Bike Wagons, also known as child bike trailers, are fantastic for active families who love to cycle and want to bring their little ones along safely. For over a decade, we at usabikers.net have been rigorously testing and evaluating these essential pieces of family cycling gear. We’ve put over 40 different models through their paces – from industry leaders like Thule and Burley to budget-friendly options from Schwinn, InStep, and Allen. We’ve biked, jogged, strolled, and even skied countless miles, all to bring you the most informed guide to choosing the perfect bike wagon for your family.
But what truly sets apart a basic $100 bike wagon from a top-of-the-line $600 model? The answer lies in versatility and features. Some bike wagons are perfect for leisurely rides on smooth paths in fair weather. Others are built to tackle rough terrain, perform reliably in all seasons, and even convert into strollers or joggers. And what about accommodating infants? These added capabilities and comfort features come at a higher price, but they significantly enhance the usability and longevity of your bike wagon.
Best Bike Wagons for Kids – Our Top Picks
| Bike Wagon Category | Model | Why We Love It | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level: Bike Wagons (Trailer Only) | |||
| Burley Bee* | Unbeatable quality for the price point | $349+ | |
| Retrospec Rover Plus | Folds easily, stylish design | $189+ | |
| Allen Sports Deluxe | Best budget-friendly design | $140 | |
| Entry Level: Bike Wagon & Stroller Combos | |||
| Burley Honey Bee* | Impressive quality and user-friendliness | $479 | |
| Allen Sports Premier | Top value for a budget stroller combo | $209 | |
| Mid-Range: Multi-Sport Bike Wagons | |||
| Burley Encore X* | Exceptional cargo capacity | $649 | |
| Hamax Outback* | Most spacious interior | $649+ | |
| High-End: Multi-Sport Bike Wagons | |||
| Thule Chariot Cross* | Overall best performance and features | $1,299+ | |
| Thule Chariot Lite* | Best value for high-end features | $599+ | |
| Burley D’Lite X* | Ideal for all-terrain adventures | $899+ | |
| *ebike compatible bike wagon, Green Prices = Sales Price, not MSRP |
Prefer video? Watch our Kids Bike Wagon Buying Guide for a visual comparison of features like wheel size, stroller conversion kits, and seat types.
If you’re new to bike wagons and need guidance, our comprehensive buying guide below will be incredibly helpful. Click here to jump to our Bicycle Trailer Buying Guide and learn everything you need to know.
And if you’re also in the market for a bike to pull your new wagon, be sure to check out our 10 Best Bikes for Women – all personally tested by our team!
Top Bike Wagon Picks by Budget
Entry Level Bike Wagons – Trailer Only
For families who enjoy casual bike rides and need a reliable, easy-pulling bike wagon without breaking the bank, entry-level trailers are the perfect choice. These wagons offer great value, focusing on the essentials to make family biking accessible and enjoyable.
While there are numerous budget-friendly bike wagons available online, particularly on platforms like Amazon, we prioritize quality and safety. Many cheaper options lack durability and ease of use. For budget-conscious buyers, sticking with reputable brands like Burley or Allen is highly recommended.
Best Basic Bike Wagon
Burley Bee
$349 (single), $379 (double)
BEST FOR: Budget-conscious families wanting a dependable bike wagon for regular use.
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: UV-protected windows, robust build quality for smooth pulling, folds easily for transport.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Why We Recommend the Burley Bee
The Burley Bee stands out significantly above truly budget-level bike wagons. While it’s a bit more expensive (around $150-$200 more) than the absolute cheapest options, its superior durability, ease of use, and enhanced safety features make it a clear winner.
For families who plan to bike even semi-regularly, the Bee’s higher-quality design and features will noticeably improve the experience for both parents and children. Its robust construction and durable polyester fabric ensure the Bee will last through years of use and multiple kids.
The Bee is available in both single and double versions. If you need to transport your bike wagon in your car, the Burley Bee folds down quickly and easily.
