5 Biking Tips for NWA Families - Debbie McElroy

Debbie McElroy lives in Bentonville, AR with her husband Dan, and their two boys Simon and Oliver. Debbie works for a supplier and brings a ray of sunshine with her wherever she goes. Debbie and her family love riding bikes and being outdoors together. Her son Oliver competed on a Bentonville-based NICA team this year for the first time and stood on the podium multiple times.

Five years ago, if you had told me that I’d ride bikes with my family and that it would be our favorite activity, I would have laughed at you!  I went from not riding a bike for 20 years to riding multiple times a week.  My family loves riding around Downtown Bentonville, Coler, the Razorback Greenway, or multiple other locations.  We love being able to support local businesses, get exercise, and enjoy the Natural State.

With all the biking that we do as a family, here are 5 things Northwest Arkansas families should know about riding bikes.

1.     100+ Miles of trails.  There are over 100 miles of bike trails for you and your family to explore.  These trails are for all skill levels.  If you are a new bike rider or have young kids, find trails that are not on a road and that are flat.  I recommend Coler or Osage Park.  These “beginner” trails will help build confidence as you learn. 

2.     Bike Safety is important.  I encourage you to teach your family to always practice safe bike riding.  This can be as simple as wearing helmets and learning the hand signals for turning. 

3.     Support local businesses.  Many local businesses have bike racks and love to support cyclists.  We love to stop at local coffee shops, restaurants, and parks!

4.     Family Time.  Riding a bike is the perfect time for conversations and bonding as a family.  When you are riding bikes, you get to explore new places, work as a team, and stay healthy.  It is also the ideal way to keep everyone off of electronics.  It is the ideal family time!

5.     Share the Road.  When you are riding or driving, always be considerate of the others on the road.  If you ride with your family, you will understand the importance of cars being respectful of the bikers.  Make sure that you respect the cars as well.  We all want to be safe!

Riding with kids in NWA is easier than you might think. Plan ahead and map out your routes, start small and keep it fun (Ice Cream sure helps). I hope to see you out there soon!- Debbie