Riding a bike has become one of the most popular and best activities to do, but what about when you have a baby? That’s where a baby bike trailer comes into play. A simple and easy-to-use add-on that any bicyclist can attach right to their own bicycle.
With the knowledge of baby bike trailers in mind, we’re going to discuss everything you’ll need to know about them. It can feel overwhelming when talking about a subject like this, and that’s where this article will help you. Nonetheless, let’s get started!
Facts About Baby Bike Trailer
As noted, we’re going to discuss all of the main facts pertaining to baby bike trailers. Although all products in the subject are different, most of them have the same basic functionality.
Getting the generalized function of the product itself will help you achieve an understanding of the subject as a whole. Let’s take a look at some of the simple facts and details surrounding baby bike trailers.
What is a Baby Bike Trailer?
For those of you that don’t know, a baby bike trailer is an addition to a bicycle that allows a bicyclist to ride their bike with their child safely attached. They typically have one or two seats in them, but they’re an excellent way for bike riders to have fun while bringing their child along.
Most babies and young kids love going for rides, especially when they’re at the age that they can’t ride a bike by themselves. Think of them as a baby stroller, but as an attachment directly to your bike.
They’re countless options to choose from when discussing baby bike trailers, but for the most part, they all serve the same purpose. However, it’s essential to know what differentiates them so you can make the best decision for you.
Baby Bike Trailers Vary in Features
Before anything else, the most important aspect you’re going to have to consider is the actual trailer type. Although they all serve a similar function of safely holding your child while you ride, they’re a variety of trailers to select.
Generally speaking, baby trailers can come as a simple trailer, all the way up to high-end ones that can be manipulated into a stroller. Expect to find variations such as trailer only, trailer and jogger/stroller, or a multisport trailer.
Obviously, the more features the specific trailer has, the more expensive it’ll be. Whether you want all of the features or not, it’s entirely up to you. However, once you decide on the trailer type you’re interested in, it’ll be easier to narrow down your choice.
The More Features, The More Expensive It Is
You can expect to find a trailer anywhere from $100 to $1000. Obviously, the more expensive the trailer is, the more features and the higher quality it’ll be. However, keep in mind you can admittedly find an excellent trailer at a lower price.
On the other hand, just because a trailer is super expensive, doesn’t mean it’s the best option. This is why it’s essential to do all of the research necessary, so you don’t waste your time and money.
Generally speaking, lower-end trailers will be more cost-effective and will work well on primary concrete paths. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that they’ll most likely lack a lot of the safety and comfort features higher-end ones have. Not to mention the other potential features they’re missing out on.
No matter what you decide on, remember to keep price and functionality in mind. Although saving money is always a good idea, you need to weigh the pros and cons in doing so. Keeping your child safe and comfortable should be your main priority before anything else.
Baby Bike Trailers Vary in Size
Once you get an understanding of trailer types and your budget for one, now you’ll have to determine the appropriate size of one. Generally speaking, these particular trailers come as either a single or double trailer.
Single trailers are smaller, narrower, lighter, and more affordable, but can only carry one child at a time. A single trailer is your best option if carrying capacity isn’t an issue for you.
Double trailers can carry one or two riders, have more storage, and are a bit larger, but they tend to be more expensive. Double trailers seem to be more common on the higher-end scale of the subject, but you can certainly find an affordable one.
Outside of the size options, be mindful of cabin size, head room, shoulder room, and the weight capacity. From there, you’ll be able to determine the perfect trailer for your child.
Two Different Seat Options
Depending on the size of your child and how many kids you’re transporting, the seat type is extremely important. You want to make sure its functionality and weight-capacity are durable enough for the specific needs you have.
Generally speaking, baby bike trailers come as either a hammock-style or bench-style seat. Hammock-style seats are made by stretching a piece of fabric across the sides of the trailer. Basically, think of a standard hammock in the shape of a seat.
Hammock-style seats tend to be in cheaper chairs, since they’re easier to make, but aren’t as durable or safe as bench-style seats. Bench-style seats feature a padded bench that prevents sagging. They’re usually found on higher-end trailers, but it’s possible to find them on more affordable ones.
Protection and Venting Represents Safety
Like most parents, you’re probably wondering about the actual safety measurements regarding baby bike trailers. Luckily for you, virtually every trailer is safe. Although some are safer than others, most have a certain amount of protection and venting on their products.
For extra safety, most feature an external cover that protects the child from rain and other weather events. Plus, they’ll offer additional support to keep the child in the trailer.
The specific kind of protection varies from seat to seat. Still, you can expect to find some similarities between most of them. As noted, the more expensive the trailer is, the better the quality tends to be.
