For families who love cycling, bringing kids along for the ride is a joy. However, keeping pace with little ones, especially on longer journeys or challenging terrains, can be tricky. This is where bike attachments for kids come into play, and among them, the Tag Along Bike stands out as a fantastic option.
Often called trailer bikes or trailer cycles, tag along bikes are ingenious bike attachments designed to connect to an adult’s bicycle, allowing children to ride along safely and enjoyably. Unlike traditional bike trailers where kids are passive passengers, tag along bikes enable children to be active participants, pedaling and feeling the wind in their hair. They’re an excellent stepping stone for kids who have outgrown bike trailers but aren’t quite ready for long solo rides.
Bike tow bars and tow ropes offer alternative ways to bring kids along, utilizing the child’s own bike. By attaching their bike to yours, you can assist them in covering greater distances or tackling tougher routes. Deciding between a dedicated tag along bike and a towing system hinges on your child’s cycling abilities and your family’s riding aspirations.
8 Top-Rated Bike Attachments for Kids
| Bike Attachment | Why We Love It | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Tag Along Bikes (Ages 4 to 9) | ||
| WeeRide Co-Pilot | Excellent value and quality | $289 |
| Burley Kazoo, Piccolo | Stable, easy to attach, and durable | $379+ |
| Tow Bars (Ages 3 to 7) | ||
| Trail Gator | Ideal for shorter, spontaneous rides | $109 |
| FollowMe Tandem | Stable and robust for longer, more frequent use | $330 |
| Tow Rope (Ages 3 to adult) | ||
| TowWhee | Versatile and highly recommended for various ages | $49 |
| Recumbent Trailer Cycle (Ages 2 to 10) | ||
| Weehoo Turbo | Best for older kids and varied terrains | $499 |
Finding the Perfect Bike Attachment for Your Family
The ideal bike attachment often evolves as your children grow and your family’s cycling habits change. For instance, a recumbent trailer cycle might be perfect for a toddler, while a tow bar could be more suitable when they transition to their own bike. For older children tackling challenging trails, tow ropes can be invaluable.
Exploring Different Kids Bike Attachment Styles
Click on an option below to learn more about each style, see our top recommendations, and discover the pros and cons:
OPTION 1: TAG ALONG BIKES · Top Picks · FAQ
OPTION 2: BIKE TOW BARS · Top Picks · FAQ
OPTION 3: BIKE TOW ROPES · Top Picks · FAQ
OPTION 4: RECUMBENT TRAILER CYCLE · Top Picks · FAQ
Want to see these bike attachments in action? Watch our video review showcasing our favorite tag along and towing options, featuring our kid testers and highlighting what we love about each one.
TAG ALONG BIKES: Pedal-Powered Family Adventures
Tag along bikes, also known as trailer cycles, offer a unique blend of independence and assistance for young riders. They bridge the gap between being a passenger and riding solo, allowing kids to pedal and engage with the ride while still being safely connected to an adult cyclist. These are perfect for family bike rides on paved paths, bike trails, or even gentle off-road terrains.
Top Tag Along Bike Picks
KaZAM WeeRide Co-Pilot: Best Value Tag Along Bike
$289
BEST FOR: Families with 4 to 9-year-olds looking for a quality tag along bike for neighborhood rides and paved trails on a budget.
WEIGHT: 24 lb.
Pros:
- Wide Age Range: Adjustable seat and handlebars accommodate children as they grow.
- Convenient Design: Easy to mount, unmount, and folds for storage, making it a practical choice for families with limited space.
- Comfortable Ride: Features a soft, comfortable saddle for enjoyable rides.
- Added Safety: Includes a splash guard and safety flag for enhanced visibility and protection.
- Affordable Price: Offers great features at a budget-friendly price point.
- Color Options: Available in multiple colors to suit your style.
Cons:
- Seat Post Hitch Wobble: The seat post hitch can feel less stable compared to rack-mounted hitches, especially during turns.
- Adult Saddle Rotation: The adult saddle might rotate slightly after turns due to the attachment mechanism.
