Are you considering a Schwinn Bike Trailer to bring your little ones along for the ride? Schwinn offers a range of bike trailers, and two popular models are the Schwinn Echo and the Schwinn Trailblazer. We put both of these trailers to the test with our own kids to see how they perform compared to other top-rated trailers on the market. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Schwinn trailers, from comfort and size to key features, helping you decide if a Schwinn is the right choice for your family.
If you’re looking for an ultra-budget option, Schwinn also offers the Shuttle Foldable Bike Trailer at a lower price point. You can read our detailed review of the Schwinn Shuttle here.
Schwinn Trailblazer vs. Echo Bike Trailers: Key Differences
This review will focus on comparing the Schwinn Trailblazer and Echo bike trailers. Before we dive into the specifics, here’s a quick comparison table highlighting the main differences between these two models:
| Feature | Schwinn Echo | Schwinn Trailblazer |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP (Single) | – | $209 |
| MSRP (Double) | $299 | $349 |
| Wheel Size | 20″ metal | 20″ metal |
| Stroller Option | No | Yes |
| Seat Style | Hammock | Bench |
For a broader perspective, check out our list of the 10 Best Bike Trailers for Kids where we break down the pros and cons of various bike trailer brands.
Video Review: Schwinn Trailblazer in Action
Want a visual overview? Watch our video below to see the Schwinn Trailblazer bike trailer in action and learn why it stands out as our preferred Schwinn model. If videos aren’t your thing, don’t worry! We cover all the details from the video in the written review below.
Schwinn Trailblazer Bike Trailer: Performance and Features
The Schwinn Trailblazer is available in both single and double versions. A key advantage of the double Trailblazer is its stroller wheel inclusion, while the single version does not offer stroller conversion.
Ride Quality: Is the Trailblazer Smooth?
Interestingly, during our testing, we observed that the Schwinn Trailblazer actually felt slightly less smooth than the Echo. The Trailblazer’s tow arm exhibited noticeable rattling during rides. This seemed to stem from excessive play in the tow arm joint, resulting in noise and movement.
This was unexpected because the frame and tow arm designs appear to be identical between the Echo and Trailblazer. It’s possible this rattling was specific to our test unit, but we experienced the same issue with a single Trailblazer model as well.
It’s important to note that both Schwinn trailers feature 20” aluminum wheels. These larger wheels are a significant upgrade, contributing to a smoother ride for your child and offering better durability compared to the smaller, plastic wheels often found on budget trailers like InStep models with 16″ plastic wheels.
Trailblazer as a Stroller: Convenience Factor
We highly value the stroller conversion feature in a bike trailer, and the Trailblazer delivers on this front. Converting the Trailblazer from bike trailer to stroller mode is incredibly simple thanks to the stroller wheel that easily attaches to the tow arm. You can make the switch without even taking your children out of the trailer!
The Trailblazer works well as an occasional stroller. However, during longer walks, we found that our feet tended to kick the back of the trailer, which became somewhat bothersome. For everyday stroller use, this might be a drawback, but as a bonus feature of a bike trailer, it’s definitely a worthwhile addition.
Schwinn Echo Bike Trailer: Performance on a Budget
The Schwinn Echo is Schwinn’s entry-level bike trailer. It shares similarities with even more basic trailers like InStep trailers (both brands are owned by Pacific Cycle, Inc.), but includes some key improvements that justify its slightly higher price point. The Echo is only available as a double trailer and does not offer a stroller conversion option.
Ride Experience: How Does the Echo Handle?
The Schwinn Echo’s ride quality was surprisingly good for its price, and it outperformed the InStep trailer we tested recently. Bumps were noticeable, but our 5-year-old tester didn’t express any discomfort. For the best experience, we recommend sticking to smooth surfaces and moderate speeds. While the recommended maximum speed is 10 mph, we comfortably reached 15 mph with the Schwinn without issues.
Interior Comfort and Features of Schwinn Double Bike Trailers
Harness, Buckles, and Seating
Schwinn uses basic buckles, but the harness straps do include some padding. However, buckling in larger kids can be challenging in the Schwinn Echo due to its hammock-style seat, which tends to sag under weight. We appreciate that the seat has light padding and sags less than InStep trailers.
Sagging Seats and Basic Harness System in the Schwinn Echo
In contrast to the Schwinn Echo’s hammock-style seats, the Schwinn Trailblazer features upgraded bench-style seats. Bench seats offer significantly more support and prevent sagging. This makes buckling children in easier and stops two riders from sliding into the center of the seat together.
Seat Comparison: InStep Hammock Seat vs. Schwinn Trailblazer Bench Seat
While bench seats are a definite improvement, the Trailblazer’s seat padding is minimal, making it somewhat firm. It’s still better than the seats in the InStep or Schwinn Echo, but higher-end (and pricier) trailers offer much more refined and comfortable seating designs. For example, the budget-friendly Allen S2 trailer/stroller actually boasts a surprisingly soft bench seat that we prefer over the Schwinn’s.
