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10 Best Bike Trailer for Kids – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

As a parent, despite your busy schedule at the workplace or home, you still need to exercise with your kids. Riding with your kids offers you the chance to spend quality time with them while simultaneously keeping yourself fit. Tiny adventures at the weekends magically improve the parent-child relationship.

But how easy can you bring your children along whenever you hit the roads? Of course, that’s where babies’ bike trailer becomes handy. This unique carrier is a must-have for all parents as it provides lots of fun while helping your child to stay alert, and develop a keen interest in biking.

Before you have that fulfilling moment with your baby, you need to buy the right model. Not only will you find many brands out there, but these types of bicycle trailers also come in different designs and features such that choosing the ideal one becomes challenging.

However, all you need is a little idea of the model you should purchase and what makes it worth the money. Perfect, right? This is why we have come up with our reviews on the best bike trailers for kids available today, and this buying guide will show you how to pick the right one for your family.

Our Best Bike Trailer For Kids – Reviews

1 Schwinn Joyrider, Echo, and Trailblazer Child Bike Trailer (Editor’s Choice)

Schwinn Joyrider, Echo, and Trailblazer Child Bike Trailer

The Schwinn Joyrider is simply the safest, most comfortable, and smoothest trailer for your kids. This bicycle trailer’s frame is made from aluminum, making it durable, lightweight, and robust. The interior is well padded and can accommodate two kids, each weighing up to 40 pounds. As expected, the seat felt pretty comfortable during our testing session, and the adjustable straps made it safer, as the children were unlikely to fall.

The 2-in-1cover is bug-free and water-resistant, meaning your toddler is protected from unfavorable environmental conditions. There are no Velcro or zippers on the canopy, which makes it quite easy to open or close. Once you pull it down, it locks itself securely.

The Schwinn Joyrider trailer comes with a universal adapter that enables you to easily attach to any bicycle; as such, there is no need to worry about its compatibility with your bike. It has spoked wheels and rubber tires that make it stable on the road. There is a front wheel that enables you to use it as a stroller or jogger.

This unit does not have a suspension system so it is only suitable for paved roads. However, our kids never complained as we hit bumps because the springer coupler helped to cushion the effect from the shock.

Another important feature of the Schwinn Joyrider is its collapsible frame and detachable wheels that make it easy to fold for storage. There is a safety flag to enhance your visibility. You will appreciate the extra room at the back for storing water bottles and other essentials for the journey. It came ready to be assembled and we had a hassle-free setup.

So far, many people have reviewed this unit and the ratings and comments were impressive, indicating that they enjoyed the purchase.

The Schwinn Joyrider trailer is backed by a one-year warranty, so be prepared to enjoy it for long.

Specifications

  • Weight Capacity: 80 pounds
  • Wheel size: 20 inches
  • No. of seats: 2
  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Warranty: 1 year

Pros

  • Universal coupler
  • Stroller capability
  • Padded seat and straps
  • Quick-release wheels
  • Bug and weather shield canopy
  • Foldable frame for easy storage
  • Easy to install and use

Cons

  • Not suitable for off-road rides

Our Verdict

Overall, the Schwinn Joyrider is a highly innovative model and perfect for outdoor rides with your family. It has a solid aluminum frame such that it can withstand loads weighing a little under 100 pounds. It is for 2 kids but you can also use it for one child sitting in the middle. The padded seat and straps provide more comfort and safety.

Looking at its many useful features compared to other items on this list, this is definitely the best bike trailer for kids that’s a great value for money.

2 Instep Bike Trailer for Kids (Good Value for Money)

Instep Bike Trailer for Kids

Whenever you think of giving an adventurous ride to your kids, the Instep bike trailer should come to mind. It is one of the lowest-priced bike trailers available; yet has plenty of extras than most expensive models out there.

The Instep bike trailer’s framework is made from steel which makes it solid and reliable. And as such, it can distribute weight evenly to wheels irrespective of where you place your baby.

It has a folding frame that makes storage and transportation a bliss. It also comes with a universal coupler; and as expected, we did not face any compatibility issues.

