Cheap Bike Trailers for Kids

Bicycles were rarely considered passenger vehicles throughout their transportation history. Unless the bike is a tandem, it takes the rider from A to Z as long as the rider is alone. Recently, however, since baby-boomers began having babies, the need to provide a safe and comfortable way to carry small children has led to the development of the bike trailer.

  1. Two Wheels

    • The bike trailer usually looks like a pod, a zippered compartment on two wheels. It attaches to the bicycle pulling it with a bar that fits and locks on to the bike's frame. The trailer is always very lightweight, and it usually provides reclining seats for one or possibly two babies or toddlers. Some reviewers recommend not using trailers for babies under one year old because of the jostling ride, and all children are required to wear helmets inside a bike trailer.

    Modifications

    • Almost all bike trailers provide shelter for the child inside. The pod or pouch on the trailer is likely to be made of a waterproof material with large, screened openings for light and air. Trailer pods are not usually insulated to provide warmth, so children must be dressed for outdoor activities even though they are surrounded with sheltering material. Additional modifications emphasize storage and may include bags or storage compartments behind the pod or attached to the frame.

    Trailer and Bike

    • Matching the trailer and bike is essential because some trailers will not attach or trail properly from some bicycles. The best way to test for compatibility is to try the trailer either in the seller's showroom or by borrowing a trailer from a friend. Do not put the child in the trailer for the test; use weights such as bags of sugar or potatoes.

    Savings

    • Prices for bike trailers range from as little as $85 to as much as $850. Several reputable manufacturers such as InSTEP, Schwinn and Burley produce a wide range of trailers, most of which are of dependable quality. As always, it may not be economical to buy inexpensively when the item will be used frequently over a period of time, perhaps for several children. Used bike trailers offer savings opportunities, but the buyer must examine the merchandise carefully before buying.