Just because you're now a parent doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your active lifestyle. In fact, it is important that you stay active and exercise regularly so that you can maintain a healthy body because well, you now have kids to look after (or chase around when baby starts walking - trust us, you will need ALL the energy and stamina)!
One activity that we'd highly recommend doing is biking. Not only is it fun as you get to go outdoors, the best thing is you can do it together with your children! Yup, you can either cycle with your little one as s/he scoots around or teeters in their balance bike or tricycle, or you can go for longer rides/adventures together with a child bike seat, or in a bike trailer.
1. What You Need To Know About Bike Trailer
A bike trailer is a wheeled frame encased in strong, durable fabric that has a zippered enclosure and attaches to the rear of your bicycle. Children can sit in it as you cycle in front and it is one of the best activity that parent and child can do and enjoy together.
Is bike trailer safe?
This is perhaps one of the biggest concerns that most of you would have and we don't blame you. Let us assure you, bike trailers are actually much safer than you think they are.
First of all, they are much lower to the ground compare to bike seats (another option for biking together) so in the event of any falls, the level of injuries is definitely much reduced.
Secondly, the encased compartment provides extra roll-cage like protection in that it remains sitting upright even if your bike goes down so that harm to children can be minimized, if not totally eliminated.
We recommend sticking to bike lanes or park paths when using a bike trailer, at the very least, you should steer away from busy city roads, keep a helmet on your child, and you (and your little one) would be fine.
When should you use a bike trailer?
There is no mandatory rule or law on this, but you should only let your child sit in a bike trailer when s/he can sit upright unassisted, and this is usually around the 1-year-old mark. This is because you will go through uneven terrains where bumping is unavoidable and that may cause damage to your little one's still developing brain. So wait until they are at least a year old when most will be able to hold their head up before seating them in a bike trailer.
2. Types of Bike Trailers
You may not know it, but there are actually a few different types of bike trailers that you can choose from, with some that can set you back as much as $1,000 so that is certainly a deciding factor in a lot of parents' decision-making.
A. Trailer Only
As its name indicates, this type is purely trailer only with no attachments available to make it into a stroller. Because of this, it is (usually) the cheapest compare to the other types. It usually comes in 2 sizes - single or double bike trailer. While double child bike trailer is usually more convenient in that even if it doesn't house two children, you can use the other space for storage. The downside is - it is harder to manoeuvre because it is wider than single trailer.
B. Trailer + Stroller/Jogger
This is the convertible type where you can switch it to stroller or jogger mode, though most will still use it primarily as a trailer. Some higher end trailers even provides a ski attachment to make going over ice or snow easier for parents. Likewise, there are usually two sizes - single or double.
C. Pedal Trailers
Pedal trailers are catered to older children who can pedal themselves. This allows you to cycle with your little one together, on the same bike, instead of him/her scooting next to you in another separate bike. It provides great bonding and fun for both adult and child, although we must say there is less protection for your little one in this type compare to regular trailers. Also, there's the age limitation with this one because younger children can only be placed in regular trailers since they are not able to pedal themselves yet.
Whichever type that you eventually choose, we recommend looking for brands/models that come with the ASTM sticker because it guarantees that safety standards have been met. It is not mandatory by law, but we'd highly recommend it because it means your trailer has undergone, and passed, rigorous safety tests and standards.
3. Top 5 Best Bike Trailer for Kids (Trailer Only)
EDITOR RATING:
The Burley Design Bee Bike Trailer is one of the most popular bike trailer for sale in the market. If you're looking for something simple and fuss-free, this entry level double bike trailer for kids is the best child bike trailer for you.
As one of the best double bike trailer, it weighs only 20.5lbs and protects up to two passengers with its full internal roll cage, heat-treated aluminium frame and 5-point safety harness. The Flex Connector allows the bike to lay flat while the trailer remains upright, and reflective piping, reflectors on wheels as well as a neon orange safety flag that is attached to its rear work to raise attention on roads for safety purpose.