While our top pick has a spoked wheel, this Instep model rocks 16-inch pneumatic tires with molded rims, as such, it has a lower weight capacity and might not do well off-road.

The trailer has a 2 seater canopy with see-through plastic windows at each side which protects your child from bugs and weather elements. Besides, the front and rear windows are netted, and as such, you can open them at any time for ventilation.

Our only concern was its lack of front wheel, so you cannot use it for jogging. It was one of the trendiest options on this list, and as indicated by its rating, this Instep version met the needs of many users.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 32.5 x 20.8 x 6.8 inches
  • Weight: 25.4 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 40 pounds
  • Tire size: 16 inches
  • Tire pressure: 30 psi
  • Main material: Steel & Plastic

Pros

  • Easy-folding design
  • Durable steel frame
  • Front and rear vent window
  • Universal bike coupler
  • Adjustable seat straps

Cons

  • No front wheel
  • Plastic rims

Our Verdict

This Instep baby trailer is affordable, well-constructed, and has many satisfied users. The netted front and rear window a huge extra as it helps to keep your young ones comfortable under heat. It is attractive, performs well in pulling kids, easy to set up and disassemble, making it an ideal choice for riding with your family in style. No wonder why it’s one of the best-rated models on our list.

3 Instep Quick-N-EZ Double Tow Behind Bike Trailer (Best Bike Stroller Combo)

Instep Quick-N-EZ Double Tow Behind Bike Trailer

If you are planning to take your kids along on your next bike ride while keeping them safe and comfortable the Instep Quick N-EZ version might do the job. You will soon notice that this unit has a simple design that enables you to quickly set it up for use and collapse it after for storage or transportation.

It has a 2 in 1 canopy, featuring a bug and weather shield that will protect your toddler from rain and dirt in the air. It has a coupler that attaches easily to most bike styles, so you have little to worry about.

Unlike our previous Instep model, this one incorporates a front wheel that enables it to function effectively as a trailer or stroller. While the side tires are air-filled, the front one is plastic, making it a little easier to maintain. It has a steel frame so you are assured of its ability to withstand minor bump impacts. There is also a spacious storage area at the back for a few groceries and other extras.

However, a few reviewers talked about minor leaks under the heavy downpour and the sagging of the bottom fabric.

Specifications

  • Weight limit: 80 pounds
  • Weight: 25 pounds
  • Capacity: 2 in 1
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Tire size: 16 inches

Pros

  • Easy assembly and storage
  • Bug and weather shield
  • Front-wheel
  • Adjustable harnesses
  • Steel frame
  • Attractive design and easy to spot at night
  • Light and easy to push or pull

Cons

  • Not ideal for riding in the rain
  • Canopy material is thin

Our Verdict

This bike carriage is one of the best options for sale. It has a beautiful design, quick coupling adapter, and durable front wheel as well as other specs that make it a good companion for most parents. Though it has a few downsides, when considering the price, you get a lot for the money.

4 Clevr Deluxe 3-in-1 Double 2 Seat Bicycle Bike Trailer (Best Convertible Trailer)

Clevr Deluxe 3-in-1 Double 2 Seat Bicycle Bike Trailer

The Clever Deluxe baby bike trailer is designed to take your outdoor lifestyle to another level. It has a 3 in 1 design that allows you to use it as a stroller, trailer, and jogger. It moved smoothly when we pushed it as a jogger. Besides, switching between the various riding modes was pretty easy and did not need tools.

What’s more, the 12-inch front wheel has a locking mechanism that allows you to keep the tire straight. Unlike our top pick, the rear wheels are equipped with a suspension system that helps to cushion the effect of bumps on the riders.

Another notable feature of this model is the adjustable handlebars that allow you to easily roll the trailer around the neighborhood. Besides, you can lock the baby carrier or quickly bring it to a halt by engaging the hand brake lever.

The seat is large enough for two kids to sit comfortably and the safety straps help to keep your young ones safe.