View on Amazon Read Our In-Depth Review
What We Love About the WeeRide Co-Pilot:
The WeeRide Co-Pilot Tag Along Bike provides exceptional value without compromising on quality. It’s a fantastic option for families who want to enjoy leisurely rides around the neighborhood, school commutes, or longer paved trail adventures. It strikes a great balance between affordability and functionality.
This tag along bike boasts adjustable seat height and handlebars, ensuring a comfortable fit for growing children. The inclusion of a splash guard and safety flag adds practical safety features. While the seat post attachment might exhibit slightly more wobble than rack-mounted alternatives and it has a heavier steel frame compared to aluminum options, the Co-Pilot remains a solid and enjoyable choice for many families.
Burley Kazoo/Piccolo: Premium Tag Along Bikes for Stability and Performance
$379+
BEST FOR: Ages 4 – 8. The Kazoo (single-speed) is ideal for younger riders, while the Piccolo (geared) suits older children ready for more challenging rides and learning to shift gears.
WEIGHT: 18 lb. (Kazoo)
Pros:
- Superior Maneuverability: The hitch system allows smooth pivoting in all directions, enhancing maneuverability and making turns easier.
- Best-in-Class Stability: Rack-mounted attachment (compared to seat post mounts) provides exceptional stability, minimizing leaning and wobbling.
- Easy to Use: Simple assembly, mounting, and unmounting process for convenience.
- Quick-Release Attachment: Stand-out design for fast and effortless connection to the adult bike.
- Geared and Non-Geared Options: Available in both single-speed (Kazoo) and geared (Piccolo) versions to suit different rider ages and terrains.
Cons:
- Rack Incompatibility with Child Bike Seats: The proprietary rack cannot be used simultaneously with a rear-mounted child bike seat.
View on Burley Read Our Comprehensive Review
What We Love About the Burley Tag Alongs:
Burley is renowned for producing high-quality cycling products, and their tag along bikes are no exception. The Burley Piccolo and Kazoo, while pricier, are a worthwhile investment for families who prioritize frequent use and superior performance. Burley’s unique rack mounting system sets these tag along bikes apart, providing significantly more stability than seat post-mounted alternatives.
The rack mount design virtually eliminates leaning or rocking, resulting in a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for both the adult and child rider. This enhanced stability, coupled with the smooth pivot system, makes navigating tight corners and various terrains a breeze. An added advantage is the Piccolo/Kazoo’s ability to pivot fully to the side for compact storage alongside the adult bike on a bike rack.
Keep in mind that Burley’s specialized rack is not compatible with rear-mounted child bike seats, so this combination is not possible.
FAQ: All About Tag Along Bikes
What Exactly is a Tag Along Bike?
A tag along bike is a smart bike attachment that transforms a standard adult bicycle into a tandem bike suitable for a child. These “half bikes” feature handlebars, pedals, a rear wheel, and a frame designed to connect securely to the back of the adult bike. They are known by various names including trailer cycles, trailer bikes, or trail-a-bikes, but all serve the same purpose: to bring kids along for the ride in an engaging and safe way.
What Kind of Terrain is Best Suited for Tag Along Bikes?
Tag along bikes are versatile and designed to handle a variety of terrains. They empower kids to actively participate in the cycling experience, while also giving them the option to rely on the adult to do the pedaling when needed. While primarily designed for paved surfaces, such as roads and bike paths, quality tag along bikes can also confidently manage packed dirt trails and gravel paths. They are ideal for family outings on bike trails, scenic park rides, and even short commutes to school or errands.
What is the Ideal Age Range for a Tag Along Bike?
For a child to safely and comfortably ride a tag along bike, they need to be able to reach the pedals effectively. Based on our testing and experience, the optimal age range for tag along bikes is typically from 4 to 8 years old.
Unlike riding a solo bike, it’s acceptable if a child cannot touch the ground while seated on a tag along bike. The adult cyclist provides the necessary balance during mounting, starting, stopping, and dismounting. However, younger children might require a little assistance getting on and off the tag along bike.
