Navigating the world with kids in tow can be an adventure, and what better way to explore than on two wheels? Bike trailers designed for children offer a fantastic solution for active families, allowing you to bring your little ones along for rides safely and comfortably. With a plethora of options available, choosing the best children’s bike trailer can feel overwhelming. Our expert team at usabikers.net has rigorously tested a range of models to bring you the definitive guide to the top performers. Whether you’re seeking the ultimate in safety and versatility or the best value for your money, we’ve got you covered.
Top Picks for the Best Children’s Bike Trailers
After extensive testing and real-world use, we’ve identified the leading bike trailers for children in various categories. Here are our top recommendations:
Best Overall: Burley D’Lite X
burley d
Overall Score: 92
- Protection: 10.0
- Passenger Experience: 9.0
- Biker Experience: 9.0
- Ease of Use: 8.0
- Versatility: 10.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional safety features including full roll cage and padded harness
- Highly versatile, converts to stroller and accepts other sport kits
- Superior hitch connection for stable and secure towing
- Maximum passenger comfort with reclining seats and smooth suspension
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not fully watertight in heavy downpours
- Suspension adjustment can be a bit tricky
Specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | 2 |
| Stroller Conversion | Yes |
| Harness System | 5-point |
| Weight | 29.3 lbs |
| Open Size (LxWxH) | 33.3″ x 31.3″ x 38.3″ |
The Burley D’Lite X consistently impressed across all our testing metrics, making it our top overall pick for children’s bike trailers. Its standout safety features, including a robust roll cage, comprehensive ventilation, UV-resistant windows, and a well-padded 5-point harness system, provide peace of mind for parents. Burley’s hitch system is a highlight, offering easy connection and a stable, smooth towing experience free of jarring movements. Passenger testers raved about the comfort of the reclining seats and the overall ride quality.
Versatility is another key strength of the D’Lite X. Beyond bike towing, it easily converts to a stroller, and optional kits for walking, jogging, and cross-country skiing expand its usability for active families throughout the year. The seats also fold flat, allowing you to haul cargo, pets, or camping gear.
While the D’Lite X excels in most areas, it’s worth noting that it’s not completely waterproof for sustained heavy rain. Also, adjusting the suspension can be a bit awkward mid-ride. However, these minor drawbacks are overshadowed by its exceptional performance and versatility. For families seeking a top-tier children’s bike trailer that performs exceptionally well in almost every situation, the Burley D’Lite X is the clear choice. If complete weather protection is a primary concern, consider the Thule Chariot Cross.
Read our full review: Burley D’Lite X review
bike trailer – Burley D'Lite X bike trailer with seats removed, loaded with camping gear
Image: Burley D’Lite X bike trailer with seats removed, loaded with camping gear like a pop-up tent, chairs, table, cooler, and beach toys.
Best Value: Burley Bee
burley bee
Overall Score: 80
- Protection: 8.0
- Passenger Experience: 7.0
- Biker Experience: 10.0
- Ease of Use: 8.0
- Versatility: 6.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Incredibly lightweight design for easy towing
- Effective rainproof construction
- Exceptional value for the features offered
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks suspension for rough terrain
- Seats are not padded for maximum comfort
- Bottom fabric may be prone to ripping with ground contact
- Limited versatility, no stroller or multi-sport conversion
Specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | 2 |
| Stroller Conversion | No |
| Harness System | 5-point |
| Weight | 20 lbs |
| Open Size (LxWxH) | 32.25″ x 30″ x 36″ |
For families seeking a high-quality children’s bike trailer that balances performance and price, the Burley Bee stands out as the best value option. Significantly more affordable than the top-rated D’Lite X, the Bee still delivers many of Burley’s renowned features. It’s exceptionally easy to set up, attach, and tow, mirroring the user-friendliness of the D’Lite X.
One of the Bee’s primary advantages is its feather-light weight, making it the lightest trailer in our review. Despite its light build, it offers a generous cargo area, making it ideal for commutes, errands, and everyday family biking. Passenger comfort is adequate but not as luxurious as higher-end models. The seats are unpadded, and there’s no suspension, which can be noticeable on bumpy surfaces. The Bee is primarily a bike trailer and doesn’t convert to a stroller or offer multi-sport kits. Also, the bottom fabric could be vulnerable to wear and tear if dragged on the ground.
