Choosing the right Childs Bike Carrier is crucial for ensuring both safety and enjoyment when cycling with your little one. With so many options available, from front-mounted to rear-mounted seats, and various mounting styles, finding the perfect fit for your child and your bike can feel overwhelming. At usabikers.net, we’ve personally tested over 60 child bike seats with our own kids over the past 14 years to simplify this process for you. This guide is meticulously crafted to help you navigate the choices and select the ideal childs bike carrier for your family’s cycling adventures.
| Bike Seat | Why We Love It | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Baby Bike Seat: 1 – 3 years old. Smaller fit for smaller bodies. | ||
| Peg Perego Orion | Best budget front seat | $79 |
| Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Mini | Lightweight, front baby carrier | $219 |
| Burley Dash | Rear storage pocket | $169 |
| Hamax Caress | Fits on more bikes | $169 |
| Toddler Bike Seat: 1 – 4 years old. Fits smaller and bigger bodies equally well. | ||
| Bellelli Pepe | Best budget toddler seat | $109 |
| Topeak BabySeat II | Comes with a rack | $209 |
| Thule RideAlong | Best fit and most comfortable | $299 |
| Child Bike Seat: 2 – 4 years old. Harness height best for 2+. | ||
| Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Maxi | Most lightweight | $249 |
| Kids Bike Seat: 2 – 5 years old. No harness, higher weight capacities. | ||
| UrRider | Budget friendly kids carrier | $95 |
| Mac Ride | On and off in seconds | $229 |
Childs Bike Carrier Fit and FAQ Guide
Parents often have key questions when searching for a childs bike carrier. We’ve compiled the most common concerns to guide you through the selection process:
1: FRONT OR BACK CARRIER – Should I choose a front-mounted or rear-mounted childs bike carrier?
2: FRAME OR RACK MOUNT – What’s the difference between frame-mounted and rack-mounted child bike carrier options?
3: PRICE – How much should I invest in a quality and comfortable childs bike carrier?
If you’re unsure about the answers to these questions, we recommend exploring our “How to Choose” section before delving into our top childs bike carrier recommendations.
Child Bike Carrier Fit and FAQ Guide
Want to see our top childs bike carrier picks in action? Watch our 10 Best Child Bike Seats video below for a visual guide to our favorite models and their features.
Top Baby Bike Carriers: Safe and Secure Seats for Infants
These baby bike carriers are specifically designed to provide a snug and secure fit for babies and young toddlers, typically aged 1 to 3 years. They are engineered for smaller bodies, offering both front and rear mounting styles to suit your preferences. Front-mounted baby bike carriers enhance interaction between parent and child, creating a more engaging riding experience.
Best Budget Front Baby Bike Carrier
Peg Perego Orion
$79
AGE RANGE: 12 months – 33 lbs.
MOUNTING INFO: Unique front-mount design attaches to the bike frame, accommodating various frame styles.
FEATURES: Suspension system, 3-position adjustable footrests, standard nylon shoulder straps, versatile mounting bracket.
Why We Recommend the Peg Perego Orion
The Peg Perego Orion stands out as an exceptional budget-friendly option. While it may not boast the premium features of higher-end models, its thoughtful design and frame-mounting system make it a reliable choice. The frame mount is particularly advantageous for bikes with limited headset space. By attaching to the head tube, it ensures stability and consistent balance, which is beneficial for riders who are still gaining confidence with a child on board. However, it’s worth noting that its smaller size means it may offer less coverage as your child grows, and the detachable handlebar is best suited for children up to 22 lbs.
Lightweight Front Mounted Childs Bike Carrier
Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Mini
$219
AGE RANGE: 12 months – 33 lbs.
MOUNTING INFO: Designed for threaded headsets, requiring 0.83″ of stem space for mounting.
FEATURES: Ventilated design for toddler comfort, secure foot straps, adjustable sliding footrests, integrated handlebar, magnetic safety buckle.
What Makes the Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Mini Stand Out?
The Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Mini is celebrated for its lightweight construction and premium quality. As a top-tier childs bike carrier, it provides the ease of use and high standards expected from Thule. Its innovative magnetic buckle is childproof yet simple for parents to operate. The seat’s generous air vents are a thoughtful addition, keeping your baby cool and comfortable in warmer weather. The quick-release bracket system allows for swift attachment and removal, making spontaneous bike rides effortless. Parents also appreciate the integrated handlebar, which keeps little hands occupied and away from the adult’s handlebars.
Rear Mounted Childs Bike Carrier with Unique Storage
Burley Dash
$169 (frame or rack mount), $179 (MIK compatible), $199 (X reclining model), $219 (rack mount + rack)
AGE RANGE: 12 months – 40 lbs.
FRAME MOUNTING INFO: Requires 4.1″ of seat tube space, clear of cables.
RACK MOUNTING INFO: Available with or without a rack, MIK-specific version also available.
FEATURES: Convenient rear storage pocket, adjustable 5-point harness, optional recline feature, easy-to-clean padding, adjustable footrests.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Why We Love the Burley Dash
If you’re a fan of Burley bike trailers, the Burley Dash childs bike carrier will impress you. It’s durable, well-designed, and offered at a competitive price. The Dash seats are user-friendly and easy to mount. Burley distinguishes itself with two notable features: first, the rear storage pocket, a unique and practical addition for carrying essentials like keys and wallets without needing extra bags. Second, the highly adjustable 5-point harness system, which can be customized in length from the top, bottom, and sides, allowing for optimal buckle placement on your child’s chest. This adjustability is particularly useful for preventing toddlers from escaping the harness. For rack-mounted preferences, Burley offers a proprietary rack option and a MIK-compatible version for cargo e-bikes.
Childs Bike Carrier with Universal Bike Fit
Hamax Caress
$169 (frame and rack)
AGE RANGE: 12 months – 40 lbs.
FRAME MOUNTING INFO: Requires 3″ of seat tube space, compatible with bikes that have cables along the seat tube.
RACK MOUNTING INFO: Rack not included.
FEATURES: Adjustable recline, dual suspension (steel for frame, spring for rack), helmet recess, adjustable backrest height, non-slip straps, adjustable footrests, theft-protection lock.
View on Hamax View on Amazon Our Review
The Universal Appeal of the Hamax Caress
The Hamax Caress is exceptional for its remarkably universal mounting system. Unlike many frame-mounted seats, the Caress’s mounting block design overcomes the common issue of seat tube cables, significantly increasing bike compatibility. For bikes still incompatible with frame mounting, a rack-mounted version is available. The Hamax Caress is built for durability and ease of adjustment, featuring a recline of up to 20 degrees, suspension for a smoother ride, and soft, non-slip shoulder straps. The inclusion of suspension in the rack-mounted model is a rare and valuable feature, enhancing comfort for both rider and child.
Top Toddler Bike Carriers: Adaptable and Comfortable Seating
Toddler bike carriers are designed to be highly adaptable, accommodating children from 12 months up to 4 or 5 years old. These rear-mounted seats, available in rack and frame mount options, prioritize comfort and safety as your child grows.
Best Ventilated Budget Toddler Bike Carrier
Bellelli Pepe
$110 (frame), $95 (rack)
AGE RANGE: 12 months – 48.5 lbs.
FRAME MOUNTING INFO: Requires ~4″ of seat tube space, clear of cables.
RACK MOUNTING INFO: Rack not included.
FEATURES: Lightweight design, adjustable sliding footrests, two buckle depth settings, superior ventilation system.
Why the Bellelli Pepe is a Great Choice
The Bellelli Pepe is a high-quality, comfortable, and affordable toddler bike carrier. Its excellent ventilation, high sideboards for added security, and adjustable footrests ensure a comfortable and safe ride for your toddler. The two depth settings in the seat’s center are a thoughtful detail, allowing for a more secure fit for younger or smaller children by positioning the buckle closer to the crotch. While it uses standard nylon shoulder straps, the Pepe compensates with three shoulder height slots, offering more adjustability than some more expensive competitors.
Rack Mounted Childs Bike Carrier with Included Rack
Topeak BabySeat II
$209 (rack mount only, includes rack)
AGE RANGE: 12 months – 48.5 lbs.
RACK MOUNTING INFO: Comes with a dedicated rack for mounting, with options for standard or disc brakes. Frame mounting not available.