Like regular bikes, tag along bikes offer adjustable seat height. Some models also feature adjustable handlebars to accommodate children as they grow.
Prioritize safety and enjoyment by ensuring your child possesses the maturity to sit steadily on the bike seat without sudden movements or abrupt attempts to dismount. As children get older and heavier, pulling them becomes more challenging, and their weight can contribute to the “wobble effect,” which we discuss below.
Do Tag Along Bikes Need Gears?
While geared tag along bikes exist, they are less common. The Burley Piccolo is a notable example. Since tag along bikes are often used with younger children, gears can sometimes be too complex for them to manage effectively. For most families and typical riding scenarios, gears are not essential.
However, gears can be beneficial if you plan to ride on hilly terrain or tackle more challenging routes, especially if your child is ready for the added complexity. A geared tag along bike can also be a valuable tool for teaching children how to shift gears properly in a controlled and supportive environment.
What Else Should I Know About Tag Along Bikes?
One common characteristic of tag along bikes is the “wobble effect.” While some models minimize this more than others, the tandem nature of the setup can result in a slight wobble, which is felt by the adult rider. While not a deal-breaker, it’s a factor to consider when choosing the best bike attachment for your family. Rack-mounted tag along bikes like the Burley Kazoo and Piccolo generally exhibit less wobble compared to seat post-mounted models.
BIKE TOW BARS: Transforming Your Child’s Bike into a Tag Along
Bike tow bars offer a different approach to cycling with kids. They cleverly attach a child’s standard bicycle to an adult bike, effectively converting it into a tag along bike. This system allows children to ride their own bike independently for portions of the ride and be towed when needed, offering flexibility and convenience.
Top Bike Tow Bar Recommendations
Trail-Gator: The Portable and Versatile Tow Bar
$115
BEST FOR: Children’s bikes with 12″-20″ wheels (without hand brakes) and riders weighing up to 70 pounds. Ideal for spontaneous, shorter rides.
WEIGHT: Lightweight and compact for easy storage.
Pros:
- Compact and Portable: Small and easy to store, making it ideal for “just-in-case” scenarios.
- Quick Transitions: Child’s bike can be easily attached and detached at any point during a ride, offering flexibility.
- Child Feels Independent: Allows children to feel like they are riding alongside their parent, fostering a sense of accomplishment.
Cons:
- Installation Time: Initial installation is straightforward but can be time-consuming.
- Hand Brake Incompatibility: Not recommended for kids’ bikes equipped with hand brakes.
- Wobble Factor: Can be wobblier compared to traditional trailer cycles, especially at higher speeds or on uneven surfaces.
- Coaster Brake Drag: Children might inadvertently engage their coaster brakes, creating drag and making pedaling harder.
View on Amazon Explore Our Detailed Review
What We Love About the Trail Gator:
The Trail Gator presents a unique and practical alternative to traditional tag along bikes. It consists of a durable metal arm that securely connects an adult bike to a standard child’s bike with wheel sizes ranging from 12″ to 20″.
This tow bar opens up exciting possibilities for family rides. It’s perfect for towing younger children who might be too small for traditional tag along bikes. It also allows for rides where children can ride independently for parts of the journey and be towed through challenging or less safe sections, offering a blend of independence and assistance.
The Trail-Gator’s portability is a major advantage. When detached, it becomes remarkably small and easy to store, making it a lifesaver when kids get tired towards the end of a ride. It’s also a great space-saving solution for families who want both a child’s bike and a trailer cycle experience without the storage burden of both. However, be aware that this setup can feel less stable and more wobbly than dedicated tag along bikes.
FollowMe Tandem: Premium Stability and Durability for Frequent Towing
$320
BEST FOR: 12″ to 20″ bikes, suitable for both short and long paved rides where stability and frequent use are prioritized.
WEIGHT: Robust and durable construction.
Pros:
- High-Quality Design: Premium materials and construction ensure longevity and reliable performance.
- Secure Connection: Incredibly secure attachment points on both bikes provide peace of mind and stability.
- Smooth and Stable Ride: Delivers a significantly smoother and more stable towing experience compared to other tow bars.