However, if you prioritize a nimble, easy-to-use, and budget-friendly children’s bike trailer for regular biking, the Burley Bee is an outstanding choice. If you need stroller conversion, superior comfort, and suspension, the Burley D’Lite X remains the better, albeit pricier, alternative.
Read our full review: Burley Bee review
bike trailer – Burley Bee bike trailer being easily towed by a cyclist
Image: Burley Bee lightweight children’s bike trailer being easily towed on a paved path.
Best for Active Families: Thule Chariot Cross 2
thule chariot cross 2
$1,400 at REI (before member cash back!)
Overall Score: 86
- Protection: 9.0
- Passenger Experience: 9.0
- Biker Experience: 8.0
- Ease of Use: 9.0
- Versatility: 7.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional passenger comfort for enjoyable rides
- Completely weatherproof, ideal for all-weather biking
- User-friendly design and easy to operate
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited storage capacity for gear
- High price point, premium investment
Specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | 2 |
| Stroller Conversion | Yes |
| Harness System | 5-point |
| Weight | 32 lbs |
| Open Size (LxWxH) | 36.5″ x 32″ x 37″ |
The Thule Chariot Cross 2 is a top-tier children’s bike trailer designed for active families who demand performance and versatility. While it didn’t quite surpass the Burley D’Lite X overall, the Chariot Cross 2 offers a compelling package of features and thoughtful design. Its standout feature is the superior suspension system, which effortlessly absorbs bumps and vibrations, providing the smoothest ride in our test group. The integrated rain cover ensures passengers stay completely dry even in heavy rain, making it ideal for all-weather adventures. Comfortable seats, easily adjustable harness straps, and straightforward setup further enhance the user experience.
The Chariot Cross 2’s primary drawback is limited cargo space. The small cargo bag might be insufficient for families needing to carry substantial gear. It also comes with a premium price tag, making it a significant investment. However, for families committed to regular biking and multi-sport activities with their children, the Thule Chariot Cross 2 delivers exceptional quality and a range of multi-sport options. If storage is a priority, the Burley D’Lite X offers more cargo space at a lower price point.
Read our full review: Thule Chariot Cross review
bike trailer – Thule Chariot Cross 2 children's bike trailer with large sunshade
Image: Thule Chariot Cross 2 children’s bike trailer with extended sunshade for sun protection.
Best for Comfort: Hamax Outback Multi-Sport
hamax outback multi-sport
Overall Score: 76
- Protection: 9.0
- Passenger Experience: 10.0
- Biker Experience: 5.0
- Ease of Use: 6.0
- Versatility: 7.0
Reasons to Buy:
- Extremely spacious passenger area for maximum comfort
- Plush, comfortable seating for enjoyable rides
- Versatile interior space, seats fold flat for cargo
Reasons to Avoid:
- Significantly heavier than other models, harder to tow
- Some design elements feel less refined
- Bulky when folded, larger storage footprint
Specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Number of Children | 2 |
| Stroller Conversion | Yes |
| Harness System | 5-point |
| Weight | 44.3 lbs |
| Open Size (LxWxH) | 46″ x 33″ x 37.5″ |
The Hamax Outback Multi-Sport prioritizes passenger comfort above all else, earning our top recommendation for the most comfortable children’s bike trailer. It excels in passenger experience with wide, plush seats, large view windows, an easy-access footwell, and adjustable suspension for a smooth ride. Like the Burley D’Lite X, the Hamax Outback features seats that fold flat, maximizing its cargo-carrying potential.
However, the Outback’s focus on comfort comes with trade-offs. It is significantly heavier than any other trailer we tested, making it more challenging to tow, especially uphill. Its bulkiness when folded and some less refined design elements are also considerations. While the comfortable ride is a major plus, the heavy weight may limit its versatility for some users, particularly those frequently tackling hills or longer distances. For those prioritizing a plush ride and spacious interior and less concerned about weight, the Hamax Outback is an excellent choice. For a lighter and more compact alternative, consider the Burley Bee.