Easy-Fold Bike Wagon
Retrospec Rover Plus
$189 (single), $219 (double)
BEST FOR: Families prioritizing comfort, ease of use, and simple folding in a bike wagon.
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 16″
eBIKE Compatible: Not recommended
STANDOUT FEATURES: Generous rear storage, stylish aesthetics, helmet pocket, adjustable strap height.
View on Amazon View on Retrospec
What Makes the Rover Plus Stand Out
If a bike wagon that’s both easy to fold and comfortable for your little passengers is your priority, the Retrospec Rover Plus is an excellent choice. It boasts a padded seat, adjustable shoulder straps, and a straightforward five-point harness, all wrapped in a modern, attractive design.
With its 16″ tires, it’s best suited for casual neighborhood rides at speeds up to 10 mph. If you’re looking to ride a bit faster, the Allen Premier trailer (yellow version only!) with its 20″ tires increases the maximum speed to 15mph – the standard maximum for all bike wagons.
Like many in this category, the Rover Plus has a weight limit of 40 lbs per seat. However, its cabin height is 6 inches shorter than the Burley Bee. Taller children might outgrow the cabin height before reaching the weight limit.
Best Budget Bike Wagon
Allen Sports Deluxe Steel Child Bike Wagon
$139
BEST FOR: Budget-conscious families needing a basic bike wagon for local use. (Less ideal for transporting in a car to trails.)
CONVERSION KITS: None
WHEEL SIZE: 16″
eBIKE Compatible: No
STANDOUT FEATURES: Impressive quality features for such an affordable price.
Why We Love the Allen Sports Deluxe Steel
The Allen Sports Deluxe Steel is truly the best bike wagon you can find for under $200. It pulls significantly smoother and quieter than other budget brands. The harness and padded seat are also notably more comfortable and higher quality than those found on trailers from InStep, Schwinn, and Retrospec.
Compared to the slightly pricier Allen Premier Trailer Stroller, the Deluxe features smaller 16″ wheels, limiting the recommended speed to 10 mph. Its cabin is also shorter, making it less suitable for older or taller children.
Entry Level Bike Wagon Strollers
The ability to convert your bike wagon into a stroller is incredibly convenient for active families. Planning a bike ride to the farmer’s market or shopping center? Simply park your bikes, deploy the stroller wheel, and you’re ready to walk!
Best Overall Entry-Level Bike Wagon Stroller
Burley Honey Bee
$479 (double)
BEST FOR: Families wanting the option to occasionally use their bike wagon as a stroller.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (included)
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Stroller wheel stores on the tow arm when not in use, adjustable handlebar height, ample storage.
View on Amazon View on Burley Our Review
What We Love About the Burley Honey Bee
The Honey Bee combines everything we appreciate about the Bee with the added benefit of stroller functionality. The stroller wheel, while basic and extending from the trailer arm, easily flips up and out of the way when not needed. The Honey Bee’s quality, design, functionality, and ease of use are unmatched in its class. It’s exclusively available as a double bike wagon stroller.
Best Budget Bike Wagon Stroller
Allen Sports Premier
$210 (double)
BEST FOR: Budget-minded families seeking a capable bike wagon with basic stroller functionality.
CONVERSION KITS: 3-wheel stroller integrated into the chassis (included).
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: No
STANDOUT FEATURES: Large 20″ wheels with metal rims, higher speed capacity than the Allen Deluxe Trailer.
Why the Allen Sports Premier is a Great Budget Stroller Wagon
As spacious as higher-priced wagons, the Allen Sports Premier offers generous headroom and a thickly padded, hammock-style seat for a comfortable ride. Besides smooth and stable towing, this bike wagon for kids features a user-friendly 5-point harness system that is significantly higher quality than those found in Schwinn bike trailers and other budget options.
