Frequently Asked Questions
General
How to I find a retailer?
Follow this link and enter you post code or address you will find your nearest dealer.
How do I choose the right size bike?
The best way to size a new bike is to measure your childs' inside leg. Follow this link for more details.
How do I teach my child how to ride?
If your child has already been using a balance bike then their balancing skills will already be in place ready to transition to a pedal bike. If they are ready to move up, remove the pedals from the new bike and start them off with the saddle low so both their feet are comfortably flat on the ground. They will use the new bike in the same way as their balance bike while they are getting used to the slightly bigger frame size. When they are ready and comfortable to start pedalling, add the pedlas but keep the saddle low while they get used to it, then slowly raise the saddle as their confidence and riding skills grow.
What's the quality assurance process for the bikes?
Every bike undergoes rigorous testing to meet high standards of durability and safety before it reaches you.
Product Specific
Below are some of are common questions about Product Specific
Do you sell accessories?
Yes, we offer coloured pedals and grips which are suited to the smaller bikes up to 16". We're working on larger coloured pedals for the 20" and 24". [link to gear page?]
Can I add stabilisers?
Early Rider's philosophy is to develop balance without the need for training wheels. Our frames have a unique dropout system, so we advise consulting your local bike shop for advice, as we cannot suggest any products to use for safety reasons.
What's the difference between the Belter and the Seeker?
Each Early Rider bike is designed with versatility in mind. Specific models excel on varied terrains, from urban sidewalks to nature trails. The Belters are suited for your urban adventures, the Seekers are for off the beaten track, and the Hellion are your bike park and alpine specific machines.
Where are your bikes produced?
Our bikes are crafted with care in select facilities in China and Taiwan, chosen for their expertise and commitment to quality.
How do I register a new bike?
You can register your new Early Rider here https://earlyrider.com/pages/support. IS THIS THE RIGHT ADDRESS??
Can I register a second hand bike?
We don't currently offer registration for used bikes, but we're always happy to assist with any questions about your second-hand Early Rider.
Delivery and Ordering
Below are some common questions about our Delivery and Ordering
Can I change the delivery address after I've ordered?
If you haven't received your tracking confirmation email, then you may have time to add an item to your order. Please email info@earlyrider.com to amend an order.
Can I amend my order?
If you haven't received your tracking confirmation email, then you may have time to add an item to your order. Please email info@earlyrider.com to amend an order
There's a problem with my order, what do I do?
Please email info@earlyrider.com with your order number and the details.
Can I cancel my order?
If you haven't received your tracking confirmation email, then you may have time to cancel your order. Please email info@earlyrider.com
What is the estimated delivery time?
We aim to dispatch your in-stock orders next working day and use a reliable courier to handle the shipment. This will likely be FedEx or DHL depending on the delivery address. In the vast majority of cases your bike will arrive next working day. You will receive your tracking number once it is booked in for dispatch.
How much are shipping costs?
Shipping of bikes over £150 is free; parts and accessories going Royal Mail will be charged at first class parcel rate.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we can ship our bikes all over the world. VAT is automatically added but if you let us know your order number after you have placed your order we can refund your VAT. Alternatively contact us at info@earlyrider.com for a VAT-free invoice.
How do I return my bike?
In the first instance, please email info@earlyrider.com to discuss your return.
The bike I want is out of stock, what do I do?
If you click the button "email me when back in stock" on the product page, we will send you an email when the bike is back in stock.
Technical
Below are some common questions about our Technical
Why have you moved from SRAM i3 to Sturmey Archer hubs?
The SRAM i3 hub is discontinued by SRAM and they no longer have spares to support them. Sturmey-Archer hubs provide reliable performance and a classic aesthetic, aligning with our design philosophy and giving riders a seamless shifting experience.
Under what conditions can I make a warranty claim?
Warranty claims are honoured for manufacturing defects within the warranty period, with proof of purchase. Wear and tear components are not covered, but always subject to investigation.
My steering restrictor has snapped on my balance bike.
This is a safety feature, designed to restrict the over rotation of the
handlebars. However, the part is under a lot of stress, so if it does snap, we hole replacements that we are happy to send out.
What warranty do the bikes come with?
There's a 2-year warranty on the bicyles and accessories. Contact Early Rider even if your bike is outside of warranty for support. Here is a [link] to our contact page
Can I attach a kickstand/mudguard/bell?
Some bikes can accommodate aftermarket kickstands and mudguards. We are designing our own, so watvch this spcae. All aluminium bikes fit standard size handlebars for bell attachment and reflectors.
How do I adjust the belt:
Belts can move out of alignment and may require adjustment over time. This can happen happen a few rides. Here is a [link] to our support page, which has Maunals and How to videos
Do you sell spare parts?
Many are available online (link to our parts page) or through contacting Early Rider, we can help support our legacy bikes, here is a [link] to our contact form.
Where can I find the Manual for my bike?
Here is a [link] to our manuals page.
I'm struggling thread my pedals
If you're having difficulty threading pedals on an Early Rider bike, please make sure you are using the correct side. The pedals have a specific thread to the left and right of the bike. The pedals are marked L & R. R being the driveside and L being the non-driveside. Make sure you add a small amount of grease to the tread before installation. Start to attach the pedals by hand at first and then tighten up with the appropriate tool required for your model of early rider. If you think you have a faulty component, please contact us through the [contact page] / [Warranty]
Can I convert my tyres to tubeless?
To convert Early Rider bikes to tubeless, check your specific bike model's compatibility with tubeless tires. This conversion generally requires specific rims, rim tape, valves, sealant and tires. It may be best to have this work done by a professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Can I add a dropper seat post to my bike?
While some Early Rider bike models may accommodate a dropper seat post, it's important to check the compatibility with your specific model. Consult with a bike mechanic for advice on suitable dropper posts and installation or fill out the contact form with your specifics and we will make some recommendations for you.
What do I do if my brakes are rubbing?
If the brakes on your Early Rider bike are rubbing, it might require a simple adjustment. This can usually be done by realigning the brake calipers or adjusting the brake pads. Refer to our online guides or seek help from a professional mechanic for precise adjustments.
How do I adjust the disc brakes:
We strive to have correctly set up disc brakes, but this all depends on a lot of variables. Shipping and packaging can have an effect on the brakes. We're sorry if your brakes aren't aligned, but, it is a simple adjustment. [Here is a link to our How to videos]
There Is play in the fork steerer, what do I do?
If there's play in the fork steerer of your Early Rider bike, it might need tightening or adjustment. This is a technical issue that should be handled by a professional to ensure safety and proper functioning. We do have adjustment. How to videos on our support page, here is a [link]
How do I change an inner tube?
Changing the inner tube on your Early Rider bike involves removing the wheel, taking out the damaged tube, and replacing it with a new one. Ensure you have the correct tube size and follow our online tutorials for guidance.
Do you support second hand Early Rider bikes?
While Early Rider prioritises support for original owners, we do offer assistance for second-hand bikes and we do like to keep our bikes rolling through the ages. However, warranty coverage may be limited for second-hand bikes.
Making a Warranty Claim?
To make a warranty claim for your Early Rider bike, contact our support team with details of the issue, your bike model, and proof of purchase. Here is a [link] to our contact form
My cable clips have popped off.
If the cable clips on your Early Rider bike keep falling off, contact us for replacement parts or use a zip tie / cable tie. These are readily available at most hardware stores and actually act as a better and more secure solution.
Need more help?
Telephone
Our offices are open from 9am - 5pm Monday - Thursday 9am - 4pm on Friday.