1) Flat Pack Hell!

Unless you are sure about what you're doing, avoid it. Get some quality advice at your local bike shop.  We've seen some really dangerous bikes as a result of parents' attempts to build  flat-pack bikes; with forks on back-to-front, brakes dangerously adjusted and children left wondering why cycling is such hard work! Instead, ask about the free after sales service that most quality cycle shops offer.

2) Sizing up

Kids can struggle with large, heavy or ill fitting machines unless you get them fitted to your child.Beware of heavy, ineffective suspensions, out of reach brakes and dozons of baffling gears. Instead look for,  easy-reach brakes for small hands and simple gears

3) Essentials.

A lock, lights, and a helmet are not optional extras! Buy them for your child as part of their gift.

4) All Weather Cycling.

Singing in the rain- your child will be if you get a waterproof jacket with a hood. A brim on you helmet will keep the rain out of your eyes.

Look no hands- For winter cycling; warm and ideally water-resistant gloves are essential. Alternatively, having no gloves will motivate your child to perfect their cycle balancing skills as they have to learn to cycle with their hands in their pockets. Not ideal...

5) Be Bright, Be Seen.

Reflective and fluorescent high viz gear is essential. Also look for flashing spokey dokeys or dust caps. There are some great things in the shops or alternatively try Bright Kidz..

6) Gift You Time.

Make sure that as part of their gift you give your time to teach your child how to use their bike. Balance, gears and safe cycling all need lots of practice. The best encouragement you can give them is to get out as a family on a few crisp winter days, taking a rise and stopping off for a hot chocolate or two on the way.

7) Tool Time!

You can get your bike serviced or fixed at any bike shop, but when you're out and about take a puncture repair kit, a spare inner tube, a spanner and Allen keys... there are lightweight multi-tools available and bags that sit out the way underneath your seat so you're always prepared.

If all of this baffles you, look out for the new season of Cycle Derby maintenance classes at you local school or community centre.

8) Discover Your Route.

Plan ahead. Get a cycle map and copies of leisure route guides to plan your trips- whether to school, work, or for weekend family rides. Contact Ruth Sadler, Cycle Derby Promotions and Support Officer on 01332 641773.

9) Get Sociable

Register as a Cycle Derby member and we'll keep you up-to-date with family cycling events, rides and races. You'll also be able to get great discounts at many of Derby's cycle shops.

10) A Home for Your Bike?

Think about where you're going to store your child's new bike; obviously somewhere safe, but also somewhere with easy-access. That will make sure they can cycle as often as they want to. (You might wan tot buy yourself a gift of a new washable rug for the hallway to protect your carpet from dirt and spills.)