The Best Bike Trailers (Review) in 2021
| Best Choice |
|
InStep Double Seat Bike Trailer | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
|
Allen Sports Child Bike Trailer | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
|
WeeRide Co Pilot Bike Trailer | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
- 1. InStep Double Seat Bike Trailer
- 2. Aosom Elite Child Bike Trailer
- 3. Burley Design Bike Trailer for Kids
- 4. WeeRide Co Pilot Bike Trailer
- 5. Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Bike Trailer
- 6. Clevr 2 Seat Bicycle Trailer
- 7. Schwinn Trailblazer Single Bike Trailer
- 8. Burley Design Bike Trailer
- 9. Weehoo Turbo Bike Trailer
- 10. Allen Sports Child Bike Trailer
It’s never too early to start motivating your kids (or grandkids!) to be physically active. And what better way to do that than to make them a part of your own sports activities? With a quality bike trailer and daily cycling, you will not only become healthier and encourage your little ones to be physically active, but also comfortably travel from point A to point B with your kids in tow. Of course, bike trailers are not reserved for parents and grandparents only! They can be invaluable for grocery shopping, commuting camping gear and other cargo.
To help you find the right bicycle trailer for your needs and budget, we looked at a couple of dozen different products and then tested more than half of them. The result is our list of 10 best bike trailers currently on the market, plus a comprehensive buying guide that can help you make the right purchasing decision.
The Best Bike Trailer
The InStep bike trailers are some of the most popular bicycle trailers among parents for a good reason. They’re made of quality materials, have sturdy constructions and are reasonably priced. This double seat model, also known as Take 2 trailer, is perfect for two toddlers as each seat has a five-point safety harness system and plenty of room. For all-season comfort, the trailer has a mesh bug screen and weather shield options along with a rear vent window. It’s also lightweight and can fit in the back of cars and storage closets easily.
The 16-inch tires are air-filled and have molded rims for good performance and safety. Importantly, the InStep bike trailer fits most bike styles and its maximum weight limit is 40 pounds.
- Dual seat bike trailer
- 5-point harness system
- Mesh bug screen and weather screen
- Easy to fold, carry and store
- Safety flag and reflectors
- 16” air-filled tires
- Brand InStep
- Model 12-QE127
- Weight 13 pounds
If you’re looking for a highly versatile bike trailer, look no further than Aosom’s Elite 3-in-1 trailer that is a jogger, stroller and trailer in one. Lightweight but sturdy steel frame with three 20 inch wheels makes for a fantastic trailer that goes smoothly even over uneven terrain. Why three wheels, you ask? Well, if you’re up for a relaxed stroll with your kids, you use the trailer with all three wheels, and if you’re in the mood for jogging or biking, you lock the front swivel wheel – voila, great versatility for you and exceptional comfort for the kids. The bike stroller and jogger can hold two children and has a five-point safety harness, plus all-weather, 2-in-1 (mesh or plastic) canopy that shields from the sun and rain.
The model supports up to 88 pounds and has enough room for one to two children, plus cargo in the storage compartment.
- Dual seat bike trailer
- A trailer, jogger and stroller in one
- 5-point harness safety system
- 2-in-1, mesh or plastic canopy
- Safety flag and reflectors
- 3 20” inflated wheels
- Brand Aosom
- Model 5664-0101BW
- Weight 45 pounds
Durable, sturdy and sensibly priced, the Burley Bee 2-Seat Bike Trailer offers the perfect combination of safety, performance and comfort. Although certainly not the cheapest on our list, this bike trailer offers great value for money: with two hammock-style seats, extra rear cargo space, UV-protected windows and foldable design, the trailer is comfortable, easy to use and store. To top it off, it’s bright yellow with reflective piping and reflectors on the wheels, so it provides maximum safety even when you’re cycling in pitch black dark (of course, it’s best not to test this for obvious reasons!).
