I just get too nervous about kids playing on bikes, in cars, lawn mowers, yard tractors, or any other kind of motorized and wheeled thingy-ma-jobby without adult supervision until or unless they know how to operate it safely and responsibily. Just too many things could go horribly wrong. It's not that I care so much about anything getting scratched or dented, it's more I care about the KID getting scratched and dented beyond repair-you know?

It's about teaching them to have respect for a powerful piece of machinery. Not a fear of it, just a healthy dose of respect.

 

My three nine year old boys argue about who's turn it is to ride with me If I'm goin somewhere.. 13 Yr old.. could pretty much care less. He's discovered Girls.....6yr old girl not been on yet.. Maybe next summer.. They all stay away from mine and Mama's as well as any other bikes out inna shop.. Kids at Church all love ta sit on em.. I allow it after Church.. Bikes cooled down and I'm right there..

 

Mine have always been allowed to play around them. By the time they are big enough to budge one they know not to. The little ones couldn't move my Ultra in any way even if they wanted to. Once the kickstand is down and the bike leaned over there is no way it is going anywhere from the effects of a 40-60lb kid.

That said, I have taught them to be careful of the pipes, not scratch it up, etc. They mostly sit on it for a few minutes and then want to go do something more exciting.