- Versatile Compatibility: Can tow a wide range of kids’ bike sizes, from 12″ to 20″ wheels.
- On-Bike Storage: Stores neatly on the adult bike when not in use, always ready for “just in case” moments.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: More expensive than other tow bar options, reflecting its premium quality.
- Mid-Ride Connection Steps: Connecting the bikes mid-ride involves several steps, although still manageable with practice.
View on Trucavelo Read Our Comprehensive Review
What We Love About the Trucavelo FollowMe Tandem:
The FollowMe Tandem shares the Trail Gator’s concept of towing a child on their own bike and offering mid-ride connection/disconnection. However, the FollowMe Tandem elevates the experience with its superior design and build quality, resulting in a dramatically more stable and smoother ride.
If you anticipate frequent bike towing, especially on paved trails, the FollowMe Tandem is a worthwhile investment. Its robust construction and secure connection points inspire confidence, and the significantly reduced wobble enhances both comfort and control.
FAQ: Exploring Bike Tow Bars
What Exactly is a Bike Tow Bar?
Bike tow bars are ingenious devices that allow you to connect your child’s bicycle securely to your adult bike using either a rigid bar or a sturdy coupler. These kits effectively transform the child’s bike into a tag along configuration, keeping it upright and maintaining a safe distance from the adult bike.
Unlike traditional tag along bikes, tow bars preserve the option for kids to ride their own bikes independently during family outings. When fatigue sets in or challenging sections arise, you can quickly and easily hook them up and tow them along! Alternatively, you can choose to tow your child for the entire duration of a ride.
Tow bars are designed to be stored discreetly on the adult bike when not in use, ensuring they are readily available whenever needed during a ride.
What Terrain Types are Best for Tow Bar Riding?
The suitability of terrain for bike tow bars largely depends on the quality and design of the tow bar itself. The Trail Gator is primarily intended for paved roads and smooth surfaces. In contrast, the higher-end FollowMe Tandem is robust enough to handle well-maintained dirt trails and gravel paths, although it’s not recommended for aggressive mountain biking.
What is the Most Appropriate Age Range for a Bike Tow Bar?
Bike tow bars are particularly well-suited for younger riders using 12” to 16” bikes, especially those who are just beginning to pedal independently. They can also be used effectively with 20” bikes. However, they are not designed for use with 24″ bikes or adult-sized bicycles.
What Else is Important to Know About Bike Tow Bars?
Similar to tag along bikes, some bike tow bars can exhibit wobble, although the premium FollowMe Tandem is known for its exceptional stability and smooth ride.
If you plan to tow multiple children who ride different bikes, a traditional tag along bike might be a more convenient option. Tow bars often require specific mounting hardware for each child’s bike you intend to tow. In the case of the FollowMe Tandem, the adult bike attachment might also need minor adjustments when switching between different kids’ bikes to ensure optimal alignment and secure connection.
BIKE TOW ROPES: Compact and Versatile Towing Assistance
Bike tow ropes are the most minimalist and portable option for assisting young riders. These simple yet effective devices connect an adult bike to a child’s bike using a rope or bungee cord, primarily designed for providing a boost uphill or over challenging sections.
Top Bike Tow Rope Pick
TowWhee: The Go-To Tow Rope for All Ages and Abilities
$49 – We highly recommend the Kids Connect version, which includes a lanyard attached to the end for added safety and ease of use.
BEST FOR: Versatile for 12″ to 20″ bikes and adaptable to all ages and skill levels. Ideal for both paved and unpaved rides.
WEIGHT: Extremely lightweight and compact.
Pros:
- Ultra-Portable: Small and compact enough to easily carry along on any ride for on-demand use.
- Universal Compatibility: Can be used with riders of all ages and skill levels, from toddlers to adults.
- Consistent Tension: Maintains even tension while towing, providing a smooth and predictable towing experience.
- Instant Installation: Installs in seconds, making it incredibly convenient to use.
Cons:
- Braking Awareness: When fully extended, sudden braking by the child rider can be startling for the adult. Clear communication and instructions are essential.