For those aiming to spend under $300 on a bike wagon, in direct comparisons with Schwinn and InStep trailers, we found that Allen Sports wagons pull smoother, make loading and unloading kids easier, have superior harness systems, and include extended helmet pockets for enhanced comfort for both younger and older children.
Mid-Range Bike Wagons – Multi-Sport
For families who desire top-tier quality but are willing to forgo some premium features (like reclining seats and adjustable suspension) to save money, mid-range bike wagons are the ideal “just right” choice. Still compatible with stroller and jogger conversion kits, these multi-sport bike wagon strollers and joggers are a more affordable option for active families.
Best Mid-Range Multi-Sport Bike Wagon
Burley Encore X
$649
BEST FOR: Frequently active families who want excellent jogging, strolling, and biking performance without extra premium features.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Supportive bench-style seats, suspension, sunshade, exceptionally smooth pull, substantial storage.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Why the Burley Encore X is Our Mid-Range Pick
The Encore X’s high-quality, durable components make it effortless for parents to use and create a remarkably comfortable environment for children. Featuring a bench seat and a high-quality harness, getting kids in and out of the wagon is a breeze. The Encore X is Burley’s most affordable model with suspension.
UV-blocking windows and a sunshade protect delicate skin from harsh sunlight, while a thoughtfully designed mesh cup holder allows easy access to drinks and snacks. These well-considered details make it an exceptional child bike wagon at a very reasonable price. Like the more expensive Burley D’Lite X, the Encore X’s seats can fold down, transforming it into a practical bike wagon for cargo.
Most Spacious Mid-Range Bike Wagon
Hamax Outback
$699 (single), $749 (double)
BEST FOR: Families needing an easy-to-use wagon that doubles as a fantastic stroller. Extra interior height is ideal for taller children.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Tall interior, rubber floor mat, sleek European styling, thickly cushioned tires.
View on Hamax View on Amazon Our Review
What Makes the Hamax Outback Stand Out
Sleek, modern, and surprisingly nimble, the Hamax Outback is the stylish and versatile SUV of bike wagons. With the most interior headroom in its class, adjustable suspension, extra-thick tires for superior cushioning, a plush interior, and supportive seats, this bike carriage provides an exceptionally comfortable ride for passengers.
While it may not perform quite as smoothly as a Burley or Thule in trailer mode (it’s also heavier), it excels as a stroller. The Outback also features excellent ventilation and a top peek-through window.
High-End Bike Wagons – Multi-Sport
These are the crème de la crème of bike wagons – they offer everything and perform flawlessly across all functions. From adjustable sunshades and reclining seats to UV windows and comprehensive conversion kits, high-end wagons are the most durable and best-built options available.
These are not just the best bike wagons, but also the best bike wagon strollers and bike wagon joggers. They represent a significant investment, but they are built to last for years!
These multi-sport wagons are also frequently used for more adventurous activities like bike packing, snow fat biking, and cross-country skiing.
Best Overall High-End Bike Wagon
Thule Chariot Cross 2
$1,199
BEST FOR: Active families with babies and toddlers seeking a stroller and jogger that perform as exceptionally as the trailer. Also our top pick for a ski trailer. (Available only as a single.)
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (included), jogger, ski
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Reclining seats, plush cushioning, adjustable suspension, top-view window, infant sling for stroller mode, market-leading weather covers.
View on Amazon View on REI Our Review
Why We Consider the Chariot Cross the Best
The newly updated Thule Chariot Cross 2 is undeniably the highest quality bike wagon money can buy, offering dream-like handling. With an improved hitch, adjustable suspension, genuinely reclining seats, an optional infant sling, durable fabric, the best adjustable sunshade and rain cover, and ample interior height, the Cross is simply the best of the best.
The Cross is designed with integrated storage for both stroller and jogger kits, allowing for spontaneous conversions on the go. (And they don’t take up valuable storage space!) For enhanced stopping power in jogging mode, the Thule Chariot Cross is the only jogger to offer a rear-wheel hand brake upgrade.
