How to fit training wheels to a kids bike

• Spanner to fit the axle nuts (often 15 mm)
• Spanner for the stabiliser brackets
• Tape measure

Before you start, lay everything out on a soft surface (the flattened box works) and check it against the parts list in your manual.

• Left and right stabiliser arms with wheels
• Anti-rotation washers or brackets
• Rear axle nuts and washers
• Chain guard (fitted to the bike)

1. 1

   Step 1: Stand the bike upright, leaning it on a wall, and loosen the rear axle nuts on both sides without removing the rear wheel.

2. 2

   Step 2: Take off the outer washers and fit each stabiliser arm onto the axle, with its anti-rotation washer or tab hooked into the frame dropout or slotted into the chainstay.

3. 3

   Step 3: Refit the washers and axle nuts, then check the rear wheel is centred in the frame and the chain is tight before tightening.

4. 4

   Step 4: Set both stabiliser wheels at the same height, just a little clear of the ground when the bike is upright, so the child still learns to balance.

5. 5

   Step 5: Tighten the axle nuts firmly and evenly on both sides, then tighten the stabiliser bracket bolts.

6. 6

   Step 6: Test by rolling the bike and leaning it to each side; the stabilisers should catch it without the rear wheel lifting.

• Setting both stabiliser wheels flat on the ground, so the rear wheel lifts on bumps and loses braking grip.
• Missing the anti-rotation washer, so the stabiliser swings up under load.
• Not retightening the axle nuts enough, so the rear wheel shifts and the chain comes off.