Cycling with a Child: From Bike Seats to Bike Trailers

There are three ways to ride a bike with a child, and which one works best depends mainly on the child's age and how long you'll be out and about.

The front seat

Suitable once a child can sit upright on their own and hold their head up well. The big advantage is the connection: your child sees what you see, and you can talk. The downside is the weight right above the handlebars, which makes steering harder, and the limited usage time.

The back seat

It lasts longer and has less impact on steering. Your child sits higher and has more space, but you can't see what's going on. For longer rides, good back support is more important than you might think, because children often fall asleep on the bike.

The bike trailer

For two children, long rides, and bad weather, a cart is more practical than a bike seat. Your child can lie down or sit sheltered, can sleep, and there’s room for luggage. A cart is heavier to pull and takes up more space in traffic, so your route will be different.

Weather Protection

Rain and wind are more bothersome when biking than when walking, because your child is sitting still. A poncho or windbreaker that fits over the seat makes a bigger difference than an extra jacket. The Bike-A-Way is designed specifically for that purpose.

What to Look for When Making Your Choice

Check the maximum weight capacity, whether the mounting system fits your bike, and whether you can easily detach the seat or trailer. That last point will determine whether you actually use it.

For the next step: from balance bike to bicycle.