What about the very similar Thule Chariot Sport and Thule Chariot Lite? The Lite is a slightly streamlined, more affordable version of the Cross. Our detailed comparison of the Thule Chariot Cross vs. Thule Chariot Lite breaks down all their differences.
The Thule Chariot Sport includes a few high-end “nice-to-have” upgrades not found on the Cross, but these are not essential for most families. These upgrades include: (1) Removable side panels for increased ventilation, (2) Disc brakes on the rear wheels (most beneficial when using the jogging kit), (3) Extra-padded seats.
Best All-Terrain Bike Wagon
Burley D’Lite X
$899 (single), $999 (double)
BEST FOR: Families wanting top performance for jogging, strolling, and biking, especially off the beaten path.
CONVERSION KITS: Stroller (3-wheel included, 4-wheel available), jogger, ski, fat tire kit
WHEEL SIZE: 20″
eBIKE Compatible: Yes (15 mph max)
STANDOUT FEATURES: Waterproof zipper, all-terrain tires, reclining seats, adjustable suspension, single stroller wheel tucks away neatly.
View on Burley View on Amazon Our Review
Why We Recommend the Burley D’Lite X for All-Terrain
Available in double capacity, this comfort-focused bike wagon comes standard with features like independently reclining seats, premium seat pads, adjustable suspension, full-length tinted windows, aggressive-tread 20″ tires, and user-friendly quick receivers that make transitioning between trailer and stroller modes the easiest we’ve experienced!
With wider tires and a more aggressive tread than the Cross, the D’Lite X excels for venturing beyond paved paths. Burley also offers a 16″ fat tire kit upgrade, essential for our backcountry adventures. Adding to its versatility, the seats can be folded down to convert it into a cargo trailer or bike wagon for hauling gear.
We also appreciate that, as of spring 2023, 55% of the soft goods in the Burley D’Lite X are made from recycled materials – primarily from recycled plastic water bottles!
How to Choose the Best Kids Bike Wagon
Whether you plan to use your bike wagon primarily for biking or also as a stroller or jogger, there are 15 key criteria to consider when selecting the best wagon for your family: 1) wagon type, 2) budget, 3) infant compatibility, 4) single or double capacity, 5) weight capacity, 6) seat type, 7) wheels, 8) external covers & venting, 9) suspension, 10) storage, 11) stroller wheel attachments, 12) stroller brakes, 13) adjustable handlebars, 14) folding mechanism, 15) hitch style.
1. Bike Wagon Type – How Will You Use It?
Beyond standard bike trailers, many bike wagons also convert to 3 or 4-wheeled strollers, joggers, and even ski sleds! There are three main categories of bike wagons:
- Multi-Sport (Bike, stroll, jog, ski)
- Trailer + Stroller
- Trailer Only
The ideal bike wagon for you is the one that best suits your intended uses. Wagons with included or optional stroller and jogger upgrades are perfect for active families who want multi-functional gear. Other families may prefer dedicated bike wagons and separate strollers or joggers.
Before you start researching, think realistically about the activities you want to do with your kids to choose a wagon that meets your specific needs.
If you’re unsure if a bike wagon is the right choice, explore our guide to 8 different styles of bike carriers for babies and kids.
2. Budget – Bike Wagon Price Tiers
Bike wagons range in price from around $100 to over $1,000. Generally, the price reflects the quality and performance. Higher-end wagons offer more features and a smoother ride for both parent and child, but they can be a significant investment.
Lower-priced wagons are adequate for paved surface riding but often lack safety and comfort features found in mid-range and higher-end models. Top brands include Thule Chariot and Burley, with Hamax and Wike also offering excellent options.
The best bike wagons are easier to pull, provide greater comfort for children, offer more upgrades like hand brakes and drink consoles, and can convert to strollers or joggers. Similar to cars, top-of-the-line features are typically found only in the highest-end bike wagons.