Read our full review: Hamax Outback review
bike trailer – Hamax Outback Multi-Sport bike trailer with a dog passenger
Image: Hamax Outback Multi-Sport children’s bike trailer with seats folded flat, carrying a dog.
Product Comparison
bike trailer – Schwinn Echo bike trailer in field testing with a child passenger
Image: Field testing of the Schwinn Echo children’s bike trailer with a young passenger.
How We Test Children’s Bike Trailers
Our recommendations are based on rigorous, side-by-side testing of the most popular children’s bike trailers on the market. We started with extensive market research to identify leading models across various price points. We then purchased these trailers at retail prices and subjected them to a comprehensive testing plan designed to evaluate performance across key metrics relevant to families.
Our testing protocol includes assessing:
- Protection: Evaluating safety features like roll cage strength, harness security, weather protection, and ventilation.
- Passenger Experience: Assessing seat comfort, harness adjustability, ease of entry and exit, and overall ride smoothness for children.
- Biker Experience: Evaluating towing ease, weight, maneuverability, and feedback to the bike.
- Ease of Use: Assessing assembly, setup, bike attachment, folding, and storage convenience.
- Versatility: Evaluating cargo capacity, conversion options (stroller, jogger, ski kit), and overall adaptability.
For ride smoothness testing, we used an accelerometer attached to a water bladder to measure and compare the jostling experienced in each trailer over rough terrain. Our detailed testing methodology ensures our reviews are based on objective data and real-world performance. For a deeper dive into our testing process, see our in-depth testing article.
Our scoring weights each metric’s importance to the overall user experience:
- Protection (30%)
- Passenger Experience (20%)
- Biker Experience (20%)
- Ease of Use (20%)
- Versatility (10%)
Why Trust Usabikers.net?
The children’s bike trailer review was spearheaded by usabikers.net Review Editors Joanna Trieger and Chris Binder.
Joanna Trieger, based in Reno, Nevada, is an avid cyclist and outdoor enthusiast with extensive experience in mountain biking, skiing, and commuting by bike daily for the past three years. Her firsthand experience and cycle-centric lifestyle provide her with unique insights into bike trailer functionality and user needs.
Chris Binder, based in Lake Tahoe, has over two decades of experience testing outdoor gear worldwide. With adventures spanning four continents and multiple cross-America bike trips, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and a rigorous testing approach to our reviews.
Our dedicated passenger tester, while enjoying rides, helps us assess real-world comfort and usability from a child’s perspective.
bike trailer – happy passenger and biker using a children's bike trailer
Image: A happy child passenger and adult biker enjoying a ride with a children’s bike trailer, highlighting the fun and engagement.
Choosing the Right Children’s Bike Trailer: Key Considerations
Selecting the best children’s bike trailer for your family involves considering several important factors. Here’s a guide to help you make the right decision:
Trailer Size: Single vs. Double
The first step is deciding between a single or double child bike trailer. Consider your current needs and future plans. A double trailer offers flexibility for multiple children or the possibility of expanding your family. A single child can also use a double trailer, but the extra width and weight may be less convenient. If you primarily bike with one child, a single trailer is generally lighter and easier to maneuver on narrow paths. Also, check the weight capacity of trailers, as this impacts longevity and how long your children can comfortably use the trailer as they grow.
bike trailer – choosing the right size children's bike trailer for current and future needs
Image: Considering size and growth when choosing a children’s bike trailer, showing a parent with children.
Terrain and Suspension
Think about where you’ll primarily be biking. For rough terrain like gravel roads or trails, suspension is crucial for your child’s comfort and the trailer’s durability. Trailers with larger 20″ wheels also handle uneven surfaces better. If you mainly stick to paved paths and smooth streets, a trailer without suspension will suffice and is typically more affordable.
Climate and Weather Protection
Consider your local climate. If you live in a rainy area, prioritize a children’s bike trailer with a robust rain cover and water-resistant construction. Check for potential leak points in the bottom or sides. For sunny climates, look for trailers with sunshades, UV-protective windows, and good ventilation to keep your child cool and protected from the sun.
bike trailer – sunshade feature on a children's bike trailer for sun protection
Image: Sunshade feature on a Burley D’Lite children’s bike trailer, highlighting sun protection.