Wheels and Brakes Differ in Size and Functionality
Outside of the trailer itself, the wheels and brakes are essential aspects of the product. The product basically can’t function properly without having the right wheels and brakes in place. Plus, the two play a significant safety component in it.
Generally speaking, expect to find 16” or 20” tires on most bike trailers. 16” tires are smaller, lighter, and more affordable, but they tend to not be as durable. Plus, 16” tires tend to have plastic rims, which can crack very easily.
It’s always worth the upgrade to seek out 20” tires since they’re typically more durable. However, keep in mind, they tend to be more on the expensive side. 16” tires are also significantly slower and can only go up to mph, while 20” tires can go up to 15 mph.
Usually, brakes aren’t the biggest priority on bike trailers since your bike will act as the brake for it. However, if your trailer can transform into a stroller, it’ll come with a handbrake.
Material/Components Are Relatively the Same
Although baby bike trailers vary in a lot of ways, most of them feature some of the same material and components. Some are built a lot better than others, but they all generally share a lot of characteristics.
Expect to find a lot of the same material and components as baby strollers, but in varying degrees. Wheels, storage compartments, seats, and covers all tend to be the main components of baby bike trailers.
Storage Varies from Trailer to Trailer
No matter the kind of trailer you go with, they all feature some sort of storage to them. How much storage and what kind of storage unit varies on the trailer, but expect to find some form of storage on them.
Usually, the storage area is located right on the back of it. Depending on your trip, you can bring snacks and other essential items with you very quickly this way. It makes a world of difference, and having storage on anything is a good idea.
Larger items won’t fit in the trailer, so don’t waste your time trying to fit a cooler or anything like that. Of course, some trailers are more spacious than others but realize you’ll have to haul whatever you bring.
Most Come with a Warranty
Since baby bike trailers tend to be on the pricey side of things, virtually all companies offer some sort of warranty. Usually, these warranties cover any cost related to damage within a specific timeframe.
Outside of the warranty, be mindful of the company’s return policy. This is important in case you end up not liking the specific trailer you bought. It’s always a good idea to know if you can return something or not.
You never know when an issue might come up, and you need to return it. Whenever you decide on the right product for you, double-check on their warranty and return policy.
Baby Bike Trailer FAQ
As noted, we’re going to go over a variety of questions related to baby bike trailers. These questions are some of the most common questions related to the subject, let’s take a look!
Are Bike Trailers Safe for Babies?
Yes, they wouldn’t be made if they weren’t entirely safe for your child. However, there are age limits on each trailer, make sure you check what the age limit is on each one. Never ignore the age limit, since doing so can potentially run the risk of injuring your child.
What Age Can Babies Go in a Bike Trailer?
The rule of thumb for babies riding in a bike trailer is when they’re at an age when they don’t need aid supporting their head. Usually, this is around 12 to 18 months of age. Your best bet is to wait for a bit longer after this, just to be safe than sorry.
What’s Better Bike Seats or Trailers?
Although both have their own pros and cons, most note trailers as being better for a child. Bike seats aren’t as protective and can hinder the bike’s braking ability. Whereas trailers are lower to the ground and don’t impede the bike as much.
Should a Child Wear a Helmet in a Trailer?
Yes, a child should wear a helmet in a trailer. Think of it like this, if you get into an accident on your bike, the trailer will get in one too. This is why it’s crucial to have your child in a helmet in the trailer as well. Always take the proper precautions necessary to keep your child safe.
Are Bike Trailers Legal?
It’s difficult to pinpoint areas where bike trailers are illegal, but for the most part, they’re entirely legal. They wouldn’t be sold as commonly as they are, without being totally legal. However, keep in mind, your specific town or city where you live may have different laws than others.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on facts related to a baby bike trailer. We hope you enjoyed everything we discussed, and are now more knowledgeable on the subject. Before we conclude, let’s quickly go over everything we discussed.
First, we discussed the importance of learning all of the facts related to baby bike trailers before going about buying one. From there, we went over the various facts on the subject.
We started with what baby bike trailers are, their features, size, seat, and size options. Going over how they vary in these degrees, but can find a lot of similarities.
Afterward, we discussed protection, wheels, material, and storage options. Highlighting what to look out for and what’s important in each aspect. Right after, we went over warranties and how most products in this subject come with one.
Rather than finish the article there, we went over a few common questions in the field. We discussed baby bike trailers safety, age requirements, bike seats and trailers, helmet requirements, and why they’re legal.
Hopefully, you’re more literate on the subject of baby bike trailers and will be able to narrow down the right choice for you. Be sure to continue doing your research on this field, and good luck with your search endeavors!
