InStep bike trailers have carved out a significant space in the market as a budget-friendly option for families. Boasting thousands of reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating on platforms like Amazon, they certainly appear appealing. But do those stars truly reflect the experience of using an InStep bike trailer? Are they a reliable choice for your precious cargo, or are you sacrificing quality for cost savings?
Our team at usabikers.net has rigorously tested a wide array of bike trailers from across the industry, from brands celebrated for plush comfort to those lauded for their precision engineering. InStep distinguishes itself primarily through its affordability and straightforward functionality. However, with features like smaller tires on plastic rims and a build quality geared towards keeping prices low, these trailers are designed more for occasional outings rather than the demands of frequent, regular use.
Dive into our comprehensive InStep bike trailer review below as we dissect whether these basic features adequately meet your needs, or if investing in a higher-end model is the wiser choice for your family. For top-tier recommendations, be sure to check out our 10 Best Bike Trailers for Kids Guide.
InStep Bike Trailers: Quick Overview
OUR RATING: Recommended with Reservations
AVERAGE PRICE: $125 – $175
IDEAL FOR: Budget-conscious families who enjoy occasional bike rides together.
CAPACITY OPTIONS: Single or Double
BIKE HITCH: Included
JOGGER CONVERSION: Not Available
STROLLER CONVERSION: Optional
Explore InStep Take 2 on Amazon
Discover InStep Single on Amazon
Check out InStep Quick N EZ on Amazon
THE UPSIDES:
- Extremely Affordable
- Available in single and double models
- Stroller conversion kit upgradeable
- Generous interior space
- Decent towing experience for a budget model
- User-friendly hitch system
THE DOWNSIDES:
- 16-inch wheels with plastic rims are low-quality and prone to warping
- Thin, less durable exterior covers
- Limited to a maximum speed of 10 mph
- Lowest shoulder strap setting may be too high for very young children
- High mesh helmet recess is largely ineffective for most kids
In-Depth Look: How the InStep Bike Trailer Performs
The popularity of InStep bike trailers on platforms like Amazon is undeniable, especially for those seeking a trailer that won’t break the bank. The question naturally arises: how much value are you truly getting for your money?
In the realm of bike gear, it’s generally true that you get what you pay for, and bike trailers are no exception. What exactly sets apart an InStep bike trailer from slightly pricier alternatives like the Schwinn Echo or the Schwinn Trailblazer? And are these differences substantial enough to justify spending more on a more expensive bike trailer? We break down these distinctions to help you determine if the InStep bike trailer meets your needs or if a more robust option like a $300 Schwinn bike trailer is a better long-term investment. For a deeper comparison, explore our Schwinn bike trailer review.
Understanding the InStep Bike Trailer Range
InStep offers a variety of bike trailers, including single and double capacity models, and even a Quick-N-EZ version with an optional stroller wheel for enhanced versatility. For our detailed review, we tested the double-capacity, trailer-only InStep Take 2.
Here’s a concise comparison table outlining the key features across different InStep bike trailer models:
| Feature | Take 2 | Single | Quick-N-EZ |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $169 | $125 | $175 |
| Capacity | Double | Single | Double |
| Type | Trailer Only | Trailer Only | Trailer + Stroller |
| Parking Brake | No | No | No |
| Seat Style | Hammock | Hammock | Hammock |
Ride Quality: What to Expect from the InStep
We were pleasantly surprised by the smoothness of the ride offered by the InStep Take 2. While it doesn’t match the refined ride of premium trailers like those from Burley or Thule, the InStep performed admirably around our neighborhood with minimal rattling. However, the hammock-style seats mean children might experience some sagging, potentially causing them to lean forward slightly due to their weight distribution.
The InStep bike trailer, equipped with smaller 16-inch wheels and plastic rims, has a recommended maximum speed of 10 mph. This limit is crucial as bumps become more noticeable at higher speeds. It’s best suited for leisurely rides in controlled environments such as neighborhood streets or smooth paved trails, where high speeds and rough terrains are avoided.
Interior Comfort and Space
One standout feature of the InStep bike trailer is its spacious interior. Offering a generous 25 inches of shoulder width and 26 inches of seated height, it ranks among the roomiest trailers we’ve evaluated. This extra space is excellent for accommodating two children comfortably but does increase the trailer’s overall width, which could be a consideration on narrower paths.