The Burley Bee has 20-inch quick-release wheels and supports up to 100 pounds, or 45 kgs. Importantly, it’s also ASTM-certified.
- Two-seat bike trailer
- 5-point harness safety system
- Foldable design, easy to store and carry
- Reflective piping and reflectors on wheels
- UPF 30 windows for sun protection
- 20” quick-release wheels
- Brand Burley Design
- Model 946203
- Weight 19.95 pounds
If your kid is at the age when they can start learning how to ride a bike, the WeeRide Co-Pilot Bike Trailer is a fantastic choice. Unlike most bike trailers on our list, this one allows both you and your little one to pedal safely and comfortably. The child bike trailer installs quickly and easily to a wide range of bicycles and acts just like a standard bike for kids. It holds up to 75 pounds and it includes adjustable handlebars, pedals, chain guard, and, of course, a comfortable seat. Since it’s made of heavy-duty steel, it’s also super-sturdy and durable, guaranteed to last for years.
The WeeRide Co-Pilot trailer folds easily for compact storage so it’s easy to take it with you when traveling. Like all quality bikes, it comes with a safety flag to alert other motorists on the road.
- Made of heavy-duty steel
- Attaches easily to almost any seat post
- Foldable design
- Fully adjustable handlebars
- Safety flag
- Recommended for ages 4-9
- Brand WeeRide
- Model 36459
- Weight 28.5 pounds
The Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Trailer is an affordable lightweight and stable bike trailer that makes cycling with a kid in tow a piece of cake. It comes with two padded and comfy seats with safety harnesses, plus a Velcro bug and rain shield that can be removed at any time. Its design is collapsible, meaning you can quickly and easily fold it for compact storage thanks to quick-release wheels. And while all this is great and convenient, the biggest selling point of Allen Sports bike trailer is its weight – although it’s made of steel, the trailer is so lightweight, you’ll barely notice you’re pulling your kid(s) with you.
For extra convenience, the model comes with a rear storage compartment, as well as a helmet pocket. Its two inflated wheels measure 16 inches, and the universal coupler attaches to most bikes.
- Double seat bike trailer
- 5-point harness system
- Removable canopy with Velcro bug and rain shield
- Foldable and lightweight design
- Safety flag
- Brand Allen Sports
- Model AST2
- Weight 25.7 pounds
Whether you’re looking for a quality bike trailer, a stroller or a jogger, Clevr 3-in-1 Bicycle Trailer is a great choice. With an aluminum frame and convenient three in one design, the model is safe, comfortable and easy to convert from a regular bike trailer to a stroller or a jogger. Because of its design, it has three wheels, with the front one being pivoting, meaning you have to remove it to use the unit a bike trailer. The Clevr has an enclosure with a mesh window and rain cover, as well as reflectors on all four sides for safety. Perfect for family fun no matter the weather!
This model fits two kids and supports up to 88 pounds, rear cargo included. As a welcome bonus, the handlebar is fully adjustable so even the tallest of parents shouldn’t have a problem using it.
- Dual seat bike trailer
- A trailer, stroller and jogger in one
- 5-point harness safety system
- Mesh window and rain cover
- Fully adjustable handlebar
- Safety flag and reflectors
- Foldable design
- Three 20” wheels
- Brand Clevr
- Weight 37 pounds
Sturdy, comfortable, budget-friendly and easy to store, the Schwinn bike trailer offers the best of all worlds – if you need a single seat bike trailer. This model has a unique collapsible frame that is quick and simple to set up and fold up for easy assembly and compact storage. With a canopy that has a bug screen and weather shield, the model provides enough protection from the elements, making it a solid all-season trailer. Because it has one seat, it supports up to 40 pounds, however, the rear storage compartment can hold up to 12 extra pounds – perfect for extra essentials such as food, water and toys.
The Schwinn Trailblazer has 16-inch air filled wheels with molded rims, so it provides pretty smooth and comfy rides even when going over uneven terrains.