The trailer floor provides decent leg and foot space, better than the InStep, but it’s not reinforced.
Interior Space and Child Fit
The Schwinn Trailblazer offers 24″ of shoulder space and 23″ of seated height, providing more interior room than many budget and even mid-range bike trailers. The Echo offers comparable space.
As illustrated in the image below, the Trailblazer is shorter in height than the InStep Take 2, meaning children might outgrow it sooner in terms of height. This is partly due to the InStep’s sagging seats, which position children lower in the trailer.
So, the trade-off is: sagging seats with more headroom, or supportive seats with less vertical growth room? The choice is yours! 🙂
Furthermore, while the InStep is slightly wider, the hammock seat forces children to slide towards the middle. In the Schwinn Trailblazer, the bench seat actually provides more usable space by keeping kids separated.
Interior Space Comparison: InStep vs. Schwinn Trailblazer
Shoulder Strap Adjustability
Schwinn trailers have three fixed slots for adjusting shoulder strap height. While these positions will work for most children, we prefer the continuously adjustable shoulder straps found on many other trailers, including the Burley Bee and the budget-friendly Allen S2.
Shoulder Strap Adjustment: Burley Bee vs. Schwinn Trailblazer
Helmet Recess Design
Most bike trailers include a mesh recess behind the child’s head to accommodate helmets and prevent discomfort.
The Schwinn bike trailers’ mesh helmet recess starts quite high and is relatively short. In practice, it’s not very effective for most kids who fit in the trailer. In contrast, the Burley Bee’s helmet recess starts much lower and extends higher, offering better helmet accommodation.
However, when compared to the InStep Take 2, the Schwinn’s helmet recess is positioned a few inches lower. So, while not ideal, the Trailblazer’s helmet recess is at least an improvement over the ultra-budget InStep.
Helmet Recess Comparison: Burley Bee vs. Schwinn Trailblazer
Exterior Features: Schwinn Bike Trailers
Cover and Weather Protection
While Schwinn bike trailers are generally better than cheaper InStep models, both the Trailblazer and Echo share the same cover design as the InStep Take 2, including its difficult snaps and inexpensive nylon material. The snaps are significantly harder to use compared to higher-quality systems with Velcro or zippers.
In terms of quality and durability, we noticed a small tear starting near the top snaps on both the Echo and Trailblazer after just one ride, even with clear vinyl reinforcement on the underside.
Once the snaps are fastened on the front cover, the bottom is secured with a long Velcro strip. This cover system is somewhat cumbersome to use and makes accessing your children during outings a bit inconvenient. Kids can also kick against it and potentially open it while riding.
Both Schwinn bike trailers include a rain cover that goes over the mesh front cover. While the nylon fabric of the trailer itself isn’t waterproof, the rain cover offers some protection from light rain.
Wheels and Ride Smoothness
The 20″ wheels on Schwinn bike trailers are a major selling point compared to budget trailers with 16″ plastic wheels. In our opinion, the 20″ wheels with metal rims are a very worthwhile upgrade for enhanced durability and a smoother ride. Whether this upgrade justifies the price difference is a personal decision.
Wheel Size Comparison: InStep 16″ vs. Schwinn Bike Trailers 20″ Wheels
Storage Capacity and Security
There is ample storage space in the rear of the Schwinn trailers, but the rear cover is secured only by a basic Velcro strip. For small, lightweight items like jackets or helmets, it should be sufficient. However, we advise against storing anything large or valuable, as this storage system is less secure than those found on higher-end brands.
Hitch and Tow Arm System
The hitch and tow arm setup is identical for both Schwinn trailer models. The tow arm easily fits into the coupler attachment and is secured with a pin, which then attaches to the rear axle of your bike.
While the hitch joint is less refined than those on more expensive trailers, the 10 mph speed limit means you likely won’t notice this limitation in typical use.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Schwinn Bike Trailer
Ultimately, the best Schwinn bike trailer for you depends on your budget and specific needs. Overall, the Schwinn Trailblazer and Schwinn Echo share a similar entry-level design, budget-quality components, and an average riding experience.
If you plan to use your bike trailer occasionally on smooth paved paths and don’t need it to last for many years or multiple children, Schwinn bike trailers offer excellent value for the price. Just remember that their affordability comes with compromises in quality.
Why Choose the Schwinn Trailblazer over the Echo?
- Bench-style seat: More comfortable for kids, prevents sagging, and easier for loading/unloading.
- Stroller conversion kit: Adds versatility for families on the go.
If you anticipate regular trailer use, desire higher speeds, or plan to ride on varied terrain, we strongly recommend considering the Burley Bee. The Burley Bee offers superior design and higher-quality components built for long-term durability and performance.
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