All InStep trailers share a maximum weight capacity of 80 lbs, with a per-child limit of 40 lbs, standard for most bike trailers. While some high-end trailers offer a 100 lbs capacity, the additional 20 lbs is typically intended for cargo.
InStep Take 2 vs. Schwinn Trailblazer: Size and Fit Comparison
In our tests, even with shoulder straps at their lowest setting, both our 3-year-old and a taller 20-month-old tester fit adequately in the InStep bike trailer. However, securing smaller children, particularly those just transitioning to trailer use around 12 months, might be a concern for some parents regarding a snug and secure fit.
Exterior and Weather Protection
The exterior covers of the InStep bike trailers are uniformly basic. Constructed from low-grade nylon, they cover the sides and front, attaching to the frame with snap closures.
These snaps are of mediocre quality and can be tricky to fasten securely, often prone to coming undone, especially at the bottom. The front cover’s lower portion is secured with a Velcro strip, adding another layer of closure.
This cover system is not particularly user-friendly, making quick access to children inside somewhat cumbersome during rides.
Despite the InStep bike trailer’s easy initial assembly, the basic frame and low-quality nylon cover raise concerns about long-term durability. Even with limited use, we observed wear on the nylon, especially in areas stretched tightly over the frame.
We also noticed small tears developing near the snap points, indicating potential weakness in these stress areas. Although reinforced with an extra plastic layer, these points are likely to degrade further with continued use, particularly due to the strain on the thin nylon fabric.
Rain and Weather Coverage
The InStep Take 2 includes a clear plastic rain cover for the front, which can be rolled up and stored when not needed. The rear mesh section lacks a full plastic cover but features a vinyl flap to offer some protection from light weather.
Seating System and Comfort
The seats in InStep trailers are hammock-style, a common design in budget-friendly trailers, including entry-level models from Burley and Thule. This design uses fabric stretched between the trailer’s sides to form the seat.
However, hammock seats vary in quality. The InStep system includes nylon straps beneath the seat intended to tighten and reduce sagging. While theoretically beneficial, this system is not very effective in practice.
As illustrated below, our tester’s bottom sagged noticeably more in the InStep Take 2 compared to the Burley Bee, demonstrating the difference in seat support.
The trailer floor provides some leg and foot space, but lacks reinforcement. Care should be taken to prevent children from putting their full weight on the floor when entering or exiting.
Helmet Accommodation
A less effective feature of the InStep bike trailer is the mesh helmet recess at the upper back of the seat. This mesh is designed to accommodate the back of a child’s helmet, preventing discomfort by stopping the helmet from pushing their head forward.
Unfortunately, the recess is positioned too high to be truly useful for most children who fit in the trailer. The InStep’s helmet pocket starts 15.5 inches above the seat bottom, while the Schwinn Trailblazer’s starts at 14 inches. In contrast, the Burley Bee’s pocket starts much lower at just 10.5 inches.
Superior Helmet Recess Design in Burley Bee
Harness and Buckle System
The harness and buckle system in InStep bike trailers is basic and somewhat cumbersome. Adjusting the waist strap tightness can be difficult, and the buckle insertions are stiff, lacking a distinct “click” to confirm secure fastening. This necessitates a double-check to ensure the buckle is properly engaged by tugging on it.
Buckle Comparison: InStep vs. Burley
Personal experience highlighted this issue when my 18-month-old managed to unbuckle herself during a ride, likely because the buckle wasn’t fully secured initially.
Generally, harnesses in hammock-style seats are more challenging to use as the child tends to slide forward, making it harder to tighten and fasten the straps. The child’s weight against the straps increases the difficulty of buckling them in.
The harness strap height is adjustable across three positions in the InStep trailer. While functional, the plastic adjusters that secure the straps in place are not firmly fixed on the backside, raising a slight concern about potential displacement or removal by an older child, or in a crash scenario.
In contrast, higher-end trailers, and even budget options like the Allen S2, feature continuously adjustable, sliding strap systems for a more customized and secure fit.