- Single seat bike trailer
- Canopy with a bug screen and weather shield
- 5-point harness
- Foldable design
- Safety flag
- 16” air-filled wheels
- Brand Schwinn
- Model 13-SC311I
- Weight 21 pounds
Whether you need an eco-friendly way to commute your groceries from the supermarket to home, or a convenient way to take your camping gear with you on a bike, the Burley’s Travoy Bike Trailer is the way to go. This lightweight and compact trailer is incredibly easy to use as it comes with a storage bag, tie-down straps and hitch assembly. It folds up and down in a few seconds and although it weighs less than 10 pounds, the model can carry up to 60 pounds of cargo – ideal for urban commuters and people on the go. If you need to use the trailer separately from the bike, you can do that too as it converts into a rolling cart quickly and easily.
The Burley Travoy trailer provides a safe solution for bike trips that involve multiple stops. It’s seriously so convenient that once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever commuted without it!
- Bike trailer for cargo transportation
- Lightweight yet carries up to 60 pounds
- Folds up into a compact tote
- Converts into a rolling cart
- Ideal for urban commuting, grocery shopping, camping, etc.
- Brand Burley Design
- Model 951301
- Weight 8.82 pounds
Share your outdoor, active adventures with your kid with Weehoo’s Turbo Bike Trailer – a simple, affordable and comfy child bike trailer that allows them to pedal along with you. This model features a patented hitch that ensures easy installation as well as quick removal of the trailer when you’re up for a solo trip. The single-seat has a 5-point harness for safety and can hold up to 80 pounds. And if you need a little extra for essentials? No problem, the cargo storage has a capacity of 14l. Although it can carry quite a bit, the trailer itself is lightweight – only 26 pounds. This makes for easy and comfortable cycling in two.
The Weehoo Turbo Bike Trailer is suitable for kids ages 2-9.
- Single seat bike trailer with pedals
- 3-point harness
- Storage space of 14L capacity
- Safety flag
- Brand Weehoo
- Model K1000
- Weight 1 pound
Last but definitely not least on our Top List, is another baby bike trailer from Allen Sports. The Premier model offers a fantastic 2-in-1 service for active parents as it doubles as a standard child bike trailer and a wheel jogger. The item has two seats with 5-point harness systems for safety, and can hold up to 100 pounds. The rear wheels are 20 inches, while the front and removable one measures 16 inches. The model also has a bug and rain shields for all-season performance, which can be opened and closed as necessary. For extra convenience, there is a large interior compartment for essentials.
The trailer’s frame is made of aluminum, so it’s sturdy and stable no matter the road. It’s also collapsible for easy storage and transport.
- Double seat bike trailer
- Jogger and bike trailer in one
- 5-point harness system
- Extra large storage compartment
- Quick fold design
- Safety flag
- 20” rear wheels, 16” front wheel
- Brand Allen Sports
- Model XLT-X2
- Weight 2.2 pounds
Best Bike Trailers Buying Guide & FAQ
It’s easy to exercise regularly when you’re on your own, but once the kids come, it can be very hard to find that extra time. And although you may get some physical activity chasing your kid around the house and playground, you still need time for real exercise. Enter bike trailers – the perfect way to maintain an active lifestyle without sacrificing family time. Of course, bike trailers are not reserved for parents only – a nice carrier trailer can invaluable for urban commuters too.
But with so many models to choose from, how do you find one that’s right for your needs and budget? Besides outlining some of the best bike trailers on the market, we’ve also put together a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the best possible purchasing decision. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into what to look for (and what to avoid!) when purchasing a bike trailer.
What to Consider When Buying a Bike Trailer
When purchasing a bike trailer, it’s important to consider a few crucial details before making the final decision.
