Learning to ride a bike is a quintessential rite of childhood—just as teaching your child to ride one is a rite of parenthood. But with today’s demanding careers and jam-packed calendars, modern parents can no longer be there for every single milestone. That’s where Aresh “The Bike Whisperer” Mohit comes in.
Based out of Fenom Fitness in Harrison, Mohit has taught close to 4,000 children to be “two-wheeled independent” over the past 15 years. It’s a process he equates with therapy rather than lessons. “A lot of people have this anxiety about learning something new, but when they do it and succeed, you can see their confidence grow, and it’s something special,” says Mohit, who adds that it’s not just the kids who are anxious. “No one wants to see their child fall down or fail. It can be just as stressful for the parents as it is for the kids.”
Lest you think learning to ride a bike is just for little ones, however, Mohit is quick to correct the misconception. A former BMX and downhill racer, Mohit has taught adults up to 70 years old to glide across the asphalt. “One person I taught had a traumatic experience when he first tried riding as a kid. As an adult, that fear was magnified, but once he realized you can crash and get back up, he was more enthusiastic about learning.”
Lessons go for $90 an hour, though the instruction Mohit offers isn’t limited to riding. He also teaches bike safety and etiquette. “I like to put [students] in practical situations, like riding in neighborhoods and on sidewalks,” he said. Though sessions are typically one-on-one, Mohit offers group lessons for up to five. They’re normally held in downtown Harrison, on weekends, in a controlled environment that offers a wide variety of terrain for beginners to practice on.
If you want to get your children off to a good start on two wheels, Mohit promises not to steer you—or your kids—wrong.
