Q: I have a five year old who has a pw50, with training wheels, that he would like to ride. He does not yet have all of the gear for it. I have been told that the power can be turned down to not allow the bike to go over about 5mph. If this is done, and the bike is ridden on flat land only, what gear would be considered absolutely necessary? My husband tells me it is no more dangerous than a power wheels, but I am a nervous mom. He has hand-me-down helmet and goggles, pants, gloves and shoulder/chest pads. I wouldn't have a problem buying him a jersey but those boots seem awfully expensive for a five year old to outgrow within six months!
A: The bike has training wheels, you do not need boots. Boots are more of a necessity when the rider is a little more advanced and getting into higher speeds. Just get some shoes that provide some ankle support. Maybe some of those steel toe worker boots. ALWAYS helmet, that is just obvious. Don't buy cheap either. Just because it is DOT approved, doesn't mean it is all that sturdy. It just passes the minimum requirements. My buddy was in a coma for 2 months because he landed head first and his helmet literally shattered (do no be frightened, we race at a professional level and jump over 100 feet, your son will be fine). The biggest thing is MAKE SURE THE HELMET FITS CORRECTLY, if it is too large, in many cases it is just like not wearing a helmet at all. Too tight isn't a big deal, mainly just wearers comfort. I have been riding since I was 5, the best suggestion I could give you is don't get too anxious or worried. He may get some scratches, maybe some bruises, who knows, but it is very easy to control the environment and the dirtbike. As far as burns, the pw's have a protective cover on the exhaust pipe, it would be difficult for him to get in a position to burn his leg. My mom was scared for me, but the sport saved me from getting into a lifestyle of drug abuse and worse. It is really a great sport and a lot of fun, for the whole family. Just sit back, relax, and watch the little guy grow and become a more experienced rider. All in all you have all the essentials. In some people's opinion you have more. You may look into a neck brace??? I know little guys like to let their head roll back and then once that happens, they keep on the throttle without seeing where they are going. The neck roll will no allow that much head tilt and it will also protect from spinal injuries. When he gets older, check into a Leatt brace. Other than that, I would say that little guy is pretty stinking protected. If you have any more questions or concerns feel free to email me them. Have some fun and safe riding!