Bike Compatibility
Ensure the bike trailer is compatible with your bicycle. Most bikes accommodate trailer hitches, but it’s important to check. Identify your bike’s axle type (quick-release or thru-axle). Quick-release skewers generally work best out of the box. Consider your bike’s dropouts; hooded dropouts may require an adapter. If unsure, contact the trailer manufacturer to confirm compatibility and adapter needs.
bike trailer – checking bike attachment compatibility for a children's bike trailer
Image: Checking bike axle and dropout type for compatibility with a children’s bike trailer hitch.
Analysis and Test Results: Deeper Dive
We subjected each children’s bike trailer to extensive testing, focusing on five key metrics. Here’s a more detailed look at our findings:
Best Value Breakdown
While price is a significant factor, focusing solely on the lowest price can compromise performance and features. We believe investing in a trailer with suspension is worthwhile for ride comfort and versatility. While suspension models are pricier upfront, the improved experience can encourage more frequent use, lowering the cost per ride over time.
The Burley D’Lite X offers excellent value considering its top-tier performance. However, the Burley Bee is our top pick for best value overall. It provides Burley quality, ease of use, and durability at a significantly lower price than the D’Lite X. While less plush, the Bee is a simple, safe, and lightweight option suitable for everyday biking. The Schwinn Echo is a budget-friendly entry point, but the Burley Bee offers superior style, usability, and durability for a reasonable price increase.
The Thule Chariot Cross and Thule Chariot Lite are premium options. If you choose to invest in a Thule, the Chariot Cross, with its added features like individually reclining seats and adjustable suspension, is worth the slight price increase over the Lite. Consider a bike lock to protect your investment in these higher-end trailers.
bike trailer – children's bike trailer safety with helmets and secure harnesses
Image: Child safety in a Thule Chariot Cross children’s bike trailer, emphasizing helmet use and harness security.
Protection Detailed Analysis
Protection is our highest-weighted metric. All tested trailers meet ASTM safety standards, but some offer enhanced safety features. We evaluated construction quality, roll cage coverage, weather protection, harness effectiveness, ventilation, and suspension.
Important Safety Note: Towing children under 12 months is not recommended and may be illegal in some areas. Children under one year lack the neck strength for biking activities. Children 12 months and older should always wear a helmet while in a trailer that meets ASTM standards. Most bike trailers are not recommended for children over five years old, as they may outgrow the trailer.
Our testing involved age-appropriate child passengers. While smoother rides are always preferable, even the safest trailer is not suitable for children under one year old. Helmets are mandatory for all child passengers.
Helmet Compatibility and Head Position
bike trailer – helmet compatibility and comfortable head position in a Thule Chariot Lite children's bike trailerImage: Child passenger in a Thule Chariot Lite children’s bike trailer, demonstrating comfortable helmet and head position.
Manufacturers recommend helmets for all trailer passengers, and we concur. Previously, helmet compatibility was an issue with some trailers pushing children’s heads forward uncomfortably. Modern trailers have largely addressed this. Trailers like the Burley D’Lite X and Bee have expandable pleats in the seatback to accommodate helmets. Thule Chariot models have reclined seats, also providing helmet space. The Hamax Outback has a removable head pad for helmet accommodation. Lower-priced trailers like the Schwinn Echo and InStep Take 2 have pleats but are less effective for helmet space, particularly for taller children.
Suspension Performance Deep Dive
Suspension significantly improves ride smoothness on rough terrain. The adjustable suspension systems of the Burley D’Lite X, Hamax Outback, and Thule Chariot Cross excel at absorbing bumps, enhancing passenger comfort on varied surfaces. Trailers without suspension necessitate slower, more cautious riding on uneven terrain. Suspension is a worthwhile investment for off-pavement riding and passenger comfort.