There is a tinted plastic window at the front that you can close to shut off moisture or open to expose a netting that acts as air vents and bug shield. Besides the orange safety flag, this unit has reflectors at specific positions to enhance your visibility to other road users. The material for this unit seems high-quality and durable but its only drawback was its unclear assembly instructions.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 45 x 34.5 x 36 inches
  • Weight: 37 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 88 pounds
  • Front Wheel: 12 inches
  • Rear Wheel: 20 inches
  • Adjustable handlebar
  • Color options: grey, green, blue, red

Pros

  • Multiple color options
  • Adjustable handlebar and hand brake
  • Tinted side windows to protect from sun
  • Large cargo area
  • Robust steel frame
  • Foldable design
  • Converts to trailer, jogger or stroller

Cons

  • Unclear setup instructions

Our Verdict

If you know you are in the market for a low priced trailer with jogging and strolling capabilities, this is the one for you. We tested the front wheel in both swivels and locked positions, found it worked more perfectly when riding at a slow pace. The assembly instructions were a little tedious to understand at first, but after the set up, it was worth the time and effort.

5 Burley Design Bee Kids Bike-Only Trailer-946203 (Best Double Bike Trailer)

Burley Design Bee Kids Bike-Only Trailer-946203

The Burley Design offers the perfect blend of quality, performance, and price. One of the most notable features of this kid trailer is its reflective yellow color that will attract the attention of other road users while the reflectors and orange flag help to keep you safe.

Also, it has a hammock style seat that is suspended from the trailer floor, offering maximum protection and comfort to your child. The Velcro seat belts are easy to strap on and feels quite secure.

The included connector is designed to keep the bike flat while the carrier remains in an upright position which combines with the 20-inch wheels to give you a smooth and stable ride.

Like our previous choices, this one also has plenty of storage space at the rear that is easy to access and can accommodate almost anything you will need for the outing.

This model folds down easily to a compact size that can fit even a tight car trunk. However, its lack of suspension makes it a little unsafe for bumpy routes, but with the construction of the seat, your kids would be comfortable.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 32.2 x 30 x 36 inches
  • Weight: 18.7 pounds
  • Weight Capacity: 100 pounds
  • Wheel size: 20 inches
  • Frame material: Aluminum
  • No. of riders: 2

Pros

  • Strong and lightweight
  • Elevated seat
  • Quick-release wheels
  • Compact fold
  • Rear cargo space
  • Reflective cover
  • Tinted side and rear windows

Cons

  • No suspension

Our Verdict

The trailer is beautiful and made from high-quality materials. It is easy to set up, rides well, feels safe, and pretty comfortable. It has an attractive cover that makes you stand out among other riders.

So, if you are serious about riding with your kids, we highly recommend this Burley Design Version.

6 Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Trailers

Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Trailers

The Allen Sports bike trailer is another dependable choice for any active parent. Since its establishment in 1967, the company has been consistent at delivering high-quality products for sports and daily adventure.

This unit is one of the cheapest on our list yet packed with top-notch features that will exceed your expectations. It comes with a front wheel to enable you to use it as a jogger stroller. Unlike other cheap models out there, its rear wheels are made from metals and not plastics, meaning it will last-longer while offering a more comfortable ride.

What’s more, the Allen Sports version has giant windows at front and sides that allow your kids to enjoy a better view of the environment. We observed our kids did not stress themselves to look outside because of the height of the side windows.

Also, you can fold up the front window to expose the mesh cover if it is hot inside. There is a foot bar for your kids to rest their legs as they tow behind. This leg support system combines with the springs at the back of the wheels to protect your children from shock.

This Allen Sport trailer has a capacity for two children but a baby can still sit in the middle. You will appreciate the rear wheel brakes that allow you to safely park your trailer when using the strolling mode.