Advantages of Investing in a Higher-Priced Bike Wagon
Any bike wagon from brands like Thule, Burley, or Hamax will be far superior to most other options. They are also pricier, but with bike wagons, you truly get what you pay for. If you plan to use it frequently, investing as much as your budget allows is recommended.
If you are on a tight budget, at a minimum, choose a pull-behind bike wagon with 20″ wheels and metal rims. Many budget wagons have 16″ wheels with plastic rims, which are lower quality and result in a bumpier ride.
16″ Wheels with Plastic Rims vs. 20″ Wheels with Metal Rims
3. Baby Bike Wagon Inserts and Age Restrictions
It is not safe to pull a baby in a bike wagon until they are 1 year old. However, if you are using the wagon as a stroller with a young infant, strolling is safe from around 6 weeks old.
In this case, you will need a baby insert to provide proper head and neck support for infants. These inserts are typically used until the baby is at least 6 months old, or longer.
From personal experience, the baby insert for my Thule Chariot Cross was one of my most cherished baby items. It allowed me to resume an active lifestyle just 6 weeks after childbirth. Burley’s Baby Insert is similar but prevents folding the wagon when installed. The Burley Baby Snuggler does allow folding but is less supportive and recommended for babies 3+ months.
Not all wagons offer baby insert upgrades. Thule, Burley, and Hamax wagon/strollers are your best options if you want to use your wagon as a stroller with a very young baby.
Read our article on the benefits of the Thule infant sling for new moms!
4. Single vs. Double Bike Wagons
If you only plan to have one child, a single bike wagon is likely sufficient. They are narrower and lighter than double wagons, making them easier to pull.
Double bike wagons are ideal for growing families or those who want the flexibility to bring a friend along or carry extra gear. Note that most double wagons do NOT have a center buckle, so a single child in a double wagon must sit on the right side. This can actually reduce space as they are positioned very close to the side. Single wagons offer more room for one passenger on either side.
Internal Cabin Dimensions
The internal cabin dimensions of bike wagons vary significantly. Even a few inches of difference can provide much-needed headspace and shoulder room, especially for older or taller children.
The Burley Bee is exceptionally tall, while the Schwinn Trailblazer is quite short. Burley D’Lite X models have bowed sides for extra shoulder space for older riders. WIKE wagons are larger overall to accommodate older children, especially those with special needs.
Always check and compare shoulder space and seat height to ensure your chosen bike carriage will comfortably fit your child for as long as you intend them to ride in it.
5. Bike Wagon Weight Capacity
Weight capacity figures listed by manufacturers can be misleading. Most single wagons state a 75-pound capacity, and double wagons 100 pounds. Smaller, lower-end wagons may have even lower total weight limits.
However, this stated weight includes both children AND cargo, and wagons are safety rated for a specific maximum child weight. For instance, the Burley D’Lite single has a 75-pound capacity, but a maximum child weight of only 40 pounds! The Burley D’Lite X double has a 100-pound total capacity, with a maximum combined child weight of 80 lbs.
These specific child weight limits are usually found in user manuals, which are downloadable. Never assume the weight limit on the manufacturer’s website refers only to the child’s weight.
6. Seat Type – Hammock vs. Bench Seats
Hammock Seats: Budget wagons typically use “hammock-style” seating, which is a piece of fabric stretched across the wagon frame. These seats often sag in the middle and offer minimal support.
Bench Seats: Found in higher-end wagons, bench seats are padded and prevent sagging. These supportive seats are more comfortable and provide more legroom. They also simplify loading and unloading children, as the bench supports their weight away from the buckle.
7. Wheels & Maximum Speeds
Bike wagons come with either 16″ or 20″ wheels. 20″ wheels are a worthwhile upgrade as they absorb road bumps much better than 16″ tires, resulting in a smoother ride for both parent and child. To reduce costs, wagons with 16″ tires often have plastic rims, which are prone to cracking and warping.