We tested suspension using a 20-pound dummy and a hardtail mountain bike over broken pavement. Visual assessments and accelerometer data confirmed that suspension trailers significantly reduced jostling.
bike trailer – Burley D'Lite X children's bike trailer with 20 inch wheels and suspension system
Image: Burley D’Lite X children’s bike trailer highlighting 20-inch wheels and adjustable suspension system.
Our suspension testing revealed:
- Value of Suspension: Suspension trailers, while more expensive, offer demonstrably smoother rides. Peak acceleration on our test dummy was over twice as high in non-suspension trailers.
- Suspension Design Differences: The Thule Chariot Cross has a slightly more effective suspension than the Burley D’Lite X and Hamax Outback. All three are significantly better than non-suspension models. The Thule Chariot Cross and Burley D’Lite X have adjustable suspensions, but real-world adjustability practicality is questionable.
- Suspension Investment Worthiness: Investing in suspension is recommended for enhanced safety and comfort, especially for younger passengers and varied terrain.
bike trailer – chart comparing peak acceleration in children's bike trailer suspension testing
Image: Chart illustrating peak acceleration test results for various children’s bike trailers, comparing suspension performance.
Weather Protection Detailed Analysis
bike trailer – weather testing children's bike trailers for rain resistance
Image: Weather testing children’s bike trailers with sprinkler and hose to assess rain resistance.
We tested weather resistance with sprinklers and hoses to simulate heavy rain and road spray. Thule Chariot models were the clear winners, with snug, full rain shields effectively directing water away. Other models lack taut rain covers, making saturation likely in prolonged heavy rain. For consistently wet climates, Thule Chariot models are highly recommended.
bike trailer – Burley Bee children's bike trailer in 5 minute sprinkler rain test
Image: Burley Bee children’s bike trailer during a 5-minute sprinkler rain resistance test.
The Burley Bee, Thule Cadence, and Burley D’Lite X remained relatively dry in our rain tests and are suitable for light rain. However, they are not designed for extended downpours. The Hamax Outback performed poorly in rain testing, with water seeping through the footwell and top. The Schwinn Echo and InStep Take 2 offered minimal rain protection due to loose-fitting rain shields and less water-resistant fabrics, making them best suited for dry conditions.
Sun protection is also crucial. The Burley D’Lite X excels with an adjustable sunshade, UPF 30 windows, and excellent ventilation. Thule Chariot models also perform well with large sunshades, mesh backing, and adjustable footwell ventilation. The Hamax Outback has a fixed sunshade, good ventilation, and UPF 30 windows. Sunshades are valuable but can obstruct the child’s view and potentially cause anxiety for younger children who want to see their parent.
The Burley D’Lite X earned the top spot in protection, featuring a full aluminum roll cage, side-impact protection, UPF 30 windows, adjustable sunshade, and good ventilation. The Hamax Outback and Thule Chariot models are also highly protective but lack side-impact protection. The Weehoo weeGo and Burley Bee are safety standouts with robust roll cages and secure harnesses.
bike trailer – safety features in lower cost children's bike trailers like Thule Cadence
Image: Basic safety features in a lower-cost children’s bike trailer like the Thule Cadence, suitable for mellow rides.
Prioritize safety and protection when choosing a children’s bike trailer, especially for younger children. Features like roll cages and suspension are investments in both safety and enjoyment.
Passenger Experience Detailed Analysis
bike trailer – comfortable passenger experience in a Hamax Outback children's bike trailer
Image: Child passenger enjoying a comfortable ride in a Hamax Outback children’s bike trailer with plush seats and roomy interior.
Passenger experience is critical for trailer enjoyment and usage frequency. We evaluated ease of entry/exit, seat and harness comfort, and passenger space. The Hamax Outback excels in passenger experience, earning our “most comfortable ride” award, followed by the Thule Chariot Cross and Burley D’Lite X.
All tested trailers are stable enough for children to climb in and out independently when the bike is kickstand-supported or leaned against something. Entry and footwell designs vary. The Hamax Outback is easiest for entry with a low step-in height and a flat, rubberized footwell. The Burley D’Lite X, Burley Bee, and Allen Sports Steel have unclip-able lower front panels for easier entry, but Burley models have slanting floors and elastic straps that could be weak points. Thule Chariots and the Cadence are relatively low to the ground and easy to enter despite fixed front panels. The Weehoo weeGo has a flat footwell but is less stable for entry. The Schwinn Echo and InStep Take 2 have less desirable saggy fabric floors that can be unstable for younger children learning to stand.
bike trailer – easy entry and exit for children in a bike trailer
Image: Child passenger demonstrating easy entry and exit from a children’s bike trailer.