Assembly of this unit was pretty quick for us, there were no screws and every attachment had a lock, so, we did not use tools. However, a few users complained against the lack of on-board storage space for its front wheel.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 36 x 10 x 26 inches
  • Weight: 24 pounds
  • Max. Weight Capacity: 100 pounds
  • Wheel size: 20 inches
  • Color: Yellow
  • No. of riders: 2

Pros

  • Lightweight steel construction
  • Quickly converts from trailer to stroller
  • Large front and side windows
  • Foot guard for leg protection
  • Foldable design
  • Rear wheel parking brake
  • Back storage pockets
  • Excellent stability

Cons

  • No storage on the trailer for the front wheel

Our Verdict

This is a well-made product with outstanding safety features. It has a lightweight steel construction, making it easier to tow and can safely transport two children weighing up to 40 pounds each. The side windows are strategically positioned to a height that favors the children when viewing the scenes. The wheels are from metal and the tires, air-filled, providing a more comfortable and stable ride.

Overall, the Allen Sports bike trailer is pretty good for the price and it will make a great source of inspiration when going for a workout with your family. Furthermore, if you’ve got twins, don’t waste time!

7 Kazam WeeRide Co-Pilot Bike Trailer

Kazam WeeRide Co-Pilot Bike Trailer

If you want your young one to develop excellent cycling skills at an early stage, this Co-Pilot bike trailer is the real deal. This one-passenger career has a different frame design compared to our previous trailers.

This model is more like a bicycle without a front wheel but with the quick release connector, you can attach it securely to the seat post of your main bike. While your child sits on the trailer, you will have total control of the bike’s steering, balance, and speed. It is designed for it to still move even when your child stops pedaling.

It is made of high-tensile steel and tig welded, making it robust and safe. It has a full wrap chain guard, fender, pedals, adjustable seat and handlebars.

The seat and handlebar grip are ergonomically designed with better padding such that your child feels more comfortable throughout the ride. On getting to your destination, you can easily collapse the trailer for storage. However, this Co-Pilot model is only suitable for children aged 4 to 8 years.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 69 x 24 x 41 inches
  • Weight: 24 pounds
  • Weight capacity: 75 pounds
  • Wheel size: 20 inches
  • Age bracket: 4 to 9
  • Frame Material: Steel

Pros

  • Padded seat
  • Full chainguard and fender
  • Foldable design
  • High-tensile steel frame
  • Quick release detachment system
  • Affordable
  • Adjustable seat and handlebar

Cons

  • Not recommended for kids under 4

Our Verdict

This is a great value for the price with a unique and attractive design. It is designed to help you teach your child how to ride while taking them along on the road. You can easily tilt the handlebar or adjust the seat to suit your child’s height. It’s easy to fix or detach from the seat post and fold for storage.

Many of the reviews for this trailer were positive, indicating it performed as expected. So, this is an ideal option for having a special learning and workout session with your kid.

8 Thule Chariot Sport Stroller

The Thule Chariot bike trailer offers a fantastic value for parents who wants to sport with their kids. It comes with a skiing kit that enables you to take your young ones along during your ski adventure. Not only that, but you can also easily convert from trailer to jogger or stroller, making it the most versatile model on this list. It has an extra-large cargo space at the back for storing bike conversion kits and other items.

This unit has a collapsible design, making it easy to transport while the seat’s heavy padding and recline feature provides extra comfort for your child. Besides, whenever there is dirt on the seat, you can always remove it for cleaning.

This Thule Chariot version is equipped with a leaf-spring suspension that combines with the two front wheels to make it the most ideal choice for riding across bumpy paths and hilly routes.

It has a lifetime warranty for defects and workmanship, so you already know it cannot fail any time soon. However, this model is pretty expensive and can only accommodate a single child.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 34.2 x 31.5 x 14.8 inches
  • Weight: 32 pounds
  • No, of children: 1
  • Weight Capacity: 75 pounds
  • Sitting height: 26.7 inches
  • Safety harness: 5-point
  • Handlebar height: 25 – 44 inches
  • Warranty: Lifetime

Pros

  • Large onboard storage space
  • Comfortable padded seat
  • Adjustable leaf-spring suspension
  • Useful for trailing, jogging, strolling, and skiing
  • Easily convertible
  • Easy to assemble or fold
  • Reclining seat

Cons

  • For one child only
  • Expensive

Our Verdict

If you want a first-class option for your kid, this unit is your perfect choice. It is worthy to note that items with such impressive features and convenience do not come cheap. Ideally, this trailer is the most expensive model on this list but no need to panic, you will get the full value for your money.

