Every new parent wants to carry her baby wherever she goes; whether running errands, visiting the grocery store or when taking a brisk walk; the excitement of carrying a kid around is inexpressible. A while ago, parents were only accustomed to carrying their toddlers in strollers but, with the development of kids’ bike trailers, parents can bring their children wherever they go.
A child bike trailer is simply a trailer hitched to an adult bicycle at the rear axle or the frame where kids sit in as parents pedal away. As such, kids can enjoy the outdoors long before training the wheels. Only children aged one year and above are allowed to sit in bike trailers (their support system-neck and backbone are more developed). Some child bike trailers are designed to carry one child while others can carry two kids (double child bike trailer). The latter model is wider and requires more strength to haul and maneuver.
In our discussion, we will look at factors to consider when buying a child bike trailer and the Best Double Child Bike Trailer Reviews to guide parents looking to buy a child bike trailer.
Contents
The bicycle and trailer features largely depend on an individual’s riding style, space, and convenience. But, whether you are an ardent bike rider or a casual cyclist, here are important features to consider:
Harness
A harness securely restrains a child. Double child bike trailers should have two harnesses while single ones come fitted with one harness. Other designs like the rear-mounted bicycle seat come equipped with a cross bar which is an additional safety feature that gives kids something to hold as parents pedal.
Hitches
It allows you to connect the trailer to the bike. There are four basic mount types; the seat post, the bike rack, the axle and the frame; the axle is the most popular form. A good hitch should have a backup (in the form of a strap) to prevent the trailer from breaking free as you pedal. Today hitching mechanisms have been upgraded to remain upright if the bicycle falls while other mechanisms (fitted with springs) allow the bike to twist away leaving the trailer upright in the event of an accident. Be sure to buy hitching systems with a universal fit.
Seating arrangement
A good child bike trailer should have a padded seat to allow a more comfortable ride. Double child bike trailers come equipped with ample space for the kids’ legs and adequate back support. Apart from the comfy padded seats, pricier double child bike trailer models have reclining seats.
Folding
Look for quick folding mechanisms and quick release wheels in case you need to store the trailer in smaller spaces; the car, garage, closet, etc. Avoid models that advertise folded models but require removal of wheels; verify this feature before buying.
Convertibility
If you are a jogger, you should consider buying a child bike trailer that easily converts to a stroller. Today, great deals of models offer conversion kits that transform the bike trailer into a stroller for jogging, skiing, or hiking.
Protection
Most trailers come equipped with plastic or fabric shields to protect kids from the sun, rain, wind and debris. Other trailers come with tinted windows to shield toddlers from the sun’s glare while keeping the trailer’s interior cool.
The Schwinn Trailblazer Double Bicycle Trailer is perfect for outdoor activity for parents who have twins. This incredible two in one trailer comes in a bold blue design with a swiveling front wheel and handlebar making it easy for parents who love jogging.
It is made of aluminum frame thus durable, lightweight and safe. The 20-inch pneumatic tires fitted with aluminum rims allow optimal performance.
The folding frame design and quick release wheels make it compact for storage while the canopy fitted with a bug screen and a weather shield provides extra protection. Additionally, the Schwinn Trailblazer Double Bicycle Trailer has a deluxe harness to restrain kids and padded seats for extra comfort.
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The InStep Take 2 Bicycle Trailer is an affordable, high-quality double child bike trailer that accommodates kids weighing eighty pounds. It’s easy to detach and assemble, with a unique folding design that folds smaller than other double trailers.
The InStep Take 2 Bicycle Trailer is also made of aluminum frame which is durable, lightweight and safe. The unique feature about this double child bike trailer is its 16-inch pneumatic tires that can hold out rough terrains.
It also has a 2 in 1 canopy fitted with a mesh screen to ward off bugs and acts as a weather shield. The five-point harness and padded shoulders provide extra comfort while the quick-release wheels allow easy and compact storage. Its universal bicycle coupler is compatible with most bicycles.
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Enjoy quality family time with the InSTEP Sierra Double Bicycle Trailer. Equipped with child pockets for snacks and drinks, this double bicycle trailer offers the best transportation option for two children (50lbs each) whether you are bike riding or out for a brisk walk.
It comes fitted with 16-inch pneumatic tires that have molded rims for peak performance. The unique folding design and quick release wheels allow compact storage in trunks and other storage areas. It has a 2-in-1 yellow and gray canopy that keeps bugs off and protects kids from wind or other harmful weather elements.
The InSTEP Sierra Double Bicycle Trailer also has a front wheel and handle bar kit for easier jogging as the locking brakes provide additional safety when in stroller mode. Its versatile bicycle coupler is compatible with other bicycles.
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The Aosom Elite II 3in1 Double Bike Trailer for kids is just the ideal child bike trailer for parents who love jogging, strolling and touring rough terrains. With its 20″ smooth rolling pneumatic tires; it presents a sturdier trailer than previous models.
Unlike child bike trailers discussed earlier Aosom Elite II 3in1 Double Bike Trailer is made from a lightweight steel frame. It has a full suspension system installed to provide a comfortable ride even in rough terrains.
Parents can swivel the front wheel when strolling, lock it in when jogging or remove it when riding the trailer thus the 3 in 1 aspect included on the model’s name. Additionally, the child bike trailer comes equipped with locking brakes on the rear so parents can lock the trailer when parked. The model has adequate space for kids weighing 88 pounds.
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The InStep Quick N EZ Double Bicycle Trailer is the best double child bike trailer for kids and recreational cyclists. It presents another two in one canopy (restricts bugs and acts as an excellent weather shield) that accommodates kids weighing 80 pounds.
With its 16″ pneumatic tires (molded with rims), the InStep Quick N EZ Double Bicycle Trailer provides excellent performance and style. The folding frame feature and quick release wheels allow compact storage while the stroller kit (includes a front wheel, handle bar and parking brake) provides convenience for jogging parents.
This InStep model also has five-point harness for extra safety and padded shoulders.
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Click here for our buying guides on other types of bike trailers.