If your 8 y.o. refuses to ride a bike?

[Anonymous]

7-year old in same situation. He is naturally cautious and I made the mistake of starting him out on too big a bike. We tried a class (actually a local parent who runs a little clinic) and it didn't work.
Trying not to push. I agree it seems like a basic skill and I know he'd love it, but I don't think I can force it. I assume at some point peer pressure will inspire him, then I'll be ready.
From a technical standpoint, the local expert took off the pedals (and training wheels) and lowered the seat, then have the kids walk along using their feet until they got used to the balance, then "hopped" like a bunny, pushing off with both feet at once, then did that with trying to keep their feet off the ground for a few seconds. Some kids really got it and started to feel quite comfortable balancing on the bike. Once they feel really comfortable, you put the pedals back on.

[Anonymous]

My DS was not ready to learn at 8. He learned without difficulty at 9. In the meantime, he used a scooter around the neighborhood.

[Anonymous]

I used to babysit a boy who was 9 yrs old and very overweight. I think he weighed as much as I did and I was maybe 120lbs. He refused to try to ride a bike b/c he was overweight and it was hard for him. His parents gave up but I didn't. He seemed a bit more willing to try with me. I told him I wouldn't tell his parents that he was trying to learn. It took 6 months of practice for him but eventually he did it. Maybe outsource this to someone else. Make sure you start with a slightly smaller bike. Take the pedals off. Have him go down a gentle grassy slope. It is hard to start from a stop. Then, add the pedals back on once he gets the balance part down.