9 Burley Honey Bee 2 Seat Kids Bike Trailer & Stroller

Burley Honey Bee 2 Seat Kids Bike Trailer & Stroller

The Burley Honey Bee trailer offers you the option to share your outdoor lifestyle with your whole family. Since it comes at a low-range price, it may not have many extras like the Thule Chariot version.

What separates it from the previous Burley Design is the front wheel that enables you to conveniently use it for jogging and strolling. It is lightweight yet strong and works smoothly even on off-road.

You can quickly adjust the handlebar to your height by engaging the plastic lever. The interior is spacious, as such, can comfortably accommodate two kids. The windows are designed to handle the weather without obstructing your children’s view. When folding, the tires come off quickly with a single push of a button, eliminating the need for assembly tools.

It looks beautiful and classy, while the rear reflectors help to enhance your visibility on the road. The only issue was the unstable handlebar which slipped easily even under lock but that was not a deal-breaker for us.

Specifications

    • Dimensions: 33.2 x 29.5 x 37 inches
    • Weight: 21.5 pounds
    • Capacity: 100 pounds
    • Wheel: 20 inches
    • Material: Aluminum
    • Front wheel
    • Adjustable handlebar

Pros

  • Waterproof construction
  • Flag and reflectors for better visibility
  • Spacious and comfortable seat
  • Doubles as jogger and stroller
  • Folds down quite flat
  • Generous storage space
  • Durable and lightweight frame

Cons

  • Unstable handlebar lock

Our Verdict

This baby trailer offers the perfect balance of value and functionality. The inclusion of the front wheel and adjustable handlebar makes it a real contender for a jogger stroller option. It is quite easy to use and does not require tools during the setup and folding.

The Burley Honey bee trailer was one of the best-rated options on this list, indicating that it was a fair deal for the price.

10 Aosom Elite 360 Swivel 2-in-1 Bicycle Trailer

Aosom Elite 360 Swivel 2-in-1 Bicycle Trailer

The Aosom Elite Bicycle Trailer features a 360 swivel front wheel and double suspension mechanism, offering you the smoothest and most comfortable ride you can ever imagine. Ideally, you can use it on gravels and plain surfaces without worrying about your child’s comfort and safety. The front-wheel swivels for strolling and you can quickly remove it when using as a trailer or lock it for jogging.

This model can handle two children with a combined weight of up to 80 pounds, and with its overall weight capacity of 88 pounds, you have little to worry when towing.

The handlebar provides support when you are strolling while the handbrake keeps the wheels locked whenever you park. Also, it features a nylon canopy that protects your child from rain, sun, bug, and debris. You can roll up the plastic part of the canopy, leaving the mesh for ventilation on a hot day.

Like our previous choices, this one has a large storage space for keeping your bike gear, baby toys, groceries, bags, diapers, etc. There are interior pockets for your kids to store their favorite items.

The flag, hammock seating, and strap system are additional extras to enhance your kiddos’ safety on the road. There were a few complaints that the hand brake did not work, but that was not a big issue for us.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 32 x 36 x 34.2 inches
  • Weight: 39 pounds
  • Type: 3 in 1
  • No. of children: 2
  • Color: Red
  • Material: Aluminum, Canvas
  • Max. Weight Limit: 88 pounds
  • Front Wheel: 12 inches
  • Rear Wheel: 20 inches

Pros

  • All-weather canopy
  • Folds flat without tools
  • Quickly converts from trailer to jogger
  • Comfortable seat and large rear storage
  • Handlock brake
  • Suspension mechanism
  • Universal coupler

Cons

  • Issues with hand brake

Our Verdict

The Aosom Elite deserves a good spot on our list. It is sold at a reasonable price yet works as a trailer, stroller, and jogger. The suspension system and the spacious compartment make it even more appealing. Its only downside compared to other units we have listed is its relatively lower rating which forced us to place it at the bottom.

Overall, this is a well-constructed bike, lightweight, versatile, and easy to fold, making it a fantastic choice for any parent who wants to invest in a budget-friendly baby trailer.