Do note that while the hammock style seat means your child/ children do not need to sit on the floor of the trailer, it is not padded. Nonetheless, the side battens create a barrier between the wheels and your child, and velcro is provided on the seat for you to add extra padding (with additional accessories) if you wish. The newly incorporated tinted side and rear windows with integrated UPF 30 shield your children's face from harmful sun rays and rear window ventilation keeps them from overheated.
As with all Burley child trailers, the Bee also has a spacious rear cargo area for you to fit your stuffs and the under-seat cargo barrier keeps cargo in the back, and children’s toys and snacks in the front.
Storage is easy - when you don't need to use it, the front to back fold flat design allows you to compact the trailer in a streamlined manner after releasing two red latches at the top frame bar.
Coming from a company that has manufactured multiple top rated bike trailers, this burley double bike trailer is one of the lowest-priced ASTM-certified child trailers in the market that did not compromise on features that many have came to know and love about Burley. Now you know why the Burley Design Bee Bike Trailer is such a popular choice among parents!
EDITOR RATING:
The Instep Take 2 Double Trailer is another highly rated best bike trailer for baby that is simple, fuss free and very affordable.
Many love a good instep bike trailer, and this one here is a two-seater that can hold children up to 80 pounds in total. The two-in-one canopy acts as a bug screen and weather shield for protection from the elements, and the universal coupler attaches easily to almost any bicycle. Seriously guys, this is one of the most versatile bike trailer in the market!
When not in use, its unique folding frame and quick release wheels allows you to pack it up neatly for compact storage and transport so it wouldn't take up much house space.
As pictured left, this bike trailer has a rear window that can be rolled up for better ventilation. Between the back of the seats and the rear is a compartment for storage that can easily fit in a standard size backpack, a diaper bag or grocery bag with still room to spare.
The Instep Take 2 Double Trailer has a single seater version too, the difference being (aside from the obvious fact that it can only hold a single child) the single seater has pneumatic tires as opposed to the double's air-filled tires. We think the double seat bike trailer is a more worthy buy because well, you get extra storage space if you don't need the second seater for another child, and you may not believe this, but the double version is slightly cheaper even! Nonetheless, if you'd have trouble manoeuvring a double trailer, you know you're in good hands with its single version.
EDITOR RATING:
The Schwinn Echo Double Bike Trailer is another bike trailer choice to consider if you want a trailer version only.
Similar to the Burley Bee, it has 20" alloy spooked wheels with air tires which make it easy to manoeuvre. If you're not a very good biker yourself, we recommend getting 20" wheels like this instead of 16" because the former makes for an easier and smoother ride. It doesn't have a suspension though but that isn't a problem for many because it isn't likely that you would go off road with your little one at tow.
In terms of packing, the Schwinn Echo packs up nice and compactly as pictured left so it wouldn't take up much storage space when not in use. To assemble, it is equally as easy which can be done in seconds, once you get the hang of it.
As with other good bike trailers, the Schwinn Echo Double Bike Trailer has a large window and mesh surface area for better transparency and style, and the bug screen keeps insects away from your child besides keeping her dry and cool during the rides. The seat includes a helmet mesh and shoulder pads for your little one's comfort, although we recommend buying flat back helmets because your child's head may be pushed slightly forward by the back of the seat if you get the normal rounded ones. There is a single seater version for this one too, for those that'd prefer a smaller frame.
EDITOR RATING:
Although the trailers-only type is mostly priced at an affordable range compare to other types of trailers, we'd understand if you do not want to be spending too much on one item that you will most likely not use too often, at the very least, not everyday. If this is you, the Allen Sports Steel Bicycle Trailer is the best kids bike trailer for you because, wait for it ... it is under $100!
But wouldn't the quality of such cheap bike trailer be inferior, you may ask? If it is not from Allen Sports, a company that has produced quality biking products for more than 30 years, then yes, we would share the same worry. But with such a reputable company backing it up, and ASTM certification, there is nothing to worry about in this department.
Specification wide, it has everything a trailer needs to have - canopy with removal Velcro bug and rain shield, rear storage compartment, helmet pocket, large side and front windows, safety harness for each child and safety flag. It has more - the double seats are padded and shock absorbent, and there is a foot guard tube to protect your little one's feet.
