikes are in. Any broken or otherwise unsafe parts have to be fixed or replaced before the ride.

Then we teach the guys the proper way to fit the bike. Most guys seats are waaaay too low! When we raise the seat to the proper height, they are amazed at how much easier it is to pedal.

Now the fun starts...don't expect ME to fix your flats!