Your child reaches a gentle hill. The pedals get harder to turn, and they ask, “Should I change gears or turn up the assist?”
On the Rundeer Prince, those controls do different jobs. The seven Shimano gears change how hard each pedal stroke feels. The three pedal-assist levels change how much help the motor provides while the rider pedals. For that gentle hill, the first thing to try is an easier gear.
Two controls, two different jobs
| What the rider notices | Which control to use | What changes |
|---|---|---|
| “It’s hard to get the pedals turning.” | Shift to an easier gear. | Each pedal stroke takes less effort. |
| “My feet are spinning too fast on this flat stretch.” | Shift one gear harder. | Each turn of the pedals moves the bike farther. |
| “I like this pedaling rhythm, but I’d like some help.” | With a parent’s guidance, select an appropriate assist level. | The motor provides a different level of support. |
An easy gear can be used with low assist. That combination is especially useful when learning because the rider can feel what the gears do without changing two settings at once.
How to use the gears on a gentle hill
Look ahead and shift into an easier gear before the slope becomes steep. Keep the pedals turning lightly as the chain moves to the next gear. If the rider is already pushing hard, briefly easing pressure on the pedals makes the shift smoother.
Once on the hill, pay attention to the rider’s feet. If each pedal stroke has become a slow, heavy push, try an easier gear. If the rider can turn the pedals smoothly but still needs support, a parent can help decide whether to adjust the assist level or choose an easier route.
How to use the gears on flat ground
On a quiet, level stretch, keep the assist setting steady and invite the rider to shift one gear at a time. Ask a specific question after each shift: “Did your feet have to push harder, or did they have to turn faster?” That is easier for a new rider to answer than “Does this gear feel right?”
When approaching a planned stop, shift into an easier gear while the bike is still moving. The rider will then have a manageable gear for the next start. Turning the shifter while standing still does not move a derailleur chain into its new position until the pedals turn.
Teach one control at a time
For a rider who can already start, steer, and stop independently, use the same short stretch for two passes. On the first pass, leave assistance unchanged and practice shifting. On the second, keep a familiar gear and explore the lowest assist setting in a clear area where riding is permitted. Leave higher settings for a time when the rider can manage the bike’s response confidently.
A question parents can use on the next ride is, “Do you want the pedals to feel easier, or do you need more help along this stretch?” The answer tells you which control to discuss.
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