FEATURES: Wrap-around design for enhanced protection, suspension system, soft mesh padding, adjustable footrests, easy to mount and detach.
View on Amazon Our Review
The Convenience of the Topeak BabySeat II
The Topeak BabySeat II is the ideal solution if you need a rack-mounted childs bike carrier and want to eliminate compatibility concerns. It is unique as the only seat we know of that includes its own rack, removing the guesswork of finding a compatible rack. The BabySeat II’s proprietary mounting system allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment from the rack, making it exceptionally user-friendly.
Most Comfortable Toddler Bike Carrier
Thule RideAlong
$299
AGE RANGE: 1 year – 48.5 lbs.
MOUNTING INFO: Requires >6″ of seat tube space for bracket mounting, clear of cables.
FEATURES: 5 recline positions, suspension system, color-coded adjustment buttons, adjustable sliding footrests, soft and secure shoulder straps.
The Luxurious Comfort of the Thule RideAlong
The Thule RideAlong is the epitome of luxury in child bike carriers, offering premium quality, durability, and top-of-the-line components. Its harness system is unparalleled, featuring exceptionally comfortable and secure padded shoulder straps that stay in place. The straps’ sliding height adjustments ensure a perfect fit for children from 1 to 5 years old. The standout feature is the five-position recline, easily adjustable on the go for your toddler’s comfort, especially for naps. The DualBeam suspension enhances comfort by minimizing road bumps. Additionally, its unique low-saddle adapter expands bike compatibility, fitting even smaller frames.
Top Child Bike Carriers: Designed for Older Toddlers
These child bike carriers feature harness systems best suited for children aged 2 years and older, as they are not adjustable for smaller toddlers. Both offer rear frame and rear rack mounting options.
Most Lightweight Child Bike Carrier
Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Maxi
$249 (rack mount), $279 (frame mount)
AGE RANGE: 1 year – 40 lbs. (48.5 lbs. in Europe)
MOUNTING INFO: Requires >6″ seat tube space for bracket, or eyelets for rack mounting.
FEATURES: Ventilated seat back, secure foot straps, adjustable sliding footrests, 5-point harness, magnetic safety buckle.
Why the Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Maxi is a Top Pick
The Thule Yepp Nexxt 2 Maxi is celebrated for its lightweight design and low center of gravity, minimizing impact on the adult rider’s balance. Its ventilated back keeps children cool, and the soft foam padding adds to seating comfort. Parents will appreciate the childproof magnetic buckle and highly effective foot straps. As a Thule product, it guarantees top-notch quality and ease of use.
Comfortable and Secure Child Bike Carrier
Thule Yepp 2 Maxi
$229 (rack mount), $195 (frame mount)
AGE RANGE: 1 year to 40 lbs. (48.5 lbs. in Europe)
MOUNTING INFO: Requires >6″ seat tube space for bracket, or eyelets for rack mounting.
FEATURES: 5-point harness, adjustable sliding footrests, suspension on all models.
Considerations for the Thule Yepp 2 Maxi
The Thule Yepp 2 Maxi offers excellent quality and usability; however, its buckle is not entirely childproof. Testers aged 3 and older could unbuckle themselves. While we have discussed this with Thule, we currently recommend the Thule Yepp Nexxt or Thule RideAlong for enhanced security.
Best Kids Bike Carrier: Open-Style for Older Children
Open-style kids bike carriers are designed for older toddlers and preschoolers, offering higher weight capacities and eliminating the need for a harness. These are ideal for children who are confident holding onto handlebars. For more front-mounted, open-style options, see our 8 Best Front Child Bike Seats comparison.
Easy-to-Use Open Style Kids Bike Carrier
Mac Ride
$229
AGE RANGE: 24 months – 5 years (up to 60 lbs.)
MOUNTING INFO: Mounts to the headset and seat post; headset mounting spacer required.
FEATURES: Open design, low saddle for parent comfort, U-shaped saddle for security on rough terrain, no frame contact.