- Trailer Type
Let’s start from the beginning – what kind of a bike trailer do you need? If you plan to bike with your little ones in tow, you need a child bike trailer. If besides cycling you also want to be able to jog with your kids, you want a jogger trailer. And if you’re more of a stroll kind of person, you need a bike trailer stroller. What if you want two or all three of these things? In that case, there’s no need to purchase two or three different products. Today, there’s plenty of 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 bike trailers that allow you to quickly and easily go from biking to jogging to strolling.
If you need a bike trailer for commuting groceries and other essentials (but not kids), there are great options to choose from. Burley’s Travoy bike trailer and similar models are ideal for this – lightweight, compact, easy to use and capable of carrying heavy loads, these types of bike trailers can make your everyday life easier, plus your health better.
- Single or Double
Another crucial criterion to choose a bike trailer based on is the number of children you plan to cycle with. If you have one child and are not planning to have a second one, the choice is clear – single trailers are for you. If you plan on having another kid or already have two children, double seat bike trailers are what you should be looking at.
Keep in mind that single seat trailers are easier to maneuver and store. On the other hand, double seat trailers offer more flexibility (you can bring a friend with your kid or more essentials and cargo when going on longer cycling trips).
- Safety
Besides the type and number of seats, pay attention to the safety of bike trailers. Not only should you look for trailers with proper harnesses – 5-point for toddlers, 3-point for older kids – but models with safety flags and/or reflectors. Furthermore, you want only safety-certified bike trailers. As for specific features to look for, it’s a good idea to get brightly colored trailers as they’re more visible in the dark. That said, this is not a must-have as most trailers come with safety flags and reflective gear that help make them visible no matter their color.
Speaking of safety, it’s also important to protect your child from harsh sunlight, rain and insects. Look for bike trailers with weather and bug screens that you can open and close as needed. If you live in a hot and sunny climate, it’s a good idea to get trailers with UV-protected windows.
- Price
Let’s face it – price matters, both because it limits you in your choices, and because it affects the quality and safety of the product. Indeed, you (typically) get what you pay for. That being said, more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better quality. There are many budget-friendly quality bike trailers available nowadays, so finding the right product that fits your budget shouldn’t be hard.
Child Bike Trailers vs Child Bike Seats
Biking with your little one in tow is one of the best ways to introduce them to a lifelong love of physical activity. But riding with your kid in the trailer is just one option – there’s also a child bike seat available if that’s what you prefer. Not sure what you prefer? Our Child Bike Trailers vs. Child Bike Seats comparison can help you decide which option is better for you and your family.
Child Bike Trailers
If riding with a little sidecar attached to the rear of your bike sounds like a great idea, bike trailers are for you. These models are comfortable, safe, easy to use and are perfect for riding with one to two children.
- Pros: very safe, decreases the risk of falling; comfortable both for the rider and child; allows for carrying extra essentials and cargo with you; can take more than one child; many can convert to jogging strollers.
- Cons: child out of sight; can be difficult to maneuver and store (depends on the size of the trailer and model), more expensive than regular bike seats.
Child Bike Seats
If you prefer the more traditional parent-child bike riding, consider purchasing a bike seat for your kid, either the front mounted or rear mounted one.
- Pros (front-mounted): the child has a great view; the rider has more control as they can see the child in front of them at all times.
- Cons (front-mounted): not as safe as bike trailers as they raise the center of gravity of a bike; the risk of the child interfering with steering; lack of leg room for the rider.
- Pros (rear-mounted): more comfortable for the rider than front-mounted seats.
- Cons (rear-mounted): can affect a bike’s balance; child out of sight.
Types of Bike Trailers
There are dozens of bike trailers available on the market, but when it comes to their purpose, there are three main types. Knowing the differences between each can help you decide which one is best suited to your needs.
- Multi-sport Bike Trailer
These are the 3-in-1 bike trailers that allow you to not only bike with your kid in tow, but jog and stroll with them too. The multi-sport bike trailers tend to be super-comfortable and spacey, although they can be a little difficult to store and/or transform from one type to another. However, most models (especially the pricier ones) are easy and quick to convert, so are ideal for super-active parents who regularly and frequently use their bike trailers.
