The kids had a pretty good time, even though no one disclosed the secret to performing really long “wheelies.”

About 60 grade school students participated in the bicycle rodeo Saturday at University High School. The event was sponsored by the SCOPE University substation.

Youngsters gave their own bikes a mechanical inspection, watched a safety video and learned how important it is to wear a helmet. Then they tested their new knowledge on a parking lot obstacle course.

SCOPE volunteer Cheryl Knight said the word was passed along through all elementary schools in the Central Valley district.

“We hope we can do this every spring,” she said.

Sheriff’s Deputy Roger Knighton talked about what can happen when riders fail to wear headgear, using cracked helmets damaged in actual accidents as attention-getting props.

It worked. Dale Knudsen, 7, was sold on safety. He fumbled around with the Velcro inside of his mom’s helmet, trying to make it fit. “It’s kind of big,” Dale said.

Deputy Knighton told Dale he needed his own lid - it’s important for helmets to fit properly. Appropriate helmets can be purchased at bicycle shops or the SCOPE University substation at 15th and University.

Youngsters also registered their bicycle serial numbers with the Sheriff’s Department. That also can be done by visiting any substation, Knighton said. Registering the numbers helps law enforcement officials recover stolen bikes.

All this came at the perfect time for Dale.

“Today’s the first day he stayed on his bike,” said proud mom Mary Knudsen. “He did a pretty good job.”

Dale added: “I’m still kinda workin’ on it.”

, DataTimes