Best Bike Trailer For Kids [Detailed Buying Guide]

Best Bike Trailer Buying Guide

Bike trailers are known by several names from different parts of the country. They are also known as bike buggy, tow along cart, ride along trail, bike extension, follow me attachment, and wagon. However, in terms of design, you’ll find plenty. Some are even funny and kids love them. But just the look shouldn’t deceive you and you’ll have to consider the following factors to make an informed decision.

  1. Types

Before making your final selection, you should know which baby bike trailer type is suitable for you. Here are the most outstanding options available.

  • Single Bike Trailers 

People also call them 1-child trailers. These are designed to carry a single child at a time. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to ride on a sidewalk. Shaped like a wagon, the single seat trailers often feature a large storage compartment but they do not offer a snug fit and most parents believe the child might easily outgrow the seat space.

  • Double Bike Trailers

Double trailers, also known as tendem trailers, are wider than single types and offer enough space for carrying up to two children. However, they are more expensive and heavy. You can also find 3-child models for carrying 3 kids together. We also found 4-seat models with one cart having 2 seats each attached to another. Choose these if you need to carry 4 kids at a time. You can build a custom model for creating multiple seat options.

  • Convertible

They are mostly called 3 in 1 trailer because they can easily function as a cart, stroller, or jogger. They usually feature one front and two rear wheels. There is a bike attachment bar and a handlebar for strolling.

Convertibles are fairly priced considering their versatility but they are heavier than other baby trailers. You can find them as single or double seater.

  • Bike Style Trailer

This type looks quite different from other trailers and they are similar to tag along bike models. They have almost all the features in a regular bike except the front wheel, gear, and brake. There is an arm that attaches to your bike’s seat post; while your child sits to pedal as you ride. However, they are only suitable for older kids with basic cycling skills.

2. Terrain & Climate

If you are planning to ride on areas with difficult terrains, you should spend a few bucks on model with a good suspension system. Even when you are riding on smooth surfaces, trailers with suspension will provide great comfort for your kid.

Since you cannot precisely predict the weather and the last thing is seeing your child get wet, you should opt for trailers with a waterproof covers.

3. Windows

Everyone wants their child to have fun by exploring the environment through the side windows, of course, the design and height differ among manufacturers. Models with tinted windows will help shield your child from the sun’s glare, keeping the interior cool. In addition, ensure the trailer has a mesh for ventilation while offering protection against dust and bugs.

4. Your Child’s Age

If your child is below four or lacks basic biking skills, you should not choose a bike-style trailer. Besides, check the size and interior space of the trailer to know if it is for your kid’s height. If you want to carry an infant, you got to ensure extra care and choose a model that is extra safe with proper shock absorption capacity. If your child is 5 or 6 years old or above, we’d recommend tagalong bike models.

In terms of carrying a disabled or especially able child, you should take extra care for ensuring safety.

5. Dimensions

You should consider the amount of space your child will need. If you have two children, choose a double type and if your kids are older, ensure the trailer has enough space for them to sit comfortably. Also, the carrier should be durable and capable of withstanding your children’s weight.

6. Convertibles

Most bike trailers come with extra kits that enable you to use them for towing, skiing, strolling, or jogging. So, if you are not searching for a bicycle only model, choose one that is easily convertible.

7. Parts

Basic components of a baby bike trailer include frame, wheel, axle, and hitch.

  • Frame

Most baby trailers have either steel or aluminum frames. Both materials can provide excellent support but many parents prefer aluminum because it is lighter.

  • Axle

Each axle is attached to the wheel via a quick-release mechanism or bolts. Most manufacturers use the separate axle system because it allows the trailer housing to be between the wheels, offering a lower center of gravity.

  • Wheel

The wheel and tire type will determine how well you ride on specific terrains. Most trailers come with 16 or 20-inches wheels with metal or plastic rims. Obviously, a 20-inch wheel with a metal rim will be more stable, durable, and comfortable than a 16-inch type with molded plastic rim.

You’ll find one wheel trailers for mountain bikes and having just 1 wheel these models are lighter and faster to pull along the way.