For comfort, the Hamax Outback, Thule Chariot Cross, and Burley D’Lite X feature strategically padded seats and harnesses. The Outback has the plushest, machine-washable pads. Most other trailers, including the Burley Bee and Thule Cadence, have unpadded bench seats and harnesses. The Schwinn Echo has a bench seat with a thinly padded harness. Well-adjusted five-point harnesses, like those in the Hamax Outback and Thule Chariot models, are crucial for comfort and security.
Interior space varies. The Hamax Outback has the widest interior at 24″, offering ample passenger space. The Schwinn Echo is narrowest at 21″. The Echo can reconfigure harnesses for a single passenger in the center for better weight distribution.
bike trailer – reclining seats and adjustable features in a Thule Chariot Cross children's bike trailerImage: Reclining and independently adjustable seats in a Thule Chariot Cross children’s bike trailer, ideal for longer rides.
The Thule Chariot Cross and Burley D’Lite X feature independently adjustable reclining seats, enhancing comfort for longer rides and allowing for individual passenger preferences. The Hamax Outback and standard Burley D’Lite X have seats that recline as a unit.
Biker Experience Detailed Analysis
bike trailer – lightweight Burley Bee children's bike trailer for easy towing
Image: Lightweight Burley Bee children’s bike trailer, emphasizing ease of towing and maneuverability.
Biker experience varies significantly between models. Weight is a major factor, along with trailer feedback to the bike. We also assessed mid-ride adjustments, off-road towing, and maneuverability when walking. The Burley Bee is a top performer in biker experience, followed by the Burley D’Lite X, with the budget Schwinn Echo also performing surprisingly well.
Lighter trailers offer less towing resistance. The Burley Bee, at only 20 pounds, is the lightest and easiest to tow, even uphill. The Thule Chariot Cross, being heavier, requires more effort, while the Hamax Outback at 44 pounds, is the most challenging to tow uphill.
Weight capacity varies: most trailers hold up to 100 pounds, except the InStep Take 2 and Schwinn Echo (80 pounds) and the Hamax Outback (88 pounds). Trailers are generally suitable for children aged 1-5 years. Larger cargo areas, like in the Burley D’Lite X, can lead to carrying heavier loads, potentially negating the benefit of a lighter trailer frame.
bike trailer – Weehoo iGo Pro pedal trailer alternative
Image: Weehoo iGo Pro pedal trailer, a two-wheeled alternative for older children and active biking.
Trailer Alternatives: Pedal trailers like the WeeRide Co-Pilot and Weehoo iGo Turbo offer a different experience. They are more maneuverable, suitable for narrower trails, and engage the child passenger, but lack a protective cage and may not fold as easily as enclosed trailers.
bike trailer – ball and socket hitch design on a Thule children's bike trailer
Image: Ball and socket hitch design on a Thule children’s bike trailer, showing hitch connection detail.
Trailer feedback to the bike impacts the biker experience. Burley D’Lite X and Burley Bee are outstanding, transferring minimal movement due to their superior hitch design. The Schwinn Echo also has a secure hitch. Thule trailers use a ball-and-socket hitch, resulting in some lurching. Other trailers with spring-loaded tow arms transfer more motion to the bike.
bike trailer – Hamax Outback children's bike trailer on a rough road surface
Image: Hamax Outback children’s bike trailer on a rough road, highlighting terrain capability limitations due to weight.
Off-road towing capability varies. Thule Chariot Cross and Burley D’Lite X, with adjustable suspension, are top performers on trails. The Hamax Outback, despite suspension, is less ideal off-road due to its weight. Lighter trailers like the Burley Bee and Thule Cadence can be jumpy on trails. The Schwinn Echo performs surprisingly well off-road for its category. Trailers with 20″ wheels handle gravel and dirt better than those with 16″ wheels like the InStep Take 2 and Allen Sports Steel.
bike trailer – wheel size comparison for children's bike trailers
Image: Wheel size comparison: 20-inch wheels on Burley Bee vs. 16-inch wheels on Allen Sports Steel and InStep Take 2 children’s bike trailers.