View on Amazon View on Mac Ride Our Review
Why We Recommend the Mac Ride
The Mac Ride is a unique mid-mount childs bike carrier that positions children centrally for an engaging ride. Originally designed for mountain biking, it fits a wide range of bike frames, from mountain bikes to cruisers (with a quill stem adapter). It’s perfect for trail-riding families but also great for urban use. Its quick-mounting system allows for effortless installation, removal, and bike switching in seconds.
Budget-Friendly Open Style Kids Bike Carrier
UrRider
$229
AGE RANGE: 24 months – 5 years (up to 60 lbs.)
MOUNTING INFO: Mounts to the headset and seat post; headset mounting spacer required.
FEATURES: Open design, low saddle, U-shaped saddle, no frame contact.
The Value of the UrRider
The UrRider offers a comfortable ride for children with its soft saddle, handlebar grips, and footrests. Parents will appreciate the rubber-lined legs that protect the bike frame from scratches, all at a budget-friendly price point.
How to Choose the Best Childs Bike Carrier for Your Bike
With extensive experience testing over 60 childs bike carriers, we understand the key factors in finding the right seat for your child and bike. Success lies in understanding the available options and how they align with your specific needs. Let’s break down the essential steps.
STEP 1: Front or Rear Childs Bike Carrier?
The choice between a front or rear childs bike carrier depends largely on personal preference, your child’s age and weight, and your comfort level.
Rear vs Front Harness vs Front No Harness
REAR MOUNTED CARRIER – Positioned in the Back
- AGE AND WEIGHT CAPACITY: Rear carriers are suitable for children aged 12 months up to 40 lbs (or 48 lbs in Europe). Larger than front-mounted seats, they offer extended use, typically lasting 3-4 years compared to the shorter lifespan of front seats (1.5-2 years). However, they may not be ideal for toddlers under 18 months.
- MOUNTING: Rear seats can be frame-mounted or rack-mounted.
- FEATURES: Often include comfort features like recline, suspension, and adjustable shoulder straps for enhanced fit and security.
- BIGGEST BENEFIT: Longevity, accommodating your child for several years.
- BIGGEST DRAWBACK: Rear weight distribution can affect balance, especially as your child grows, potentially challenging for less experienced riders.
FRONT MOUNTED CARRIER – With a Harness
- WEIGHT CAPACITY: Traditional front-mounted carriers are designed for children aged 12 months to around 2.5 years, with a weight limit of 33 lbs.
- MOUNTING: Typically mount near the handlebars, to a threadless headset or the bike’s head tube, offering a close and interactive experience.
- BIGGEST BENEFIT: Ideal for close interaction with your child, providing better visibility and easier bike handling. Children often feel more secure and enjoy the forward view.
- BIGGEST DRAWBACK: Shorter lifespan as children quickly outgrow them.
FRONT MOUNTED CARRIER – No Harness, No Seat Back
- AGE AND WEIGHT CAPACITY: Suitable for children aged 2 to 6 years, capable of holding onto handlebars, with weight limits up to 60 lbs.
- MOUNTING: Mid-mount design, positioned between the adult saddle and handlebars.
- BIGGEST BENEFIT: Longest comfortable lifespan, minimal impact on bike balance due to centered weight distribution, even with heavier children.
- BIGGEST DRAWBACK: Lack of harness may concern parents of younger toddlers.
STEP 2: Bike Compatibility – Frame or Rack Mounted Childs Bike Carrier?
Bike compatibility is a critical factor when choosing a childs bike carrier. It is often the cause of negative reviews. After deciding between front or rear, assess your bike to determine frame or rack mounting suitability.
REAR FRAME MOUNTED CHILDS BIKE CARRIER
Frame-mounted rear seats are more economical as they don’t require a separate rack. However, frame compatibility varies.
Two Key Questions:
(1) Is your bike’s seat tube compatible?
(2) Is your saddle positioned too low on the frame?
1) Is your bike’s seat tube compatible?
Frame-mounted seats attach to the seat tube, requiring a round tube with 4″-6″ of clear space, free from water bottle mounts, wire mounts, and ideally all wires.
Interfering Cables for Rear Frame-mounted Seats
2) Is your saddle positioned too low?
Even with sufficient seat tube space, a very low saddle position may interfere with frame-mounted seat installation.
