Fisher Price Smart Cycle

The Fisher-Price Smart Cycle is a plug and play system that hooks up to the television set like a game controller. It includes a stationary bike that is adjustable to fit children ages 3 to 6. To use it, a child turns on the game, hops on the bike, and pedals.

Depending on which software cartridge is inserted into the bike, a game will appear on the screen with letters, numbers, or other adventures that the child progresses through by pedaling and steering as if she were on a real bike.

The software that comes with the system features basic preschool concepts like numbers, letters, shapes, and geography. Other software cartridges are available with learning games that feature preschool favorites like Dora the Explorer, Spongebob Squarepants, and Barbie. The bike is also equipped with a joystick, so that if he gets tired and needs to rest, he can play a video game right on the system.

This is a fairly expensive toy, retailing for anywhere from $80 to $100. However, many people don’t live in areas that are “bike friendly” for tiny kids, and this game lets kids exercise and learn and stay occupied. It also makes a great afternoon diversion when the weather won’t permit playing outside. The seat is adjustable so that multiple children can share and all will fit.

Of the dislikes reported by parents, the main one is that there is no AC adapter, and it uses D cell batteries that have to be replaced often with heavy use. Another bug disliked by parents is that there is no way to “bookmark” where a child stops playing so she has to start at the beginning every time she plays.  Read more reviews from the Amazon page.

Parents like the fact that it is adjustable, gives children some level of exercise, is easy to use, and the games are entertaining and educational.