Maneuvering a bike and trailer when walking is important. Thule Chariots are most maneuverable due to their hitch and tow arm design. The Hamax Outback is also nimble. The Weehoo weeGo, with its long, straight tow arm, is the least maneuverable in tight spaces.
Ease of Use Detailed Analysis
bike trailer – assembling a Burley D'Lite children's bike trailer
Image: Assembling a Burley D’Lite children’s bike trailer, showing frame connection process.
Ease of use encompasses assembly, setup, bike attachment, folding, and storage. Most trailers take 20-30 minutes to assemble initially. The Burley Bee was quickest at 12 minutes, and the Thule Chariot Cross took the longest at 40 minutes. “Deluxe” models tend to have more complex assembly.
Setup time for each ride is crucial. Thule Chariots are fastest, averaging around 29 seconds. Burley D’Lite X takes 52 seconds, and Burley Bee takes 48 seconds. Thule Chariot hitches can be slightly tricky, occasionally causing the bike to tip during attachment. Budget models like the InStep Take 2 and Schwinn Echo have cumbersome Velcro cover attachment systems. Thoughtfully designed models like Burley Bee are worth the investment for routine use.
bike trailer – easy setup of a Thule Chariot children's bike trailer
Image: Easy setup of a Thule Chariot children’s bike trailer, highlighting simple frame and hitch connections.
Storage varies. Less expensive models like the Schwinn Echo are slimmer and easier to store. Higher-end models, especially the bulky Hamax Outback, are harder to stow. Thule Chariot models are the only trailers with a clip to secure them when folded upright, a desirable storage feature.
bike trailer – Velcro closure on a Schwinn Echo children's bike trailer
Image: Velcro closure system on a Schwinn Echo children’s bike trailer, showing less user-friendly design.
Versatility Detailed Analysis
bike trailer – Hamax Outback children's bike trailer with seats folded flat for cargo hauling
Image: Hamax Outback children’s bike trailer with seats folded flat, demonstrating cargo hauling versatility.
Versatility includes cargo hauling and multi-sport conversion options. The Burley D’Lite X is top-rated in versatility.
The D’Lite X and Hamax Outback allow seats to fold flat, maximizing cargo space and enabling hauling pets or larger items. The InStep Take 2 previously had this feature, but newer models may not. The Outback’s heavy weight can limit cargo hauling capacity.
bike trailer – Thule Chariot Lite children's bike trailer with rear storage pocket
Image: Rear storage pocket on a Thule Chariot Lite children’s bike trailer, showing limited flat storage for bulky items.
Thule Chariots have smaller rear cargo pouches, less ideal for bulky items but useful for separating items. The Schwinn Echo and Burley Bee offer surprisingly generous cargo area footprints.
bike trailer – Burley D'Lite children's bike trailer with accessible cargo space
Image: Burley D’Lite children’s bike trailer with large and accessible cargo space, ideal for groceries and everyday items.
Thule Chariots and the Weehoo weeGo include stroller conversion kits. The Burley D’Lite X has an integrated stroller wheel. The Thule Chariot Cross, Burley D’Lite X, and Hamax Outback offer optional jogging and cross-country ski kits, enhancing their multi-sport versatility.
bike trailer – Thule Chariot Cross children's bike trailer, top choice for athletes
Image: Thule Chariot Cross children’s bike trailer, highlighted as a top choice for athletic families and multi-sport use.
Conclusion: Finding Your Best Children’s Bike Trailer
Choosing the best children’s bike trailer depends on your family’s priorities, budget, and intended use. We hope our in-depth testing and reviews have provided the information needed to narrow down your choices and find the perfect trailer for your family’s adventures. Consider your needs across protection, passenger comfort, biker experience, ease of use, and versatility to select the ideal children’s bike trailer for your family.