View on Amazon Read Our Detailed TowWhee Review
What We Love About the TowWhee:
The TowWhee stands out as the simplest, most affordable, and most portable towing solution on this list. It’s incredibly easy to bring along on any ride, making it perfect for “just-in-case” scenarios when little legs get tired. Extending from 56″ to 180″ when tensioned, the TowWhee provides a comfortable towing distance, allowing children to feel close yet still maintain some independent riding space.
The TowWhee is particularly well-suited for mountain biking families who enjoy tackling challenging terrain and climbs. It allows parents to provide that extra boost of energy when young riders need assistance, enabling them to conquer tougher trails together without discouragement. It helps kids build mountain biking skills and stamina progressively.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Tow ropes are designed for uphill assistance only and should not be used on downhill or flat sections due to safety considerations.
FAQ: Understanding Bike Tow Ropes
What Exactly is a Tow Rope?
Bike tow ropes are designed to connect an adult’s bike to the headset of a child’s bike using a thin line or bungee cord. Their primary purpose is to assist less confident or tired riders in conquering steeper inclines, rather than for long-distance towing or flat terrain riding.
What Terrain is Most Suitable for Riding with a Tow Rope?
Tow ropes were initially developed with mountain biking in mind. However, their versatility extends to paved rides with long climbs as well. They are specifically intended for use on inclines and should not be used on flat or downhill sections for safety reasons.
What is the Best Age Range for Using a Tow Rope?
Unlike trailer bikes and tow bars, tow ropes require the child rider to maintain complete control of their bike while being towed. This includes the ability to maneuver around obstacles and brake effectively to avoid colliding with the adult rider. Therefore, tow rope usage is more dependent on a child’s riding ability and maturity level than their age. While technically usable with children of any age (and even adults!) on pedal bikes, it’s crucial to assess their bike handling skills first.
What Else Should I Keep in Mind About Tow Ropes?
Tow ropes have a lower maximum towing speed compared to other bike attachments, typically topping out around 8 miles per hour. They are not intended for towing over entire rides but rather for short bursts of assistance on challenging uphill sections.
Tow ropes are not ideal for flat sections of trails because the towed bike can easily run into the lead bike if the lead bike slows down or stops abruptly. This requires careful communication and anticipation between the adult and child riders.
RECUMBENT TRAILER CYCLES: Comfort and Stability for Younger Riders
Recumbent trailer cycles, like the Weehoo, offer a unique and comfortable riding experience for children. They position the child in a reclined seat, lower to the ground, with optional pedals, providing a secure and stable ride, especially for younger kids.
Top Recumbent Trailer Cycle Choice
Weehoo Turbo: The Ultimate Recumbent Trailer Cycle for Adventure
$499
SUGGESTED AGE: 3 to 9 years old.
BEST FOR: Families seeking versatility for various terrains, including single-track trails and narrow paths. Excellent for active families on the go.
WEIGHT: 27 lb.
Pros:
- Safe and Relaxed Ride: Recumbent seat with a harness offers a secure, comfortable, and carefree experience for children.
- Easy Mounting: Quick and simple attachment using only a seat post.
- Adjustable Fit: Height-adjustable harness and chest strap ensure a snug and secure fit for growing children.
- Narrow Profile: Prevents getting stuck on narrow trails, branches, or rocks compared to wider bike trailers.
- Smooth Tracking: Single-wheel design tracks smoothly over uneven surfaces, enhancing comfort and stability.
Cons:
- Upright Loading: Requires keeping the bike upright while loading and unloading the child for safety.
- Dust Exposure: Low-lying seat can expose kids’ faces to dust and road spray (sunglasses and included fender are recommended).
- No Suspension: Can be a bumpier ride on very rough all-terrain trails due to the lack of suspension.
- Dropper Post Incompatibility: Not compatible with adult bikes equipped with dropper seat posts.
View on Weehoo Read Our Detailed Weehoo Turbo Review
What We Love About the Weehoo Turbo:
Standard bike trailers can sometimes sway and lack adequate safety features like harnesses. The Weehoo Turbo addresses these concerns with its innovative recumbent design.