The only thing is that the Allen Sports Steel Bicycle Trailer is made of steel, so while it is still considered lightweight to many people, it is heavier than aluminium frames. But it is also precisely because of this that it is able to hold up to 100 pounds in total for two children, as opposed to many others that can only support up to 80 pounds of weight.
Apart from that, this child bike trailer is pretty awesome in its ways - it is durable, it affixes easily to most bikes, it is quick to connect and disconnect, and it has a folding design with quick release wheels that is easy for storage and transportation when not in use. Basic trailer-only wise, the Allen Sports Steel Bicycle Trailer is no doubt the best bike trailer to go that won't break your bank account.
EDITOR RATING:
Last but not least in the trailer-only category is this Baby Bicycle Trailer by Sepnine that we think you'd like if you are looking for a single seater best baby bike trailer.
One of the smallest bike trailer in the market measuring at 24" length, 16" width and 22" height, the Sepnine is easy to manoeuvre even with 16" wheels (remember we say 20" wheels are the easier navigation wise?) that anyone is able to manage. The universal coupler attaches to 20-28" bicycles which shouldn't be a problem to many.
Because it has such a small frame, it is very easy and quick to put together, likewise, it is a breeze to fold down (and compactly) for storage and transportation. However, there wouldn't be as much storage space at the back of this one when compare with others but essentials like a nappy bag will not be a problem.
Similar to the Allen Sports Steel Bicycle Trailer, the Sepnine Baby Bicycle Trailer is also made of steel so it can hold a child up to 50 pounds (as opposed to others which can only support up to 40 pounds mostly). Because of its size, it is still easy to carry around despite its steel structure. Nonetheless, it has everything else a good bike trailer should have (5 point harness, reflectors, safety flag and even the seats are padded!) so for those that'd prefer a single seater only, this is one choice worthy to consider and buy.
4. Top 5 Best Bike Trailer for Kids (Trailer + Stroller/Jogger)
EDITOR RATING:
For stroller bike trailer combo, the Hamax Outback Multi-Sport Child Bike Trailer + Stroller + Jogger is one of the best bike trailer in the market you can consider.
It is very easy to spot the Hamax Outback out of the many competitors by its sleek aerodynamic design, something many parents love. Depending on your need or preference, you can choose between single and double seaters, both of which have exactly the same features. You don't have to worry much about the manoeuvrability problems of double bike trailers that we talked about above because the design itself has taken care of that to ensure a smoother and easier ride - you wouldn't feel much about the pulling weight behind, trust us - and the adjustable shock suspension lets you tackle sidewalks or rougher terrains with ease without jeopardising your little one's comfort.
With just one-click, it transitions easily between a bike trailer, stroller and jogger. The double lock with colour-coded safety point gives you peace of mind of a secure connection every time and the included bike hitch is compatible with both quick-release and standard bike wheels for hassle-free installation. The push bar is height-adjustable in one swift movement so that you can push comfortably when in stroller/jogger mode.
Other features include padded 5-point safety harnesses, padded ergonomic contoured seats, adjustable head rests and neck support for extra security and comfort, UV-protected windows and built-in vents and coverings to safeguard your little ones against the elements. The XL-Sized cabin is spacious with generous foot room and the substantial cargo space offers ample storage for supplies or interchangeable kits.
As to be expected from trailers of this combo type, the Hamax Outback Multi-Sport Child Bike Trailer is on the pricier side. Keep in mind that you have to buy the jogger kit separately if you wish to convert it to a jogger but the stroller kit is included. Nonetheless, many parents love the EN/ASTM certified, 2016 Reddot Design Winner and think it is worth every penny invested.
EDITOR RATING:
Coming close in second is the Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Trailer that resembles the Hamax Outback in many ways.
Designed for four activities: biking, strolling, jogging and cross-country skiing (jogging and skiing kit sold separately), the Thule Chariot Cross is one of the best bike trailer jogging stroller combo anyone can ask for. It has everything one would expect a luxury bike trailer to have, and so much more!
Its comfort level is second to none - the seats are padded with 5-point harness and is removable for easy cleaning. This one here is a double seater (single seat is available too) and each seat is reclinable individually with convenient one-handed recline to allow your child to nap comfortably while on the go. The adjustable leaf-spring suspension ensures a smooth ride when you go over bumpy or rough terrains and the 20" wheels make it the more easier.
