How to Link Child and Adult Bicycles

Connecting a child's bicycle to an adult's bicycle is easy with the right equipment. Using a bicycle connecting kit, you can take your child along on your bike rides and help them develop a joy for cycling.

Other options for bicycling with your child include a tandem bike with an adjusted second seat and pedals (called a stoker), a half-size tagalong bike or a bike trailer for younger children.

Things You'll Need

  • A Connect Cycles or Trail-Gator brand tow bar
  • 2 adjustable wrenches
  • Flat-head screw driver
  • Torque wrench with a 13 mm socket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the seat post of the adult bike.

    • 2

      Measure the seat post diameter to see if a shim is needed. The tow bar kit includes a large and small shim if needed.

    • 3

      Insert the post through the tow bar and re-install the seat post on the adult bike. If using shims, face them to the rear of the bike. When re-installing the seat post, ensure the post is securely tightened in place to avoid injury to riders.

    • 4

      Position the tow bar close to the frame and align it to the rear of the adult bike. Tighten the bolts.

    • 5

      Identify the length that you need the tow bar to be. Slide the outer tube over the inner tube and secure the tube in place at the desired length with the pin included in the kit.

    • 6

      Install the receiver hardware on the child's bike. If the bike is 14 inches to 16 inches, use the upper mount. If the bike is 18 inches to 20 inches, use the lower or center mount. When installing the hardware on the child's bike, space the U-bolts as far apart as possible. Do not face U bolts with the curved part facing each other. The curved ears of the receiver face down. The U bolts must be tightened to 15-foot pounds to prevent injury.

    • 7

      Attach the tow bar and child's bike by lifting the tow bar and receiving end up and sliding the tow bar over the receiver, engaging them at the curved ears. Lower both the tow bar and child's bike until they are fully engaged. The child's bike is properly engaged when the front wheel of the bike is 3 inches to 5 inches off the ground. This clearance is necessary to prevent injury to both the adult and child riders.

    • 8

      Insert the quick release, and install the adjusting nut and lock.