Built lower to the ground, the Weehoo Turbo provides exceptional stability compared to conventional trailer cycles. The wide, recumbent seat and height-adjustable harness keep children securely in place, enhancing safety and comfort.
The recumbent seat allows kids to relax and enjoy the ride, with the option to pedal or simply sit back passively. While enjoyable on paved paths, the Weehoo truly excels on unpaved and single-track trails.
Its narrow profile allows it to navigate narrow trails without getting snagged, and the single-wheel design tracks uneven terrain more smoothly than two-wheeled trailers, resulting in a more comfortable and less bumpy ride.
FAQ: Exploring Recumbent Trailer Cycles
What is a Recumbent Trailer Cycle?
Recumbent trailer cycles, particularly the Weehoo brand, are a unique type of tag along bike. They position the child in a recumbent posture, slightly reclined, with their body positioned much lower to the ground and pedals positioned in front of them rather than underneath. They also incorporate a harness system similar to standard bike trailers for added security.
What Terrain is Best for Recumbent Trailer Cycles?
The lower center of gravity and nimble design of Weehoo trailer cycles make them exceptionally well-suited for families who want to explore single-track trails with young children. Their single rear wheel handles rough terrain far better than traditional two-wheeled bike trailers. However, they are also excellent for use on paved trails and bike paths.
What is the Ideal Age Range for a Recumbent Trailer Cycle?
With their high-back seat and secure 3-point shoulder harness, Weehoo trailer cycles provide excellent support and security for young children, even if they happen to fall asleep during the ride. We have successfully used the Weehoo Turbo with children as young as 2 years old!
With a weight capacity of 80 lbs, certain Weehoo models are also a great option for older children with special needs who benefit from the added security of a high-back seat and harness system.
What Else Should I Know About Recumbent Trailer Cycles?
Riding with a Weehoo is remarkably smooth and stable, with minimal impact on the adult cyclist’s balance. Among all bike attachments for kids, the Weehoo stands out as the top choice for mountain biking adventures with toddlers and young children.
Can You Use a Tag Along Bike with a Rear Rack on Your Adult Bike?
Compatibility with rear racks varies among kids bike attachments. Many attachments encounter clearance issues when used with bikes that already have a rear rack. The FollowMe Tandem is a notable exception, as it can be used not only with a rear rack but even with a child bike seat mounted on that rack! If your adult bike has a rear cargo rack or you plan to install one, it’s essential to verify compatibility with your chosen bike attachment.
Can You Transport More Than One Child at a Time?
For families needing to transport both a tag along rider and a younger child, a front-mounted child bike seat is often the best solution. Front seats do not interfere with tag along bike attachments. Tag along bikes are generally incompatible with rear-mounted child seats because the child seat obstructs the connecting arm of the tag along.
In some cases, it might be possible to attach a bicycle trailer to the back of a trailer cycle. However, this “road train” configuration becomes quite long and less maneuverable, requiring cautious riding and limiting use to bike trails and less congested areas. Always consult your trailer cycle’s manual first, as some manufacturers explicitly advise against using their trailer cycles with bike trailers.
The FollowMe Tandem stands out again as unique, allowing for simultaneous use with a rear child bike seat while towing a child on their own pedal bike. This is because it mounts to the rear axle of the adult bike, bypassing seat post or rear rack mounting limitations.
For transporting two older children on trailer cycles, consider a two-seater recumbent trailer cycle like the Weehoo Two, designed to accommodate two riders.
Which Bike Attachment for Kids is Right for You?
Choosing the best bike attachment depends on your family’s needs, your children’s ages and abilities, and your cycling preferences. Tag along bikes, tow bars, tow ropes, and recumbent trailer cycles each offer unique advantages. Consider your typical ride lengths, terrain types, storage space, and budget when making your decision.
If you have younger children and are exploring other options like bike trailers, child bike seats, and cargo bikes, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to the Best Bike Carriers for Kids and Babies. This resource provides valuable insights and recommendations to help you choose the perfect solution for cycling with your family.
