CRANBERRY TWP — A different kind of rodeo is coming to the township this week.

Decked out in freshly inspected helmets, children are invited to ride their bikes and scooters at the annual Cranberry Township Bike Rodeo. The event — which is held by the township police department in conjunction with the Cranberry Elks, AAA, Cranberry Township EMS and Trek of Pittsburgh — has been a community staple for a number of years, according to police Sgt. William Ahlgren. This year, it's scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday near the Kids Castle Playground in Community Park on Ernie Mashuda Drive.

According to Ahlgren, the goal is to get children acclimated to bicycle safety and the bikes themselves. The event begins with an inspection of bike helmets to ensure they fit properly. Ahlgren said children tend to grow out of helmets quickly, or the helmets are no longer usable.

“In the worst-case scenario, if it no longer fits or is damaged, we try to replace that,” he said.

Representatives from Cranberry Township EMS will be on-hand to go over hand signals to be used while riding. Mechanical inspections of the bikes will also be performed to make sure tires and brakes are in good shape and the bike is in alignment.

“We want to make sure they're not riding a bike that is too big or too small,” Ahlgren said.

The main event of the day is the bike course on which children can practice their skills. Ahlgren said attendees are able to go through the course as many times as they wish.

The event will also feature giveaways, including a $250 gift card to Trek of Pittsburgh.

Ahlgren said in the past more than 50 children have attended the event, although stormy summer weather can affect those numbers.

“It's just a good day,” he said of the event.

For more information, call 724-776-5180.