To convert it from a bike trailer to a four-wheel stroller is a breeze - just fold the front two wheels down and voila, there you have it! When not in use, it can be stored away for increased kick stride as the trailer fully collapses with the wheels easily removable for compact storage and transport.
The reason we rate this second to the Hamax Outback is because it is heavier, in fact, it is one of the heaviest bike trailer in the market because it is not made with aluminium, the main material that Hamax is constructed of. Also, it is one of the more expensive bike trailer in its category which makes it less affordable by many households.
Nonetheless, if weight is the only issue for you, know that there is a much lighter version with equally the same amazing features available. The Thule Chariot Cross Multisport Trailer's high level of comfort and multiple conversion are some of the most well-loved features that many parents think it's worth the money invested especially if you're one of the active families who loves to go jogging and skiing together.
EDITOR RATING:
As opposed to the Burley Bee which is at the lowest end of the Burley trailer line, the D'Lite is precisely at the end of spectrum. This top-of-the-line double jogging stroller bike trailer is loaded with premium features to maximize comfort, performance and safety.
Made of lightweight aluminium frame, the D’Lite's seating features bowed-out sides for extra shoulder room so that it is more comfortable for the little ones, and the machine washable Spring Integrated Technology (S.I.T.) seating prevent any tangled and limp straps to simplify the process of getting your little one in and out of the trailer.
One of its premium features is the adjustable suspension of which its adjustment mechanism is located on either side of the trailer near the 20-inch alloy spoked wheel. It allows you to quickly and confidently adjust the suspension to match your load for a smooth ride while the integrated wheel guards (hardwares included) add a layer of protection to the tires.
It is easy to make the transition from bike mode to other modes, just release the single plastic lever to adjust the foam-lined handlebar and it will act as a second roll bar when in the fully forward position (bike mode). The parking brake included is simple to use, convenient and exceeds expectations for performance.
Comes complete with hitch, tow arm and safety flag, the Burley Design D'Lite Child Bike Trailer is ready to bike out of the box. Optional 1-wheel or 2-wheel stroller kits are included, although the double jogging kit and ski kit need to be purchased separately. Nonetheless, everything else of the D'Lite is made of top quality material and every feature is functional and practical, it is no wonder it continues to be a bestseller amongst the many tough competitions!
EDITOR RATING:
Not every bike trailer jogger has to be outrageously expensive. If you don't have a big budget but would still like to have the choice of converting your bike trailer to a stroller/jogger, the Aosom Elite 2 in 1 Double Child Bike Trailer/Jogger is the best bike trailer stroller combo for you.
At a price comparable to that of trailer-only versions, the Aosom Elite is constructed from a strong, lightweight aluminium frame that supports two children. It even has smooth-rolling 20-inch aluminium quick-release wheels that ride easily across uneven terrain to keep the ride comfortable wherever your bike takes you.
And it doesn't skim on other features - a weather canopy that protects your little ones from sun and rain and a rear storage area that provides extra room for carrying small necessity are all incorporated in this double bike trailer stroller.
Converting the unit from trailer to stroller and folding it up for storage each take only seconds, and no tools are needed. The conversion kit and bike hitch are all included for connecting the trailer to the bike. It even fits a bike with quick-release wheels so it's actually more versatile than you would have expected.
Safety features wise, the trailer/stroller has a sling seat with a five-point safety harness to keep your children secure. It also has a hand-lock brake system on the rear wheel that allows you to lock the jogging stroller while it's parked.
One thing to keep in mind though - its total weight capacity is up to 57 pounds only (for 1 or 2 kids) so it does have a shorter working life span compare to other higher-end trailers combo before your child outgrows it, and it doesn't convert to a jogger. For what it's worth, the Aosom Elite 2 in 1 Double Child Bike Trailer/Jogger is priced very reasonably and is one that most families would be able to afford so it remains to be a top favourite amongst many.
EDITOR RATING:
Another reasonably priced (though more expensive than the Aosom Elite) bike trailer/stroller combo is the Allen Sports Premier 2-Child Aluminium Bike Trailer/Racing Stroller, a 2-in-1 product for the active parent.