- Trailer + Jogger or Trailer + Stroller
This type of bike trailer comes with either a jogging wheel attachment or a stroller wheel. The 2-in-1 models are a great choice for parents who besides biking with their kids like to either jog or stroll from time to time. While they’re pretty comfy, they tend to be at least somewhat less comfortable than their multi-sport counterparts. That being said, exactly how comfortable and easy to use the trailer will be, depends first and foremost on its construction and – yes, you guessed it – its price.
- Standard Child Bike Trailer
Typically affordable and very simple to use, standard bike trailers are great for parents looking for a safe and easy way to bike with their little ones in tow. They don’t come with a stroller or jogger attachments, so they only have one purpose – being used as a little sidecar for your child. The lower-end models provide basic needs, while the higher-end ones offer more comfort features and larger wheel size.
There are also pedal-along child bike trailers available which allow your child to exercise with you safely and comfortably. Another option is the “commuter” bike trailer which allows you to commute essentials, groceries and other cargo from point A to point B with ease and comfort. Finally, there are pet bike trailers available as well, which are great options for dog and cat owners.
How to Attach a Bike Trailer
Most bike trailers are really simple to attach to a bike. Although the exact installation steps will slightly vary from model to model, this is typically what you should do if the unit has a nut and bolt axle:
- Remove the nut and washer from the bike using a wrench. Put these safely aside as you’ll need them again soon.
- Put the tab washer onto axle of the bike so that fits perfectly into the frame.
- Place the coupler onto the axle by fitting it to the holes in the tab washer (the large hole goes on the bottom).
- Now put the washer and nut back on to the bike’s axle and tighten it with a wrench.
- Finally, fasten the trailer’s tow bar to the coupler plate.
Best Bike Trailers FAQ:
Q: Are trailers safe?
Bike trailers are perfectly safe for toddlers and older children. They’re stable and secure, practically impossible to flip over no matter the road. And even if in some unfortunate event your bike tips over along with the trailer, your child will be protected thanks to the enclosure and safety belts. Because all trailers come with either a 3-point or 5-point harness safety system, they help keep the child securely seated during the ride, however, this doesn’t mean you should forego a child bike helmet.
Q: How should I transport my trailer?
If your trailer has a collapsible design, you can fold and carry it with you however you desire. This is particularly convenient if you travel by car to specific locations to bike, as you can easily fit the trailer in the trunk of the car or the back seat. Of course, you don’t have to de-attach the trailer from the bike each time your kid is done using it if the bike is momstly used for child-parent driving and you drive it around the neighborhood. Just keep it attached at all times and save yourself some time and effort from constant installing and de-installing the bike trailer.
Q: Can I use my bike trailer to carry my pet?
Of course! There are bike trailers specifically designed for pets, but many child bike trailers can also be used for small pets too. Just make sure your pet can fit inside the trailer comfortably and that they have a decent view. Trailers for pets are especially useful for disabled and senior dogs and cats who can no longer spend a lot of time in the outdoors on their own.
Our Top Pick
While we liked all 10 bike trailers on our Top List, we loved the InStep’s Take 2, Foldable Tow Behind Bike Trailer. There are several reasons why this is our Top Pick, but the most important ones include its excellent quality and construction, great safety and comfort, and reasonable price. With two comfy seats, each with 5-point harness systems, as well as a two-in-one canopy with weather and bug screen, the trailer provides both comfortable and safe rides. And thanks to its collapsible design, the unit is also easy to assemble and fold for compact storage and easy transportation. All in all, considering the quality of build materials, a sturdy and durable design, and a decent price tag, this is one of the best bike trailers on the market.
Sources:
- How to Replace Bicycle Trailer Bearings – WikiHow