The wheel should have high-quality spokes and pneumatic tires to ensure it can roll smoothly on bumpy terrains.

  • Braking

Good pull-behind trailers feature hand brakes that enable you to lock the wheel when it is parked.

  • Adjustable handlebars

If you want to stroll with your kid, look for a model that you can adjust the handlebar height.

  • Hitch

A hitch acts as a link between the bike and cart and determines how smoothly the ride can be. Its main point of attachment to the bike can be the seat-post, chainstay, or rear rack depending on the carrier type.

i. Seat-post – The coupler or clamp assembly attaches directly to the bike’s seat-post. It is only suitable for bike-style trailers.

ii. Chainstay –This clamp style hitch will attach to the chainstay of the bike.

iii. Pannier rack – This one is not popular among parents because racks are separate from the mainframe of the bike, and cannot handle the carrier’s weight.

 8. Safety Features

Since kids would want to chew everything, ensure that the straps are free from toxic substances. Besides, choose a model with a padded, adjustable 5-point harness to hold the child securely. Check for options with flags, side, and rear reflectors, as they help you to be more visible to other road users.

9. Folding & Storage

Almost all bike trailers are collapsible, but some have quick-folding mechanisms that allow you to disable them for storage quickly. Try to compare the foldable size of the trailer with your available storage space before buying. The more compact the trailer, the easier it can be stored.

10. Compatibility

There are situations where the trailer may not match with your bike, for that reason, check your bike’s size and type to know the right model to buy.

11. Seat Types

A good seat will make lots of difference to your ride. Currently, we have two seat types, namely; hammock and bench versions.

  • Hammock style seat – It is designed with a thick fabric that stretches to each side of the frame. A Hammock seat is relatively cheaper but often sags over time, causing the children to slide into the middle.
  • Bench style seat –This type is mostly found in expensive trailers. It is well-padded and has enough support to prevent sagging. Besides, its height is raised a little so that your kids can rest or stretch their legs comfortably.

12. Cabin Size & Capacity

First, ask yourself, is the trailer big enough for my children?

You should understand that bike trailers’ dimensions vary by brand. Some may be compact, while others are spacious. As we mentioned earlier if you want a type that can hold your kids as they grow, choose a bigger model. You can find models suitable for 1, 2, and even 3 kids. For the latter one, you’ll get triple seats. We’d ask you to check the height of the cart if you have a tall kid.

13. Suspension System

We recommend you opt for a trailer with a built-in suspension mechanism to cushion the effect of road bumps on the children. Several carriers offer spring or adjustable suspensions to make riding across uneven surfaces to be smooth. Prefer models with fat tires for better suspension response.

14. Storage Space

What items do you want to take with you? How about going with baby essentials like toys, diapers, snacks, drinks, etc.? You should consider the capacity of the storage and its location. Also, check for models with inner pockets for keeping kiddos books and other needs.

15. Material

Most trailers are made from sturdy metals, plastic, and cushioning materials. However, you’ll also find wooden models with less weight.

16. Budget

Bike trailers cost around $150 to $2000. Bear in mind that a trailer’s quality and features increase with the price. Low-priced models are not as durable or comfortable as the expensive ones. Units with a robust frame, long-lasting fabric, suspension mechanism, and convertible kits usually cost more, but you will enjoy the purchase.

Bike Trailer Safety Tips

These guidelines will help you to reduce or eliminate the risk of damages to your trailer and injuries to your child.

  • Avoid riding at high speed or taking busy routes
  • Make sure you have adequate cycling skills before towing a child
  • Only adults should ride while the baby stays behind
  • Your child should be at least 12 months old before riding on a trailer. But sometimes, this age may not apply to all children, so we recommend you discuss with a specialist to know if your child can ride
  • Children under five should not ride on bike style trailers
  • The child must wear a helmet to prevent severe injuries to the head in case of any mishap
  • Make sure that the child is strapped properly to the seat
  • Keep to the rules on the road. To avoid a collision, never ride against traffic
  • Always mount an orange flag on the trailer to increase your visibility
  • If possible, only ride on parks and bike paths where you will not encounter vehicles

Care & Maintenance Tips

Bike Trailer Care and Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your bike trailer will prolong its useful life, making it look attractive for many years. Below are a few ways to handle it.

