Safe Seating for Kids Who Are on the Move
Rhode Gear, the Providence, R.I., company that developed the removable Child Seat bicycle child carrier system three years ago, has introduced a more economical version called the Kid Seat. It’s $30 cheaper than the $100 original model.
Unlike other bicycle seats that must be permanently mounted on the bicycle, the Child Seat and Kid Seat use a rear rack as a mounting platform, enabling the seat to slide on and off using no tools. The rack also can double as a cargo carrier.
You also can purchase an additional rack ($39.95) to mount on a second bike, so the Child Seat or Kid Seat can be switched easily from bike to bike. Both model seats will accommodate children weighing up to 40 pounds; the cyclist must weigh more than 100 pounds for the proper weight distribution.
The streamlined Kid Seat, available in gray, does not have the adjustable, three-position seat back or the grab bar that the Child Seat features. It does include the three-point harness that secures the child across the shoulders and the waist; a removable, washable seat pad, and Velcro foot straps.
The Kid Seat ($69.95) is available in bicycle shops nationwide. In the Los Angeles area, it is carried by Jax Bicycle Center in Long Beach, Helen’s Cycles in Santa Monica, I. Martin Imports in Los Angeles and Mulrooney’s stores in Cerritos, Santa Ana, Artesia and Costa Mesa. If you can’t find it in your area, call Rhode Gear’s toll free number: (800) 456-2800.
Tough Enough, Even if You Ride Roughshod
Speaking of bicycles, avid cyclists may be interested in the Mr. Tuffy tire liner, a polyurethane strip that can eliminate punctures caused by thorns, nails and broken glass.
Mr. Tuffy tire liner is available in sizes to fit 20-inch to 27-inch tires. You can install the liner yourself, but Randy Kirk, president of AC International in Santa Fe Springs, which manufactures Mr. Tuffy, recommends dealer installation.
Mr. Tuffy ($10-$11 for a pair of liners for 10-speed tires; $15 for heavier bikes) is sold nationwide. In the Southland, it’s at Helen’s Cycles and Bikecology Bicycles in Santa Monica; Wheel World in West Los Angeles; Mulrooney’s stores in Cerritos, Santa Ana, Artesia and Costa Mesa; Whittier Schwin, and Anaheim Schwin.
Something Fishy’s Going On Around Here
If you’re looking for an unusual Father’s Day gift, consider Aquamotion, an electronic “aquarium” complete with a “fish” that’s sound activated. When you clap your hands, the fish starts swimming for about 20 seconds.
Just insert two C batteries (not included) into the back of the 9-inch-by-6-inch plastic aquarium, add water and the fish, which comes in orange, yellow or blue.
Aquamotion ($20) can be purchased in Los Angeles at Lynn’s Hallmark store on South Flower Street, the USC Bookstore, Super Drugs on Westwood Boulevard, Greater Los Angeles Zoo shop, Hollywood Collection on Hollywood Boulevard, Farmer’s Market Pharmacy, Just for Fun on West 3rd Street, Brentwood Cards & Gifts on San Vicente Boulevard and the Mole Hole on West Pico Boulevard; the Sea in San Pedro; North Drugs in Costa Mesa, and Forest Market in Laguna Beach.
If you can’t find it in your area, contact Takara U.S.A. Corp, 230 Fifth Ave., Suite 1201, New York, N.Y. 10010; (212) 689-1212.
