How to Hook Up a Bicycle Trailer for Children

The key to properly attaching a kids trailer to a bicycle is to first attach the coupler mechanism to the rear wheel. Once this piece is attached, you can easily attach and detach the trailer with no tools. If your bike has a quick-release rear wheel, you will need no tools for this job. If your rear wheel has a standard nut and washer assembly, you will need a wrench to complete this task.

Things You'll Need

  • Crescent wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Loosen the rear wheel nut on the left side of the bike with a wrench or loosen the quick-release knob. Remove the nut and washer from the bike to expose the axle.

    • 2

      Slide the washer that accompanies the coupler mechanism over the left rear axle. Place the coupler over the axle and the washer. The coupler should fit snugly over the washer and the large hole on the mechanism should be below the axle.

    • 3

      Slip the original axle washer and nut back on the axle and tighten until the wheel is secure. If you have a quick release rear wheel, tighten it as if you were tightening the nut.

    • 4

      Roll the trailer into position and place the end of the tow bar into the large hole on the coupler mechanism. Secure it in place with the large cotter pin that comes with the trailer. Grasp the safety strap and loop it through the bike frame and back to the tow bar. Clip it to the ring on the tow bar.