20″ tires with metal rims offer the best performance and are available across all price ranges. Wagons with 20″ tires generally have a maximum recommended speed of 15 mph, while 16″ tire models max out at 10 mph.
20″ Wheels vs. 16″ Wheels with Plastic Rims
8. External Covers – Weather Protection
Rain Covers
While riding in the rain is rarely planned, keeping children dry and warm is important, especially in wet climates. Almost all bike wagons include a permanently attached rain cover that rolls up when not needed. Lower-end models secure rain covers with elastic bands, while mid and high-end models often use zippers.
Burley wagons – based in rainy Oregon – offer excellent weather protection with zippered rain covers on their Encore X, D’Lite X, and Cub X models. The Bee and Honey Bee use a simpler Velcro system.
Thule’s lower and mid-range Coaster, Cadence, and Cheetah XT models have Velcro-secured rain covers, while the high-end Lite and Cross models feature fully removable rain covers secured by elastic bands. Thule’s removable rain cover completely encloses the top and sides for superior protection from rain, wind, and cold.
Canopy/Sunshade
To shield children’s eyes from the sun, high-end wagons include sunshades. Burley’s system is built-in and slides up and down on the D’Lite X and Cub X, but is fixed on the Burley Encore X.
The Thule Chariot’s high-end sunshade snaps on and off and slides along the front metal rails of the wagon. It’s longer than Burley’s and is the best sunshade available. In our opinion, it’s a compelling reason to upgrade to a Thule Chariot Cross or Lite.
Thule Chariot Cross vs. Burley D’Lite X Sunshades
Windows
Side windows on all wagons are plastic. UV-blocking windows are standard on all Burley and Thule wagons but are not found on entry-level models like Allen or InStep.
9. Suspension – Is it Necessary?
Suspension can significantly impact ride comfort, potentially preventing complaints of discomfort. For families sticking to smooth pavement, suspension may not be essential. However, for all-terrain riding, it can be a game-changer.
Several suspension systems are available, and we haven’t found significant differences in performance between them. Adjustable suspension is featured on the Burley D’Lite X, Cub X, Thule Chariot Cross, and Hamax Outback. Adjustable suspension is particularly useful for families carrying very light or very heavy children.
For most families with average-weight children, the non-adjustable suspension systems on the Thule Chariot Lite and Burley Encore X models are sufficient.
10. Storage – How Much Do You Need?
The required storage space is largely a matter of personal preference. We recommend opting for more storage than you initially think you’ll need! We often find ourselves carrying scooters, balance bikes, helmets, basketballs, lunches, and jackets for the whole family.
The shape of the wagon significantly affects storage capacity. Burley’s spacious, flat-bottomed storage area is larger than most and is excellent for carrying items like scooters after dropping kids off at school. If you’re not transporting children, the seats in Burley X model wagons can fold down, converting the entire wagon into a cargo trailer or bike wagon.
The storage area on the Thule Chariot Lite and Cross is smaller, but the wagon itself is less bulky overall.
Handlebar consoles are also available for convenient storage of water bottles, keys, phones, etc., when in stroller or jogger mode. Both Burley and Thule offer handlebar consoles as upgrades. Thule’s console attaches to the wagon frame and remains stationary when the handlebar is adjusted. Burley’s console stretches between the handlebars and moves with them as they are adjusted.
11. Stroller Wheel Attachments
Bike wagons are far more versatile than just bike carts. Strolling is a very popular use. The stroller options on bike wagons vary widely. If you plan to use your wagon as a stroller, ensure you choose a model that converts to the stroller type you prefer.
(1) Tow Arm Swivel Wheel
A small, plastic swivel wheel attaches to the end of the tow arm. It flips up for bike wagon use and down for stroller mode. In stroller mode, the tow arm extends about 1.5 feet beyond the wagon cabin, which is less ideal in crowded areas. Examples include the InStep Sierra Double and Burley Honey Bee.