Be it you're looking for a pull behind bike trailer for kids that fits your road bike, mountain bike, comfort bike or breach cruiser, the universal coupler of the Allen Sports Premier will work with most full sized bicycles on the road. Not only do the large 20" aluminium rear wheels make for an easy rolling trailer/jogger, they also engage better in terms of the bumps in road compare to smaller wheels thereby providing a more comfortable ride to your little ones.
Compare to velcro releases, it uses zipper release which offers exceptional durability on its three season rain and bug shield that offers easy access to the inside of your trailer. A handy rear storage pocket is incorporated too for you to stow the little necessities.
Backed by lifetime warranty, the Allen Sports Premier 2-Child Aluminium Bike Trailer/Racing Stroller is made of ultralight, sturdy aluminium and has an innovative frame that allows for quick folding for easy storage and transport when not in use. The push button releases on the wheels offer quick removal and make folding your trailer/ jogger a breeze. And oh, we like how it has an extra large interior compartment with a recessed foot area so there are lots of room for your little riders to ride comfortably.
5. Top 3 Best Bike Trailer for Kids (Pedal Trailers)
EDITOR RATING:
For older children who are able to pedal themselves, the WeeRide Co-Pilot Bike Trailer is one great choice to consider.
Sturdily constructed, the Co-Pilot includes adjustable handlebars, seat, pedals and chain guard to cater to children of different heights. Made of heavy-duty steel, it attaches easily and quickly to almost any bicycle with a seat post, thanks to its patented sync-link attachment system, and it easily folds up (including the arms) for storage when not in use.
We like the superior design of its front splash guard that prevents dirt and water from touching your little one, and how it has high quality padded seat and fully adjustable handlebars that allow up, down and rotation adjustments.
For what it's priced (trust us, you'll be pleasantly surprised), the WeeRide Co-Pilot Bike Trailer offers so much more than you'd expect, it even comes with a safety flag to alert motorists! It is a great way for child-parent bonding - even if your little one gets tired, s/he can still coast along and enjoy the scenery - without breaking the bank.
EDITOR RATING:
The Weehoo 2-Bike Trailer is another best bike trailer for toddler who is able to pedal on their own.
The number one selling bike trailer of the brand, it makes for the best bike trailer for two kids who are close at age, with the rear seat made for smaller passengers to enjoy the ride without pedaling while the older child can sit in the front and pedal to propel mom or dad. In total, it can tow up to 80 pounds of total weight, ages two to nine years old.
Yes, fully functioning rotating strap pedals are provided for the front seat (pictured left) and while the rear seat doesn't have such, it does have a foot rest for your little one to relax. Patented hitch allows easy installation and removal of the Weehoo when you switch between solo and family bike rides.
In terms of safety, there are buckled straps and grippy handles to keep your little ones secured. We love how it offers tons of storage in the seat and over the rear wheel so that you can stock up on supplies when you're exploring. For different-aged kids, the Weehoo 2-Bike Trailer is one pedal trailer that we'd highly recommend.
EDITOR RATING:
Last but not least is the Burley Design Piccolo, one of the top-of-the-line pedal trailers in the market that continues to be a bestseller for many years.
Understandably so - the Piccolo is packed with outstanding features that not many competitors have, for instance, its patented double locking hitch that attaches to the included Burley Moose Rack, which is another feature worth mentioning in detail. The Moose Rack is a heavy-duty steel rear rack made for towing Burley trailercycles. It Is pannier and disc brake compatible and has underwent, and passed, rigorous safety tests regarding strength under static and dynamic loads.
It also features a versatile 7-speed rapid-fire style thumb shifter, which is a great option for you to teach your child at a young age the proper gearing in different terrains. And the patented aluminium ball-bearing guided hitch offers superior stability to ensure your little one (and you) are in safe hands.
The Burley Design Piccolo is a great tool to help your child learn to pedal and feel what it is like to balance and turn while keeping him/her safe by connecting to your adult's bike so that you can still have the control when needed. Keep in mind that the adult-to-child weight ratio should be at least 2 to 1 in order to achieve the optimum riding experience!