REAR RACK MOUNTED CHILDS BIKE CARRIER
Rack-mounted rear seats attach to a rack over the rear tire. Racks are usually sold separately. If your bike is rack-compatible, most rack-mounted seats will fit. Ensure the rack’s weight capacity is at least 60 lbs.
Two Key Questions:
(1) Does your bike have rack mounting eyelets?
(2) Does your bike have disc brakes?
1) Does your bike have rack mounting eyelets?
Eyelets are essential for rack mounting. Bikes without eyelets cannot accommodate a rack.
Rack-compatible bikes have two sets of eyelets on the rear frame. The upper eyelets are easily visible and indicate the presence of lower eyelets.
2) Does your bike have disc brakes?
Disc brakes, characterized by a rotor near the wheel hub, require disc brake-specific racks.
FRONT FRAME CHILDS BIKE CARRIER
Traditional front-mounted baby bike carriers vary in attachment methods. Common methods include threaded stem or head tube attachment.
Two Key Questions:
(1) Is your bike frame size suitable for a front-mounted seat?
(2) What type of headset does your bike have: Threaded/Quill or Threadless/Ahead?
These questions can be answered easily without professional help using a tape measure and visual inspection.
1) Is your bike frame size suitable?
Front-mounted seats need about 10″ of space between the stem and saddle. Bikes with a top tube under 20″ may cause knee-seat contact.
Cruisers and hybrid bikes with upright riding positions can accommodate seats with an 18″ top tube. Forward-leaning road bikes are unsuitable due to chest-seat interference.
Photo Source: Dutch Trading Company (Brighton UK)
2) What type of headset does your bike have?
Adult bikes typically have threaded/quill or threadless/ahead headsets. Headset-mounted front seats are generally compatible only with threaded headsets.
Threaded/Quill Headsets
Quill stems use a clamp-around mounting bracket, requiring 0.5″-1.5″ of stem space. Handlebar height adjustment can create needed space.
Threadless/Ahead Headsets
Threadless headsets offer fewer direct front seat options. The Peg Perego Orion offers head tube mounting, and the Hamax Observer has a threadless adapter.
FRONT MOUNT SEAT – NO HARNESS
Mid-mount, harness-free front childs bike carriers are easier to fit than rear and traditional front-mounted seats. They typically mount by clamping to the top and bottom tubes or the seat post, accommodating a wider range of bikes.
Two main types exist: recreational and mountain bike-specific. Recreational seats are for casual rides, while mountain bike seats are designed for trails but also work recreationally.
Mounting methods vary by brand; refer to individual reviews on our website for fitting details on Do Little, Tyke Toter, Mac Ride and Kids Ride Shotgun.
Baby Bike Carrier Age and Safety
While many baby and child bike seats are safety-rated for infants as young as 9 months, it’s generally recommended and often legally required to wait until a child is 12 months old.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and organizations like the CPSC advise waiting until 12 months and until the child can sit unsupported. Refer to the CPSC’s guidelines for further safety information.
ASTM Certification and EN Certification
Rear childs bike carrier weight limits vary by region. US standards (ASTM F1625) rate seats to 40 lbs, while European standards (EN 14344) allow up to 48.5 lbs.
Many US-sold seats are certified to both standards, leading to potential confusion as the same seat might be rated differently. For instance, the Topeak BabySeat II is ASTM certified to 40 lbs and EN 14344 certified to 48.5 lbs.
Be aware that a 48.5 lbs weight capacity advertised in the US likely refers to the European rating. Currently, there is no US safety rating for rear childs bike carriers exceeding 40 lbs. For carrying children over 40 lbs, consider open-style front seats like MacRide or Kids Ride Shotgun Pro, which have higher weight limits.
Always ensure your rear childs bike carrier has ASTM or EN certification for safety assurance. While not legally mandated in the US, certification indicates a commitment to safety standards. Front-mounted seats currently lack ASTM certification.
Related Kids Bike Carrier Articles
Child Bike Seats: How to Choose: Comprehensive guide to selecting the right fit for your child and bike.
Child Bike Seats: Comparison Chart: Explore, sort, and review a wider selection of bike seats.
If you are also looking for a bike for yourself, check out our 10 Best Women’s Bikes for our top recommendations.