The quality of this setup is basic on cheaper wagons like InStep or Schwinn, but functions smoothly on higher-end wagons. This wheel style is standard on all Burley stroller-convertible wagons.
(2) Attached Single Swivel Wheel
Similar to the tow arm swivel stroller but attached to the wagon body rather than the tow arm. It pushes smoothly but is less maneuverable than four wheels on uneven surfaces.
(3) Dual Swivel Bike Wagon Stroller Wheels
This is the most functional and user-friendly stroller type. Two small, plastic wheels attach under the front of the wagon body. Their tucked-in position allows for easy steering and maneuverability. Thule Chariot models come standard as four-wheeled strollers, and Burley multi-sport wagons offer it as an upgrade.
(4) Jogging Kit
Jogging wheels are designed for straight tracking while running, so the front wheel does NOT swivel. A true jogging wheel is also at least 10″ in diameter and pneumatic (air-filled) for smooth rolling.
To turn a jogging wagon, you must press down on the handlebar to lift the front wheel and pivot the wagon while the wheel is off the ground. All multi-sport wagons offer a jogging wheel as an optional purchase. Examples include the Thule Chariot Cross and Burley Encore X.
12. Bike Wagon Stroller Brakes
All wagons sold with stroller options are required to include a parking brake. Brake types range from simple tire straps to handlebar hand brakes. While brakes are less crucial in trailer mode, a well-designed parking or hand brake makes a big difference in stroller or jogger mode.
Foot Brake
Similar to typical stroller brakes, foot brakes on bike wagon strollers are engaged with the foot and lock the rear tires. They do not slow the wagon down like hand brakes. Foot brakes are found across all price ranges and vary in design from foot-push to slide-across mechanisms.
Hand Brake
Designed to slow a wagon rather than stop it completely, hand brakes are invaluable for joggers and parents navigating hills in stroller mode. The most universal hand brake is available as an upgrade on the Thule Chariot Lite and Cross models and can be used in both stroller and jogging modes. The Hamax Outback jogging upgrade is the only jogging kit that includes a hand brake, but it activates the front jogging wheel and cannot be used in stroller mode.
13. Adjustable Handlebars
An adjustable stroller handlebar greatly improves the usability of a wagon in stroller or jogger mode. Most wagons offer at least two height settings, achieved by flipping the handlebar and reattaching it.
The best bike wagons, including all Burley strollers, the Thule Chariot Cross and Lite, and the Hamax Outback, feature a swiveling handlebar with multiple height options. Swivel handlebars are ideal for couples with significant height differences. Multiple-height handlebars adjust quickly, while dual-height handlebars are slower and less precisely adjustable.
14. Folding Frame – Packed Size
The ease of folding a wagon can be a deciding factor in how often you use it. Its folded dimensions also determine if it will fit in your car!
For example, our Thule Cross Single requires folding down the back seat of our Honda Pilot to fit it in our car, which limits passenger capacity when we want to bring the wagon on family bike rides.
However, most bike wagons for kids fold to some extent for easier transport.
15. Hitch Style
The design of the trailer hitch affects the smoothness of the ride for both you and your child. Most trailer companies (InStep, Schwinn, Allen Sports) use a standard hitch.
High-end brands (Thule, Burley) use unique, more precise designs that minimize “give” and pull-back from the wagon while riding. All hitches sold in the US are designed to flex, allowing the bike to be laid down without tipping the wagon, which is helpful for loading and unloading.
Related Child Bike Wagon Articles
Burley vs. Thule Chariot Comparison Guide – An easy reference guide to help you decide between these two top brands, explaining all the differences between Chariot and Burley bike wagons.
International Bike Fund – Child Bike Seats vs. Trailers for Infants: For an interesting discussion on the safety of child bike seats versus trailers and trailer cycles by a non-profit international biking group.