1. General Maintenance

  • Check the push bar to know if it is positioned correctly
  • If the push bar has slipped off, tighten the attached bolts
  • Tighten the straps at the seat
  • You should run a full check of your trailer at least once in six months and clean it whenever you return from the ride

2. Maintenance Routine Before Each Ride

  • Inspect the seat backrest to see if it is secure and well tightened
  • Check the orange safety flag
  • Check if the hitch is properly aligned to the bike
  • Adjust the suspension to suit your kid’s weight
  • Inspect the wheels to know if it is in a good position
  • Check the tire pressure to see if it is according to specification
  • Adjust the handlebar to your height
  • Check if the trailer is properly unfolded, and all components are in place

3. Bike Trailer Cleaning

  • Avoid using harsh chemicals
  • Use mild soap
  • Wash the wheels thoroughly to remove dirt and grimes
  • Use a soft cleaning cloth to remove tough stains
  • If the seat padding is messy, you can take it out to wash
  • Wipe the trailer bottom with a wet cloth
  • Leave the trailer to dry completely before folding for storage

4. Storage

  • Keep your trailer indoors and away from the rain or direct sunlight. This will prevent the fabric from premature wear or fading
  • If possible, always fold the trailer before storage

A Word from GearbikesReview

Baby bike trailers are perfect for parents who prefer to ride and have fun with their families. Before making your final decision, it is important to check if they match your lifestyle and offer enough space for your kids.

Besides, check for safety features like seat padding, harnesses, flag, reflectors, and rain or sun shield. You can pick a color that your child would always love but ensure that the model you are buying is compatible with your bike. Overall, comfort is key to any successful ride. It will be a beautiful idea to look for a trailer with a good suspension system.

Now, we have not only provided you with a list of the best bike trailers for kids but have also shown you how to pick the one that suits your preference, which in turn saves a lot of time. If you are yet to make a choice, you can do a quick check below.

There are lots of baby trailers out there, but if you want to have a fulfilling outing with your kids, the Schwinn Joyrider is the best you can buy. It has a solid frame construction and a 2 in 1 canopy that can withstand the harshest weather conditions. It is easy to attach to any bicycle and folds quickly for storage.

For the sports-loving parents, the Thule Chariot version is equal to the task. It has many impressive features suitable for jogging, strolling, skiing, and towing. If you are on a tight budget but need a dependable trailer, either the Co-Pilot or Allen Sport models can be the right option for you.

We’ve done our job, now the choice is yours. Happy shopping!

FAQs

Q.1. At what age can a child go in a bike trailer?

Ans. Children aged 12 to 18 months can ride in a bike trailer provided they can support their heads.

Q.2. Can a six-month-old ride a bike trailer?

Ans. 6-month-old children are unable to keep their heads without any support from an adult. This means even if you’ve the best kid bike trailer, it won’t suit your little buddy.

Q.3. Are bike trailers safer than bike seats?

Ans. In comparison with bike seats, trailers are safer. Your child is more exposed when they are on bike seats than trailers, making them prone to severe injuries in the event of a tip-over or crash.

Q.4. What else can you do with the trailer other than biking?

Ans. If you want to perform other tasks besides cycling, rather than spending on separate products, choose a model like the Thule Chariot version with a capacity for strolling, jogging, and skiing.

Q.5. Do kids need helmets in bike trailers?

Ans. Yes. A helmet will protect your child from severe head injuries in the event of a crash. Most children will not like wearing it, but try making them to see it as a good habit and watch as they fall in love with headgear over time.

About the author

Joshua Fernand

I’m a 38-year-old father of two and an avid adventurer with a history of road bike racing in the mountains. I’m also a member of the Mountain Top Cycling Club, Colorado. I took part in several cross country rides across the states with my cruiser bike.

Tell you what, each tour was over a thousand miles long and it wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t studied bike mechanics. Most of the fixes required during my travel had to be fixed by myself. Cruiser became my favorite category since then.

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