Early rider belter seeker 14 16 rear protectors

So, you did it. You bought your toddler an Early Rider, didn't you? A Seeker or maybe a Belter, 14 or 16 inch. A proper, high-end, expensive bicycle for a tiny person who just learned to balance. Congratulations on getting them started early, even if it means potentially protecting a machine worth more than some people's first cars from typical kid behavior (i.e., everything except gentle riding on paved paths)! For those times when reality hits and you want to keep that beautiful frame pristine, here's a custom-designed protector for the non-drive side dropout and chain stay.

This sturdy piece of PETG plastic is designed to wrap around the rear dropouts and extends significantly along the chain stay. It acts as a sacrificial layer, absorbing scuffs, impacts, and scrapes from the inevitable driveway falls, bike rack mishaps, or just energetic dismounts that are all part of the toddler cycling experience. It specifically cushions the area where the frame is most vulnerable, keeping it scratch-free and ready for the next adventure (or resell value, but who are we kidding?). Designed to fit perfectly, it's low-profile enough to be unobtrusive but substantial enough to offer real protection.

Here are some key details about the print and installation:

• Material: Opt for durable, slightly flexible PETG for best results.
• Print Details: You will notice that the overhangs, particularly around the small surface area where the mounting screw goes, will leave some dangling filaments. This is intentional. I opted not to use supports for such a tiny area, as cleaning up small support structures can be tedious and often damage the component. It is far easier and more precise to simply use a craft knife or small clippers to trim these minor strands after printing, leaving a clean screw hole.
• Installation & Hardware: To install, simply align the protector with the non-drive side dropout and chain stay. What's convenient is that the standard water bottle cage mounting screws from the Early Rider frame fit perfectly through the designated screw holes and secure the protector firmly.
• CRITICAL NOTE REGARDING SCREWS: While the original water bottle cage screws work flawlessly for mounting the protector, you must replace the screws in the frame's actual downtube (where they were originally) with other screws. Do not leave open threaded holes, as this creates a direct path for water to enter your beautiful frame tubes. Find suitable short M5  button-head or cap-head screws (ideally stainless steel or similarly corrosion-resistant) to fill those holes, preventing water ingress and protecting your expensive bike's structural integrity from the inside too!

In summary, for those of us navigating the thrilling, slightly absurd, and ultimately wonderful journey of parenting a toddler on an impressive bicycle, this simple, locally-made PETG protector offers a sensible touch of reality and practicality, keeping your significant investment looking its best for as long as possible (which, let's be honest, might not be very long, but we try!).

Note: My little one rides a seeker 14. Well, will ride. But I am quite sure this piece of future value protection works for the belter 14, the seeker 16 and the belter 16. Prove me wrong!