Adjustable Shoulder Harness: Burley Bee vs. InStep/Schwinn
Wheels and Tires
The 16-inch wheels with plastic rims are a key factor positioning the InStep as a “budget” trailer. Most other trailers use more durable metal rims and larger 20-inch wheels, which offer a smoother ride and greater longevity. Although not personally experienced in our tests, some Amazon reviewers have reported tires popping off the plastic rims.
The smaller wheels of the InStep limit the safe maximum speed to 10 mph, compared to the 15 mph rating of higher-end 20-inch wheel trailers (although Schwinn trailers with 20-inch wheels are also rated at 10 mph, while Burley and Thule trailers are rated to 15 mph).
Plastic rims are less durable than metal and are unlikely to withstand frequent use over many years or multiple children. For regular use, models like the Schwinn Echo, Trailblazer, or Burley Bee are better long-term investments.
However, InStep trailers do use air-filled tires, a step up from the Schwinn Shuttle which uses solid foam tires, offering minimal cushioning and traction.
Storage Considerations
The rear storage on the InStep bike trailer is a shallow compartment secured by a Velcro flap that can easily detach if not perfectly aligned. Useful for light items in a pinch, it’s not recommended for valuables. Schwinn trailers employ a similar system, as shown below.
Attaching Your InStep Bike Trailer
The hitch and tow arm system for all InStep bike trailers are consistent. The tow arm easily inserts into the coupler on the InStep bike trailer and is secured with a pin, attaching to the rear axle of the adult bicycle.
Purchasing an additional coupler allows for easy switching between adult bikes. The hitch joint is stiffer compared to higher-end trailers, but this is generally unnoticeable at casual, lower speeds. For a visual guide, watch a quick video on how to attach an InStep bike trailer. (Video link would be inserted here if available).
Folding and Storing Your InStep Bike Trailer
For compact storage or transport, folding the InStep bike trailer is straightforward in just four steps:
- Fold the tow arm under the trailer by removing the pin, folding the arm, and re-inserting the pin to secure it.
- Remove the top crossbar by pressing the black tabs underneath and pulling upwards.
- Collapse and fold the trailer sides inward.
- Remove the wheels by pressing the metal tab and pulling them off.
Reassembly is simply reversing these steps!
What Features Are Missing in a Budget Trailer Like the InStep?
We recognize that investing $350+ in a Burley or Thule Chariot trailer might not align with every family’s budget. If your budget is around $100, an InStep bike trailer is a viable option to get started with family biking.
To understand the price difference, here’s a summary of features typically found in higher-end trailers that are absent in the InStep.
Enhanced Child Comfort
- Padded and supportive seats that minimize sagging and enhance ride comfort.
- Additional padding on straps and backrests, standard in most premium trailers.
- Helmet recess pocket (mesh pocket above seats) designed to accommodate helmets and prevent head tilting.
- Waterproof seams to ensure children stay dry in wet conditions.
- Ventilation systems throughout the cabin for better airflow in warm weather and to prevent fogging of plastic covers in colder weather.
- Suspension systems that significantly smooth out the ride for passengers and reduce jostling for the adult cyclist.
Superior Overall Quality
- High-quality, user-friendly mesh front covers with zipper closures instead of Velcro or snaps.
- A functional foot brake for safe stroller use without bending to secure wheel straps.
- Wheel guards (small bumpers in front of tires) to prevent wheel entrapment, enhancing safety.
- Availability of replacement parts, ensuring longevity and repairability.
- Generally superior build quality and durability, leading to easier use, longer lifespan, and better resale value.
Conversion and Upgrade Options
- Handlebars with multiple height adjustments compared to limited settings.
- Stroller conversion kits that transform the trailer into a high-performance, weather-resistant stroller.
- Jogger conversion kits for true multi-sport functionality, including cross-country skiing options.
Final Verdict: Is the InStep Bike Trailer Right for You?
While InStep bike trailers enjoy popularity and positive reviews on platforms like Amazon, they do come with limitations. For families who bike occasionally on paved trails, the InStep offers an affordable entry into family biking.
However, for frequent riders, upgrading to a more functional and comfortable trailer like the Burley Bee is highly recommended. Explore the Bee and other premium options on our 10 Best Bike Trailers for Kids Guide.
Related Resources
10 Best Bike Trailers: Quick guide to top picks for every budget.
Burley Bee Trailer Review
Allen S2 Trailer Review
Schwinn Bike Trailer Review
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